is

sue FOREW

ORD

is

sue FOREW

ORD

E very startup business comes with its own unique set of challenges. Some of the biggest of them is to find consistent sales opportunities and a loyal customer base. Startup companies have build processes and adhere to a business model, looking to

showcase their best products in the market. Many would agree that the approach required to create a successful startup is more than just capital, it’s comes down to an extremely competent group of professionals and new business ideas. A deeply rooted focus on new technologies always helps, but also important is the skills that make these technologies work. Another important factor contributing to a startup growth is the business ability to understand the market potential of products and a technology setup to continuously keep customers interested.

A �artup �oryDataDog as a cloud infrastructure based company has in many ways rewritten rules of managing a cloud company. One of the fastest growing companies in the New York City, DataDog is now well placed in the cloud market with a reputation of being innovative at all times. Founded in 2010, the company is currently valued at $600 million dollars. It’s not every day that a startup can give you as large a figure like this in only six years of inception. Then, what could have been reason behind the company’s record-breaking success?Breaking down the analysis, we monitored how DataDog has built a culture of innovation within the organization. The company’s main strength lies in providing clients with the toolset through which they can control every aspect of their data-driven business. The company has led clients in their journey to create modern cloud environments. It has proven itself as a technology-focused company, responsible for some of the most innova-tive cloud technologies the US market has ever seen. Datadog was recently recognized as the 9th fastest growing company by Deloitte.But in reality, out of hundreds of companies trying to make a mark in the startup market, only few have the firepower to sustain for a long term. Reports and even experts from across industries have come to the conclusion that around 90 percent of startup fail to convert themselves into a multi-million dollar business venture. Instead, lose out their resource strength and the brightest of ideas to bigger up and coming companies. The Technology Headlines in this issue has attempted to revisit some of the most success-ful startup ideas, and has partnered with some of the fastest growing startups to uncover their secrets to continued success. Our aim is to help companies to look at the startup ecosystem in entirely different ways. In this edition, we are featuring top 20 tech startups that have stood up from the rest in terms of service delivery and business development. Taking cue from their technologies and business models to understand the nitty-gritty of the current startup ecosystem, our mission is to present a unified view of the business strategies that matter most to a startup.

TOP 20 LEADING

A list of Startups that are pioneering the use of innovative business solutions to remove barriers of efficiency in customer’s business processes.

recognized by magazine as

TOP 20 LEADING

Editor-in-CheifCARLOS CHAVEZ

C L O U D COOP

THE TECHNOLOGY HEADLINES

TOP 20 LEADING TECHNOLOGY STARTUPS

F E B RUARY 2 0 1 7

AmercanexDenver, Coloradoamercanex.com

Bayes Impa�San Fransico, CAbayesimpact.org

CaramergeChicago, ILcaremerge.com

Purveyor of Online Marketing, Finance and Cash Services for the Cannabis industry

Offers Data services for the government

Offers IT services for the Healthcare sector

Trains War Veterans in Salesforce Consulting

Offers IT services for the Securities and Fintech industries

Offers ERP support services

Provides IT solutions for the recruitment industry

Facilitates secure digital transformation

Offers IT solutions to the Energy Indus-try

C OMpany MAnag ement What I t D o e s

Steve Janjic CEO

Cloud Co-opAustin, TXcloudcoop.io

Consulting Group InternationalNew York, NYconsultinggroupinternational.com

En�ire Partners Inc.Suwanee, GAenspirepartners.com

FILDEl Segundo, CAfildit.com

Fishtech LabsKasnas City, MOfishtechlabs.com

Grid CAustin, TXgrid4c.com

4

Paul Duan Founder & CEO

Asif Khan Founder & CEO

David S . Franklin Founder & CEO

Adnane CharchourPresident & CEO

Tony FordCEO

Nancy SoniFounder & CEO

Gary Fish Founder & CEO

Noa Ruschin RiminiFounder & CEO

F E B R UARY 2 0 1 7

TOP 20 LEADING TECHNOLOGY STARTUPS

TOP 20 LEADING TECHNOLOGY STARTUPS

Offers video surveilance and hosting services through Cloud and Big Data

Hosts Games on Cloud

Offers application integration solutions

Offers Business Analysis Services

Offers video automation services

Offers marketing services

Offers data integation services

Offers IoT services

Offers agile software development servies

Offers booking and marketing software

Provides innovative technology for the music industry

C OMpany MAnag ement What I t D o e s

IronYunSt. Petersburg, FLironyun.com

Liquid Sky So�wareNew York, NYliquidsky.tv

Per�e�iumPerspectium.com

SDN CentralSunnyvale, CAsdxcentral.com

Sherpa Digital MediaRedwood City, CAsherpaDigitalMedia.com

ThuzioNew York, NY thuzio.com

Uni� So�ware San Mateo, CA unifisoftware.com

VeepWorksDallas, TXveepworks.com

VeraticsIndian Harbour Beach, FLveratics.com

Xolaxola.com

Zyazyamusic.com

Paul SunPresident & CEO

Scott John�onCo-Founder

David Loo CEO

Roy ChuaCo-Founder

K.C.WatsonCEO

Jared Augi�ineCEO

J im CarrCo-Founder

Aaron MadoloraFounder & CEO

Tony GalluscioPresident

Scott ZimmermanCEO

Matt Serletic Co-Founder & CEO

-Op

TOP 20 LEADING TECHNOLOGY STARTUPS

-Op

TOP 20 LEADING IoT SOLUTION PROVIDERS

CLOUDCLOUD- Op

Co

-Op

- Op

Co

loud Co-Op’s mission revolves around the dire need for small consulting firms to work in cohesion in order to help each other grow. “These firms are the bedrock of the local communities and provide critical services, but their ability to compete and scale often forces them to the sidelines on larger

deals,” explains David Franklin, CEO and Founder of Cloud Co-Op and it’s non-profit partner Vets2Cloud. Cloud Co-Op’s initiative allows clients to receive the benefits and personal touch of a small firm with the breadth and resources comparable to a much larger firm.

Dav i d S . F rank l i n , F o un d er & C E O

Sma l l B u s i n e s s C o l la b orat i o n F o st ers Growth

COVER STORY

zVentures promises to take the sensibilities of our ventures overall work forward with far greater reach and impact

C

Cover Story

CLOUDCLOUD- Op

Co

-Op

- Op

Co

loud Co-Op’s mission revolves around the dire need for small consulting firms to work in cohesion in order to help each other grow. “These firms are the bedrock of the local communities and provide critical services, but their ability to compete and scale often forces them to the sidelines on larger

deals,” explains David Franklin, CEO and Founder of Cloud Co-Op and it’s non-profit partner Vets2Cloud. Cloud Co-Op’s initiative allows clients to receive the benefits and personal touch of a small firm with the breadth and resources comparable to a much larger firm.

Dav i d S . F rank l i n , F o un d er & C E O

Sma l l B u s i n e s s C o l la b orat i o n F o st ers Growth

COVER STORY

Cloud Co-Op follows the agile method for cloud transformation which is designed to reduce cost, control scope creep, and increase user adoption

C

Cover Story

F E B RUARY 2 0 1 7

Globalization and the proliferation of technology have made the entire planet an open business portal that is accessible to all. Salesforce has served as the most optimal tool for conducting business at such a large scale. But while Salesforce can simplify business processes into central, automated, and reportable solutions, it can be complex to set up and to learn. With data being a key factor in processes pertaining to businesses, it is essential for effective adoption. Cloud Co-Op’s focus on user experience and training guides the process precisely in this path ensuring adoption for clean and accurate data. Doing so, organizations are able to fortify their growth strategies and make the most out of their Salesforce investments. “We help the business get up and running, with a superior solution, much more quickly so that their investment in Salesforce is giving them returns immediately,” elaborates David.

Today cloud is a vital aspect of any organization’s technological infrastruc-ture. Most processes within the businesses revolve around cloud, making it essential for an effective cloud transformation process. In most instances the cloud migration process is far from effective, with hindrances occurring from cost, process delays and so on. Cloud Co-Op follows the Agile method for cloud transformation which is designed to reduce cost, control scope creep, and increase user adoption. Cloud Co-Op also makes the process engaging and manageable for the clients, providing them with visibility and full collabora-tion during the process, as well as the ability to control cost and delivery based on their ability to consume updates. Such customization of this service, while quite uncommon, allows clients to choose the path in which the process is directed thereby arriving upon the result most effective to their unique needs.

Equipping Small Businesses for the Global Market

The Cloud Co-Op Salesforce Suite

The Agile Cloud Transformation Approach

Cover Story

“ The technology is fast, but we have to allow time for change to happen. The Agile method allows for small product updates so the client has the opportunity to see their process unfold and have appropri-ate training and access at each iteration,” adds David.

Cloud Co-Op’s primary focus is on scalable growth, and rightly its implementation and development processes are directed toward this attribute. Cloud Co-Op’s solutions are designed for all potential scenarios pertain-ing to Salesforce from adoption to manage-ment. For the convenience of its clients Cloud Co-Op has three services; each devised to serve their unique Salesforce requirements. The first is Cloud Start; Cloud Co-Op’s Lean Start-Up approach for new clients moving to Salesforce. It focuses on core business processes first, without the noise of a fully developed transforma-tion which can easily extend delivery, increase cost and destroy adoption. Cloud Start is a less expensive approach when moving into the Cloud.Cloud Growth is designed for existing clients that have struggled with their CRM adoption, or companies looking to grow their current processes with integrations, AppExchange apps (Marketing, PSA, ERP, Community, etc.), or develop an application for sale. Cloud Co-Op helps these clients to architect their next project, or reinvent their current one.

Finally, Cloud Concierge is an on-demand and fixed billable service offering provid-ing T&M and blended rates for high volume usage clients. Cloud Co-Op provides a scala-ble team to cover fractional support for administration, development, solution architecture, business coaching and train-ing. “We allow our clients to focus on high-value activity, while we manage and help grow their Salesforce process-es—when, or if needed,” says David.

While the aforementioned services are the primary offerings, Cloud Co-Op prides itself for being proficient in all the “clouds” that Salesforce has to offer. These include Marketing Cloud, Service Cloud, Sales

-1 2 - JANUARY 2 0 1 7

Globalization and the proliferation of technology have made the entire planet an open business portal that is accessible to all. Salesforce has served as the most optimal tool for conducting business at such a large scale. But while Salesforce can simplify business processes into central, automated, and reportable solutions, it can be complex to set up and to learn. With data being a key factor in processes pertaining to businesses, it is essential for effective adoption. Cloud Co-Op’s focus on user experience and training guides the process precisely in this path ensuring adoption for clean and accurate data. Doing so, organizations are able to fortify their growth strategies and make the most out of their Salesforce investments. “We help the business get up and running, with a superior solution, much more quickly so that their investment in Salesforce is giving them returns immediately,” elaborates David.

Today cloud is a vital aspect of any organization’s technological infrastruc-ture. Most processes within the businesses revolve around cloud, making it essential for an effective cloud transformation process. In most instances the cloud migration process is far from effective, with hindrances occurring from cost, process delays and so on. Cloud Co-Op follows the Agile method for cloud transformation which is designed to reduce cost, control scope creep, and increase user adoption. Cloud Co-Op also makes the process engaging and manageable for the clients, providing them with visibility and full collabora-tion during the process, as well as the ability to control cost and delivery based on their ability to consume updates. Such customization of this service, while quite uncommon, allows clients to choose the path in which the process is directed thereby arriving upon the result most effective to their unique needs.

Equipping Small Businesses for the Global Market

The Cloud Co-Op Salesforce Suite

The Agile Cloud Transformation Approach

Opinion & Insights

“ The technology is fast, but we have to allow time for change to happen. The Agile method allows for small product updates so the client has the opportunity to see their process unfold and have appropri-ate training and access at each iteration,” adds David.

Cloud Co-Op’s primary focus is on scalable growth, and rightly its implementation and development processes are directed toward this attribute. Cloud Co-Op’s solutions are designed for all potential scenarios pertain-ing to Salesforce from adoption to manage-ment. For the convenience of its clients Cloud Co-Op has three services; each devised to serve their unique Salesforce requirements. The first is Cloud Start; Cloud Co-Op’s Lean Start-Up approach for new clients moving to Salesforce. It focuses on core business processes first, without the noise of a fully developed transforma-tion which can easily extend delivery, increase cost and destroy adoption. Cloud Start is a less expensive approach when moving into the Cloud.Cloud Growth is designed for existing clients that have struggled with their CRM adoption, or companies looking to grow their current processes with integrations, AppExchange apps (Marketing, PSA, ERP, Community, etc.), or develop an application for sale. Cloud Co-Op helps these clients to architect their next project, or reinvent their current one.

Finally, Cloud Concierge is an on-demand and fixed billable service offering provid-ing T&M and blended rates for high volume usage clients. Cloud Co-Op provides a scala-ble team to cover fractional support for administration, development, solution architecture, business coaching and train-ing. “We allow our clients to focus on high-value activity, while we manage and help grow their Salesforce process-es—when, or if needed,” says David.

While the aforementioned services are the primary offerings, Cloud Co-Op prides itself for being proficient in all the “clouds” that Salesforce has to offer. These include Marketing Cloud, Service Cloud, Sales

TOP 20 LEADING IoT SOLUTION PROVIDERS

- 1 3 - JANUARY 2 0 1 7

Established in 2015 Cloud Co-Op is current-ly an HIPAA certified Salesforce Partner. In the years to come Cloud Co-Op intends to become a strategic, or Platinum business partner with Salesforce.com by uniting small firms nationally that function as one to support the growing eco-system. By doing so, Cloud Co-Op will have the techni-cal capabilities of many firms which in turn can be translated into their growth on a substantial scale. “We will have the strength of many, while contributing to the growth and success of all. We are many members but one body that allows for many specialties and client opportunities. In doing so, our mission will flourish and our veterans will grow into leading consultants and future employees within the workforce,” reiterates David. In the next five years Cloud Co-Op looks for 20 small firms and 100 veterans to join their group.

I feel privileged to be working alongside one of the fir� 500 certified Salesforce Admini�rators, and David Franklin, has allowed me to grow exponentially in Sales-force consulting due to his indu�ry experi-ence, coaching, men-torship, and weekly warrior training ses-sions

Ken Nuehs, U.S. Marine veteran and consultant

Cloud, Health Cloud, Analytics Cloud, Community Cloud, and so on. For each of these solutions Cloud Co-Op is capable of offering efficiency while setting up and the required customizations and the training required to have a successful experience.

By leveraging twenty years of corporate experience, and twelve within the Salesforce eco-system, David has been able to build an organization that focuses on mentoring and coaching veterans into a certified business consultant career. “In doing so, the veterans connect to a meaningful post-military purpose, receive valuable real world experiences, and become the heartbeat of our mission,” says David. On a mutual understanding the clients in turn reduce implementation and development cost, ensure govern-ance controls, user adoption and strategies for growth.

“As conflicts in various parts of the world end, our soldiers return home to a different kind of battle field - one of a virtual composition surrounded and fortified by a concrete jungle with its own unique set of rules and challenges. While a war veteran may be able to adapt and survive under the most unbearable conditions, chances of survival in the corporate world however are few and far between.” The idea of bridging this gap between the corpo-rate world and the transitioning veterans was what motivated David Frank-lin, a former navy veteran to start Vets2Cloud.

While Salesforce is a common tool today, it cannot be utilized effectively in a corporate setting without years of corporate experience and further certifi-cations. This hinders the veterans from using their newly earned certifica-tions as they are often viewed simply as providers of pro-bono work for nonprofits. Cloud Co-Op helps the veterans get around this obstacle by incor-porating a “Warriors” apprenticeship program called Vets2.Cloud which allows experienced persons in corporate roles to give back in group training sessions in addition to its own mentoring and coaching. Cloud Co-Op also reinforces a training program provided by Salesforce called Trailhead which incorporates gamification and applies these skills to much-needed real working situations in the field.

Vets2.Cloud

The Road Ahead

Quote

Cloud Co-op has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. My transition from the military to the civilian world has been a challenge. David and his staff have provided me with an opportunity to start a wonderful career as a Salesforce Consultant. The training has been top notch, with plenty of resources and staff that are more than willing to help you reach you full potential. It is truly amazing! Cloud Co-op shows great appreciation for Veterans and their service for our nation. It makes me very proud to be apart of such a great organization.

Sheldon Simmons, US NavySalesforce Certified Consultant

TOP 20 LEADING TECHNOLOGY STARTUPS

F E B RUARY 2 0 1 7

Established in 2015 Cloud Co-Op is current-ly an HIPAA certified Salesforce Partner. In the years to come Cloud Co-Op intends to become a strategic, or Platinum business partner with Salesforce.com by uniting small firms nationally that function as one to support the growing eco-system. By doing so, Cloud Co-Op will have the techni-cal capabilities of many firms which in turn can be translated into their growth on a substantial scale. “We will have the strength of many, while contributing to the growth and success of all. We are many members but one body that allows for many specialties and client opportunities. In doing so, our mission will flourish and our veterans will grow into leading consultants and future employees within the workforce,” reiterates David. In the next five years Cloud Co-Op looks for 20 small firms and 100 veterans to join their group.

I feel privileged to be working alongside one of the fir� 500 certified Salesforce Admini�rators, and David Franklin, has allowed me to grow exponentially in Sales-force consulting due to his indu�ry experi-ence, coaching, men-torship, and weekly warrior training ses-sions

Ken Nuehs, U.S. Marine veteran and consultant

Cloud, Health Cloud, Analytics Cloud, Community Cloud, and so on. For each of these solutions Cloud Co-Op is capable of offering efficiency while setting up and the required customizations and the training required to have a successful experience.

By leveraging twenty years of corporate experience, and twelve within the Salesforce eco-system, David has been able to build an organization that focuses on mentoring and coaching veterans into a certified business consultant career. “In doing so, the veterans connect to a meaningful post-military purpose, receive valuable real world experiences, and become the heartbeat of our mission,” says David. On a mutual understanding the clients in turn reduce implementation and development cost, ensure govern-ance controls, user adoption and strategies for growth.

“As conflicts in various parts of the world end, our soldiers return home to a different kind of battle field - one of a virtual composition surrounded and fortified by a concrete jungle with its own unique set of rules and challenges. While a war veteran may be able to adapt and survive under the most unbearable conditions, chances of survival in the corporate world however are few and far between.” The idea of bridging this gap between the corpo-rate world and the transitioning veterans was what motivated David Frank-lin, a former navy veteran to start Vets2Cloud.

While Salesforce is a common tool today, it cannot be utilized effectively in a corporate setting without years of corporate experience and further certifi-cations. This hinders the veterans from using their newly earned certifica-tions as they are often viewed simply as providers of pro-bono work for nonprofits. Cloud Co-Op helps the veterans get around this obstacle by incor-porating a “Warriors” apprenticeship program called Vets2.Cloud which allows experienced persons in corporate roles to give back in group training sessions in addition to its own mentoring and coaching. Cloud Co-Op also reinforces a training program provided by Salesforce called Trailhead which incorporates gamification and applies these skills to much-needed real working situations in the field.

Vets2.Cloud

The Road Ahead

Quote

Cloud Co-op has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. My transition from the military to the civilian world has been a challenge. David and his staff have provided me with an opportunity to start a wonderful career as a Salesforce Consultant. The training has been top notch, with plenty of resources and staff that are more than willing to help you reach you full potential. It is truly amazing! Cloud Co-op shows great appreciation for Veterans and their service for our nation. It makes me very proud to be apart of such a great organization.

Sheldon Simmons, US NavySalesforce Certified Consultant