Snapshot: 2025 – 2026 StartUp Worcester Cohort Companies

V Apply Solutions – Vishal Suchde
Founded by Vishal Suchde, V Apply Solutions is a no-code platform simplifying applications for schools, nonprofits, and businesses. By combining smart forms, automated workflows, and real-time tracking, it reduces delays and errors while boosting completion rates. Built in Worcester, V Apply makes funding and opportunities more accessible for everyone.

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STEMtacular Kids – Ralph Abraham & Val Lucien
Co-founded by Ralph Abraham and Val Lucien, STEMtacular Kids creates hands-on, culturally relevant tools that introduce children to STEM early. With products like AXL’s STEMtacular Adventures and PseudoCards, the company sparks curiosity, confidence, and skills through play—especially for underserved communities—helping families and educators inspire the next generation of innovators.

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Wicked Wheels – Killian Madden
Founded by Killian Madden, Wicked Wheels reshapes Worcester’s mobility with e-bike sales, demos, and delivery. Instead of confusing assembly or limited store options, Wicked Wheels brings fully assembled bikes directly to customers. By making cycling accessible and convenient, it helps residents replace car trips with e-bikes while supporting sustainability goals.

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SIG Steps – Sonia Glace& Illian Glace
Created by Sonia Glace & her son, Illian Glace, SIG Steps inspires connection and healing through handwritten notes with purpose. Its flagship product, SIG Notes, combines gratitude, pay-it-forward kindness, and charitable giving, donating 10% of proceeds to community causes. By blending personal touch with social impact, SIG Steps fosters well-being and meaningful human connection.

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Valqerie – Raj Sheth, Amrit Poudel & Kumar Gaurav
Founded by Raj Sheth, Amrit Poudel, and Kumar Gaurav, Valqerie empowers small businesses with AI-driven marketing automation. Its “Marketing Systems-as-a-Service” model provides end-to-end CRM tools, automated follow-ups, and scalable growth systems. Based in Worcester, Valqerie helps local service businesses improve lead generation, conversions, and retention with affordable, tech-enabled strategies.

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Speech Con Therapy Services – Tigin Thomas
Founded by Tigin Thomas, Speech Con Therapy Services delivers high-quality speech and behavior therapy to children and families. Responding to growing demand for accessible care, the company partners with schools and communities to provide culturally responsive services. Its mission is to help clients reach their full communication and social potential.

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AgeWellth from Nestwell Health – Al Lavin
Founded by Al Lavin, AgeWellth from Nestwell Health is redefining aging at home with proactive technology, smart care plans, and health monitoring. By focusing on fall prevention, medication adherence, and caregiver peace of mind, AgeWellth enables seniors to live independently and safely, creating a dignified and connected aging experience for families.

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Wake The Way – Kim Jennings
Founded by Kim Jennings, Wake The Way builds human-centered apps that make technology approachable. Its upcoming product, Small Habit™, applies psychology and neuroscience to help users achieve sustainable change by focusing on one habit at a time. Rooted in Worcester, Wake The Way blends empathy, design, and innovation to inspire growth.

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Faraz – Faraz Syed
Founded by Faraz Syed, Faraz develops AI-driven solutions for pressing societal challenges. Its flagship product, Falia, supports eldercare with sensors and real-time monitoring. With additional ventures in decision support and social networking, Faraz seeks to combat loneliness, improve health outcomes, and foster stronger communities through innovative, purpose-driven technology.

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Roots Soccer Academy – Tyler Brondyk
Founded by Tyler Brondyk, Roots Soccer Academy nurtures young players through accessible, high-quality soccer clinics, camps, and training. With a focus on skill, character, and community values, the Worcester-based academy offers an affordable alternative to costly programs—helping kids grow as athletes and individuals while planting lasting roots for success.

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