MEMA Aftermarket Startup Challenge Returns for 2024 Aftermarket Technology Conference

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers announced the launch of the 2024 MEMA Aftermarket Startup Challenge (MASC), providing a platform for emerging aftermarket technology companies to showcase their innovations to the aftermarket industry. Three leading venture capital and mobility startup accelerators are coordinating and will facilitate the event: Assembly Ventures, Automotive Ventures, and Capstone Financial Group.

The challenge will culminate at the Aftermarket Technology Conference, which will take place from October 13-16, 2024, at the Wyndham in Clearwater Beach, Fla. Finalists will pitch their innovations to an audience of aftermarket industry technology leaders, and all startups will receive mentorship from industry experts. Conference attendees will have the opportunity to vote for the MASC winner in real time during the conference's general session, and the winner will be announced shortly after.

"This year’s Challenge will be the best opportunity in our industry for startups to gain visibility and connect with leaders from our members," said Chris Gardner, Senior Vice President of Programs & Technology at MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. "We look forward to another successful Challenge as we continue the Challenge's goal to foster new technology development and drive innovation within the automotive and commercial vehicle aftermarket."

Technology categories for this year's MASC include:

• Predictive Analytics
• Digital/Online Customer Engagement
• Supply Chain/Inventory Management
• EVs
• Diagnostics
• Sustainability
• Fleet Management
• Training
• ADAS
• AI
• CV/LV Aftermarkets

The 2023 MASC was a resounding success, with Legacy EV being declared the winner. Legacy EV, a company dedicated to EV educational programs and parts, has trained nearly 500 technicians, partnered with several schools for EV curriculum, and established a global network of 43 Authorized Installers.

The Aftermarket Technology Conference is the premier technology event in the North American aftermarket, providing a pivotal platform for showcasing the most critical and emerging technologies influencing the industry. More information can be found at MEMATech.org.

More information about the 2024 MEMA Aftermarket Startup Challenge is available 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 over 900,000 American jobs in all 50 states. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers is a recognized industry change agent – promoting a collaborative industry environment, providing a forum to address issues, and serving as a valued resource for member companies. Members represent all areas of the aftermarket including light vehicle, commercial vehicle, and remanufacturing. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers is a membership group within MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association.

MEMA is the leading North American trade association 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.