We've got lots of great things happening this spring at Sandbox Industries! Here are a few updates from the Box.
Marbles: The Brain Store - The retail startup grown out of our incubator closed a Series A round of $5.5M last week. Marbles offers a collection of hand-picked fun ways to a healthier brain, with stores designed to let you get a little brainy while you play games, solve puzzles, try out software and flip through books. Marbles currently has 8 stores in Chicago and Minneapolis area and a growing web store with plans for 25 more stores over the next 2 years, including expansion to the east coast and an additional Chicago store at Water Tower planned for late summer.
Lab42 - Launched in July 2010 from our incubator, Lab42 has quickly gained momentum as a game-changer in the market research world. Lab42 allows companies to conduct market research online via social networks, and target very specific consumer segments based on demographic and psychographic traits, quickly, inexpensively and accurately. Lab42 received funding from Sandbox Ventures in Fall 2010. See their infographic covering the NFL Lockout at http://blog.lab42.com.
Karma Machine - The incubator is rolling out a private pilot of a new form of knowledge base for businesses: Karma Machine. Based on extensive testing to achieve maximum user engagement, the tool aims to break the 1% Rule, a theory that more people will lurk in a virtual community than will participate. Learn more by signing up for the private beta at http://www.karmaqa.com
Healthbox - Sandbox yesterday announced the launch of Healthbox, one of the first startup accelerators to focus exclusively on the healthcare industry. Similar to Excelerate Labs, Healthbox will provide 10 early-stage startups from across the US with mentorship from industry leaders, experts and established entrepreneurs, a collaborative workspace and $50k in seed capital in a 3-month program that will culminate in an Investor Day. For more information visit http://www.healthboxaccelerator.com.
doggyloot - Described as daily deals for dogs and their people, doggyloot launched on February 1 as a part of our incubator and in less than 3 months has become the largest dog-focused social buying site. doggyloot connects merchants in the dog space to customers via great deals (around 50% off), while creating impactful marketing opportunities and repeat business for merchants. Visit doggyloot at http://www.doggyloot.com
Lost Crates - In April we launched Lost Crates, a monthly subscription service that uses members' style preferences to create a curated crate of stationery supplies like notebooks, pens, and other desk accessories. For $38 each month, Lost Crates delivers its members great finds from classic names like Moleskine and Field Notes to boutique or handmade brands that are sure to become new favorites. Visit Lost Crates at http://www.lostcrates.com
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