Rochester startup reaching for the stars

GoRout, a football technology company based in Rochester, has been named one of 10 finalists for the NASA iTech challenge.

The competition “challenges entrepreneurs to think outside the box and consider applications for their innovations in space.” The idea is that inventions designed for here on Earth may also be applicable for future exploration to the moon and Mars.

“NASA iTech provides the opportunity for companies to engage with NASA center chief technologists, investors, and industry leaders so they can continue to make an impact on Earth and in space,” said Kira Blackwell, an executive for NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate, according to an announcement Tuesday. “These interactions between NASA, industry and entrepreneurs are valuable for the entire community.”

GoRout CEO Mike Rolih will have the opportunity in July to present his ideas at the iTech forum in Sunnyvale, Calif. There, he will meet with chief technologists from NASA, other federal agencies, and industry.

If chosen as a winner, the company will receive continued mentorship to help further develop its technologies for the commercial market.

GoRout is one of the most promising startup companies in Rochester’s burgeoning entrepreneurial ecosystem. In 2017, it won an award from the National Football League for its wearable technology that allows coaches to send play diagrams directly to players on the field.

Sean Baker is a Rochester journalist and the founder of Med City Beat.