Mississippi Startups Receive Funding and Training to Boost Tech Sector

Jackson, Mississippi – Innovate Mississippi is investing in the state’s burgeoning technology scene, providing funding and intensive training to seven early-stage tech startups through a 12-week accelerator program.

Among the companies participating is SimpleScript, founded by Alex Bucklew and Johnathan McAdory, which aims to aggregate prescription drug discounts to find the lowest prices for consumers. “Especially something that’s scalable to the level (SimpleScript) is, it can be difficult to figure out what to do next,” Bucklew said. “We needed some counsel on how to get from point A to point B.” The program includes a $25,000 investment in each company and mentorship designed to prepare them for seeking further funding. This initiative comes as Mississippi has historically lagged behind other states in attracting technology startups and venture capital.

Innovate Mississippi, a nonprofit organization, connects entrepreneurs with investors and resources across the state, addressing a key challenge in the state’s tech development: geographic isolation. “With 3 million people in Mississippi, we’ve gotta do a lot of work just to find the business that needs the mentor three hours away, that needs the accounting person,” explained Tony Jeff, CEO and president of Innovate. Another company in the cohort, Vertical Take-Off Reading, developed by Leta Palmiter and Ben Stasa, uses software to measure students’ oral reading skills, a tool particularly valuable for students with dyslexia; you can learn more about the importance of early literacy here. The program’s success is also linked to collaboration with Mississippi universities, fostering innovation and providing a pipeline of talent, as seen with ClaimTra founder Ricky Romanek’s experience.

The seven companies will pitch their businesses to investors on November 11, seeking to raise upwards of $100,000 each. Jeff noted a significant demand for investment opportunities in Mississippi, stating, “It is very obvious we have more money chasing deals than we have deals.” He also believes a stronger tech sector could help retain young professionals in the state, combating brain drain.

Officials say the program is designed to nurture homegrown companies and attract new tech businesses to Mississippi, with continued support and resources planned for future cohorts.