Node AIoT explores Wisconsin manufacturing opportunities

Brazilian technology company Node AIoT is exploring opportunities in Wisconsin’s manufacturing industry as part of the fall 2026 Accelerate Wisconsin gBETA Milwaukee accelerator program.

Founded by engineers Conrado Tejada and Christofer Lenz, Node AIoT develops technology that makes it easier to create automated systems powered by artificial intelligence. Its platform connects machines, sensors and software, allowing users to develop applications that monitor equipment, process information and automate tasks.

The company is one of five international startups selected for the seven-week accelerator operated by gener8tor in partnership with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). The program introduces international companies to Wisconsin’s business community as they explore opportunities to establish or expand U.S. operations in the state.

For Tejada and Lenz, Wisconsin’s established manufacturing industry makes it an attractive market for their technology.

“We truly believe that our technology supports what is moving this state,” Tejada said.

From engineering projects to a startup

The idea behind Node AIoT emerged in 2020, when Tejada and Lenz met while pursuing advanced studies in control and automation engineering in Brazil.

Both had experience developing industrial automation systems, but they were working on different applications. Lenz was developing a system to regulate humidity for a food producer, while Tejada was working on battery management technology.

As they compared their projects, they realized that the underlying processes were remarkably similar. Although the equipment and applications differed, both systems relied on technology that monitored conditions and triggered specific actions.

The engineers saw an opportunity to develop a common framework that could be adapted to different applications, eliminating the need to repeatedly build similar systems from scratch.

They began working together, combining their professional experience with an academic project. Tejada left his job, and Lenz relocated so they could collaborate in person. The two spent nearly a year developing their technology, sometimes working 12-hour days.

In November 2021, they introduced RemoteIO, an open-source module designed to control connected equipment. Their first demonstration used an automated water-level control system. The project eventually grew into a broader technology platform incorporating artificial intelligence and tools for developing industrial applications.

Making automation more accessible

Node AIoT’s technology is designed to simplify the development of automated systems, allowing engineers and businesses to create applications without rebuilding the underlying technology for every project.

Its nStudio development platform allows users to connect equipment, develop applications and incorporate AI into automated processes. RemoteIO provides hardware that connects machines and sensors to those systems.

Beyond industrial applications, the founders envision the technology as an educational resource for students and engineers learning about automation and AI. The company also offers tools and workshops to help businesses develop employees’ technical skills.

For Tejada, the company’s central purpose is to reduce the time and expense involved in developing new technology.

“Time for us is priceless and this is our focus, to not do it twice,” he said.

Finding opportunities in Wisconsin

Node AIoT, headquartered in Guaíba, Brazil, is evaluating opportunities for international expansion. Tejada said Wisconsin stood out because of its concentration of manufacturers and the reputation of industrial companies based in the state.

Through the program, the founders are learning about the region’s business community, identifying potential customers and partners and evaluating how its technology might serve Wisconsin manufacturers.

In Brazil, their office includes an electronics laboratory, a music studio and automated systems powered by their own technology. Tejada describes it as a community of engineers and technology enthusiasts who work together to develop, test and improve new ideas.

“That’s what we are looking to do right here in Milwaukee, to build this community,” Tejada said.