MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers will hold the first MEMA Aftermarket Startup Challenge during the Aftermarket Technology Conference, to be held October 9-11, 2023, in Atlanta, Ga.

Three leading venture capital and mobility startup accelerators are coordinating and will facilitate the event: Aftermarket Ventures, Capstone Financial Group, and Sparker.

The Challenge’s objective is to identify new technology innovations that will impact the future of the aftermarket industry and provide an opportunity for established suppliers and emerging technology companies to network. 

Using key criteria, several emerging technology startups with aftermarket applications will be carefully selected from a pool of applications to prepare and pitch their companies and their innovations in a “Shark Tank-like” setting.

Following the pitches, established aftermarket suppliers will network with the startups in a special session following the pitches.

“The MEMA Aftermarket Startup Challenge will enable established aftermarket companies to learn about creative and unique technologies,” said Chris Gardner, senior vice president, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers.

“This event will generate opportunities to create business relationships with startups to ensure the traditional aftermarket is prepared for the technologies that will change vehicles and business.”

Applications for this year’s Startup Challenge are due by June 31, 2023. Information and application can be found at this link.

The agenda for the Aftermarket Technology Conference can be found here.

About MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers 

MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers exclusively serves manufacturers of aftermarket components, tools and equipment, and related products, an important part of the automotive parts manufacturing industry which supports nearly one million jobs across North America. MEMA Aftermarket is a recognized industry change agent – promoting a collaborative industry environment, providing a forum to address issues and serving as a valued resource for members across all areas of the aftermarket including light vehicle, commercial vehicle, and remanufacturing.  

MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, is the leading trade association in North America for vehicle suppliers, parts manufacturers, and remanufacturers. Automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers are the largest manufacturing sector in the United States and lead the way in new vehicle innovations. MEMA has been the voice of the vehicle supplier industry since 1904. Its more than 1,000 members are Strong by Association.  

Members supply the aftermarket with the parts that keep millions of vehicles on the road, fueling international commerce and meeting society’s transportation needs. MEMA members are committed to safety and sustainability. 

MEMA has offices in Southfield, Mich.; Research Triangle Park, N.C.; and Washington, D.C. Learn more at mema.org/aftermarket-suppliers.