South by Southwest’s Pitch Competition showcases some of the world’s most innovative companies.

SXSW this week announced the 45 finalists in nine categories featuring four Austin-based startups. The Austin-based startups are Mod Tech Labs in the artificial intelligence, robotics, and voice category, Nephrodite in the health, wearables, and well-being category, Kiro in the smart cities, transportation and logistics category, and Pinwheel in the social and cultural category.

The 14th annual SXSW Pitch Competition will take place at the Hilton Austin Downtown on Saturday, March 12, and Sunday, March 13 before a live audience and a panel of judges.

“From 2009-2021, 572 companies have participated in SXSW Pitch, with over 82% receiving funding and acquisitions in excess of $14.5 billion,” according to SXSW.

The following are the descriptions of the four Austin-based SXSW Pitch finalists.

Mod Tech Labs
Austin, TX

MOD helps creative agencies digitize the real-world with AI-powered capture and 3D software workflows for enhanced retail marketing and monetization. Transforming photos and videos into 3D digital content faster with a no-code automated SaaS platform. Enabling 3D visuals of products, people, and worlds across devices and interactive content needs.

Nephrodite
Austin, TX

Nephrodite is developing HollyTM, a combined implantable and wearable device that represents a change in the way End-Stage Renal Disease and dialysis care is delivered. Our device will offer mobility and independence to patients enjoying freedom to do as they choose with their time.

Kiro Action
Austin, TX

Kiro Action, a modern refuge that is deployed in 4-hours by 4 people with no special machinery or heavy equipment built to the code of commercial and home applications. The same product can be a backyard office, yoga studio, flex room and shelter the unhoused. Scalable, flat-packed, cost effective and dignified housing.

Pinwheel
Austin, TX

Pinwheel’s philosophy is that we let kids be kids when their exploratory spirits are cultivated as creators rather than consumers.