The first two startups to enter CableLabs' UpRamp Track in the Boomtown Accelerator program are gearing up for something called Demo day. On Nov. 14, the companies will have the opportunity to impress both investors and the public in attendance at the Boulder Theater in Colorado.
"It is exciting to watch two young companies tear apart their business model and validate the assumptions they had," said Scott Brown, executive director of UpRamp. "Now they are building a sales pipeline and potential investors. At Demo day, they can get a jumpstart on building a solid sustainable company."
Hygge Power has an advanced home battery/energy system that "transforms" power outlets so that they can keep electronics running during blackouts. Essentially it is a new type of wall plug unit that creates a power grid within the home. It has a lithium ion battery and stores power as it passes it along to the refrigerator, for example. If a customer has more than one, they use WiFi connectivity to create a mesh network. If the power goes out, the plugs communicate with one another and keep the refrigerator running, but turn off non-essentials like the washing machine.
The Fanboard platform uses immersive experiences to direct sales and boost purchases of concessions, merchandise, upgrades and tickets through games, event filters and the big screen. There currently are three augmented reality (AR) experiences available. "Faces" allows a fan to change appearance and perhaps see what they'd look like as the mascot, for example; "Chases" is a scavenger hunt similar to Pokemon Go, and "Holograms" allows fans to do things like see Babe Ruth on the field.
"People might be involved with gaming while watching (at a stadium) already. It is a great way to bring more fun and interest and people to the seats inside big stadium events," Brown said, explaining that the Fanboard app can be embedded in a stadium or team app, or as a standalone app.
UpRamp, a CableLabs subsidiary, and Boomtown's collaboration in June, features a track for companies focused on hardware and connectivity. The program includes acceleration and mentorship as well as access to CableLabs' relationships in the connectivity ecosystem.
From a cable perspective, Hygge works because the energy system allows operators to know exactly where the power has gone out and proactively work with customers. The WiFi connectivity remains up and running thanks to the proactive grid. As for Fanboard, its platform is engaging customers in stadiums where operators provide the connectivity.
"There is a lot of overlap between (CableLabs) members and the stadium connectivity experience. We think there is a play," Brown said.
