b8ta 

b8ta offers retail as a service. Its business model is to provide brick-and-mortar space to small, cutting-edge technology manufacturers who wouldn’t otherwise be able to offer their products in an in-person environment. Using b8ta, however, these brands can place their products in stores where customers can try them out rather than simply viewing them online. b8ta’s software allows its clients to manage pricing themselves as well as analyze customers’ in-store experiences.

Vibhu Norby, Co-Founder and CEO 

Prior to founding b8ta in 2015, Vibhu Norby worked as a software engineer for several Silicon Valley tech companies—including Nest Labs, where he was lead engineer and project manager.

Innovation Award

To make reopening possible, b8ta had to create extensive sanitation protocols not only for its facilities but also for the wide variety of products being offered in its stores—given that their raison d’être is to allow customers to handle the products, including placing some in contact with their bodies. Meanwhile, b8ta made use of its technology to reach additional shoppers outside of the store experience.

COVID-19 safety welcome video: