Birmingham startup Linq, which has developed a networking platform that allows for easy information transfer via customizable pages, has raised $2.5 million in seed-stage capital with investment from Mucker Capital, Alabama Futures Fund and Shipt founder Bill Smith.
Linq’s app-based system lets users create everything from easily shareable digital business cards to systems for tracking participation at events, most based on QR codes. Its product mix includes electronic business cards, hubs, taps and wearables such as bracelets and bands for Apple Watch.
“The last year at Linq has been marked by rapid growth and solidifying the market that we’re serving,” said Linq cofounder and CEO Elliott Potter. “This investment couldn’t come at a better time, as we are poised for more breakout growth as the world reopens. The pandemic accelerated demand for smart, contactless engagement capabilities like ours, and we don’t see that ever going away.”
Before launching Linq, Potter and co-founders Jared Mattsson, COO, and Patrick Sullivan, CTO, worked together at grocery delivery system Shipt, which Bill Smith founded in Birmingham. Shipt was acquired by Target but still has its headquarters in Birmingham.
“Human connection is essential,” said Omar Hamoui, partner at Mucker Capital. “The future will require more robust technologies to bridge the gap between in-person and online networking and relationship building. We believe Linq’s innovative product suite is uniquely positioned to capture this growing market opportunity.”
Linq plans to use the funding to build its team and refine its product offerings, Potter says.
“Linq is empowering a need that even a global pandemic will never remove — human connection,” said Potter. “Watch for Linq products at networking events, at the businesses you shop at and in the hands of your peers. This is only the beginning.”
