The Austin Startup Factory (Austin SUF) announced on Thursday the second cohort in their “node” program.

The Austin Community Growth Ventures, which is working to increase commercialization in Austin, partnered with the Startup Factory Network and began programming with three companies in its inaugural cohort in January.

Companies in the Austin SUF node program participate in the same 52-week accelerator curriculum as the Iowa State Research Park-based Startup Factory, but do so remotely, with assistance coming from Austin Community Growth Venture counselors.

Those admitted to the program apply via a formal application process and with the recommendation of a local counselor. Those selected attend weekly remote classes and gain access to the Iowa State Startup Factory administrative, teaching and mentor teams while also attending several in person training sessions held at the Iowa State University Research Park.

The Austin Startup Factory Cohort Two teams include:

• SkyWorks – founded by Sam Barsness, SkyWorks is a marketing and aerial imaging service that aims to help clients increase revenue with strong marketing techniques and decrease operational cost with thermal drone inspections; and

• Level4 Staffing – founded by Eric Connett and Brian Ward, Level4 Staffing provides installers and solutions to the telecommunications installation industry.

Three teams participated in Austin SUF Node Cohort One. Those companies will now move to the second half of their 52-week program, which is a customized approach outside of the classroom that is designed in cooperation with the Startup Factory teaching and mentoring team.