Exciting Times for Kansas City’s Interplay with Techstars Boost
Kansas City is buzzing with excitement as local startup Interplay takes a significant step forward in the world of pet tech. Founded by Jonaie Johnson, this innovative company is gearing up to launch its first product, and it’s just been accepted into the highly esteemed Techstars Atlanta & New Orleans program, powered by J.P. Morgan. This program, which recently welcomed 21 companies to its inaugural class, is designed to jumpstart early-stage businesses and give them the tools they need to grow.
Meeting the Demand for Pet Care
Pet ownership has been on the rise, and with it, investment in the pet industry is booming. Jonaie Johnson noted that “the pet industry is trending right now,” and Interplay is aiming to capitalize on this surge. The startup’s standout product, the PlayTach, is an innovative dog crate that promises to transform the way pet owners manage their furry friends when they can’t be home. With a simple click of a button, this smart crate allows busy pet parents to control their dog’s crating experience remotely from their phones.
Imagine being able to dispense food and water, see and talk to your dog, and even play music to keep them calm—all while you’re away! The Interplay app makes this not just a dream, but a reality, providing peace of mind to pet owners everywhere.
Riding the Techstars Wave
The acceptance into the Techstars program couldn’t have come at a better time for Interplay. Johnson expressed her enthusiasm, stating that the selection is a validation of the company’s efforts and direction. “We hit a stagnant point with the company, but the Techstars selection has pulled us back in an upward swing with a full steam of momentum,” she said, highlighting how pivotal this moment is for both her and the business.
This new phase comes with significant benefits. Techstars provides not only an impressive $120,000 investment but also access to world-class mentorship and resources that are crucial for scaling the business. “We now have the funding and resources to scale the company and get our product in the hands of customers,” Johnson shared, optimistic about what the future holds.
A Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
The Techstars Atlanta & New Orleans program is particularly noteworthy for its commitment to supporting underrepresented founders. According to managing director Melissa Pegus, this class emphasizes innovation driven by diversity and inclusivity. “J.P. Morgan offers a suite of services, including banking and wealth management…recognizing diversity and inclusion as catalysts for innovation and growth,” Pegus explained.
A Passionate Entrepreneur’s Journey
Jonaie Johnson, who was previously recognized as the Student Entrepreneur of the Year at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, is embracing this opportunity wholeheartedly. The program is structured to be inclusive and hybrid, combining in-person boot camps in Atlanta with virtual sessions. Johnson has already completed the first two weeks and described this experience as a “pivotal moment” in her entrepreneurial journey.
Interestingly, Johnson also shared that her path to this opportunity wasn’t always smooth—requiring several applications before acceptance. “It took me applying more times than I’d like to admit,” she reflected on her experience, noting that embracing failure is a key part of learning and growth. “Those who aren’t afraid to fail tend to learn the most,” she said, emphasizing her belief that the lessons from failure have been essential for her success.
Looking Ahead
As Interplay moves forward with its pre-order campaign and continues to innovate within the pet technology sector, the excitement in Kansas City is palpable. Jonaie Johnson and her team are on a mission to make pet ownership easier and more enjoyable, all while ensuring that our beloved pets are well taken care of. The future looks bright for this enthusiastic entrepreneur and her smart dog crate, and it’s just the beginning for Interplay!
