Helmet-mounted camera maker Contour snags $5 million |
Connect with TechFlash on our Facebook page for all the latest technology news headlines and commentary, plus information and access to special events, photos from events, promotions and more.
Today On Techflash
- Amazon falls on world's most valuable brand list; Microsoft at No. 5
- Amazon announces deal with Paramount Pictures
- Group plans protest at Amazon shareholder meeting
- Seattle webcomic The Oatmeal generates Tesla-Edison controversy
- Amazon shareholders met by protesters, company cuts ties with ALEC
- Microsoft Windows Phone tops Apple's iPhone in China
Mass High Tech
Helmet-mounted camera maker Contour snags $5 million
One of Seattle's top performing startup companies this year isn't a software or consumer Internet firm. It's Contour, maker of helmet-mounted video cameras for the extreme sports industry. Founder and Chief Executive Marc Barros takes pride in that fact, especially given that Seattle is very much a software town. But now some investors are also taking notice of Contour's HD video cameras, which are used by skiers, snowboarders, motorcyclists and mountain bikers.
Contour, formerly known as Vholdr, just scored $5 million in financing from Montlake Capital and Black Oak Capital Partners. The financing represents a big milestone, considering that Barros started the company as part of the University of Washington business plan competition in 2003 with $20,000.
"We're being sold all over the world and in a town that really promotes (software) start-ups we are unique in combining a hands-free camera, software tools, and a social community," boasts Barros. He declined to provide sales figures, citing intense competition. But he did say that sales are "way up from last year."
Contour's hands-free cameras are not only designed to capture the action, but also speed, elevation and distance. Those are key metrics for extreme athletes. The company also operates an online community for users of the product to share their exploits on the trail, ski slope or water.
As part of the financing, the 40-person company has named Skullcandy president Jeremy Andrus and former K2 president and Montlake Capital managing director Dale Vogel to the board.
“Contour is one of the fastest growing private companies in America and we’re excited to be along for the ride,” said Greg Seare, a partner at Black Oak Capital. “Contour has built a great team and continues to lead the market in new innovations. We’re excited to help them take the company to the next level.”
The Contour HD 1080p sells on Amazon.com for $249, and the product currently has a four star rating.
What's the Contour experience like? Check out this video for a virtual ride -- if your stomach can handle it.
If you are commenting using a Facebook account, your profile information may be displayed with your comment depending on your privacy settings. By leaving the 'Post to Facebook' box selected, your comment will be published to your Facebook profile in addition to the space below.
