The City of Pittsburgh’s Department of Innovation and Performance recently selected four local startups to participate in PGH Lab Cohort 10.0.
PGH Lab is a six-month paid program designed to support local startups as they collaborate with various city departments to test cutting-edge technologies and services. Participants refine their products and services, and contribute to the development of innovative solutions that positively change Pittsburgh’s government operations and communities.
Participants receive a $25,000 stipend as well as feedback and access to municipal leaders.
The four companies are Ethos Collaborative, Make it Home Safe, Reclamation Factory and Vridian.
“For nearly a decade, PGH Lab has supported local entrepreneurs in preparing their products and services for the public market,” Heidi Norman, Innovation & Performance director, said. “Last year, we pivoted from being a public market test bed to a true ‘first customer’ program that incorporates an RFP (request for proposal) procurement process, selection committee, legal contracts, and invoiced payments. This change ensures our participants gain a full vendor-partner lifecycle experience from day one. By doing so, we reinforce our local government’s commitment to fostering inclusive partnerships and meaningful collaborations that help local businesses successfully compete and expand.”
RFP announces a project, describes it, and solicits bids from qualified contractors.