New startup SetHero arrives to save the day, make the lives of filmmakers easier

When it comes to movies, there are no shortages of super heroes — but there are none with as unique super powers as the local startup, SetHero.

In other words, have no fear, SetHero is here.

SetHero is a West Michigan software company and Emerge Accelerator/Start Garden alumnus co-founded by Luke DeBoer and Leslie Naugle.

The business proposition is pretty simple: the program streamlines the process of creating film schedules. This, according to DeBoer, is a longstanding pain point for filmmakers. “There are many logistical complexities on a film set, and film schedules are the flight plan for the day,” he says. In other words, film schedules help make sure the productions stay on time and budget.

Having worked in the film industry, DeBoer says that managing films’ schedules are a bulky, paper-heavy process: inefficient, time-consuming and very old school. He knew there was a better way to apply technology to manage and coordinate the information.  “SetHero streamlines everything,” he says. “We took a manual paper process and automated and digitalized it. It’s now easy to publish, and the information can be pushed out by text and email to cast and crew.”

DeBoer says his company is currently targeting independent filmmakers and productions that involve teams of more than 15 cast and crew members. He says SetHero can be used on small or large productions.

SetHero is currently in beta and is free for anyone to use at this point. After beta testing pricing will  be based on a subscription model, with users paying by per month and per project. Different pricing tiers range from $29 to $300 per month, and DeBoer says there will also be customized programs available.

DeBoer has been pleasantly surprised so far with the beta test. He says almost one-third of users are from outside of the United States.

Both DeBoer and Naugle are from Kalamazoo, and DeBoer moved to Grand Rapids last year to participate in the accelerator program at Emerge.

To learn more, you can check out their website here.

Writer: John Rumery, Innovation and Jobs News Editor