As the tech world converged on Las Vegas for CES 2025, Phoenix showcased its burgeoning tech ecosystem, riding the wave of innovation alongside international corporations. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and the city's civic leaders were accompanied by standout local startups at the Venetian Expo Hall, signaling their commitment to molding a robust economy through technological advancement.
Among the Arizona representatives at CES, according to ABC15, were “The Pause,” an AI app designed to assist with menopause symptoms, and “Paw Port,” an inventive smart pet door. These companies, while vying for attention amidst the backdrop of tech giants, emphasized the need for increased investor interest to help startups thrive in Arizona.
Pawport, a returning honoree in the pet tech category, unveiled an updated pet door fitted with a "smart" tunnel that bolsters protection against pests and environmental elements. Martin Diamond, Pawport's founder and CEO, told Phoenix Business Journal, “As a homegrown Phoenix company, we’re proud to be able to represent the ideas coming out of Arizona on the world stage.”
Meanwhile, Crystal Sonic was on hand to present its Sonic Lift-Off technology, which promises to reshape semiconductor device fabrication by using sound waves for more sustainable practices. "Phoenix is a global hub for semiconductor innovation and we are proud to be part of this thriving ecosystem,” said Arno Merkle, cofounder and CEO of Crystal Sonic, in a statement obtained by Phoenix Business Journal.
