5 interesting startup deals in 2022, from cleantech to insurance for ‘pet parents'
As the new year approaches, we're taking a look back at fundraising rounds that captured our attention in 2022.
Editor's Note: This story is part of our Year in Review Series where we spotlight our top articles and features of 2022. They include South Florida ventures developing unique products and services in sectors such as health technology, transportation, advertising and more. The company is developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles that will be marketed to individual consumers. While it is not the only eVTOL business operating in South Florida, the other ventures are focused on bringing air taxis to a commercial market. Doroni stands out because it aims to sell its vehicles to anyone with a driver's license. Companies can search Trend's marketplace to book creators who can highlight their brand online to build an audience and drive sales. That's a game changer for primary care physicians, who can assess the data to provide results to patients without having to go through a lab or specialist physician. Traditional air conditioning systems consume enormous amounts of electricity and are major emitters of greenhouse gasses. In July, the startup raised $20 million in a series A equity investment round led by the Bill Gates-founded investment firm Breakthrough Energy Ventures. The technology can reduce electrical consumption by up to 90% while still cooling buildings efficiently. Now, a rising number of businesses are branching into health care and insurance for pets -- including Fursure. Since its launch two years ago, the startup reports it has helped more than 60,000 people avoid enormous emergency bills by connecting them with health insurance coverage for their animals. And there's a sizable market to fill: There are an estimated 185 million pets in the U.S., and up to 97% of them are uninsured.