UC 1819 sewer tech startup makes a $7.5 million splash
Subterra, acquired by IDEX, revolutionizes water pipeline safety through AI
A pioneering startup that emerged from the University of Cincinnati 1819 Innovation Hub’s Venture Lab pre-accelerator program in 2018 was acquired by global solutions provider IDEX Corporation in 2024 for $7.5 million.
Subterra, founded by Robert Lee, revolutionizes sewer and pipeline infrastructure monitoring through its innovative watercraft, an AI-driven technology that aligns with IDEX’s family of business solutions.
The guidance and mentorship we received through the UC Venture Lab pre-accelerator program were instrumental in turning our concept into reality.
Robert Lee Subterra founder
Flushing out problems
IDEX's FlowSight by Subterra, an AI driven subterranean watercraft. Photo/IDEX
IDEX Corporation recognized Subterra’s immense value and innovation, leading to the $7.5 million acquisition. Importantly, Subterra’s founder and team will remain with IDEX to further develop and scale the robotic floating AI technology, ensuring its ongoing impact on infrastructure management worldwide.
“By integrating the technology of Subterra into a product we named FlowSIGHT by Subterra, we enhance our ability to monitor and inspect wastewater infrastructure, enabling us to detect and address potential system issues early. This helps prevent property damage for our customers, protect the environment, and safeguard public health,” says Eric Lott, senior marketing manager of IDEX.
Lee’s journey began as an underground 3D mapping expert conducting dangerous, waist-deep inspections of rural sewage systems. Driven by the need to make this work safer, more efficient, and scalable, he developed a groundbreaking solution to remotely monitor sewer systems for obstructions, cracks and other abnormalities.
Much like how the medical field uses technology to identify blockages within human arteries, FlowSIGHT’s technology inspects the "arteries" of cities—critical underground pipes and sewer systems. By leveraging specialized 360-degree cameras, machine learning, and advanced data mapping, FlowSIGHT offers municipalities and private sewer owners a cost-effective, regularly automated inspection solution.
“Subterra has redefined how we think about infrastructure monitoring,” said Lee. “The guidance and mentorship we received through the UC Venture Lab pre-accelerator program were instrumental in turning our concept into reality. One of our entrepreneurial mentors and UC alum, Drew McKenzie, saw the vision and joined full-time as VP of Product Management and Operations—a true testament to the impact of the 1819 ecosystem.”
Robots in the pipes
McKenzie expressed gratitude for a key local partnership with the Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati following a test pilot program. He credits the organization for recognizing the value of Lee’s vision to protect workers and vital infrastructure. “Their progressive, forward-thinking approach allowed us to test and refine our technology with their input.”
The need for regular infrastructure monitoring has never been more critical. Sewer systems across the United States, many of which are over 50 to 100 years old, are nearing the end of their lifespan. Climate change exacerbates the problem, leading to more frequent flooding and catastrophic failures, such as the Hyperion Treatment Plant spill in Los Angeles. The spill released millions of gallons of raw sewage into the Pacific Ocean, resulting in the deaths of marine life, contamination of beaches and residential areas, and millions of dollars in fines.
Unlike traditional inspection technologies, which are costly and infrequent, typically performed only once every decade or two, Subterra’s FlowSIGHT solution enables cities to monitor pipelines regularly and affordably. By analyzing two or three data points over time, the system detects subtle changes, such as rising water levels, obstructions (like a stray basketball or an alligator in the sewer), or cracks that may lead to significant failures if left unaddressed.
“This technology is a game-changer for city infrastructure,” says Lott. “Subterra’s technology will help IDEX provide critical insights efficiently and cost-effectively to help cities and organizations take proactive measures to prevent environmental, social and economic disasters.”
The UC Venture Lab pre-accelerator program, recently renamed UC's digital pre-accelerator program, continues to drive startup success by providing training, mentorship and resources to turn groundbreaking ideas into thriving businesses. Acquisitions such as this highlight the transformative potential of the UC Venture Lab and the Cincinnati Innovation District, which supports early-stage startups on their path from concept to commercialization.
Subterra’s success story is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration and the university’s commitment to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs who comprise the Center for the Silicon Heartland.
Watch FlowSIGHT in action: ADS FlowSIGHT reel 2025
Featured image at top: Robert Lee, founder and CEO of Subterra, maps the underground networks of a city before developing FlowSIGHT technology. Photo/Subterra
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A pioneering startup that emerged from the University of Cincinnati 1819 Innovation Hub’s Venture Lab pre-accelerator program in 2018, was recently acquired by global solutions provider IDEX Corporation for $7.5 million. Subterra, founded by Robert Lee, revolutionizes sewer and pipeline infrastructure monitoring through its innovative, AI-driven technology, which aligns with IDEX’s family of business solutions.