Building Mercator: From 90 Investor Pitches in 3 Weeks to Changing How Contractors Find Projects

"Pre-construction is actually just free construction because it's a lot of work up front that you don't often get paid for." - Chloe Smith, CEO of Mercator In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we sat down with Chloe Smith, who shared her journey of building Mercator, a construction tech startup that's changing how contractors find early-stage project opportunities. Tune in to discover: ✅ Why Mercator focuses only on Texas (for now) and how they plan to expand ✅ The power of hiring for talent over skill in a fast-growing startup ✅ How they built their own "accelerator" by carefully selecting operator-investors ✅ Their unique approach to product development through an intensive beta program with general contractors Listen to the full episode on Spotify to learn how Mercator is helping contractors get involved in projects before the bidding phase even begins - as Chloe puts it, "It's almost like using a marriage registry as a dating app." ------ 00:00 Intro 02:43 Introduction to Chloe Smith and Mercator 05:45 The Journey into Construction and Data Strategy 08:40 Understanding Mercator's Functionality 11:46 Data Sources and Technology Behind Mercator 14:50 The Role of Large Language Models 17:34 Target Customers and Market Focus 20:41 Project Detail Pages and User Experience 23:45 Data Visibility and Insights 26:29 Utilizing Construction Data for Industry Reports 29:50 Expansion from Canada to the US 32:48 Revenue Model and Future Growth 36:46 Understanding Product-Market Fit 38:57 The Fundraising Journey 45:07 Building a Strong Investor Network 51:44 Evolving Go-To-Market Strategies 1:02:43 Hiring for Talent vs. Skill 1:04:43 Defensibility in the Age of AI 1:05:20 Choosing the Right Mentors

Note: This episode is a Re-Release from Corporate Innovations. Big tech investments without testing? At DPR Construction, that's a hard NO. Even with a $90M annual tech budget, they won't invest until they've tested solutions on actual projects. In today's episode of Corporate Innovations from Bricks & Bytes, we had Atul Khanzode, CTO of DPR Construction, sharing invaluable insights from his 27+ years of experience in construction technology and innovation. Tune in to learn about: ✅ Why DPR requires testing every solution before investing, after losing $500K on an untested startup ✅ Their unique "discipline innovation approach" focusing on 5 key areas: safety, quality, sustainability, supply chain, and productivity ✅ How they manage a $2-3M annual innovation budget separate from their main tech spending ✅ Why they partner with OpenAI, Microsoft, and Autodesk instead of building everything in-house Listen now on Spotify to hear Atul's practical advice for construction tech startups and learn how one of America's largest general contractors approaches innovation ------ Chapters 00:00 Intro 02:40 The Evolution of Technology in Construction 05:41 Defining the Role of a CTO in Construction 08:36 Measuring Success in Construction Technology 11:29 Challenges of Innovation in the Construction Industry 14:45 DPR's Innovation Strategy 17:34 Navigating the Technology Adoption Process 20:46 Learning from Technology Pilots 23:41 Addressing Industry Pain Points with Technology 26:35 Investing in AI and Future Technologies 30:51 Strategic Partnerships in AI Development 32:19 Budgeting for Technology Investments 33:01 Identifying Key Stakeholders for Technology Solutions 34:20 Evaluating Technology Costs and ROI 36:02 Lessons from Failed Technology Implementations 38:05 Investing in Construction Technology 40:49 Strategic Investments and Core Business Alignment 43:03 Operational Tools for Investment Management 45:26 Emerging Trends in Construction Technology 46:55 Advice for Startups Pitching Technology Solutions 49:00 Integrating Technology, Process, and Organization

"A £650,000 micro-factory can build 100 homes per year, while a traditional modular factory costing £100M+ struggles to deliver 200 homes annually. The math speaks for itself." In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Bruce and Oliver from Facit Homes and Facit Technologies sharing their journey of revolutionizing home construction through digital fabrication and micro-factories. Their approach challenges traditional modular construction, showing how bringing manufacturing to the site can be more efficient and cost-effective. Tune in to learn about:  ✅ Why micro-factories are winning over traditional modular factories  ✅ How Facit grew without external investment for 15+ years  ✅ The real cost comparison: £2,400 vs £120,000 per house in factory overhead  ✅ Why software alone can't solve construction's biggest challenges Listen to the full episode to understand why the future of construction might be closer to the building site than you think.  ----- Chapters 00:00 Intro 03:50 Introduction to Facet Homes 06:39 Innovative Manufacturing in Home Construction 09:51 The Microfactory Approach 12:45 Design Philosophy and Flexibility 15:39 Scalability and Customization of Homes 18:52 Target Customers and Engagement Process 21:46 B2B and B2C Dynamics 24:40 Cost Efficiency and Time Savings 27:50 Building Trust in a Skeptical Industry 30:46 Labor and Automation in Construction 33:42 Cultural Changes in Construction 36:40 Future Vision for Facet Homes 44:24 Building the Future: Microfactories and Scalability 47:57 Challenges in Construction: Building a Company 53:51 Investor Perspectives: Overcoming Prejudice in Construction 58:13 Expanding Horizons: Going Beyond the UK 1:06:45 The Evolution of Construction: Modern Methods and Digital Fabrication 1:08:21 Improving Processes: The Future of Construction Technology

"I can't make that journey all the way to that facility and write up for you in a Notion board what it's like. You have to go to a construction site to really understand how busy people are." In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Emidio Piermarini, and we got to learn about the challenges of product management in construction tech, the importance of physical solutions for physical problems, and the value of embracing negative feedback... and many more! Tune in to find out about: ✅ The journey from structural engineering to product management ✅ How Converge is revolutionizing precast concrete tracking ✅ The limitations of software-only solutions in construction ✅ The potential for performance-based contracts in construction tech Listen to the full episode on Spotify to gain insights into the future of construction technology and the importance of bridging the gap between digital solutions and physical realities. ----- Sign up to the #1 Newsletter In Construction Tech. Join over 1,000 like-minded Founders, Investors and Techies disrupting the way we build. Forever : https://bricks-bytes.beehiiv.com/subscribe ---- BuildVision is a procurement network for the $5T commercial construction market. We are transforming the commercial construction supply chain by bringing contractors, manufacturers, and project stakeholders onto a single software platform—revolutionizing how every component is sourced, purchased, and financed. 

Is the future of architectural design in the cloud? 🤔 In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, Stan from Rayon talks about revolutionizing 2D drafting for architects and interior designers. He shares how cloud-based software is changing the game, making design tools more accessible and collaborative. Tune in to find out about: ✅ Why 90% of buildings are still designed in 2D ✅ How cloud-based tools are disrupting traditional CAD software ✅ The power of product-led growth in design tech ✅ Why focusing on "fresh starters" is key to adoption Listen to the full episode on Spotify to learn how Rayon is shaping the future of architectural design software. ----- BuildVision is a procurement network for the $5T commercial construction market. We are transforming the commercial construction supply chain by bringing contractors, manufacturers, and project stakeholders onto a single software platform—revolutionizing how every component is sourced, purchased, and financed.  ----- Chapters 00:00 Intro 02:08 Stan's Journey from Architecture to Tech 13:28 Introducing Rayon: A New Tool for Architects 24:41 Targeting the Interior Design Market 30:53 Go-to-Market Strategy and Community Engagement 51:19 Fundraising Journey and VC Partnerships 01:00:58 The Future of Design and Technology

"Follow the money to grow, follow your passion to build. While US construction tech startups have raised $30B, India's $1B investment is yielding better returns." In today's episode of Bricks & Bytes, we did our November Monthly Review where we reflected on an action-packed month of content creation and exciting future plans. We even explored fascinating market dynamics, founder insights, and geographic opportunities in construction tech. Tune in to find out about: ✅ Our successful launch of the AI in Construction Report and first steps into monetization ✅ Highlights from our Boston trip interviewing startups at Suffolk's boost cohort ✅ Behind the scenes of the upcoming Ediphi super series releasing in January ✅ Plans for New York and San Francisco tour in 2025, plus a potential India expansion Listen to the full episode on Spotify to hear Owen, Martin, and Patric discuss their key takeaways from November, upcoming content plans, and Patric’s take on why founders often over-obsess with product and under-obsess with distribution. ----------- Chapters 00:00 End of Year Reflections 03:01 Cultural Differences in Business Mindset 05:50 The Impact of Travel on Business 08:47 Exploring AI in Construction 12:11 The Role of Community in Innovation 14:55 Challenges in Design and Construction Software 17:52 The Disconnect Between Traditional and Startup Worlds 21:00 The Influence of Trust in Business Relationships 24:07 Venture Capitalists in Government 26:59 The Future of Governance and Innovation 32:48 Understanding Argentina's Political Landscape 35:09 The Importance of Product Distribution 40:40 Marketing Challenges in Construction Tech 43:47 Trends in AEC Technology 44:29 Talent Acquisition in the AEC Sector 46:03 Investment Trends in Construction Tech 50:34 Cultural Insights: Christmas Traditions 57:33 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

Note: This is a Re-Release of an episode that was originally released on BitBuilders. Are small nuclear reactors the key to solving our energy challenges? 🤔 In today's episode of BitBuilders, we had Michelle, VP of Strategy at Last Energy, sharing insights on micro modular nuclear power plants and their potential impact on clean energy. Tune in to find out about: ✅ Why nuclear power is crucial for baseload energy and decarbonization ✅ How Last Energy is tackling cost and construction challenges ✅ The importance of modular design and standardization in nuclear projects ✅ Why Europe is a prime market for small nuclear reactors Curious to learn more about the future of nuclear energy and its role in construction? Listen to the full episode on Spotify! Sign up to the #1 Newsletter In Construction Tech. Join over 1,000 like-minded Founders, Investors and Techies disrupting the way we build. Forever : https://bricks-bytes.beehiiv.com/subscribe 00:02:07 Introduction to Last Energy and Michelle's Background 00:08:07 Challenges in Nuclear Energy Deployment 00:14:11 Market Dynamics and Customer Demand 00:19:54 Regulatory Environment and Project Development 00:25:58 Supply Chain Considerations in Nuclear Energy 00:38:09 Regulatory Framework and Supply Chain Benefits 00:45:23 Safety and Lifecycle Management in Nuclear 00:55:32 The Role of National Laboratories in Nuclear Development 01:02:33 Talent and Skills Development in Nuclear Energy

"Microsoft's secret weapon in construction tech? It's not what you think." In today's episode of Bricks and Bytes, we had Ajoy Bhattacharya from Microsoft, and we got to learn about the tech giant's unexpected approach to innovation in construction, the power of digital identity on job sites, and why AI isn't just about generating content. Tune in to find out about: ✅ Why Microsoft hired a construction industry veteran ✅ The surprising focus of Microsoft's construction tech strategy ✅ How a simple login solution boosted efficiency on job sites ✅ Microsoft's vision for AI in the AEC industry Listen now on Spotify to discover how Microsoft is quietly revolutionizing construction technology, one login at a time. ----- BuildVision is a procurement network for the $5T commercial construction market. We are transforming the commercial construction supply chain by bringing contractors, manufacturers, and project stakeholders onto a single software platform—revolutionizing how every component is sourced, purchased, and financed.  ---- Sign up to the #1 Newsletter In Construction Tech. Join over 1,000 like-minded Founders, Investors and Techies disrupting the way we build. Forever : https://bricks-bytes.beehiiv.com/subscribe ---- Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:12 Introduction to Ajoy Bhattacharya and Microsoft 07:21 Innovation in Construction: A Personal Journey 10:15 Defining Innovation in the Construction Industry 13:12 Transitioning from Suffolk to Microsoft 16:25 Leveraging Microsoft's Ecosystem for Construction 19:22 The Role of AI in Construction 22:20 Microsoft's Strategy in the AEC Industry 25:02 Case Studies: Efficiency through Technology 28:26 The Importance of User Adoption 31:18 Future Trends: AI and Voice Enablement 34:13 Microsoft Copilot: Enhancing Productivity 37:05 The Role of Startups in Construction Tech 40:11 Key Messages from Recent Talks 43:19 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

Note: This is a Re-Release of an episode that was originally released on Groundbreakers. Unicorn? Nearly. But who cares In today's episode of Groundbreakers from Bricks and Bytes, we had Jeevan from OpenSpace, and we got to learn about building a successful construction tech startup, the importance of product simplicity, and how to scale effectively in a complex industry. Tune in to find out about: ✅ Why focusing on mid-market clients can be more valuable than chasing big names ✅ The power of a simple, user-friendly product in driving adoption ✅ How OpenSpace's technology is reducing insurance claims in construction ✅ The importance of demonstrating quick time-to-value for customers Listen to the full episode on Spotify to gain insights from one of construction tech's most innovative leaders. -------- Sign up to the #1 Newsletter In Construction Tech. Join over 1,000 like-minded Founders, Investors and Techies disrupting the way we build. Forever : https://bricks-bytes.beehiiv.com/subscribe --------  #podcast #construction #constructionindustry #bricksandbytes #startups  #architecture #design #civilengineering #engineering #constructiontechnology #engineer #architect #civilengineer #concrete #podcaster #podcasting #entrepreneur #podcasts #podcastlife #startups #entrepreneurship 

"We're making contracting safe for our industry across the entire project lifecycle." - Josh Levy, Co-founder & CEO of Document Crunch In today's episode of Bricks & Bytes, we had Josh Levy & Trent Miskelly from Document Crunch. We learned about their journey in building a document intelligence platform for the construction industry, the five best practices for contract compliance, and how they're automating critical processes to reduce risk on construction projects. Tune in to find out about: ✅ How Document Crunch is solving the $13 trillion industry's contract compliance challenges ✅ The evolution from document intelligence to workflow automation in construction ✅ Why understanding contracts is crucial for preventing claims and project overruns ✅ How Document Crunch is pricing their services based on "jobs to be done" Listen to the full episode on Spotify to hear how Document Crunch is revolutionizing contract management in construction and helping companies achieve best practices across the project lifecycle. --------------- Sign up to the #1 Newsletter In Construction Tech. Join over 1,000 like-minded Founders, Investors and Techies disrupting the way we build. Forever : https://bricks-bytes.beehiiv.com/subscribe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bricks-bytes/ X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/bricksbytespod Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmNbunUTIIQDzbJgGJt9_Zg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bricksbytes/ -------------- Chapters 04:41 Introduction and Background of Document Crunch 11:26 What is Document Crunch and the Problem it Solves 17:59 Customer Onboarding and ROI of Document Crunch 21:52 Pricing Model of Document Crunch 32:50 Evolution of Document Crunch's Product and Features 37:16 Automating Compliance with Generative AI 45:17 Becoming the Category Leader in Compliance Automation 50:53 Continuous Improvement with AI Advancements 52:49 Customers Pulling More Product Out of Document Crunch