The Ark Labs a Florence, Alabama start-up that is developing technology to combine artificial intelligence with smart devices and the internet of things to monitor and control residential and commercial water usage.

The technology will help to boost water efficiency, reduce insurance claims due to water damage, and reduce demands on local water supply and wastewater treatment facilities.

In episode 5 of Ignite Alabama I talk to Robbie Hillis, the force behind this Florence, Alabama-based startup.

The Ark Labs is one of the startups chosen to participate in this summer’s GIGTANK Accelerator program in Chattanooga.

Damage caused by water leaks in homes and businesses causes billions of dollars in insurance claims and losses each year.

Water leaks, large and small, deplete water resources and put a strain on wastewater treatment facilities. Even if these leaks don’t cause physical damage, the lost water and system demand means we’re paying billions (as a society) for water losses and depleting water resources in ways that we can no longer afford.

After we cover the problem that The Ark Labs technology will solve, Robbie and I get into a bigger discussion about entrepreneurship in Alabama, the fear of failure and desire for the illusion of security that seems to hold back so many people who might otherwise start a business (small or large).

We also talk about taking off the blinders to discover the plethora of innovative ideas that are all around us. If you have a hobby, you’re probably creative and innovative in ways that can open the door to business opportunities.

Robbie and I both agree that farmers are among the most innovative and resourceful people in the world, but they don’t always see ways to monetize their innovations.

Robbie will be presenting at the GIGTANK Accelerator Demo Day in Chattanooga on July 28, 2015. This event is free and open to the public.

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