Queen One Expands in Connecticut with New Investment
Overview
Brooklyn-based Queen One, an e-commerce technology startup specializing in artificial intelligence software for online retailers, has announced plans to expand its workforce in Connecticut following an investment of up to $2 million from Connecticut Innovations (CI). This investment is contingent on the company meeting specific job-growth targets in the state.
Current Operations and Investments
Queen One has secured an initial $1 million investment, with a potential for a second million if they achieve undisclosed expansion milestones. Currently, the company employs one senior executive in Trumbull and is looking to fill six positions in sales, client growth, marketing, and finance.
Hiring and Future Goals
Co-founder and COO Maricor Resente emphasized the focus on hiring in Connecticut, which will also lead to establishing a workspace for employees in the state. The company aims to build partnerships with Yale University and UConn to recruit graduates and develop internship programs.
Technology and Market Position
Founded in 2022 by Resente, CEO Ryan Urban, and Head of Marketing Megan Kresinske, Queen One’s platform analyzes shopper behavior to personalize marketing messages across various channels. Resente noted that the technology is akin to recommendation engines, significantly increasing revenue for initial clients.
Long-Term Expansion Plans
The announcement of Connecticut expansion coincides with plans for a 30,000-square-foot headquarters in Brooklyn, supported by up to $6 million in state tax credits. The startup is committed to creating 600 jobs by 2030 alongside investing significantly in research and development.
Despite automated marketing decisions through their software, Resente believes that AI will create job opportunities rather than replace them, highlighting the enduring need for human input in the content creation process.
Looking ahead, Queen One plans to go public by 2028, with the ticker symbol HEXY, symbolizing their brand’s identity through hexagonal elements integrated into their platform.
