AlphaLab names 20 startups for 2026 program in Pittsburgh with focus on immersive mentorship, investor readiness, and rapid market execution

AlphaLab, the accelerator run by Pittsburgh-based Innovation Works, has unveiled its 2026 cohort, selecting 20 startups to participate in its signature program aimed at fast-tracking innovation and market success.

Known for nurturing early-stage companies, AlphaLab provides founders with capital, mentorship, and the tools needed to grow rapidly in competitive industries.

The accelerator, which launched in 2008 as Innovation Works’ first program, has a proven track record.

Over the years, it has supported more than 250 startups, generating $1.3 billion in follow-on funding, over 20 successful exits, and two unicorns.

Its programs are designed to equip founders with both strategic guidance and practical support, helping them scale products, raise funds, and find their first customers.

Hands-On Support and Investment for Startups

Participants in the 2026 cohort will receive up to $100,000 in investment, alongside a hands-on approach to growing their business.

AlphaLab emphasizes founder-led sales, customer acquisition, fundraising preparation, and refining product-market fit.

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Beyond financial backing, the program includes an immersive, on-site experience that encourages collaboration and mentorship, giving startups an environment designed for rapid execution.

Spotlight on the 2026 Startups

The cohort spans multiple sectors, reflecting AlphaLab’s expertise across software, health, hardware, and robotics:

AlphaLab Software

• blink commerce – Optimizes Shopify stores for faster conversions and measurable revenue growth.
• Carbonara, Inc. – AI-driven CRM for hospitality, founded by an AlphaLab alum who previously sold NoWait to Yelp.
• Conopi – AI tool interpreting construction plans and project data.
• Gratis Intelligence – Streamlines product sampling for brands to reduce waste.
• Motoria – Aggregates new and used car listings across the U.S. using AI-powered search.

AlphaLab Health (with Allegheny Health Network)

• Concordare Trials – Digitizes and standardizes clinical research protocols.
• Mandeville Therapeutics – Developing small-molecule treatments for chronic kidney disease.
• Medmiro – Focused on reducing postoperative complications from surgical tubes.
• Precision Neuroscopics – Next-gen EEG technology for advanced brain monitoring.
• Visionaire Products, Inc. – Medtech solutions for improved ocular disease diagnostics.

AlphaLab Gear

• Bedrock Semiconductor – Develops GaN-based power electronics.
• Oya Apparel – Medical-grade activewear for improved comfort and moisture regulation.
• SeaLion Energy – Hardware solutions to extend the life of critical battery materials.

Robotics Factory

• Clear Solar Corporation – Automated solar panel cleaning systems.
• Inductive Robotics – Robots delivering EV charging to fleets and commercial vehicles.
• Mimetic – 3D printing hardware and materials for biomedical research.
• Power 3D – Produces microbatteries using 3D printing and semiconductor processes.
• SpoilSafe – AI-powered food spoilage prediction platform.
• TramR Robotics Inc. – Autonomous mobile robots for small and midsize businesses.
• Vaera – Safe, performance-driven at-home microneedling devices.

Across these companies, founders are tackling highly technical challenges in regulated and capital-intensive sectors like healthcare, energy, and advanced manufacturing — areas where AlphaLab has deep experience guiding startups from pilot programs to full-scale operations.

Innovation Works: Building Pennsylvania’s Startup Ecosystem

Innovation Works, the parent organization of AlphaLab, has been a key driver of tech entrepreneurship in Pittsburgh since 1999.

With investments in over 780 companies, the organization has helped generate more than $3.3 billion in follow-on funding and supported the creation and retention of over 20,000 jobs in Pennsylvania.

As part of the Ben Franklin Technology Partners network, Innovation Works leverages capital and connections to foster technology-driven economic growth throughout the state.

What’s Next?

The 2026 AlphaLab cohort will now enter its six-month accelerator program, combining mentorship, on-site collaboration, and capital support.

Founders will focus on refining their products, scaling operations, and preparing for future funding rounds.

Observers expect several startups from this group to attract follow-on investment and potentially emerge as key players in their respective industries.

Summary

AlphaLab has selected 20 innovative startups for its 2026 cohort, spanning software, health, gear, and robotics.

Each company will receive up to $100k in investment, expert guidance, and an immersive on-site program to accelerate growth.

With Innovation Works’ decades-long track record in early-stage investing, these founders gain both capital and a proven pathway toward scaling their businesses, creating jobs, and driving innovation in Pennsylvania and beyond.