ACCEL-KS Profile: Winnovations LLC
As you’re probably well aware, we were awarded a grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce to support early-stage founders in Kansas. With that funding, we designed the ACCEL-KS Proof-of-Concept Grant, a program that provides up to $25,000 to help Kansas founders take their projects from idea to commercialization. Our program includes wraparound services with ecosystem partner support from across the region. We received far more applications than we expected, and after a rigorous review process, we selected 20 grant recipients. Now, we’re going to share more about the projects they’re working on. We asked each founder the same set of questions, and over the coming weeks, we’ll publish their answers.
Up next? Greg Winkler and The AngLure
Company name? Winnovations LLC
Product name: The AngLure
Winnovations LLC Founder Greg Winkler and his wife and business partner Rhonda.
What gave you the idea for your product or startup?
This idea actually came to me years ago in a dream. I've been refining it since then and only recently came across the final piece of the puzzle.
What makes your product stand out?
Prismatic Fiber Optics. Unlike static LEDs, our fiber-optic array mimics the natural, shimmering patterns of live prey scales to trigger instinctive strikes.
Universal Compatibility. No need to buy or use special lures. The AngLure slides onto the line to work with any jig, spinner, or soft plastic you own.
Waterproof to 300ft+ . Engineered for the deep, but just as comfortable in shallow waters. The rugged, waterproof casing is built to withstand extreme pressure in both fresh and saltwater environments.
Eco-Friendly Power. Eliminates the need for disposable batteries and chemical glow sticks. The integrated rechargeable system saves you money and protects our waters.
What have you learned so far on your journey?
It's a lot easier to go from idea to working prototype then it is to go from prototype to market.
How are the ACCEL-KS grant funds helping you reach the next stage of development?
The grant funds have allowed me to purchase the necessary equipment and supplies to move on to successful pre-production units that can be used in the "wild" for testing and improvements.
What kind of support do you need from the startup community?
I can handle the technical side, but I require help in the marketing of the product.
What is something interesting we should know about you or your project?
Future enhancements to the AngLure include environmental sensors, location and strike tracking, programmable light colors/sequences, and a cell phone app that interfaces with the Anglure using bluetooth to allow the user to load the data the lure gathers for analysis.
