Georgia Research Alliance

The Georgia Research Alliance (GRA) is a not-for-profit organization based in Atlanta, Georgia, established in 1990. Its mission is to enhance research and commercialization capabilities within Georgia's universities, thereby fostering the development of new companies and high-value jobs. GRA focuses on investing in seed, early, and late-stage startups that are driven by research and are based in Georgia. The organization primarily targets sectors such as information technology, healthcare, and life sciences, aiming to transform lives through innovation and entrepreneurship.

Justin Burns Ph.D

Vice President, Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Past deals in Georgia, US

Oncospherix

Debt Financing in 2021
OncoSpherix, Inc., based in Atlanta, Ga, is a pre-clinical stage oncology drug development company that is advancing a proprietary platform of first-in-class small molecule therapeutics that are designed to improve the quality of life and survival for people with many forms of cancer by targeting a common feature of solid tumors: the activation of hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). Nearly all solid cancers grow faster than their blood supply, leading to regions of low oxygen in the tumors and HIF activation. The HIFs in turn induce the expression of over 100 genes that help tumor cells survive and spread. OncoSpherix has several classes of small molecules that block activation of HIF-1 through novel mechanisms. OncoSpherix’s lead clinical candiate has been shown in mouse models to reduce primary tumor growth, inhibit metastases, and prolong survival in many types of cancer (glioblastoma, pancreatic cancer, uveal melanoma, lung cancer, breast cancer). Importantly, the agents are well tolerated and can be combined with therapeutics that work in well oxygenated regions of cancers, leading to dramatically enhanced cancer control.

Oncospherix

Grant in 2021
OncoSpherix, Inc., based in Atlanta, Ga, is a pre-clinical stage oncology drug development company that is advancing a proprietary platform of first-in-class small molecule therapeutics that are designed to improve the quality of life and survival for people with many forms of cancer by targeting a common feature of solid tumors: the activation of hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). Nearly all solid cancers grow faster than their blood supply, leading to regions of low oxygen in the tumors and HIF activation. The HIFs in turn induce the expression of over 100 genes that help tumor cells survive and spread. OncoSpherix has several classes of small molecules that block activation of HIF-1 through novel mechanisms. OncoSpherix’s lead clinical candiate has been shown in mouse models to reduce primary tumor growth, inhibit metastases, and prolong survival in many types of cancer (glioblastoma, pancreatic cancer, uveal melanoma, lung cancer, breast cancer). Importantly, the agents are well tolerated and can be combined with therapeutics that work in well oxygenated regions of cancers, leading to dramatically enhanced cancer control.

Oncospherix

Grant in 2021
OncoSpherix, Inc., based in Atlanta, Ga, is a pre-clinical stage oncology drug development company that is advancing a proprietary platform of first-in-class small molecule therapeutics that are designed to improve the quality of life and survival for people with many forms of cancer by targeting a common feature of solid tumors: the activation of hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). Nearly all solid cancers grow faster than their blood supply, leading to regions of low oxygen in the tumors and HIF activation. The HIFs in turn induce the expression of over 100 genes that help tumor cells survive and spread. OncoSpherix has several classes of small molecules that block activation of HIF-1 through novel mechanisms. OncoSpherix’s lead clinical candiate has been shown in mouse models to reduce primary tumor growth, inhibit metastases, and prolong survival in many types of cancer (glioblastoma, pancreatic cancer, uveal melanoma, lung cancer, breast cancer). Importantly, the agents are well tolerated and can be combined with therapeutics that work in well oxygenated regions of cancers, leading to dramatically enhanced cancer control.

Oncospherix

Grant in 2019
OncoSpherix, Inc., based in Atlanta, Ga, is a pre-clinical stage oncology drug development company that is advancing a proprietary platform of first-in-class small molecule therapeutics that are designed to improve the quality of life and survival for people with many forms of cancer by targeting a common feature of solid tumors: the activation of hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). Nearly all solid cancers grow faster than their blood supply, leading to regions of low oxygen in the tumors and HIF activation. The HIFs in turn induce the expression of over 100 genes that help tumor cells survive and spread. OncoSpherix has several classes of small molecules that block activation of HIF-1 through novel mechanisms. OncoSpherix’s lead clinical candiate has been shown in mouse models to reduce primary tumor growth, inhibit metastases, and prolong survival in many types of cancer (glioblastoma, pancreatic cancer, uveal melanoma, lung cancer, breast cancer). Importantly, the agents are well tolerated and can be combined with therapeutics that work in well oxygenated regions of cancers, leading to dramatically enhanced cancer control.

Oncospherix

Grant in 2018
OncoSpherix, Inc., based in Atlanta, Ga, is a pre-clinical stage oncology drug development company that is advancing a proprietary platform of first-in-class small molecule therapeutics that are designed to improve the quality of life and survival for people with many forms of cancer by targeting a common feature of solid tumors: the activation of hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). Nearly all solid cancers grow faster than their blood supply, leading to regions of low oxygen in the tumors and HIF activation. The HIFs in turn induce the expression of over 100 genes that help tumor cells survive and spread. OncoSpherix has several classes of small molecules that block activation of HIF-1 through novel mechanisms. OncoSpherix’s lead clinical candiate has been shown in mouse models to reduce primary tumor growth, inhibit metastases, and prolong survival in many types of cancer (glioblastoma, pancreatic cancer, uveal melanoma, lung cancer, breast cancer). Importantly, the agents are well tolerated and can be combined with therapeutics that work in well oxygenated regions of cancers, leading to dramatically enhanced cancer control.

Oncospherix

Grant in 2018
OncoSpherix, Inc., based in Atlanta, Ga, is a pre-clinical stage oncology drug development company that is advancing a proprietary platform of first-in-class small molecule therapeutics that are designed to improve the quality of life and survival for people with many forms of cancer by targeting a common feature of solid tumors: the activation of hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). Nearly all solid cancers grow faster than their blood supply, leading to regions of low oxygen in the tumors and HIF activation. The HIFs in turn induce the expression of over 100 genes that help tumor cells survive and spread. OncoSpherix has several classes of small molecules that block activation of HIF-1 through novel mechanisms. OncoSpherix’s lead clinical candiate has been shown in mouse models to reduce primary tumor growth, inhibit metastases, and prolong survival in many types of cancer (glioblastoma, pancreatic cancer, uveal melanoma, lung cancer, breast cancer). Importantly, the agents are well tolerated and can be combined with therapeutics that work in well oxygenated regions of cancers, leading to dramatically enhanced cancer control.

Celtaxsys

Series E in 2018
Celtaxsys, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of novel therapeutics for inflammatory diseases, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. Established in 2007 and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, the company is engaged in developing drug compounds that manipulate immune cell migration and activation. One of its key products, CTX-4430, is a small-molecule drug designed to inhibit the enzyme Leukotriene A4 hydrolase in immune cells, targeting conditions such as cystic fibrosis and moderately severe acne. Celtaxsys aims to provide innovative treatments that address the protective mechanisms of certain tumors, thereby enhancing the immune response against cancer and managing serious inflammatory conditions.

NatGlycan

Grant in 2017
NatGlycan is a biotech corporation focusing on large-scale natural glycans. It introduces proprietary glycan extraction techniques making possible the large-scale preparation of natural glycans. NatGlycan is dedicated to providing high-quality glycans and technical services to industry and the community. The company was co-founded by two preeminent professors at Emory University in Atlanta USA.

Urjanet

Series C in 2017
Urjanet, Inc. is a company that offers a cloud-based platform designed to streamline access to utility data. By connecting directly to utility providers, Urjanet acquires and normalizes utility bills and interval data, enabling organizations to automate data collection and enhance decision-making processes. Its offerings include a range of data-as-a-service solutions, such as automated access to utility bill data, granular measurements of energy consumption, and advanced metering infrastructure data. The platform also provides tools for users to submit utility credentials securely, as well as alerts for billing and consumption irregularities. Urjanet's data services support business intelligence, energy management, accounting, and procurement, helping organizations improve financial performance, energy efficiency, and sustainability. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with an additional office in Chennai, India, Urjanet aims to transform how organizations utilize utility data across various industries.

NatGlycan

Grant in 2016
NatGlycan is a biotech corporation focusing on large-scale natural glycans. It introduces proprietary glycan extraction techniques making possible the large-scale preparation of natural glycans. NatGlycan is dedicated to providing high-quality glycans and technical services to industry and the community. The company was co-founded by two preeminent professors at Emory University in Atlanta USA.

LymphaTech

Seed Round in 2015
LymphaTech is a healthcare technology company based in Atlanta, Georgia, focused on treating and preventing lymphedema. Founded in 2014, the company offers a 3D body scanning solution that measures leg circumference to create detailed three-dimensional models of limbs. This technology enables healthcare providers to diagnose lymphedema more effectively and monitor changes in limb volume over time. The 3D scans can be conducted in various settings, including at home or in a doctor's office, facilitating early detection of symptoms and timely intervention. By improving diagnosis and treatment options, LymphaTech's innovative approach aims to enhance the quality of life for patients, particularly breast cancer survivors, while providing valuable tools for clinicians and physical therapists.

Cambium Bio

Grant in 2014
Cambium Medical Technologies, founded by four blood industry luminaries out of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (USA)--is focused on the development and commercialization of regenerative therapies derived from novel processed human platelets. Cambium is developing Elate Ocular a standardized, commercialized platelet derived biologic eye drop for dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivis sicca) as its first FDA approved therapy. Elate Ocular is an investigational drug and is not yet approved for sale in or outside the United States.

Cambium Bio

Grant in 2012
Cambium Medical Technologies, founded by four blood industry luminaries out of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (USA)--is focused on the development and commercialization of regenerative therapies derived from novel processed human platelets. Cambium is developing Elate Ocular a standardized, commercialized platelet derived biologic eye drop for dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivis sicca) as its first FDA approved therapy. Elate Ocular is an investigational drug and is not yet approved for sale in or outside the United States.

AKESOgen

Grant in 2012
AKESOgen, Inc. is an integrated genomics, genetics, and biobanking company based in Norcross, Georgia. It provides comprehensive services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, clinical, academic, and government sectors, focusing on clinical trials, diagnostic testing, and research. The company specializes in high-throughput biomarker profiling, DNA and RNA extractions, cytogenomic arrays, sequencing (including NGS and Sanger), genotyping, and epigenomic analysis. These services adhere to CLIA and GLP standards and cater to various markers such as DNA, mRNA, miRNA, and methylation. AKESOgen's clientele includes notable organizations like the CDC, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the American Cancer Society, and Kaiser Permanente. Incorporated in 2010, AKESOgen operates as a subsidiary of Tempus Labs, Inc. and has a primary focus on oncology and personalized medicine.

Cambium Bio

Grant in 2011
Cambium Medical Technologies, founded by four blood industry luminaries out of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (USA)--is focused on the development and commercialization of regenerative therapies derived from novel processed human platelets. Cambium is developing Elate Ocular a standardized, commercialized platelet derived biologic eye drop for dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivis sicca) as its first FDA approved therapy. Elate Ocular is an investigational drug and is not yet approved for sale in or outside the United States.

AKESOgen

Grant in 2011
AKESOgen, Inc. is an integrated genomics, genetics, and biobanking company based in Norcross, Georgia. It provides comprehensive services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, clinical, academic, and government sectors, focusing on clinical trials, diagnostic testing, and research. The company specializes in high-throughput biomarker profiling, DNA and RNA extractions, cytogenomic arrays, sequencing (including NGS and Sanger), genotyping, and epigenomic analysis. These services adhere to CLIA and GLP standards and cater to various markers such as DNA, mRNA, miRNA, and methylation. AKESOgen's clientele includes notable organizations like the CDC, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the American Cancer Society, and Kaiser Permanente. Incorporated in 2010, AKESOgen operates as a subsidiary of Tempus Labs, Inc. and has a primary focus on oncology and personalized medicine.

AKESOgen

Grant in 2011
AKESOgen, Inc. is an integrated genomics, genetics, and biobanking company based in Norcross, Georgia. It provides comprehensive services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, clinical, academic, and government sectors, focusing on clinical trials, diagnostic testing, and research. The company specializes in high-throughput biomarker profiling, DNA and RNA extractions, cytogenomic arrays, sequencing (including NGS and Sanger), genotyping, and epigenomic analysis. These services adhere to CLIA and GLP standards and cater to various markers such as DNA, mRNA, miRNA, and methylation. AKESOgen's clientele includes notable organizations like the CDC, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the American Cancer Society, and Kaiser Permanente. Incorporated in 2010, AKESOgen operates as a subsidiary of Tempus Labs, Inc. and has a primary focus on oncology and personalized medicine.

AKESOgen

Grant in 2011
AKESOgen, Inc. is an integrated genomics, genetics, and biobanking company based in Norcross, Georgia. It provides comprehensive services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, clinical, academic, and government sectors, focusing on clinical trials, diagnostic testing, and research. The company specializes in high-throughput biomarker profiling, DNA and RNA extractions, cytogenomic arrays, sequencing (including NGS and Sanger), genotyping, and epigenomic analysis. These services adhere to CLIA and GLP standards and cater to various markers such as DNA, mRNA, miRNA, and methylation. AKESOgen's clientele includes notable organizations like the CDC, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the American Cancer Society, and Kaiser Permanente. Incorporated in 2010, AKESOgen operates as a subsidiary of Tempus Labs, Inc. and has a primary focus on oncology and personalized medicine.

Whisper Communications

Grant in 2011
Whisper Communications is an Atlanta-based company that specializes in wireless networking services, utilizing innovative technologies derived from research at the Georgia Institute of Technology. The firm has developed a patent-pending encoding methodology that enhances data security by ensuring that signals transmitted beyond a designated area, referred to as the "cone of silence," are rendered useless to potential eavesdroppers. This approach focuses on physical layer security, where data security is directly linked to proximity to the data source. By enabling IT companies to monitor, track, and control devices at fixed locations, Whisper Communications aims to advance the field of data security in wireless communications.
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