The Bee Corp., a startup that builds infrared imaging software for growers who rent beehives for pollination, is relocating to Indianapolis.

Founders Ellie Symes and Wyatt Wells, both graduates of Indiana University, launched the company in Bloomington after winning an IU business competition in 2016.

“Bloomington is an excellent place to launch a startup, build early traction, raise capital and access key resources,” notes CMO Wyatt Wells. “We were able to gain a head start with support from organizations like BEDC and the city’s Department of Economic & Sustainable Development, events like Combine and Crossroads pitch competition, the many local entrepreneurs who have advised us for years, plus emerging initiatives like Velocities.”

“Our decision ultimately came down to talent,” says CEO Ellie Symes. “The university offers an excellent pipeline for hiring interns and entry-level roles, but the pool of experienced developers is more mature in Indianapolis.”

The company has been operating out of The Mill, a newly-renovated 19,000-square foot coworking and business incubator space located in the Trades District in downtown Bloomington. The Bee Corp is the first Mill company to graduate out of the space.

“The Bee Corp is on a very encouraging path,” says Mill Executive Director Pat East. “Though it’s sad to see the company leave Bloomington, I’m confident they’ll continue to achieve success in Indianapolis.” Pat currently serves on the company’s advisory board.

The Bee Corp’s leaders expect to return to Bloomington on a frequent basis. “We still plan to host our bi-monthly board meetings at The Mill,” says Symes.

The company is still in the process of evaluating options for office space in Indianapolis.

This news comes on the eve of another major hire for The Bee Corp. After launching a new product earlier this year, the company has hired Software Developer Jordan Gaeta to build Verifli into a mobile-ready product.

For more information, please contact info@thebeecorp.com.