What is new on the startup scene in New York City? Is it still disruptive or already consolidating? I went to a NY Tech Meetup at New Work City which live-streamed the event that was being held at the Skirball Theatre in New York last week to find out. Here are 6 new startups that pitched for attention.
1. Poncho
What it does: Personalized news delivery service
How it does it: You pick what information you need on a daily basis (local weather, traffic status of your subway line, sports score etc.). You then get a daily newsletter or text message with your individual data.
What I like: Simple and easy concept. However, it is currently only available in New York City.
Website: poncho.is
2. Topi
What it does: Connects people via its app.
How it does it: It’s a bit like a chatroom. You can select other users by topic and even go private with your chat.
What I like: WhatsApp on steroids. Easy to use and (they say) it’s secure…
Website: topi.com
3. Justworks
What it does: Lets you set up payroll and benefits for your employees and contractors.
How it does it: Easy pick-and-choose menu/ wizard for your payroll and benefits needs.
What I like: It’s equally easy to set up payment and taxes for employees and contractors.
Website: justworks.com
4. Done Not Done
What it does: Set up a bucket list of all the things you want to do.
How it does it: Set up a list of things (films, books etc.) that you missed or get recommendations.
What I like: You can see what your “friends” put on their list. But remember, everybody can see the lists.
Website: donenotdone.com
5. Maxwell Health
What it does: Organizes and tracks private insurance and benefits for you.
How it does it: Dashboard-driven account lets you set up and view all you insurance deals and policies.
What I like: They offer a concierge service that will manage your liaison with a doctor’s office or insurance company. They will do all the telephone calling for you.
Website: maxwellhealth.com
6. One Month Rails
What it does: Everybody can now become a developer (Ruby on Rails that is) with this resource, even absolute beginners.
How it does it: Professes to bring you up to the level where you can build a prototype of a site . Teaching is mainly done with videos.
What I like: Founder Mattan Griffel says you will become sufficiently good enough to “find, pitch and manage good developers”. For a new entrepreneur that is worth a lot.
Website: onemonthrails.com
