Startup Watch: 4 Emerging Tech Companies Rising in Seattle

Seattle’s tech scene continues to thrive with a new wave of innovative startups gaining attention. This spotlight highlights four early-stage tech companies that are making notable strides in various sectors, from AI and cloud services to sustainability and software development. These rising startups are not only showcasing fresh ideas and groundbreaking technologies but are also attracting investor interest and shaping the future of the local innovation ecosystem. Stay tuned to see how they grow and disrupt.

From stopping shoplifting to streamlining insurance operations, improving lab testing, and matching users with nail salons, this batch of startups covers a wide range of sectors. Our latest spotlight features promising new ventures emerging from Seattle’s startup ecosystem.

Jinn Labs

Launched: 2024

What they do: Jinn Labs combines computer vision and AI-based software to help retailers spot theft as it happens. The startup focuses on stores like gas stations, convenience stores, and other similar outlets. Backed with $775,000 in funding, the team is operating from the AI2 Incubator.

Who’s behind it: CEO and co-founder Harjeev Anand brings past experience from Amazon and Microsoft and previously led product at infrastructure startup Katanemo. His co-founder and CTO Syed Hashmi was previously an engineer at Oracle and LinkedIn, and also worked at Katanemo.

ModernVivo

Launched: 2021

What they do: ModernVivo is applying artificial intelligence to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of preclinical animal trials. Its platform is designed to shorten development timelines, lower R&D costs, and uncover better treatment candidates. The full product became commercially available in December and has already signed over 20 customers, including major pharmaceutical companies and smaller biotech firms.

Who’s behind it: CEO and co-founder Ian Levine has a background in scientific research and studied pharmacology in graduate school at the University of Michigan. His co-founder and CTO, Colin Small, holds a master’s degree in biotechnology from Brown University.

NailedIT Labs

Launched: 2025

What they do: NailedIT Labs offers a digital platform that merges the functionality of Pinterest with the convenience of OpenTable, enabling users to find nail art ideas and book appointments using AI. Its “Nail Art Genie” helps users explore designs available from local salons. With over 70 salon partners in the Seattle region, the company plans to monetize through commissions on bookings.

Who’s behind it: Founder and CEO Hongyuan Jin (Alex) has a Ph.D. in economics and a background in consulting and data science. CTO Daniel Catalan recently graduated with a degree in computer science.

Onyx Platform

Launched: 2025

What they do: Onyx is a fresh take on insurance tech, launched by former Assurance IQ employees. The platform is designed to improve operational efficiency for insurance agencies. While still in its early stages, the company has a few clients and is preparing for an official product rollout later this year. The team has secured pre-seed funding and includes eight members.

Who’s behind it: CEO and co-founder Allison Arzeno formerly led Assurance, a company that helped consumers find insurance plans and was acquired by Prudential for $2.35 billion in 2019 before shutting down in 2023. CTO and co-founder Nicholas Howard also served as CTO at Assurance.

Conclusion:

Seattle’s startup ecosystem continues to thrive, with early-stage companies tackling a wide range of challenges using innovative tech, from AI-driven security and preclinical research tools to salon discovery platforms and insurance solutions. These rising startups not only highlight the diversity of ideas in the region but also reflect the strong talent and entrepreneurial spirit driving the city’s tech scene forward. As they grow and evolve, they’re worth keeping on your radar for the future of innovation in the Pacific Northwest.

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SourceL geekwire‍