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PataBid is a construction technology company specializing in AI-powered estimating software for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) contractors. By streamlining cost estimation and bidding processes, PataBid helps contractors bid more efficiently and win more projects. As the company scaled, securing non-dilutive funding became crucial to accelerating its AI development and expanding its market reach.
For Emily Newman, PataBid’s Director of Sales and Marketing, the search for grants was overwhelming. While the company had successfully secured some provincial funding, managing non-dilutive funding opportunities became an increasing burden.
“I was overloaded with finding grants,” Emily recalls. “We had been successful in getting some provincial funding, but sourcing, applying, and managing the applications became a full-time job. I just didn’t have the capacity to do it all.”
The need for a structured approach to funding became clear. That’s when Thin Air Labs' Funding Catalyst team stepped in.
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Thin Air Labs discovered PataBid at the Inventures conference, where their CEO was speaking on an AI panel. The timing was perfect.
“Thin Air Labs found us,” says Emily. “Jennie approached us, and the timing lined up perfectly. Their team stepped in and completely took grant applications off my plate.”
The Funding Catalyst team worked closely with PataBid to:
Throughout the process, PataBid remained in control of decision-making while Thin Air Labs handled execution.
“We were in the driver’s seat the entire time,” Emily explains. “We got a clear roadmap, saw the funding options available, and chose the ones that made sense for us. The team took care of the applications, and at the end, we had a roadmap for future funding as well.”
Beyond securing grants, the Funding Catalyst team became a strategic partner in PataBid’s journey, helping them navigate the intricacies of funding applications, reporting, and compliance.
“I’ve been in the startup game long enough to know that not everyone is genuine,” Emily shares. “But from day one, I knew I could trust Thin Air Labs. They cared about our success—not just about getting a contract signed. Even after our initial grant was done, they saw that I was struggling with reporting and came back with a solution to help.”
For a bootstrapped startup like PataBid, non-dilutive funding plays a vital role in growth. “We only have one private investor, and we’ve chosen to take this bootstrapped path,” Emily explains. “These grants allow us to hire, expand, and invest in our product without giving up equity.”
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With non-dilutive funding secured, PataBid was able to accelerate its AI development and set the stage for future expansion.
“Securing the IRAP grant was huge for us,” Emily says. “Not only did we get the funding, but Thin Air Labs also coached us through maintaining our relationship with our ITA, ensuring we were set up for success with future applications.”
And the funding strategy doesn’t stop there. As PataBid’s initial IRAP grant concludes in April, the team is already working with Thin Air Labs on a second IRAP grant to scale even further.
“This isn’t just a one-and-done relationship,” says Emily. “They truly want to set us up for success, now and in the future.”
PataBid isn’t slowing down. With AI-driven risk assessment development in the works, the company is preparing to integrate new AI capabilities into its flagship product—funded, in part, by the next round of non-dilutive grants.
“We’re planning to expand our sales team in Q2, directly because of the funding we secured,” says Emily.
For startup founders navigating the complex world of non-dilutive funding, PataBid’s story is a testament to the power of expert guidance and a strategic funding approach.
“The biggest piece for me? Walking away with that grant roadmap. It’s huge,” says Emily. “I know what opportunities are out there, and I get to decide whether to take them on myself or come back to Thin Air Labs for more support.”
Looking for funding to scale your company—without giving up equity?
Let’s talk about how Funding Catalyst can help you unlock your next non-dilutive funding opportunity.
