Deako Lighting

Deako, the leading innovator in modular smart lighting, announced today that its second generation Smart Switch has been named a Best in Biz 2025 Gold winner in the Most Innovative Product of the Year Consumer category. Recognized by editors and reporters from top tier media outlets, the award honors Deako's breakthrough Magic Linking™ technology and its impact on simplifying and scaling smart lighting across new and existing homes.

Deako's second generation Smart Switch reshapes what smart lighting can deliver for consumers and builders by removing the complexity typically associated with multi way setup and allows homeowners to activate smart lighting functions in seconds without specialized skills. Combined with Deako's modular system and updated mobile app, the switch offers an intuitive path to personalization, energy savings and home security while providing builders a scalable smart home solution that reduces installation time and supports long term value. For the broader industry, this win represents a more accessible and future ready approach to connected smart living.

"For Deako, innovation means solving real problems and making it effortless for everyday households," said Derek Richardson, CEO and Founder of Deako. "Winning Gold in Best in Biz Awards is powerful validation that our team is building products that help future-proof homes in a smarter, safer and more personalized way, without adding complexity. The second generation Smart Switch and Magic Linking technology represent a major step forward for both homeowners and builders across the country. We're excited for continued momentum in 2026!"

For 15 years, Best in Biz Awards judges have evaluated entries from companies of all sizes and industries. This year's winners showcase forward thinking innovation across AI consumer technology sustainability workplace culture and home solutions. Judges for the 2025 program included contributors to Associated Press Barron's Consumer Affairs eWeek Forbes Globe and Mail Inc. MediaPost New York Times Ottawa Citizen and Wired.

Deako, the leading innovator in modular smart lighting solutions, was named to the 2025 Inc. 5000 list for the second year in a row, recognizing the fastest-growing private companies in the United States. The annual ranking honors independent businesses that have achieved exceptional growth and innovation while driving meaningful impact in their industries.

"Being recognized on the Inc. 5000 for the second year is a true reflection of our team's dedication and the trust our partners place in us," said Derek Richardson, CEO of Deako. "Over the past decade, we've focused on innovating, expanding and delivering technology that redefines how people experience their homes. This honor comes on the heels of major product launches and breakthrough technology and we're more energized than ever to keep pushing boundaries and bringing new solutions to homeowners, builders and our partners."

The announcement caps a year of significant milestones for Deako. The company celebrated its 10th anniversary, expanded its builder network and continued to scale its presence in both the new construction and retrofit markets. Earlier this year, Deako unveiled its next-generation smart switch featuring Magic Linking™ technology, a first-of-its-kind pairing experience that enables homeowners to set up their smart lighting in seconds while the upgraded Deako app delivers an enhanced and connected smart lighting experience. These advancements build on Deako's mission to make smart home tech accessible, customizable and effortless for all.

"Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a company's tenacity and clarity of vision," said Mike Hofman, editor-in-chief of Inc. "These businesses have thrived amid rising costs, shifting global dynamics and constant change. They didn't just weather the storm—they grew through it and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy."

Deako provides industry leading solutions for homeowners, homebuilders and developers and offers a competitive builder program, award-winning customer service and whole-home smart lighting solutions for individual homeowners.

Deako, the leading innovator in modular smart lighting solutions, today announced the launch of new offerings that further simplify smart lighting and installation while amplifying the aesthetics in the home. Available now, the company's next generation Smart Switch features first-of-its-kind Magic Linking™ technology which automatically configures smart switches for multi-way lighting. This eliminates the need for complex installation, lengthy setup or wiring expertise. The upgraded Deako App enables homeowners to easily control, schedule and share access to their lighting, faster and more intuitively.

"We're thrilled to bring our best-in-class offerings to our customers with the launch of our next-generation products," said Derek Richardson, CEO and Founder of Deako. "It's our goal to bring easy-to-use technology that makes the smart home customizable, to life. We're constantly evolving our solutions to better meet the needs of the partners and homeowner communities. These enhanced capabilities will allow for smoother and faster installation, making whole-home smart lighting more accessible and seamless to incorporate into any build."

Deako's next-generation Smart Switch provides homeowners with effortless smart home control. New features include:

• Magic Linking™: This first-of-its-kind technology automatically configures multi-way circuits in half the steps and time. Once installed, all switches activate and configure to work together, making setup effortless without electrical knowledge or additional programming required.
• Beacon™ Light bar: An integrated LED bar at the base of the switch introduces added convenience and safety through two distinct modes, 'Locator' and 'Status.' Ideal for exterior lighting and/or hard-to-see or distant lights within the home, Status mode provides a visual cue to determine whether connected lights are on or off. Locator mode emits a soft glow when the lights are off, helping to locate the switch in dark environments. These features can be programmed in the Beacon Light bar through the updated Deako App.
• Lighting Settings: The switches support features including; groups, schedules, timers and scenes for a fully automated lighting experience that integrates into any lifestyle.

The improved Deako App reimagines how homeowners interact with lighting in their homes. Features include:

• Upgraded Bluetooth Mesh Technology + Device Discovery: Ensures streamlined onboarding and provisioning that enables greater compatibility and faster pairing.
• Designed for the Whole-Home: Users can manage multiple homes and personalize their favorite devices. The app automatically suggests names, groups and scenes for seamless integration.
• External Integration: Homeowners can integrate with the popular platforms, such as Alarm.com, Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, Home Assistant integrations, Control4 and Clare for a truly integrated, whole-home smart technology experience.

The launch of the next-generation Smart Switch and upgraded Deako App follows the company's 10-year anniversary. A milestone year for the company citing an expansion of its builder network to more than 40 partners including D.R. Horton, Meritage Homes, Toll Brothers, Maronda Homes, Stone Martin and more. The company provides industry leading solutions for homeowners, homebuilders and developers and offers a competitive builder program, award-winning customer service and whole-home smart lighting solutions for individual homeowners.

Deako, the leading innovator in modular smart lighting solutions, is celebrating its 10th anniversary as a company. This milestone marks a decade of revolutionary change in the smart home industry, characterized by Deako's commitment to innovation and work with nationally recognized builders to make smart lighting accessible and effortless for all, changing the way the world connects with their homes.

Deako started with a simple conversation between CEO and founder Derek Richardson and a neighbor. Since then, Deako has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies, Derek was named to Entrepreneur's inaugural "Entrepreneur of 2024" list, and the company experienced a 155% revenue compounded annual growth rate over the past four years.

Deako has also achieved the following:

• Granted 15 patents in the smart lighting industry, including one for AI-Powered Home Automation
• Expansion of builder network to more than 40 partners, including D.R. Horton, Meritage Homes, Toll Brothers, Maronda Homes, Stone Martin, and more, with projected continued growth
• Shipping of more than 25 million products
• Launch of the Deako Partner Portal, which allows trade organizations to buy directly from Deako
• Expanding into new markets, including retrofit and renovation

Deako is the only solution for modular smart lighting systems that serves both new construction and retrofitting for homeowners looking to upgrade their current lighting solution. The company's success is grounded in its ability to offer superior products and programs, making it a standout choice for homebuilders and developers, whether they build thousands of homes per year or craft fewer, customized homes yearly. Deako offers a full, whole-home smart lighting solution, competitive builder program, and award-winning customer service team that truly set it apart.

"We are so proud of the innovations Deako has introduced and the success we've achieved in the past 10 years. It truly sets the stage for what's to come for Deako in the next one, five, and ten years, with new product launches and integrations on the very near horizon," said Deako founder and CEO, Derek Richardson. "We have built an incredible team, secured fantastic partnerships and developed a product lineup that I believe is above and beyond what else is on the market. Our growth trajectory is incredibly promising and there's a lot for us to be excited about looking ahead."

In addition to celebrating this milestone, Deako is introducing an updated logo and a newly designed website that enhances the user experience even more. The new look of the logo and website provides a more modern, premium, aspirational and editorial look that aligns with Deako's growth and innovation.

Deako, the leading creator of modular smart lighting systems, today announces its CEO and Founder, Derek Richardson, was named to Entrepreneur's inaugural "Entrepreneur of 2024" list. This highlights 20 trailblazing leaders whose innovative work is shaping the future of entrepreneurship across industries.

Richardson's recognition stems from his visionary leadership at Deako, which has been revolutionizing the home lighting industry since inception in 2015. Deako's modular smart lighting system simplifies installation and enables homeowners to switch between smart and other specialty lighting with ease. The company's products are trusted by top homebuilders like D.R. Horton, Maronda Homes, Stone Martin, Toll Brothers, Meritage Homes, and more, and when Deako systems are included, data shows homes are sold 20 days faster than the average.

"It's an honor to be included in Entrepreneur's prestigious list of innovators," said Derek Richardson, CEO and Founder of Deako. "This is a testament to the incredible work of the Deako team and our commitment to creating smart lighting solutions that benefit homeowners and builders alike. As we continue to grow, I look forward to bringing our vision of effortless smart lighting to even more homes across America."

Deako's impact on the smart home industry is reflected in its remarkable expansion. With a three-year revenue growth of over 2,000% and a spot at No. 182 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America, the company achieved a 52% increase in gross revenue in 2023 compared to 2022, with an expected 70% growth again in 2024. This success underscores Richardson's ability to align innovation with market needs, driving Deako to be a leader in the modular smart lighting sector.

Deako, the leading innovator in modular smart lighting solutions, announces it just signed a national exclusive agreement with CBUSA, a Buildertrend company. This deal designates Deako as the sole smart lighting partner for CBUSA's builder network over the next three years, establishing Deako as the premier smart light switch of choice by builders in America, including custom home builders.

As part of this agreement, CBUSA's extensive network of builders will have the opportunity to integrate Deako's cutting-edge modular lighting systems into their home designs. With more than 13,000 homes built each year, CBUSA's members now have access to Deako's patented smart lighting technology, which is designed to enhance safety, convenience and energy efficiency in new builds.

With a mission to empower homeowners to enhance the ambiance, convenience and security of their homes, Deako's modular switches offer unparalleled flexibility and ease of use. The industry's first modular smart lighting control system for homeowners wires into a standard junction box like any other light switch but acts as a receptor for any company device – including both smart and simple switches, dimmers, motion sensors, nightlights and more – while saving homeowners thousands of dollars in maintenance and upkeep.

"Deako is excited to partner with CBUSA to bring our innovative modular lighting systems to their members and welcome new homebuyers to a home that is customized, modern, secure and energy efficient," said Derek Richardson, CEO and Founder of Deako. "This collaboration represents a significant step in making Deako the smart lighting choice for builders and home buyers alike, and we are excited to kick off this partnership."

Deako's modular lighting system, known for its award-winning design, will be available to all CBUSA chapters. This agreement provides CBUSA members with special pricing and rebates on qualifying purchases, making it easier for builders to offer cutting-edge smart lighting options. By incorporating Deako's modular switches, builders can stand out in a competitive market and enhance their revenue per home.

"We are excited to offer Deako to our members and to elevate home builders' experiences, providing innovative lighting solutions that can be easily upgraded by builders themselves, putting the ultimate control back into their hands. Deako is a true partner to CBUSA, and we are excited to work together," said Brian Pavlick, President of CBUSA.

This latest partnership with CBUSA reinforces Deako's leadership position in the modular smart lighting industry, helping builders stay one step ahead of the demands of today's homebuyers.

About CBUSA​

A subsidiary of Buildertrend, CBUSA is the premier group purchasing organization for the nation's top independent home builders. For nearly 20 years, CBUSA has empowered over 800 members across 37 chapters to grow their businesses, increase profits and gain a competitive edge in the residential construction industry. By leveraging the collective purchasing power of a national organization, CBUSA enables its members to drive down material costs, improve service levels and protect against price increases. With builders from across the nation and 1,700 suppliers working together, CBUSA continues to build a strong community of industry leaders dedicated to collaboration, innovation and success.

Deako™, first-ever modular smart lighting system for homeowners, is fully compatible with Home Assistant starting today. This new integration solidifies Deako's commitment to an open smart home ecosystem and allows homeowners with the Deako modular system to experience enhanced home automation using Home Assistant, along with other compatible devices. This joins Deako's other integrations including Alarm.com, Alexa, Google, Samsung SmartThings, Control4 and Clare Controls.

With this, Deako is giving homeowners an additional layer of customization and personalization for their home environments while also advancing its position as an innovator in the home automation and IoT space.

"At Deako, we are dedicated to transforming how people connect with their homes," said Derek Richardson, CEO and Founder of Deako. "With Deako's new compatibility with Home Assistant, we are taking a significant step towards our goal of making customizable smart homes more accessible and easier to use for all homeowners. This new integration will be essential in further empowering homeowners and elevating their experiences by making their use of smart lighting effortlessly controllable."

This new functionality solves a key challenge for smart home enthusiasts: the need for reliable and versatile control of lighting systems. Now homeowners can easily discover and control their Deako devices through the Home Assistant interface. After updating or installing their Home Assistant hub, users can automatically detect their Deako products on their Wi-Fi network. Home Assistant enables Deako devices to have deep integration with Apple Home, Hue, Zigbee, and a multitude of other products and services.

"Deako's commitment to an open smart home aligns perfectly with the principles of the Open Home Foundation," added Richardson. "Our integration with Home Assistant reflects our dedication to providing homeowners with choices, allowing them to upgrade their lighting solutions without incurring expensive installation costs."

Deako™, the creator of the industry's first modular smart lighting system for homeowners, is announcing a new three-year exclusive agreement with Maronda Homes, enabling Deako's system to be installed upon construction of every new home. Maronda Homes creates quality homes that are affordable without sacrificing excellence and style in their designs, making Deako a perfect partner as the innovative system offers unmatched customizable, energy-efficient lighting solutions.

Under this new partnership, every Maronda Homes homeowner will receive five premium specialty switches—two Smart Switches, two Smart Dimmers and one Motion Sensor Switch—which will be automatically integrated into their new home. This gives homeowners immediate access to the patented and innovative Deako modular system with plug-and-play light switches, enhancing security, energy efficiency and customization so they can future-proof their home. Homebuyers will also have the option to upgrade to the "Model Home Experience," which includes 13 additional specialty switches. The benefits of these switches can be experienced at any Maronda model home for a firsthand interaction.

"We are beyond excited to partner with Maronda Homes, as we love their dedication to creating beautiful homes that also prioritize quality. This partnership shows that Maronda Homes is dedicated to making their buyers' lives more convenient, beautiful and safe with the integration of the Deako's modular system in every new build. We look forward to helping Maronda Homes buyers design the home of their dreams with the Deako system," said Derek Richardson, CEO & founder of Deako.

This partnership comes at a time when the demand for smart home technology is rapidly increasing. By including Deako's system, Maronda Homes is showcasing its commitment to providing homebuyers with homes that are not only stylish but also equipped with the latest technology to ensure security and convenience. Also, because of Deako's user-friendly design, making upgrades to switches and lighting solutions is hassle-free and does not require an electrician.

With this collaboration, Maronda Homes is taking a significant step forward in the competitive marketplace by offering a strong value proposition to its clients. In addition to Maronda Homes, Deako has several new builder partnerships including Affiliate Builder Group, Candlelight Homes, French Brothers and Mulberry Design.

Deako, the creator of the modular smart lighting system, today announces it ranked No. 182 on the 2024 Inc. 5000, the annual list of America's fastest-growing private companies. With an impressive three-year revenue growth of more than 2,000 percent, Deako also secured the No. 3 ranking in the Seattle market, No. 4 within the state of Washington and No. 13 in the nationwide Consumer Products category. The prestigious ranking provides a data-driven look at the most successful companies within the economy's most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses. Microsoft, Meta, Chobani, Under Armour, Timberland, Oracle, Patagonia and many other household-name brands gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

"It's an honor to be recognized by Inc. and to stand alongside some of the most accomplished companies in the U.S. We built Deako on the belief that smart lighting should be effortless for homeowners, and this recognition reaffirms the work we've undertaken to support our vision," said Derek Richardson, CEO and Founder of Deako. "None of our growth and accomplishments would be possible without our hardworking and innovative team. My gratitude goes out to all our dedicated employees who made this achievement possible. As we look to the second half of the year, we're thrilled about the solutions and products we're bringing to more homes across America and the future of our company."

Deako is an award-winning company trusted by top 100 builders like D.R. Horton, Toll Brothers, Meritage Homes and more. Its modular smart lighting systems are installed in one out of six new single-family homes across the United States and provide convenient and customizable solutions for any home. In the last year, the company found its product installations led to 20 percent faster home sales which translated into considerable financial savings. By helping builders sell homes faster, Deako's smart switches provided a timely solution that improved the financial health of partners, reinforcing the value of Deako's product in a high-interest rate market. The company is consistently scaling and looks forward to continued expansion and product innovation in the coming year.

"One of the greatest joys of my job is going through the Inc. 5000 list," says Mike Hofman, who recently joined Inc. as editor-in-chief. "To see all of the intriguing and surprising ways that companies are transforming sectors, from health care and AI to apparel and pet food, is fascinating for me as a journalist and storyteller. Congratulations to this year's honorees, as well, for growing their businesses fast despite the economic disruption we all faced over the past three years, from supply chain woes to inflation to changes in the workforce."

The Inc. 5000 class of 2024 represents companies that have driven rapid revenue growth while navigating inflationary pressure, the rising costs of capital, and seemingly intractable hiring challenges. Among this year's top 500 companies, the average median three-year revenue growth rate is 1,637 percent. In all, this year's Inc. 5000 companies have added 874,458 jobs to the economy over the past three years.

Deako™, the creator of the industry's first modular smart lighting system for homeowners, proudly announces a significant milestone with the approval of its 10th U.S. patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This brings Deako to 14 patents internationally, and underscores the smart home company's role as a pioneer in the industry as it brings the newest technologies available to homeowners.

Deako's newest granted patents extend their most groundbreaking innovations.

• US Patent #11,367,288, is for Deako's backplate, which is the core of the plug and play technology that the company is best known for. Specifically, the easy-to-use safety cover mechanism within the backplate ensures that switches are installed correctly and securely. The mechanism protects homeowners from main voltage when a switch is removed. When a switch is inserted, it locks the switch in place. This makes sure that electrical contacts are never exposed to homeowners, protecting their safety.
• US Patent #10,153,113 broadens Deako's Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning technology portfolio, enhancing Deako's ability to anticipate homeowners intentions. The system adapts to homeowner and anticipates their preferences. When implemented, lights will turn on in a room before someone enters the space. For example, if someone's routine is to sit down in their home office every morning, the lights will turn on and blinds will open when they approach their office to start the workday.
• Finally, the configurability of Deako's flagship backplate components is now protected by US Patent #10,741,960. This technology enables the backplate to communicate with other devices on the network so people can assign multiple control options and multiple appliances to a single switch.
• This news is a testament to Deako's dedication to advancing smart home customizability for homeowners and further solidifies its leadership position, and also allows its builder partners such as D.R. Horton, Meritage Homes, Toll Brothers, and Stone Martin to have their homes stand out to potential homebuyers.

Derek Richardson, CEO and Founder of Deako, stated, "Receiving these patents marks a significant milestone for Deako. It's a true reflection of our ongoing commitment to driving innovation in smart lighting and our dedication to providing cutting-edge technology to builders and new home buyers. We are excited about all we have achieved and are immensely proud of our ability to deliver a truly distinct product to our customers."

These patents have laid the foundation for Deako's continued success and set the stage for a strong growth trajectory. Deako's switches allow for broader electrical control, making smart home adoption simple and seamless.