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Erie Insurance recently invested in two Erie, Pennsylvania startup companies that were part of the Erie Innovation District’s Secure Erie Accelerator.

Nine startups participated in the accelerator this past summer. Following an analysis of the startups, Erie Insurance decided to invest in two of the companies, SimpleSense and CityGrows and announced it would continue to evaluate a third company for potential investment in the future.

The investments represent seed monies to support continued product development work as well as efforts surrounding sales, marketing, and additional investments.

“Our primary objective is to help drive economic growth in Erie, Pa., and to help the Erie Innovation District succeed,” Tim NeCastro, president and CEO of Erie Insurance, said. “Through these investments, we hope to encourage other innovators to see Erie, Pa., as an entrepreneurial hub.”

SimpleSense is a system that uses sensors and apps to speed emergency response by sharing key information with building owners and first responders. CityGrows is a cloud-based workflow management platform for local government.

“The investment Erie Insurance is making in these startups is a strong demonstration of the company’s commitment to drive innovation and economic development in Erie, Pennsylvania,” Karl Sanchack, Erie Innovation District president & CEO, said. “Erie Insurance has widened the door to opportunity for these and other startups, building relationships and stimulating economic growth in collaboration with the district’s partners and sponsors.”