Raleigh startup that makes communication tools for cities raises $6.1 million
PublicInput, a Raleigh software firm that makes engagement tools for cities and local municipalities, has raised $6.1 million from one investor, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The startup makes software that helps cities host hybrid in-person and virtual meetings and conduct surveys, something that many cities have come to rely on during the coronavirus pandemic. Its customers include the cities of Raleigh and Austin, Texas.
California-based Growth Street Partners was the lone investor in the funding round, and the firm will join the startup’s board of directors.
Julie Gilbert, the company’s marketing director, said PublicInput will use the money to grow its 35-person staff by adding to its sales and marketing teams.
“The need for engagement tools like these aren’t going away,” Gilbert said in a phone interview, and the investors see a real chance to sign up more governments for the service.
The platform has been useful for communities during the pandemic, Gilbert said, because it’s been nearly impossible for anyone to attend public meetings. PublicInput’s platform allows people to attend these sessions virtually and lets them provide comment from afar.
Gilbert said those tools should continue to be used going forward — as cities try to get more people to engage on public topics, ranging from public transportation to affordable housing. “Not many people have time to go to these meetings in person,” she said.
PublicInput was founded by Jay Dawkins, the grandson of former Fayetteville Mayor J.L. Dawkins, in 2014. The company has offices in Raleigh Founded’s Capital Club office in downtown Raleigh.
Around 200 organizations use the company’s technology. In addition to Raleigh, the city of Charlotte, GoTriangle and the N.C. Department of Transportation are also customers.
This story was produced with financial support from a coalition of partners led by Innovate Raleigh as part of an independent journalism fellowship program. The N&O maintains full editorial control of the work. Learn more; go to bit.ly/newsinnovate
This story was originally published October 29, 2021 at 7:00 AM.
