The construction industry is experiencing a technological renaissance and it is fueled by a new generation of startups dedicated to addressing some crucial challenges. Cemex Ventures lately spotlighted eight innovative companies in the 2024 Construction Startup Competition partnering with industry leaders like Caterpillar and Ferrovial.
Solutions to reduce emissions and improve efficiency are no longer optional as construction continues to face intense scrutiny for its environmental impact. It is accounted for an estimated 60% of the UK’s waste alone. Inefficiencies in construction have persisted for decades and the World Economic Forum estimates that digital technology could save 10% of the costs. Recent progress in technology adoption is encouraging with firms increasingly investing in new digital systems and tools since 2020. McKinsey reports that 60% of construction firms have adopted digital solutions and this reflect a broader industry shift.
Austria’s Mixteresting has emerged as a standout with a digital simulation system for concrete mixing. Mixteresting shortens development timelines and reduces cement use by optimizing concrete blends digitally before physical mixing. Their technology empowers producers to precisely calculate material requirements and helping to cut CO2 emissions while improving margins. Revitalyze from Austria is tackling the waste issue with a digital marketplace that connects demolition contractors with manufacturers looking for recyclable materials.
French tech company Kraaft has developed a messaging platform built specifically for construction sites that allow teams to communicate more efficiently while automatically capturing data. Sodex Innovations startup from Austria offers real-time site surveying via machine-mounted sensors and produces digital models that update as machinery moves across sites.
Supply chain management is being addressed by Kaya AI and it uses machine learning to predict delivery timelines as well as ensure timely resource allocation. Safety and precision are seeing enhancements with innovations from Raise Robotics and GScan. Raise Robotics is based in the U.S. and employs autonomous systems to assist with facade installations. Estonia’s GScan utilizes cosmic ray technology to inspect infrastructure and it allows for highly accurate assessments of bridges and tunnels.
