Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania is a non-profit organization established in 1982 that serves as a vital capital provider and supporter of technology development in the region. Based in Philadelphia, it has invested over $170 million in more than 2,000 early-stage and established technology companies, fostering innovation primarily in information technology, health, and physical sciences. The organization not only provides financial support but also develops partnerships between universities and industries to accelerate the commercialization of scientific discoveries. By strengthening the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, Ben Franklin Technology Partners plays a crucial role in job creation and economic transformation in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Jonathan Beschen

Investment Director, Information Technology Investment Group

Anthony George

Analyst

Mark de Grandpre

Investor

Kevon Gray

Analyst

Roze McDevitt

Analyst

Adare McMillan

CFO

Omar Mencin

Managing Director, Information Technology Investment Group

Kathie Jordan Ph.D

Managing Director, Healthcare Investment Group

Past deals in Aerospace

Vesteck

Series A in 2021
Vesteck, Inc. is an early-stage medical device company focused on addressing challenges in the aortic repair, structural heart, and gastrointestinal markets. The company has developed a proprietary technology aimed at treating patients with aortic aneurysms. Its flagship product, the Suture-Tight nitinol suture delivery catheter, introduces innovative solutions for endovascular aortic repair by securely suturing grafts to the aorta during initial implant procedures. This technology not only addresses issues related to graft migration and leaks but also aims to reduce the complexity and costs associated with repairs. Vesteck’s advancements benefit endovascular providers, payors, and patients by enhancing the effectiveness and safety of aortic repair procedures.

Deepwave Digital

Seed Round in 2020
Deepwave Digital, Inc. manufactures artificial intelligence (AI)-based hardware/software sensor solutions for radio frequency (RF) and wireless system companies. . The company’s products include Artificial Intelligence Radio Transceiver (AIR-T) which is a software defined radio. It offers software, such as AirPack, AirStack Sandbox, and Spectrum Sensing that enables RF and wireless systems to receive, detect, and identify signals in the spectral environment. The company was incorporated in 2017 and is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Route Dynamics Corp.

Debt Financing in 2020
Nexteon Technologies specializes in automated dynamic rerouting technology for commercial and general aviation airline fleets. The company has developed a platform known as SmartRoutes, which performs continuous real-time analysis of live air traffic. This technology identifies high-value route correction options for airlines, helping to optimize flight times and reduce fuel consumption. Founded in 2017, Nexteon Technologies is headquartered in Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, and aims to enhance operational efficiency in the aviation sector through its innovative solutions.

Exyn

Debt Financing in 2020
Exyn Technologies, Inc. is a Philadelphia-based company specializing in autonomous aerial robotics, having emerged from the GRASP Laboratory at the University of Pennsylvania. Founded in 2014, the company has developed exynAI, a modular software system that enables pilot-less flights for drones in complex commercial settings. This technology leverages multiple redundant sensors and advanced mapping techniques to facilitate obstacle avoidance and autonomous flight planning, allowing for applications such as underground inspections, inventory management, and construction documentation. Exyn's drones operate without human control or GPS, making them particularly suited for navigating challenging environments and automating hazardous tasks.

Aevumed

Debt Financing in 2020
Aevumed is a privately-owned company focused on developing medical devices specifically for the treatment of rotator cuff tears. Its innovative device enhances healing by providing pull-out strength and suture retention, which improves the connection between tendon and bone. This approach aims to reduce the incidence of retear rates associated with rotator cuff surgeries, offering patients both mechanical support and biological enhancement. Aevumed is committed to improving quality of life through its dedication to quality and ongoing expansion into new markets. The company has received funding from individual investors and angel groups, positioning it to further its mission in the medical device industry.

RightAir

Grant in 2020
RightAir is developing noninvasive ventilators for COPD patients. They have developed AIR-AD (based on a proven respiratory assist technology called cuirass ventilators), which is a fully-mobile, non-invasive ventilator, integrated into a piece of clothing. It reduces dynamic hyperinflation. It adjusts the natural breathing pattern of the patient, during rest and exercise.

Deepwave Digital

Seed Round in 2019
Deepwave Digital, Inc. manufactures artificial intelligence (AI)-based hardware/software sensor solutions for radio frequency (RF) and wireless system companies. . The company’s products include Artificial Intelligence Radio Transceiver (AIR-T) which is a software defined radio. It offers software, such as AirPack, AirStack Sandbox, and Spectrum Sensing that enables RF and wireless systems to receive, detect, and identify signals in the spectral environment. The company was incorporated in 2017 and is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Deepwave Digital

Seed Round in 2018
Deepwave Digital, Inc. manufactures artificial intelligence (AI)-based hardware/software sensor solutions for radio frequency (RF) and wireless system companies. . The company’s products include Artificial Intelligence Radio Transceiver (AIR-T) which is a software defined radio. It offers software, such as AirPack, AirStack Sandbox, and Spectrum Sensing that enables RF and wireless systems to receive, detect, and identify signals in the spectral environment. The company was incorporated in 2017 and is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Verge Inc.

Seed Round in 2016
Verge Aero, based in Philadelphia, is a company specializing in the development and operation of drone entertainment systems. Founded in 2014, it comprises a team of engineers with expertise in electrical, computer, software, systems, and aerospace disciplines. The company has created advanced drone performance software that enables the control of drone swarms, allowing for seamless integration with existing entertainment setups. This technology facilitates dynamic interactions between drones, audiences, and performers. Verge Aero's near-term applications include recurring drone performances, venue installations, touring productions, and various drone entertainment products, showcasing the innovative potential of unmanned aerial systems in the entertainment industry.

Rocker Tools

Seed Round in 2015
Rocker Tools

American Aerospace

Seed Round in 2015
American Aerospace Technologies, Inc. specializes in long-endurance unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and flight services tailored for the oil and gas sector. The company offers UAS integration solutions, developing payloads, sensors, and communication systems designed to gather, produce, and deliver data for various applications such as pipeline integrity management, facility inspections, and emergency management. Their extensive portfolio includes survey-grade mapping systems, threat detection tools for pipeline monitoring, high-bandwidth communication relays, and methane detection technologies. Serving a diverse clientele that includes Fortune 500 companies, educational institutions, and government agencies, American Aerospace emphasizes operational excellence and data distribution services. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, the company was previously known as American Aerospace Advisors, Inc.

Telefactor Robotics

Seed Round in 2014
Telefactor Robotics LLC specializes in creating advanced vision and dexterity solutions for the explosive ordnance disposal sector, primarily serving first responders and the military. Established in 2013 and located in West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, the company develops a range of products designed to enhance robotic capabilities in hazardous environments. Its offerings include lightweight video encoders, high-performance camera systems, immersive telepresence solutions, and a variety of gripper technologies that enable precise manipulation. Telefactor Robotics aims to empower robotic systems to perform complex tasks traditionally executed by humans, thereby improving operational efficiency and safety in extreme conditions. The company’s innovations are particularly focused on enhancing the functionality of bomb disposal robots and other related robotic platforms, contributing significantly to defense and homeland security applications.

Novasentis

Series A in 2008
Novasentis (formerly Strategic Polymer Sciences, Inc.), created the world’s first electro-mechanical polymer (EMP), the thinnest and most flexible haptic actuator and sensor technology today, used to develop mobile and wearable products that come alive with movement and sound. By bridging consumer electronics and sensory interaction, Novasentis enables 4D spatial tactile experiences and next-generation mobile product designs. Novasentis is privately funded. The company is based in San Francisco Bay Area and has offices in Pennsylvania, Korea, and Tokyo. More information on Novasentis is online at www.novasentis.com

Aereon

Venture Round in 2004
Aereon Solutions is a provider of wireless and head office based process automation solutions for HVAC, plumbing electrical contracting, and construction companies.
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