Iron Prairie Ventures

Exciting insights in Autodesk’s “2025 Construction Trends: 20+ Experts Share Insights” 🚀—digital transformation, automation, and sustainability are shaping the future of construction. We see these trends as a huge opportunity for founders and investors in industrial tech. The article highlights how AI, data centralization, and AR/VR are revolutionizing project delivery and workforce efficiency. This aligns perfectly with our focus: investing in startups driving automation, smarter decision-making, and sustainable practices. What really resonates is the push toward platform integration and connected construction—breaking down silos for better collaboration. We are backing innovators who are building the digital backbone for the next era of industrial growth. 💡 #IndustrialTech #ConstructionInnovation #VC #DigitalTransformation #IronPrairieVentures https://lnkd.in/g2mKcnb4

🚨 The 2025 Tariffs: Challenges and Opportunities for Innovation 🚨 The Richmond Fed’s recent analysis on the 2025 tariff measures offers critical insights into the economic impact of these sweeping trade policies, with average effective tariffs up to 17%, industries like manufacturing, metals, and automotive face significant disruptions. US GDP growth is expected to decline by 0.9 percentage points this year, while global GDP could shrink by 0.5%. At Iron Prairie Ventures, we recognize that challenges like these demand innovative solutions. Startups driving advancements in supply chain optimization, manufacturing automation, and infrastructure technology are uniquely positioned to help industries adapt to rising costs and supply chain complexities. We’re committed to supporting entrepreneurs who are building resilient, tech-driven solutions for a rapidly changing economic landscape. Together, we can turn disruption into opportunity and create a stronger future for American industry. 💡 #IndustrialTech #VentureCapital #SupplyChainInnovation #EconomicResilience #IronPrairieVentures 

Thanks so much to Leslie Collins at the Kansas City Business Journal for spreading our news across the Heartland. We know the success of this fund encapsulates so much about what makes the Midwest great: our outstanding, rich networks, our commitment to innovation and our longstanding role as a catalyst for making great things happen in #industrialtech. https://lnkd.in/gCc2QAC3

🚀🚀 Big news! We’re proud to officially announce the launch of our $15 million fund focused on fueling the #digitaltransformation of America’s industrial economy. Our mission is clear: to back visionary founders reimagining #manufacturing, #construction, #infrastructure, #logistics and the #supplychain. With 14 investments already in motion — from autonomous warehouse systems to AI-powered cybersecurity and real estate development automation — we’re just getting started. As industries across the U.S. face a once-in-a-generation shift toward #reindustrialization, we see an unprecedented opportunity to support early-stage startups solving dynamic, complex challenges in our physical economy. To our incredible investors and partners, thank you for your confidence and belief in this vision. And to our founders, we're honored to be in your corner.

The recent temporary closure of London’s Heathrow Airport highlights the vulnerabilities of critical infrastructure. The airport, the fifth-busiest in the world by passenger numbers and Europe’s busiest, was shut down by a single power failure from a nearby grid. To us, this incident underscores the importance of investing in infrastructure technology. Our recent investment in Bastazo exemplifies this focus. Their AI-powered platform streamlines vulnerability remediation for critical infrastructure, automating risk mitigation. By prioritizing threats and integrating fixes into work plans, Bastazo helps organizations shift from reactive to proactive security. As challenges like Heathrow’s demonstrate, robust infrastructure technology is crucial. Iron Prairie remains committed to its thesis in investing in solutions that enhance the resilience and security of our critical systems. #InfrastructureTech #CriticalInfrastructure #VentureCapital #IronPrairieVentures 

Iron Prairie's Maggie Kenefake attended the Forward Fort Worth Summit, where leaders in #supplychain, #logistics, and #mobility gathered to discuss the future of commerce and innovation. 🚀 From keynote insights by Ross Perot Jr. to discussions on off-road autonomy, electrification, and drone delivery, the event highlighted the critical role of incremental innovation and strategic leadership in shaping the industry’s future. A huge thank you to Perot Jain, Hillwood, and all the organizers for curating such a dynamic event focused on #sustainability, #efficiency, and #technologicaltransformation. Excited for what’s ahead in the supply chain space! #Innovation #TechLeadership #SupplyChainTransformation

The construction industry is at an interesting point. JLL's 2025 Outlook highlights some serious challenges. Natural disasters, labor shortages, and policy changes are creating a complex environment. But let's be clear: complexity breeds opportunity. Iron Prairie helps navigate this environment by emphasizing resilience. We need to focus on sustainable practices, strategic space utilization, and tech integration. It's about long-term vision, not short-term gains. #construction #venturecapital #industrialsector #longtermvision

As we navigate the complex landscape of global trade in 2025, supply chain technology investments are more crucial than ever. Here's why: 1. Rising tariffs and trade barriers are forcing companies to re-engineer sourcing strategies and build resilience.  2. Supply chain disruptions, from extreme weather to geopolitical conflicts, continue to challenge businesses of all sizes. 3. Supply chain leaders are citing compliance as a top priority with increasingly complex global trade regulations, including tariff changes, sanctions, and denied-party lists. At Iron Prairie Ventures, we're committed to backing innovative startups that are developing solutions to these pressing challenges. The future of global trade depends on smart, adaptable technologies that can help businesses thrive in an increasingly uncertain world. #SupplyChainTech #IndustrialTech #VentureCapital #IronPrairieVentures 

As we look ahead to 2025, the construction industry is on the brink of transformation. Insights from Autodesk reveal key trends that will redefine our landscape: • Data-Driven Decisions: Embracing data collection and AI will be essential for predictive insights. • Automation & Robotics: Smart tech will enhance efficiency, not replace the workforce. • Sustainability Focus: Carbon reporting and green practices are becoming non-negotiable. • Collaboration is Essential: Digital platforms will break down silos for seamless project execution. • Industrialized Construction: A strategic approach to IC will drive predictability and sustainability. At Iron Prairie Ventures, we’re excited to invest in companies that leverage these trends. Let’s build a smarter, greener future together! #construction #innovation #sustainability #ironprairieventures

The manufacturing and supply chain industries are undergoing a seismic shift, and the World Economic Forum’s recent article, “Supply chain and manufacturing transformation: Key takeaways from Davos 2025”, highlights why this moment feels like the dawn of a new industrial revolution. Here are three standout takeaways that are shaping the future: 1️⃣ Sustainability as a Competitive Edge The Global Lighthouse Network is leading the way, with facilities achieving 70% productivity gains while slashing energy costs by 40%. Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s driving profitability and resilience. 2️⃣ AI & Digital Tools Empowering People This isn’t about replacing humans; it’s about enhancing their capabilities. Advanced analytics, digital twins, and AI are enabling workers to make smarter decisions faster. It’s a perfect example of tech and talent working hand in hand. 3️⃣ Bridging Generational Gaps The future depends on collaboration between digital natives and seasoned manufacturing professionals. Companies that foster mentorship and knowledge-sharing will unlock the full potential of their teams. #IronPrairieVentures #Davos2025 #Manufacturing #SupplyChain #Innovation #Sustainability #DigitalTransformation