Which SMBs upstream of AI/data centers are you actively pursuing?

searcher profile

October 18, 2025

by a searcher from University of Denver - Daniels College of Business in Denver, CO, USA

Hi Searchers, I'm looking to broaden my search and explore companies that are upstream of AI / the data‑center buildout. I'm compiling a list and am curious to hear what others have considered or experienced in this realm. Some target industries I’m thinking about (with example company types): Power & backup — regional electrical contractors; UPS/generator service firms. Fiber & structured cabling — fiber splicing shops; structured cabling contractors. Rack staging & hardware kitting — data‑center staging houses; white‑glove IT integrators. Cooling & HVAC / water treatment — data‑center HVAC service shops; chiller/immersion cooling installers. Commissioning, test & certification — small commissioning firms; test houses with DC experience. Battery energy storage & microgrid integrators — BESS/inverter integrators and controls specialists. Logistics, rigging & heavy‑lift — crane/rigging firms and heavy‑haul logistics providers for mission‑critical installs. Security & access control integrators — biometric/CCTV/monitoring integrators with recurring support. Janitorial/cleaning firms (specialized in ESD/HEPA cleaning, security‑cleared crews) I'm still early in the exploration phase and admit that I don't have direct experience in any of these industries. Some are intimidating to this software guy...
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Reply by a searcher
from University of Rochester in Houston, TX, USA
These are some good insights, thanks!
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Reply by a lender
from University of Missouri in Denver, CO, USA
Your thesis makes a ton of sense
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