POPULARITY
CONEXPO – CON/AGG Radio: Construction Technology Trends For Contractors
Feeling the squeeze with rising costs and a shrinking labor pool? A lot of construction companies feel trapped, like the only way out is to just grind harder with the same old playbook. But what if the real path to growth isn't about more effort, but a totally new approach to your machines, your tech, and your people? Brian Dietz, Co-Owner of 2024 Equipment World's Contractor of the Year, Bob Dietz and Sons Inc., runs his business more like a Silicon Valley startup than a traditional construction firm. And guess what? It's attracting a whole new generation of talent, clearly demonstrating that if you keep ignoring these shifts, you're not just risking getting left behind. You're risking becoming irrelevant, losing bids to leaner competitors, and failing to build a team that actually wants to stick around. This isn't just about shiny new tools. It's about a complete mindset shift. Discover how Brian is rewriting the rules of construction and building an empire.
Send us a textIn this episode: Christi and Angela welcome Shanthi, founder of Linarc and a seasoned entrepreneur in construction tech. Shanthi shares insights on navigating the construction industry as a female founder, discussing the evolution of tech in construction from blueprints to sensors, and the importance of diverse teams. She highlights the significance of persistence, vision, and faith in overcoming challenges and provides advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Follow Shanthi's journey and learn about Linarc's innovative platform designed to revolutionize construction management. Thanks for listening!Sponsored by: LinarcSupport the show
Send us a textIn this episode of Starter Girlz, Keandra Lewis, also known as “Miss Make It Happen,” shares how she turned frustration into innovation by building an app to solve a $100 billion problem in the industry.A former real estate professional turned construction entrepreneur, Keandra experienced firsthand the chaos of miscommunication, unclear bids, and blown budgets. Instead of accepting it, she taught herself to design an app—without a tech background—and launched Measure First, a platform that's now transforming how homeowners and contractors plan and communicate.This inspiring conversation is a masterclass in grit, resourcefulness, and the power of bold action when no one else steps up.What You'll Learn:✅ How Measure First is transforming pre-construction planning✅ The true cost of poor communication in construction✅ How women in construction are reshaping the industry✅ What it takes to build a tech solution with zero startup experience✅ Why “kind” beats “nice” in business✅ How faith, boldness, and clarity can fuel massive action
Check out the Accelerator here: https://www.ellisdon-accelerator.com/Follow Olivia hereFollow EllisDon here
"Most software companies either get acquired or go out of business. If you start doing really well, they're either going to copy you or buy you."In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Geoff Tarrant from Payapps and we got to learn about how a $600 million construction tech exit really happens, why Australian startups must expand globally, and the brutal truth about fundraising timing... and many more!Tune in to find out about:✅ Why construction tech companies never IPO and always get acquired instead✅ The mistake founders make when expanding to new markets too early✅ How to build relationships with potential acquirers years before selling✅ Why raising money too late kills more startups than anything elseGeoff shared incredible insights from building PayApps from a CFO's monthly nightmare into a tens-of-millions revenue business that Autodesk couldn't ignore. His investment banking background gives him a unique perspective on what really drives acquisitions and why timing everything wrong can destroy even great companies.Listen now on Spotify to discover the real playbook for construction tech exits and what founders get dangerously wrong.=============Chapters01:41 – Intro & Acquisition Overview04:34 – How Claims Are Evolving in Construction07:41 – Market Dynamics & Competitive Landscape10:30 – The Role of Independent Players in ConTech13:45 – Inside the Acquisition: Strategy & Timing16:49 – What Happens After: Post-Acquisition Integration19:37 – Winning Customers: Acquisition Strategies That Work22:31 – Going Global: Expansion & Market Entry36:58 – Hard Truths: Challenges in New Markets42:13 – Product-Market Fit: Why It Matters More Than Ever47:58 – Team Building at Scale52:55 – Raising Capital & Managing Dilution01:00:39 – What's Next: AI & The Future of ConTech01:03:59 – Where the Opportunities Are: Shifting Construction Markets
In this episode, Andreas Munk Holm talks with Gloria Baeuerlein, founding partner of Puzzle Ventures, about building a solo GP model rooted in high-conviction, ultra-early B2B investing. From AI-native SaaS pricing to capital-efficient pre-seed strategies, Gloria breaks down how she's crafting a differentiated firm in one of Europe's most competitive venture environments.They unpack why capital is commoditized, how solo GPs can outperform larger seed funds, and what it takes to design a fund around personal strength, not industry templates. If you're building a fund, raising one, or just want an inside look into how modern venture firms are architected, this one's for you.Here's what's covered:03:20 How AI Is Reshaping SaaS: Delivery, Pricing, and UX07:30 Pricing Models in Construction Tech and Outcome-Based Sales09:45 The Shifting VC Landscape: Seed, Multi-Stage, and Angels12:30 Differentiation in VC: Finding Your True Value-Add14:40 Building a Fund Around Strengths, Not LP Preferences22:50 The Competitive Landscape: Seed Funds vs. Solo GPs24:15 Operational Differences: Solo GPs vs. Multi-Stage Funds30:00 Fund Model, Ownership, and Return Expectations38:20 Firm Building as a Solo GP: Who to Lean On42:26 Will Puzzle Always Be a Solo GP Fund?
You may price a job for two years just to get the chance to build it."That's the brutal reality Trey Darnell shared about construction sales today.In today's episode of Bricks & Bytes, we had Trey Darnell, Director of Sales at Ediphi, and we got to learn about why construction tech sales is completely broken, how most salespeople get it wrong, and why the industry desperately needs a new approach... and many more!Trey went from writing user guides on construction sites to becoming a sales leader at one of the hottest pre-construction tech companies. His journey reveals hard truths about our industry.Tune in to find out about:✅ Why 90% of construction salespeople fail at their job ✅ The hidden cost of pricing jobs for years without winning them ✅ Why platforms are becoming "jack of all trades, master of none" ✅ How to sell construction tech without being another annoying vendorThis episode will change how you think about buying and selling construction technology.Listen now on Spotify and let us know what you think in the comments.---------------Chapters# Chapters00:00 Intro00:03:00 Introduction and Background of Trey Darnell00:06:02 Challenges in Construction and BIM Advocacy00:08:50 Transition to Construction Tech and PlanGrid Experience00:12:10 Sales as a Consulting Approach00:15:14 Joining Edify and the Evolution of Pre-Construction Solutions00:20:58 Go-to-Market Strategy for Edify00:27:01 Building Relationships and Understanding Client Needs00:33:07 Understanding Time to Value in Construction Tech00:37:01 Successful Go-to-Market Strategies00:41:10 Sales Cycle Dynamics and Compression Strategies00:46:38 Navigating Small vs. Large Accounts00:52:02 Pricing Strategies and Negotiation00:54:29 Traits of Successful Salespeople in Construction Tech00:57:36 Gaining Experience in the Construction Industry00:59:13 Advice for Newcomers in Construction Tech Sales01:00:41 When to Hire a Sales Leader
"When we launched PlanGrid, it was the only enterprise product on the iPad. Even Facebook refused to make an iPad app because Zuckerberg didn't believe in it."In today's episode of Bricks, Bucks & Bytes, we had Ralph Gootee and we got to learn about how PlanGrid became the first enterprise app on iPad, the brutal year-long acquisition process, and why pricing decisions can make or break your startup... and many more!Tune in to find out about: ✅ Why iPad was crucial to PlanGrid's success when even Facebook refused to build an iPad app ✅ The $17,000 marketing hack that involved giving away free iPads to customers ✅ How having 5 co-founders worked despite conventional wisdom saying otherwise ✅ Why AI augments engineers but won't replace them anytime soonListen now on Spotify to hear the full story behind one of construction tech's biggest exits and what Ralph is building next with TigerEye.# Chapters00:00 Intro01:45 The Journey of PlanGrid: From Startup to Acquisition11:37 Product Development and Market Fit: Lessons Learned21:44 Navigating the Acquisition Landscape: Strategies and Insights31:41 The Role of AI in Construction: Opportunities and Challenges41:49 Building for Success: Founder's Mindset and Company Culture29:49 From Idea to Prototype: The Birth of a Startup31:18 Y Combinator: The Turning Point for PlanGrid33:39 Building a Team: The Importance of Co-Founders39:45 Solo Founders vs. Co-Founders: A Comparative Insight42:40 User Acquisition: The Power of Viral Growth in Construction46:44 Pricing Strategies: Lessons Learned from PlanGrid53:54 Hiring the Best: Building a Legacy at PlanGrid54:28 The Legacy of Plangrid and Its Impact on the Industry54:58 Challenges in Recruiting and Building a Team56:26 The Importance of Hiring the Right People58:54 Scaling Challenges and the Need for Fast Decisions01:02:13 Emerging Companies in Construction Tech01:03:18 Lessons Learned from Building Plangrid01:07:12 The Role of AI in Software Development01:13:08 Introducing TigerEye: A New Venture01:20:59 Evaluating ROI in Construction Tech
"The best salespeople don't need to talk about their successes - they focus on what went wrong and how to improve. At Joist AI, we don't want to hear about past wins, only lessons learned."In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, We had Anton Marinovich from Joist AI and he shared his construction tech go-to-market journey from my father's masonry business to leading sales at Contentful, HoloBuilder, and now Joist AI.Tune in to find out about:✅ Why matching your product to workflows is crucial in construction tech✅ How simplicity in sales compensation drives the right behaviors✅ Why grit and consistency separate average salespeople from top performers✅ The importance of transparency in building trust with construction clientsListen now on Spotify to hear insights on building effective go-to-market strategies in construction tech!--------Chapters00:00 Intro00:04 Introduction and Background07:01 Journey into Construction Tech10:00 Sales Strategies and Lessons Learned13:10 Revenue Operations and CRM Importance15:59 Building a Successful Go-To-Market Strategy18:53 Understanding Customer Segmentation22:02 Sales Process and Buyer Behavior24:58 Defining Sales and Building Processes27:59 Ideal Customer Profile and Messaging38:14 Leveraging LinkedIn for Networking39:06 The Power of Video in Sales41:27 Professional Persistence in Sales43:55 Common Mistakes in Go-to-Market Strategies45:09 The Impact of AI on Sales48:12 Customer Acquisition vs. Expansion53:31 Sales Compensation Strategies01:00:20 Effective Pricing Strategies01:03:07 Future Trends in Construction Tech Sales
"The best renewal is no renewal. So closing a three-year agreement, right?"In today's episode of our Go To Market Series from the Bricks & Bytes Podcast, we have Kevin Halter (CRO of OpenSpace) share his journey from scaling PlanGrid from $5M to $100M+ ARR and building high-performing sales teams in construction tech.Tune in to find out about:✅ Why construction tech requires a unique go-to-market approach focused on project-level ROI✅ How to transition from project-level sales to enterprise agreements (the key to breaking the $10M ARR ceiling)✅ What to look for when hiring sales talent ("fire in the belly")✅ When founders should hire their first VP of Sales vs CROWhether you're a founder struggling with the 5-10M ARR plateau or a sales leader in construction tech, this episode delivers practical insights on building scalable go-to-market motions in an industry where "it's easy to start a pilot, but hard to scale."06:30 Introduction to Construction Tech Journey09:30 Scaling from 5M to 100M ARR12:31 Understanding Project-Level Value15:22 Building Trust and Transparency in Construction18:28 Transitioning to Enterprise-Level Sales21:28 The Importance of Customer Success Management24:28 Hiring the Right Sales Team27:29 Effective Communication with Executives30:24 Building Long-Term Partnerships33:31 Creating a Scalable Sales Model44:47 Building Long-Term Partnerships (appears to be repeated)48:30 Lessons from Biotech for Construction Tech53:17 Hiring and Scaling Sales Team57:57 Developing Talent and Leadership1:07:31 Choosing the Right Company to Join1:14:53 When to Hire a Chief Revenue Officer
Bombarded with demos and LinkedIn DMs? Felipe Serrano from Brasfield & Gorrie breaks down his field-tested process for evaluating construction tech without burning out. From vendor intake forms to cross-team buy-in, we unpack how to vet tools, prove ROI, and avoid tech fatigue—especially if you're flying solo without a dedicated R&D team. Real talk from the jobsite to the boardroom.
"We got to a million dollars in ARR by taking meetings any way we could - sending chunky mail, handwritten cards, even just picking up the phone. It's simple."In today's episode of Bricks, Bucks and Bytes, we had Martin Roth sharing his journey as Levelset's go-to-market leader and the real-world tactics that helped scale the business to a successful exit.Tune in to find out about: ✅ Why the first million in revenue requires founders to do the selling themselves ✅ The five key traits Martin looks for when hiring salespeople (grit, resourcefulness, enthusiasm, curiosity, ambition) ✅ How selling to construction differs from typical B2B SaaS ✅ Why you should never hire a sales director before hitting $1M in ARRMartin reveals how Levelset went from $1.5M to $10M ARR in six years, then doubled to $20M in just 18 months once they figured out their go-to-market strategy. A must-listen for construction tech founders looking to scale sales operations.---------Timestamps00:00 Intro05:06 Introduction to the Journey09:10 Early Days at Levelset17:14 Go-to-Market Strategy Evolution23:59 Sales Techniques and Lessons Learned26:04 Differences in Construction Tech vs. B2B SaaS29:42 Understanding the Construction Industry's Landscape35:23 Navigating Messaging Challenges in a Diverse Market42:58 Sales Strategies for SMB vs. Enterprise Markets53:27 Handling Long Sales Cycles in Construction56:06 Navigating Enterprise Sales Challenges58:57 The Role of Champions in Sales1:01:54 Understanding the Cost of Adoption1:05:12 Effective Communication in Sales1:06:54 Key Traits of Successful Salespeople1:14:11 Building a Sales Team and Leadership Dynamics
Check out Eco Material Technologies here: https://ecomaterial.com/Follow Grant here
Welcome back to the Crushing It In Construction Podcast.Are you a subcontractor who's lost in an endless list of manual tasks and processes?This week sees Daniel Ouliaris step into the chair - he's a former concreter and now Founder/CEO of Neo Intelligence.Neo came about when Daniel and his brothers chose to reinvest money from their successful concreting business into designing software that solves all of their biggest pain points.And it turned out they weren't alone - subbies all over Australia are reaping the rewards. He takes us through how the company came to be, what they're solving, and why he believes a broken industry is a chance to rebuild from the ground up.Let's get started.CONTACT DETAILSDaniel OuliarisLinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/daniel-ouliarisWebsite: https://neointelligence.com.au/Jordan SkinnerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-skinner-685439178/Website: https://moonshotmedia.com.au/Are you as influential in the construction industry as you think? Take the quiz to find out:http://www.constructingaleader.com/quiz
Got a question about the show? Click here & Send us a text!Hey, Legends! Welcome to another episode of The Building Talks Podcast! This week, I'm catching up with Damien Quinn, a bloke who's made the bold move from construction project management to tech entrepreneur. Starting out as a cadet while studying, he climbed the ranks at Multiplex, then took the leap into software, start-ups, and securing capital to grow—and he's got some cracking insights to share!We chat about the shift from building sites to software development, the role of AI in construction, and the challenges of capital raising. Plus, Damien gives us the inside scoop on how real-time quality assurance tech like Visibuild is shaking up the industry.Key takeaways from this episode:✅ From cadet to CEO—how Damien made his career shift.✅ Why some construction pros are turning to tech and start-ups.✅ The power of real-time quality control in construction.✅ The evolving role of AI—is it ready to change the game?✅ How sales and relationship-building drive success in any industry.✅ The start-up rollercoaster—raising capital, bootstrapping, and picking the right investors.✅ The work-life balance struggle in construction—can it be fixed?
Pre-order The Entrepreneur's Odyssey hereIf you do, email him a screenshot of the purchase so he can invite you (or a portco if you're a VC) to his in person sessions here: andrewbackerman@gmail.comFollow Andrew's Socials here:LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewbackermanX @AndrewAckermanBlog: http://AsAngelsSeeIt.com
Send us a textIn this episode of the Contractor Success Forum, Wade and Stephen dive into the rapidly evolving area of construction technology and its impact on the bottom line. From drones and robots to augmented reality and wearable tech, the hosts explore the return on investment (ROI) for various technologies on job sites. Learn about the costs, payback periods, and efficiency gains that these innovations offer. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion to make smarter investment decisions in construction technology.Subscribe to get notified as soon as new episodes go live!Topics we cover in this episode include:00:40 Evaluating the Cost and Benefits of New Technology04:30 Drones: Aerial Imaging and ROI08:33 Robotics and Automation on the Job Site14:45 Wearables and Exoskeletons: Enhancing Worker Efficiency18:51 Augmented and Virtual Reality in Construction20:37 IoT Sensors and Smart DevicesLINKSVisit the episode page at https://carpentercpas.com/techroi for more details and a transcript of the show.Take the FREE Construction Company Health Evaluation: https://profitfirstconstruction.com/free-resource-evaluate-your-accounting-system/Join the Profit First for Construction community!Find all episodes and related links at ContractorSuccessForum.com.Join the conversation on our LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/CarpenterCPAs FIND US ONLINEWade Carpenter, CPA, CGMA | CarpenterCPAs.comStephen Brown, Bonding Expert | SuretyAnswers.com
Send us a textIn this episode of the Contractor Success Forum, Wade and Stephen dive into the rapidly evolving area of construction technology and its impact on the bottom line. From drones and robots to augmented reality and wearable tech, the hosts explore the return on investment (ROI) for various technologies on job sites. Learn about the costs, payback periods, and efficiency gains that these innovations offer. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion to make smarter investment decisions in construction technology.Subscribe to get notified as soon as new episodes go live!Topics we cover in this episode include:00:40 Evaluating the Cost and Benefits of New Technology04:30 Drones: Aerial Imaging and ROI08:33 Robotics and Automation on the Job Site14:45 Wearables and Exoskeletons: Enhancing Worker Efficiency18:51 Augmented and Virtual Reality in Construction20:37 IoT Sensors and Smart DevicesLINKSVisit the episode page at https://carpentercpas.com/techroi for more details and a transcript of the show.Take the FREE Construction Company Health Evaluation: https://profitfirstconstruction.com/free-resource-evaluate-your-accounting-system/Join the Profit First for Construction community!Find all episodes and related links at ContractorSuccessForum.com.Join the conversation on our LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/CarpenterCPAs FIND US ONLINEWade Carpenter, CPA, CGMA | CarpenterCPAs.comStephen Brown, Bonding Expert | SuretyAnswers.com
In this episode, Paul Hedgepath, the Director of Virtual Construction at MJ Harris, discusses the rapid evolution of technology in the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of balancing traditional methods with innovative solutions. He shares insights on the integration of AI and drones, the significance of identifying real problems in construction, and the necessity of fostering a positive work culture. Paul also reflects on his journey from architecture to construction tech and highlights the critical role of people in tech-driven environments.Takeaways:The construction industry is experiencing a rapid evolution in technology.Balancing tradition and innovation is crucial for success.Identifying real problems is key to effective tech solutions.360-degree photography enhances transparency on job sites.Drones provide valuable insights and updates for projects.AI can significantly improve safety and efficiency in construction.Tech adoption is essential for company growth and risk management.Hiring for adaptability and willingness to learn is vital.Creating a positive work culture enhances collaboration and productivity.Technology should be viewed as a tool for improvement, not competition
In this episode of KP Unpacked, KP Reddy breaks down one of his most talked-about LinkedIn posts: the massive, untapped business opportunity in construction technology system integration.The construction industry is fragmented, innovation deployment is inconsistent, and startups struggle with scalability—so why hasn't anyone built a company to solve this? KP and Jeff discuss:
Check out SmartBuild here: https://smrtbld.com/Check out SMRT-E here: https://smrte.ai
Note : This episode is a re-release of an episode that was initially released at Groundbreakers."It turns out in construction and real estate, there's a lot of big problems. There's an abundance of them." - This candid observation from Built Technologies' CEO perfectly captures why construction tech is ripe for disruption.In our latest conversation with Chase Gilbert, he reveals Built's journey from working with three community banks to becoming a construction tech unicorn that processes over $200 billion in annual construction spend. He breaks down the strategic decision to start with lenders and how it became their path to industry-wide transformation.Tune in to discover:✅ Why "following the money" upstream was the key to market penetration✅ How they turned an 11-person process into a 2-person operation✅ The strategy behind reducing loan processing from 5 days to same-day✅ Why being "long-term greedy" is crucial for sustainable growthListen to the full episode on Spotify to hear Chase's complete breakdown of building a construction tech unicorn.-------------Chapters00:00 Intro02:28 Building a Unicorn in Construction Tech05:04 Identifying and Solving Industry Problems06:40 The Genesis of Built Technologies18:16 Revenue Generation and Business Model26:56 The Importance of Following the Money30:52 Efficiency Metrics and Impact on Lenders38:05 The Landscape of Construction Loans40:42 Navigating the Banking Ecosystem44:19 Go-to-Market Strategy for Financial Institutions49:23 Value-Based Pricing Models50:06 Key Lessons in Scaling a Startup53:28 Building and Maintaining Company Culture59:37 Understanding Unicorn Valuation01:11:01 The IPO Journey and Long-Term Vision
Austin Yount, Partner at Brick & Mortar Ventures, joins the Rental Roundtable to discuss investing in construction tech and the future of equipment rental. Brick & Mortar Ventures is a venture capital firm backed by United Rentals, Home Depot, and Autodesk that invests in innovative software and hardware solutions in construction technology.Tune in to learn:✅ How robotics, electrification, and autonomy could transform rental✅ What construction tech VCs look for in startups✅ The role of grit and customer understanding in software success✅ How construction companies benefit from emerging technology
"AI agents could eliminate 20% of time spent searching for information on construction projects"In today's episode of Bricks & Bytes, we had Rajitha Chaparala, VP of Product Data and AI at Procore, share fascinating insights about the future of construction technology and AI implementation.Tune in to discover:✅ How AI agents are transforming daily construction workflows - from submittal reviews to schedule updates✅ Why the construction industry is finally embracing AI after years of hesitation✅ The three-pillar approach Procore is taking with AI: Co-pilot, Automation, and Insights✅ How reality capture technology combined with AI is revolutionizing progress trackingWant to learn more about how AI is reshaping construction? Listen to the full episode here:-------Sign up to the #1 Newsletter In Construction Tech. Join over 1,000 like-minded Founders, Investors and Techies disrupting the way we build. Forever : https://bricks-bytes.beehiiv.com/subscribe------LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bricks-bytes/X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/bricksbytespodYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmNbunUTIIQDzbJgGJt9_ZgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bricksbytes/—---------------------------Chapters00:00 Intro05:07 Introduction to AI in Construction10:15 The Impact of LLMs on Construction15:23 Understanding AI Agents21:22 The Future of AI Agents in Construction27:13 Data Infrastructure Challenges in Construction37:29 Leveraging AI for Data Capture39:07 Enhancing Accuracy through Human-AI Collaboration41:13 The Role of RealityCapture in Construction43:12 Navigating the Rapidly Changing AI Landscape47:15 Defining AI's Role in Construction Tech50:12 Flexibility in AI Model Utilization53:04 Procore's AI Strategy and Team Dynamics57:18 Leveraging Data for Construction Insights59:19 The Optimistic Future of AI in Construction1:03:07 Understanding Customer Needs in Construction Tech------ #podcast #construction #constructionindustry #bricksandbytes #startups #architecture #design #civilengineering #engineering #constructiontechnology #engineer #architect #civilengineer #concrete #podcaster #podcasting #entrepreneur #podcasts #podcastlife #startups #entrepreneurship
"Training an AI model's final run for $6M does not mean the entire model costs $6M"In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Alan Mosca, CTO and co-founder of nPlan, who shared fascinating insights about AI developments, construction tech, and the future of project planning.Tune in to find out about:✅ The truth behind DeepSeek's training costs and why media reporting missed the mark✅ How nPlan's Barry agent helps construction teams make better decisions through meeting notes, WhatsApp integration, and email connectivity✅ Why the future of software isn't SaaS - it's buying outcomes through agents that perform specific tasks✅ nPlan's game-changing "Schedule Studio" that can generate detailed project schedules in 45 minutesListen to the full episode to learn how AI is reshaping construction planning and why transparency, not blame, is key to better project outcomes.----Chapters00:00 Intro05:26 Introduction and Overview of Enplan07:12 DeepSeek and the Reality of AI Training Costs15:36 Open vs Closed Source Models in AI26:23 The Rise of Agents in AI and Construction31:23 Future of Startups: Agents vs Traditional Software36:01 The Evolution of AI and the Path to AGI44:01 Defining AGI and Its Implications45:26 Introduction to Nplan and Its Mission47:24 The Functionality of Barry: AI in Project Management49:27 Continuous Learning and Model Optimization53:23 Demonstrating the Value of Planning in Construction57:28 Customer Perspectives on AI in Project Management1:00:31 Product Development and Future Directions for Nplan1:11:39 Cultural Change in Construction Through AI
" Now, the beauty about the real estate industry, if you look outside and you look at the commercial buildings, you have a lot of data generated on a daily basis. The challenge is, what do you do with this data? How do you mine this data in a smart way to give you better investment decisions going forward [or] better decisions on how you run the building? Where are the opportunities to reduce your expenses? On the climate side, how do you reduce your operational carbon? How do you make those buildings better? I think that here, Gen AI, can help big time, because any solution that will mine this data smartly and will create a result, an output, that end users and owners can use to their advantage.” - Ariel Shtarkman Fresh out of the studio, Ariel Shtarkman, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Undivided Ventures, joins us to share the mission and vision of Undivided Ventures and how the fund is driving innovation at the intersection of sustainability, PropTech, and construction technology. Beginning with her origin story, Ariel reflected on her journey from real estate private equity in New York to becoming a venture capitalist championing sustainable technologies in Asia. She elaborated on Undivided Ventures' investment thesis, focusing on scaling sustainability-driven innovations in the built environment and shared key portfolio highlights, including successful investments like Structure Pal. Ariel also explored the transformative potential of generative AI, robotics, and data centers in addressing challenges in real estate and construction. Last but not least, she offered her insights on navigating fundraising in a challenging venture capital landscape and painted a compelling vision of what great looks like for Undivided Ventures. Audio Episode Highlights: [00:46] Quote of the Day: Ariel Shtarkman on data and AI in real estate. [01:40] Introduction: Ariel Shtarkman, Managing Partner at Undivided Ventures. [04:23] How she co-founded Undivided Ventures with Alex. [06:08] Lessons from her career journey. [08:06] Overview of Undivided Ventures and its investment thesis. [10:33] Recent highlights of the fund's portfolio. [12:46] Unique insights into Undivided Ventures' investment approach. [14:59] Lessons learned from fundraising in challenging times. [17:28] Generative AI's impact on PropTech and sustainability. [21:00] Case study: Structure Pal's innovative approach in PropTech. [23:35] Traits of founders that attract investment. [27:19] Red flags in startups and founders. [29:24] Approach to valuation and avoiding overblown valuations. [31:19] Insights on data centers and how to think about data center technologies globally. [37:09] Robotics and their evolving role in construction. [39:12] The one question that Ariel wishes people would ask her more about Undivided Ventures. [41:18] What does great look like for Undivided Ventures over the next few years. [42:32] Closing. Profile: Ariel Shtarkman, co-founder and managing partner, Undivided Ventures: https://www.undivided.vc/about and LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariel-s-2850322/ Podcast Information: Bernard Leong hosts and produces the show. The proper credits for the intro and end music are "Energetic Sports Drive." G. Thomas Craig mixed and edited the episode in both video and audio format. Here are the links to watch or listen to our podcast. Analyse Asia Main Site: https://analyse.asia Analyse Asia Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1kkRwzRZa4JCICr2vm0vGl Analyse Asia Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/analyse-asia-with-bernard-leong/id914868245 Analyse Asia YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AnalyseAsia Analyse Asia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/analyse-asia/ Analyse Asia X (formerly known as Twitter): https://twitter.com/analyseasia Analyse Asia Threads: https://www.threads.net/@analyseasia Sign Up for Our This Week in Asia Newsletter: https://www.analyse.asia/#/portal/signup Subscribe Newsletter on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7149559878934540288
"We invested in companies doing direct factory procurement in India, access control for equipment theft prevention, and project management tools for emerging markets - and that's just from our latest cohort." In today's episode of Bricks & Bytes, we had Alice from Brick & Mortar Ventures share fascinating insights about construction tech investing, global expansion, and what's happening in different markets. Tune in to find out about: ✅ Why construction tech startups are increasingly launching outside Silicon Valley, especially in Europe and India ✅ How construction tech in India feels like the US market did 6 years ago - and why that's exciting ✅ The shift in founder profiles: from industry veterans to repeat entrepreneurs and deep tech experts ✅ Why mega-funds might not be the best thing for construction tech right now
In this episode of Brewing with BIM we sit down with Adriel Navarro, Senior Partner Consulting Manager at Autodesk, to discuss the intersection of construction technology, professional development, and the lessons learned from wrestling and comedy. Adriel shares his unique journey from selling sneakers to shaping the future of construction tech, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, communication, and continuous growth. They dive deep into the latest advancements in Autodesk Construction Cloud, including updates to BuildingConnected, ProEst, and Learn ACC, and explore the value of creating impactful client relationships through collaboration and curiosity. Whether you're into BIM, construction tech, or the art of presenting with confidence, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for insights, inspiration, and a few laughs along the way. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brewingwithbim/support
"Follow the money to grow, follow your passion to build. While US construction tech startups have raised $30B, India's $1B investment is yielding better returns." In today's episode of Bricks & Bytes, we did our November Monthly Review where we reflected on an action-packed month of content creation and exciting future plans. We even explored fascinating market dynamics, founder insights, and geographic opportunities in construction tech. Tune in to find out about: ✅ Our successful launch of the AI in Construction Report and first steps into monetization ✅ Highlights from our Boston trip interviewing startups at Suffolk's boost cohort ✅ Behind the scenes of the upcoming Ediphi super series releasing in January ✅ Plans for New York and San Francisco tour in 2025, plus a potential India expansion Listen to the full episode on Spotify to hear Owen, Martin, and Patric discuss their key takeaways from November, upcoming content plans, and Patric's take on why founders often over-obsess with product and under-obsess with distribution. ----------- Chapters 00:00 End of Year Reflections 03:01 Cultural Differences in Business Mindset 05:50 The Impact of Travel on Business 08:47 Exploring AI in Construction 12:11 The Role of Community in Innovation 14:55 Challenges in Design and Construction Software 17:52 The Disconnect Between Traditional and Startup Worlds 21:00 The Influence of Trust in Business Relationships 24:07 Venture Capitalists in Government 26:59 The Future of Governance and Innovation 32:48 Understanding Argentina's Political Landscape 35:09 The Importance of Product Distribution 40:40 Marketing Challenges in Construction Tech 43:47 Trends in AEC Technology 44:29 Talent Acquisition in the AEC Sector 46:03 Investment Trends in Construction Tech 50:34 Cultural Insights: Christmas Traditions 57:33 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans
"Microsoft's secret weapon in construction tech? It's not what you think." In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Ajoy Bhattacharya from Microsoft, and we got to learn about the tech giant's unexpected approach to innovation in construction, the power of digital identity on job sites, and why AI isn't just about generating content. Tune in to find out about: ✅ Why Microsoft hired a construction industry veteran ✅ The surprising focus of Microsoft's construction tech strategy ✅ How a simple login solution boosted efficiency on job sites ✅ Microsoft's vision for AI in the AEC industry Listen now on Spotify to discover how Microsoft is quietly revolutionizing construction technology, one login at a time. ----- BuildVision is a procurement network for the $5T commercial construction market. We are transforming the commercial construction supply chain by bringing contractors, manufacturers, and project stakeholders onto a single software platform—revolutionizing how every component is sourced, purchased, and financed. ---- Sign up to the #1 Newsletter In Construction Tech. Join over 1,000 like-minded Founders, Investors and Techies disrupting the way we build. Forever : https://bricks-bytes.beehiiv.com/subscribe ---- Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:12 Introduction to Ajoy Bhattacharya and Microsoft 07:21 Innovation in Construction: A Personal Journey 10:15 Defining Innovation in the Construction Industry 13:12 Transitioning from Suffolk to Microsoft 16:25 Leveraging Microsoft's Ecosystem for Construction 19:22 The Role of AI in Construction 22:20 Microsoft's Strategy in the AEC Industry 25:02 Case Studies: Efficiency through Technology 28:26 The Importance of User Adoption 31:18 Future Trends: AI and Voice Enablement 34:13 Microsoft Copilot: Enhancing Productivity 37:05 The Role of Startups in Construction Tech 40:11 Key Messages from Recent Talks 43:19 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook
Note: This is a Re-Release of an episode that was originally released on Groundbreakers. Unicorn? Nearly. But who cares In today's episode of Groundbreakers from Bricks and Bytes, we had Jeevan from OpenSpace, and we got to learn about building a successful construction tech startup, the importance of product simplicity, and how to scale effectively in a complex industry. Tune in to find out about: ✅ Why focusing on mid-market clients can be more valuable than chasing big names ✅ The power of a simple, user-friendly product in driving adoption ✅ How OpenSpace's technology is reducing insurance claims in construction ✅ The importance of demonstrating quick time-to-value for customers Listen to the full episode on Spotify to gain insights from one of construction tech's most innovative leaders. -------- Sign up to the #1 Newsletter In Construction Tech. Join over 1,000 like-minded Founders, Investors and Techies disrupting the way we build. Forever : https://bricks-bytes.beehiiv.com/subscribe -------- #podcast #construction #constructionindustry #bricksandbytes #startups #architecture #design #civilengineering #engineering #constructiontechnology #engineer #architect #civilengineer #concrete #podcaster #podcasting #entrepreneur #podcasts #podcastlife #startups #entrepreneurship
Construction management is often a 24/7 job—late-night client emergencies, constant project updates, and unending challenges. But in 2024, technology is transforming the industry, giving builders back control of their time and operations. In this episode, Mitchell Kasselman, CEO and Co-founder of Ressio Software, joins host Curtis Lawson to discuss how AI-powered software solutions are reshaping the construction industry, improving both business efficiency and quality of life for custom builders. Mitchell, a former McKinsey consultant and ServiceChannel leader, shares how construction management software can simplify complex processes, streamline communication, and prevent those late-night work crises. Together, they explore the power of modern project management tools and how they're making building smarter, faster, and more sustainable. Key Takeaways: How AI-powered software is transforming construction management in 2024 and beyond The importance of proactive project management over reactive problem-solving Streamlining communication and client updates to prevent unnecessary stress Building scalable, sustainable systems that grow with your business How technology gives builders their time back without adding complexity Quote of the Episode:"It's 2024, your software should feel like it's 2024." – Mitchell Kasselman, CEO of Ressio Software Episode Chapters: [00:00] Intro: The Challenges of Construction Management in 2024 [05:30] The Role of AI in Construction Tech [10:15] Streamlining Communication and Project Updates [15:45] Building Scalable Processes for Long-Term Success [22:00] Moving from Chaos to Clarity with Modern Software Solutions [28:30] Final Thoughts: Taking Control of Your Time and Business Learn More About Ressio Software: https://www.ressiosoftware.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ressiosoftware/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/ressiosoftware https://www.facebook.com/people/RessioSoftware/100089514371595/ Guest: Mitchell Kasselman is the CEO and Co-founder of Ressio Software, a company on a mission to bring construction software into the future. With experience at McKinsey & Company and ServiceChannel, Mitchell's approach focuses on simplifying construction operations and improving the builder's quality of life. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchellkasselman/
Tyler Campbell is the owner of Storybuilder Creative and co-host of the Construction Brothers podcast. His background in steel detailing coupled with experience creating videos in the commercial construction industry grants Tyler with unique insights into areas where construction tech falls short and how it can be improved. Topics include: * Challenges with technology adoption* The importance of proximity * Generational shifts in the industry* Technologists in the fieldBrought to you by Crema - Get the most out of your existing product teams. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.peopleofproduct.us
"50% of construction projects are over budget or late due to contract compliance issues." In this month's roundup episode, Martin & Owen discussed about their newly released AI report, which explores AI applications in construction document management. They interviewed five startups and Microsoft to gather insights for this report. They discussed upcoming plans, including a trip to Boston to record episodes with Suffolk's Boost program startups. Martin and Owen reflected on some notable episodes from October, including conversations with industry veterans like Amar from Autodesk and a discussion on why construction tech companies fail, using Flux as a case study. They touched on the rapid growth of construction tech funding, now representing 0.8% of total VC funding, up from 0.2-0.3% pre-2021. They also mentioned their robotics podcast, Bitbuilders, and an interesting episode about space construction with Lee Rosen from Think Orbital. Go and check out the AI Report on our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/bricks_bytes/shop/construction-tech-revolution-in-india-596700?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=productshare_creator&utm_content=join_link Also, don't forget to watch the full roundup episode here:
Check out FrameTec: https://www.frametec.com/
Note: This is a Re-Release of an episode that was originally released on Groundbreakers. "I raised $250,000 pitching random people in coffee shops." - Dustin DeVan's unconventional approach to startup funding In this episode, we had Dustin DeVan, founder of Building Connected and Ediphi, sharing his journey from selling a company for $275 million to starting anew in the construction tech space. Tune in to find out about: ✅ The power of cold emails in securing VC meetings ✅ Why San Francisco's startup ecosystem is no longer what it used to be ✅ How to build a successful construction tech startup in today's market ✅ The challenges of innovating within large, established companies Listen now on Spotify to hear Dustin's insights on fundraising, scaling startups, and the future of construction technology. A must-listen for founders, investors, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of construction tech. ---------------------------- Sign up to the #1 Newsletter In Construction Tech. Join over 1,000 like-minded Founders, Investors and Techies disrupting the way we build. Forever : https://bricks-bytes.beehiiv.com/subscribe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bricks-bytes/ X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/bricksbytespod Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmNbunUTIIQDzbJgGJt9_Zg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bricksbytes/
Remen Okoruwa is a former strategy consultant and product manager, and now Co-founder and CEO at Propexo. His company helps property owners, operators, and proptech companies deliver better resident experiences through the power of data. Propexo provides tools for connecting property management software with other technology in a streamlined way. Propexo is a customer-centric organization that focuses on data strategies that delight residents, improve NOI, and make Multifamily real estate a better place for everyone.(2:06) - Remen's & Propexo's origin story(4:47) - Building the Plaid for Proptech(8:32) - State of Propexo today(12:02) - Propexo's model & ROI in Multifamily(16:04) - Serving diverse use cases & customer base(17:22) - Feature | Berkadia's BeEngaged - Learn more: Ecosystem of founders, industry professionals, and capital providers dedicated to redefining the commercial real estate space.(18:59) - How Proptech VC looks at integratability(24:26) - Building a collaborative & customer-centric product road map(26:54) - RealPage v. US Justice Department(29:27) - Feature | CREtech NY Conference & Expo - Sign Up: Tangent listeners get a 20% discount using code PARTNERTANGENT20 at checkout.(33:42) - Collaboration Superpower: Cyrus the Great (Wiki)
Follow Michael hereCheck out SmartPM here: https://smartpm.com/email Michael at mpink@smartpm.com
Note: This is a repost from an episode which was released on Groundbreakers. "AI is not just about replacing humans, it's about elevating them." - Dev Amratia, CEO of nPlan, shares how AI is transforming construction project management. In this episode, we had Dev Amratia and we got to learn about nPlan's journey in revolutionizing construction risk management, the power of AI in forecasting project timelines, and the importance of company culture in building a successful startup... and many more! Tune in to find out about: ✅ How nPlan uses AI to analyze over 760,000 construction projects ✅ The concept of "adding the egg" in product development ✅ Why outcomes-based services are gaining traction in construction tech ✅ The importance of a growth mindset in startup leadership Listen to the full episode on Spotify to discover how AI is reshaping the future of construction project management. Sign up to the #1 Newsletter In Construction Tech. Join over 1,000 like-minded Founders, Investors and Techies disrupting the way we build. Forever : https://bricks-bytes.beehiiv.com/subscribe --------------------------------------------------- BuildVision is a procurement network for the $5T commercial construction market. We are transforming the commercial construction supply chain by bringing contractors, manufacturers, and project stakeholders onto a single software platform—revolutionizing how every component is sourced, purchased, and financed. This episode is brought to you by Shft—the BIM partner you need to fill the gap in your digital skills and tackle your BIM needs, end-to-end. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bricks-bytes/ X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/bricksbytespod Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmNbunUTIIQDzbJgGJt9_Zg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bricksbytes/
Bryce Nyberg is the VP, Corporate Development at Berkadia and the Head of BeEngaged. Bryce focuses on advancing innovation in our industry through BeEngaged, partnerships, investments, and acquisitions. His influence in and out of Berkadia, business acumen, and effective program leadership skills lead to remarkable outcomes for the organizations he works with. Startups that have gone through BeEngaged include Esusu, Propexo, Rabbet, Market Stadium, Symmetre, Reffie and Embue.(2:00) - What is Berkadia's BeEngaged(6:58) - What startups are ideal candidates for the program(11:13) - Real Estate no longer a tech laggard?(14:56) - Feature | Berkadia's BeEngaged - Learn more: Ecosystem of founders, industry professionals, and capital providers dedicated to redefining the commercial real estate space.(16:33) - Berkadia's BeEngaged's case studies(21:12) - Feature | CREtech NY Conference & Expo - Learn more: Tangent listeners get a 20% discount using code PARTNERTANGENT20 at checkout.(22:45) - Role of collaboration & integration in the Proptech ecosystem(28:16) - Collaboration Superpower: Warren Buffett (Chairperson of Berkshire Hathaway)
Check out Mancini Duffy on Linkedin hereFollow Bill Mandara hereCheck out Mancini Duffy's website: https://manciniduffy.com/
Chris Callen, founder and CEO of Plot, discusses his journey in the construction technology industry and the challenges of coordinating job sites. He shares his experience with his first software startup and the lessons he learned from it. Callen explains how Plot's job site coordination software helps streamline the delivery and procurement processes in construction. He also discusses the role of AI in the industry and the importance of building trust with customers. The episode concludes with a conversation about the go-to-market strategy for selling software to general contractors.TakeawaysJob site coordination is a complex process in construction, and software solutions like Plot can help streamline the delivery and procurement processes.Building trust with customers is crucial in the construction industry, as they are often skeptical of new software solutions.AI has the potential to make an impact in construction, but it is still in the early stages of adoption.Trade shows and referrals are effective go-to-market strategies for selling software to general contractors in the construction industry.Find Startup Hustle Everywhere:https://gigb.co/l/YEh5This episode is sponsored by Full Scale:https://fullscale.io/Find out more about PLOT here:https://www.getplot.com/companyLearn more about Chris Callen here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-callen/Sign up for the Startup Hustle newsletter:https://newsletter.startuphustle.xyz/Sound Bites"Plot is a job site coordination software. Primarily we focus on the coordination of who goes where on the site, talking about all of the material deliveries that are coming from all over the planet really, and that are used to make up of any building.""You obviously need to focus on problem, not solution. We were so infatuated with our solution that we built this, I call it a science project. It was technically pretty amazing. Like what it was able to accomplish was phenomenal, but it didn't solve a business need and it didn't solve something that computed into business value.""Let's get this out there. Let's see what gets the traction. And by traction, I do mean dollars. I don't mean kind words. I don't mean demonstrations. I mean, who's going to pay for this?"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Plot and Job Site Coordination07:34 Lessons Learned from a Software Startup15:10 The Role of AI in Construction19:07 Expanding into Procurement Scheduling25:23 Building Trust with Customers in the Construction Industry29:46 Go-to-Market Strategies for Selling Software to General ContractorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Check out Phil here: https://getphil.app/Follow Bryan here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankerr/
Follow Tanner hereCheck out Built here: https://getbuilt.com/
From Tabuk, a mid-size city in Saudi Arabia's northern region, to a PHD from Duke University and now founder of one of Saudi Arabia's most successful startup companies, Dr. Hassan Albalawi's incredible journey represents a successful investment by Saudi Arabia into the promise of its citizens. In Episode 28, Dr. Hassan sits down with The TWENTY30's Lucien Zeigler and Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed for an exclusive interview and conversation to discuss the genesis and growth of WakeCap, an innovative and fast-growing construction technologies company that allows employers to monitor the safety and productivity of workers on the job site. WakeCap is scaling and expanding quickly, with 100 employees and operating partnerships with some of the largest construction companies in the world, including Aramco, Bechtel, and many others. WakeCap's solutions are now the go-to for companies seeking to protect and incentivize their employees and boost productivity to get projects completed safely. The company recently acquired a Silicon Valley-based startup in July 2024, and is using that investment to create a new R&D center for the company in the center of America's innovation capital. Now, it's expanding beyond the Middle East region, working in New York and elsewhere in one of the most significant exports of Saudi-made technologies in the Kingdom's history. Hassan is the eldest in a family of 14 children. His first time on an airplane was as a teenager to travel to the United States for college and graduate school with limited English. When he left the U.S., he did so with a PHD in Engineering from one of top 10 universities in the country, and was ready to begin his journey as an entrepreneur. Hanaa and Lucien ask him about his experiences in the U.S. before diving into his journey as a Saudi startup founder years before the Kingdom began making huge investments into technologies and developing its ecosystem. The hosts also ask Hassan about the opportunities and challenges in the construction sector in Saudi Arabia and the GCC region, the development of entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia today, and the future of WakeCap as a potential unicorn in the coming years. After the conversation, Dr. Hanaa and Lucien conclude with SHOUTOUTS. Dr. Hanaa's Shoutout is to the recently-passed Safeya Binzagr, famed Saudi artist who inspired many with her books and museums long before the Vision's reforms. Lucien's Shoutout is to Younis Altewejri and Francesco Luigi Carusi, founders of The Rustic Bakery in Riyadh, which was recently shortlisted for the Riyadh 2024 Time Out awards. *** The TWENTY30 is now the leading bi-weekly podcast on Saudi Arabia in English! Our founders thank everyone for subscribing and following as we de-code Saudi Arabia's rapid transformation in English and share stories of the changemakers playing crucial roles in the Kingdom's changes. Subscribe for free wherever you get your podcasts: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0uuKNWr... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... YouTube: / @thetwenty30 Get episodes and exclusive content delivered to your email inbox free: https://thetwenty30.com You can also email the show's hosts with their first names (Lucien @TheTWENTY30.com) or (Hanaa @thetwenty30.com) or email Hosts @ TheTwenty30.com. The TWENTY30 Podcast is a production of The TWENTY30 Media Group, LLC. ©The TWENTY30. All rights reserved.
Forget Fan Mail, Fan Text Us!
A construction tech company in Australia called Hammertech has raised $105 million as it looks to expand into the US and Europe. One of the major investors in Stripe, Sequoia Capital, is offering to buy shares from its earliest investors at a $70 billion USD valuation. Budget mobile brands have seen double digit growth in subscribers after the latest price increases from telco giants Telstra and Optus. — Get 50% of Flux Pro for the next 12 months: https://fluxfinance.page.link/EOFY-campagin-50off Build the financial wellbeing of your team with Flux at Work: https://bit.ly/fluxatworkDownload the free app (App Store): http://bit.ly/FluxAppStoreDownload the free app (Google Play): http://bit.ly/FluxappGooglePlayDaily newsletter: https://bit.ly/fluxnewsletterFlux on Instagram: http://bit.ly/fluxinstaFlux on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flux.finance—-The content in this podcast reflects the views and opinions of the hosts, and is intended for personal and not commercial use. We do not represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any opinion, statement or other information provided or distributed in these episodes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He's back! Nima Wedlake, Managing Director at ThomVest Ventures, about the current state of Proptech and the themes he is tracking for 2024. We focused on an essay Nima penned, covering several topics including control point software, AI's impact on construction productivity, and the rise of home services businesses. Nima discusses the challenges and opportunities in scaling tech-enabled service businesses and the potential of AI in the construction industry. The conversation also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on real estate tech investments and the future of venture capital in the space. We also explore the role of real estate agents in a changing market and the impact of technology on the industry (spoiler: uncertainty exists, but so will the agent). More about Nima and Thomvest VenturesNima has published his 2024 proptech themes and would love to discuss them with you. Here is the link to the full report: https://blog.thomvest.com/real-estate-technology-themes-were-tracking-in-2024-124a5280c3ddBelow is a very quick overview of the three key themes that will play a dominant role in 2024 for Nima.“Control point” software businesses in real estate: These crucial systems are core to how businesses operate and are difficult to displace. Three strategies for new entrants to compete in this space include targeting new customer segments, building value around existing control points, and selling complete tasks or processes instead of just software tools.AI's impact on construction productivity: There is growing excitement around startups focused on using AI in various aspects of construction, from pre-development analysis and permitting automation to design cycle shortening and physical robot automation on construction sites.Residential real estate in a post-NAR world: Following the NAR settlement on residential real estate, lower commissions may lead to agents seeking efficiency measures and could pose challenges for existing real estate companies, while also creating opportunities for innovation and competition in the industry.Nima Wedlake is a Managing Director at Thomvest Ventures, focusing on investment opportunities across the real estate & financial technology verticals. He spearheaded Thomvest's investments in Baselane, Blend, Glide (acquired by Compass), Keyway, Maxwell, Mynd, Obie, Pine & Tala. Thomvest Ventures is a San Francisco-based $750M evergreen venture capital fund by Peter Thomson (Thomson Reuters). Follow Nima on TwitterConnect with Nima on LinkedInCheck out Thomvest
Welcome to another episode of Category Visionaries — the show that explores GTM stories from tech's most innovative B2B founders. In today's episode, we're speaking with Chloe Smith, CEO & Co-Founder of Mercator AI, an AI-powered business development platform for commercial general contractors that has raised $4.5 Million in funding. Here are the most interesting points from our conversation: Background and Inspiration: Chloe comes from a background in data strategy and marketing, not directly from construction, but her family's involvement in the industry piqued her interest and led to the inception of Mercator AI. Cross-Industry Application: Although her background is not in construction, Chloe's experience in data strategy and marketing allowed her to identify and address a gap in the construction industry, demonstrating the value of cross-industry application of skills. Foundational Shifts: Mercator AI helps construction businesses identify early project opportunities by tracking land development, which allows their clients to engage earlier and more effectively in potential projects. Navigating Industry Challenges: Chloe discusses the challenges of transitioning from other sectors to construction tech, highlighting the importance of understanding and adapting to industry-specific dynamics. Focus on Business Development: The platform is designed to 'force multiply' the efforts of business developers in the construction industry by streamlining the research and pursuit process, fundamentally changing how contractors approach new opportunities. Early Struggles and Adjustments: Reflecting on the initial challenges, Chloe emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability, sharing an anecdote about early investor interactions that shaped the company's trajectory. Sponsors: Front Lines — We help B2B tech companies launch, manage, and grow podcasts that drive demand, awareness, and thought leadership. www.FrontLines.io The Global Talent Co. — We help tech startups find, vet, hire, pay, and retain amazing marketing talent that costs 50-70% less than the US & Europe. www.GlobalTalent.co
In this episode, David Paul interviews Lisa Diaz, the founder of Turf Advisory, about the construction industry and the need for infrastructure investment. They discuss the challenges of government prioritization, the role of general contractors and subcontractors, and the low margins in the construction industry. They also explore the potential of construction technology to increase margins and address pain points in the industry. Lisa emphasizes the importance of integrating and connecting different systems and the need for standardization in construction. She also shares her excitement about using digital twins for infrastructure assessment and the opportunity for infrastructure repair. You can watch/listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple.TakeawaysThe construction industry is in need of infrastructure investment to address deteriorating infrastructure and meet the growing demand for housing and transportation.Government prioritization of infrastructure projects is influenced by politics and the most pressing needs, often resulting in a shortage of funding for necessary repairs and upgrades.Construction technology has the potential to increase margins in the industry by improving efficiency and addressing pain points such as labor tracking and material delivery.The adoption of construction technology faces challenges such as resistance to change and the need for standardization and integration among different systems.Chapters01:05 The Need for Infrastructure Investment03:09 The Importance of Infrastructure to Joe Biden04:15 Improving Infrastructure in New York City05:19 Bidding and Contracting in the Construction Industry06:13 Different Types of Construction and Contractors07:38 The Role of General Contractors and Subcontractors08:33 The Transition to Design-Build Contracts09:20 Low Margins in the Construction Industry10:17 Increasing Margins with Construction Technology11:46 The Challenges of Construction Technology Adoption13:02 Using Technology to Track Labor and Materials14:53 Addressing Pain Points in Construction16:15 The Importance of Integration and Connectivity19:12 Regulatory Changes and Pain Points in Construction20:40 Using Digital Twins for Infrastructure Assessment23:16 The Need for Standardization in Construction27:17 The Opportunity in Infrastructure Repair29:38 Contacting Lisa Diaz and Turf Advisory