The 3 next big things from midsize companies for 2026
The continued growth of AI is streamlining tasks, such as event planning, that once required tabbing between spreadsheets, emails, and vendor websites. It’s also unleashing new possibilities for innovations that can tackle its need for reliable and affordable energy. These companies, employing between 100 and 499 people, are taking advantage of both types of AI opportunities. BoomPop For making…
1. BoomPop: Simplifying corporate event planning
Corporate event planning, a $1.5 trillion market, has traditionally been a cumbersome process involving the use of multiple apps. BoomPop, an AI-native platform, streamlines this process by finding event locations, gathering rates and quotes, enabling booking, crafting invitations, tracking RSVPs, and integrating with calendar software.
Utilizing a proprietary database of around 1.5 million vendors, BoomPop has secured over $60 million in business for venues for clients like Google, Netflix, Amazon, and Dick’s Sporting Goods in just two years.
2. Lightmatter: Revolutionizing AI with light-based technology
Modern AI models require the sharing of data between small neural networks called "experts" spread across numerous GPU chips. Lightmatter's Passage networking system, powered by microscopic lasers, provides rapid connections, enabling models to train up to three times faster and deliver results up to eleven times faster, while using less energy than previous methods.
In March 2026, Lightmatter and Qualcomm set a record with 1.6 Tbps bandwidth per fiber. Lightmatter is also leading an open standards initiative within the Open Compute Project to integrate fiber connections with computing chips.
3. Torus: Enhancing electrical grid resilience
Torus develops electrical storage systems to boost grid capacity and smoothly manage sudden shifts in demand. Their Torus Station technology, combining Torus Spin mechanical flywheel systems with battery storage, can respond in milliseconds to grid needs without degrading over time like traditional battery systems. The AI orchestration platform, Torus Overwatch, forecasts peaks, manages preventive maintenance, and includes built-in cybersecurity.
In 2025, Torus assisted utilities in responding to over 360 demand response events, opened a 545,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Salt Lake City, and received $200 million in funding from asset manager Magnetar. These technologies were among the honorees in Fast Company’s 2026 Next Big Things in Tech awards.
Written by urgent.news from Fast Company's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- The 2 next big things from long-established companies for 2026 fastcompany.com
