MassChallenge

Oculogenex is a biopharmaceutical company based in La Habra, California, established in 2020. The company specializes in developing gene therapies specifically aimed at treating retinal disorders. Its innovative approach involves ocular regenerative gene therapy that protects retinal pigment epithelial cells from oxidative stress-induced damage, which is a contributing factor to macular degeneration. By focusing on these therapies, Oculogenex aims to enhance the detection and treatment of various retinal disorders, ultimately supporting researchers in advancing novel drug solutions in this critical area of healthcare.

Oculogenex is a biopharmaceutical company based in La Habra, California, established in 2020. The company specializes in developing gene therapies specifically aimed at treating retinal disorders. Its innovative approach involves ocular regenerative gene therapy that protects retinal pigment epithelial cells from oxidative stress-induced damage, which is a contributing factor to macular degeneration. By focusing on these therapies, Oculogenex aims to enhance the detection and treatment of various retinal disorders, ultimately supporting researchers in advancing novel drug solutions in this critical area of healthcare.

BioBQ is a cultivated meat company that produces slaughter-free beef brisket and other BBQ meats from cultured animal cells. The company uses proprietary technologies that efficiently create non-ground meat products in weeks rather than a year or more required with raising cattle, the revolutionary process allows control of meat content and taste, reduces environmental impacts of meat production, and takes BBQ to the next tasty, sustainable level consumers want.

Ronawk is a biotechnology company based in Olathe, Kansas, founded in 2019. The company specializes in developing T-Block technology, which facilitates the mass production of patient-specific biologics for treating various conditions, including diseases, cancer, organ injuries, and burns. Ronawk's proprietary technology allows for the growth of primary stem cells in a three-dimensional environment, preserving the essential characteristics of the cell population outside the body. This innovative approach enables the rapid expansion of stem cells, which can be utilized for early-stage diagnostics and tissue repair in reconstructive surgeries. By focusing on efficient and high-density cell growth, Ronawk aims to advance tissue generation and disease modeling for improved patient outcomes.

INIA Biosciences utilizes the power of sound waves to develop non-invasive, home-administered, and closed-loop medical devices to manage chronic inflammatory diseases.

Opsin Biotherapeutics develops a pipeline of opsin-based gene therapies for pain management.

MyoGene Bio develops therapies for muscle diseases, starting with a gene-editing therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

MediCircle utilizes technology to eliminate barriers to care and reduce pharmaceutical waste. The company collects leftover oral chemotherapeutics, ensures the medicine’s quality, and redistributes it to those in need. Its advanced technology allows them to offer a safe, low-cost alternative to disposal. MediCircle creates significant savings for patients, insurance companies, and healthcare facilities, all while improving the health of its local communities.

Netnoids Rx Laboratories operates a cancer contract research organization that uses patient-derived organoid model systems to help find a cure for rare cancers.

Galileo Innovations develops human performance-optimizing biotech gear and equipment for athletes, first responders, military members, and labor industry workers. Its proposed technology, KordoFan, augments users with actionable insights concerning environmental and biometric hazards in real-time to target heat injuries; through an array of biomimicry cooling designs, the device aids in speed, agility, mental clarity, muscle recovery, strength, and stamina during training/shifts.

Vaccine Systems expedites and simplifies vaccine preparation for caregivers and patients. Millions more people, particularly in the developing countries, can be immunized, saving tens of thousands of labor years through worldwide vaccination campaigns. Vaccine Systems creates equipment to help with this, resulting in increased access to vaccines, simplified preparation, and an essential margin of safety for those prepared at the point of care. At the same time, we reduce vaccine waste – which the WHO claims varies from 30% to 70% – and suboptimal vaccine re-allocation.

Selmod provides development of innovative small molecule therapies for the treatment of life-threatening invasive fungal infections.

Algdeha specializes in sustainable biotechnology solutions aimed at industries reliant on fish-based products. The company focuses on developing innovative methods for large-scale algae production, utilizing natural resources such as wave energy, sunlight, and ambient heat to minimize costs. By providing an alternative to traditional animal feed derived from fish, Algdeha's approach supports sustainability and reduces the environmental impact associated with fish dependency in animal agriculture.

OptiProt is a startup working on a sustainable project producing and processing food for the future based on edible insects.

LIALT Laboratorio de Investigación Alternativa develops toxicological evaluations without the use of animals. LIALT replaces the use of animals through the use of three-dimensional tissues in conjunction with internationally recognized protocols that provide more specific information on the mechanisms of toxic action than that obtained in animals, offering a solution to the problem previously exposed.

Labinnova detects Breast Cancer in a Breath Sample with 98% sensibility. providing Qualitative results.

GreenBTS specializes in high-tech solutions for agriculture, focusing on the manufacturing of organic biofertilizers and biopesticides. The company's products are designed to enhance urban farming, plant care, and food production by protecting crops from pests and diseases. With specially formulated ingredients tailored to different crop types, GreenBTS aims to improve growth and quality, helping farmers to maintain their crops effectively until the harvest.

Intelligent NanoFiber, Inc. is a company based in College Station, Texas, that specializes in the design and manufacture of NanoFiber, an advanced absorbent material made of polypropylene. Established in 2020, the company focuses on the development of this innovative nano-material, which is capable of capturing and neutralizing toxins and infectious diseases. The applications of NanoFiber span various sectors, including public safety and defense, where it is utilized for air filtration, waste cleanup, heat insulation, and environmental initiatives such as desert greening. Through its advanced technology, Intelligent NanoFiber aims to address critical challenges in safety and environmental sustainability.

Lepidext specializes in managing populations of Lepidoptera pests through the development of species-specific bio-pesticides. Founded in 2015 by Angelika Fath-Goodin and Bruce Webb in Lexington, Kentucky, the company aims to enhance crop security and promote agricultural prosperity. By leveraging a deep understanding of insect biology alongside farmers' expertise, Lepidext provides safe and effective pest control solutions that reduce reliance on genetically modified plants and chemical pesticides. Their technology specifically targets the corn earworm and other harmful insects, offering an innovative approach to pest management that is user-friendly and environmentally responsible.

Developer of material technologies intended to provide virus and bacteria protection for up to several months. The company's core nanotechnology is as safe as water for human contact yet works against some of the most concerning germs, such as MRSA, and norovirus, enabling users to reduce the infections from surfaces while also reducing chemical release and plastic waste to the planet.

Uniphage is a biotech company that eliminates bacterial infections by combining the power of bacteriophages with artificial intelligence. Their first target disease is citrus greening, an incurable and debilitating disease that costs the United States more than $2 billion each year. Uniphage created the first commercially effective models for computationally predicting safe bacterial viruses against target bacterial infections, as well as discovered a variety of targets. This enables them to deliver new antimicrobial, safe, and precise products to market much more quickly.

NurLabs develops label-free and reagent-free diagnostics to detect cancer early when it is most treatable.

Glamorous AI is a developer of an artificial intelligence-based drug discovery platform. The company's platform specializes in the research of medicines from the preceding experimental results, identifies and assimilates multiple subtle and complex compounds.

FormaPath, founded in 2015 and based in Ithaca, New York, specializes in the development of the Adipress, an automated device designed to enhance the efficiency of tissue preparation for cancer diagnosis. In the United States, pathology labs process approximately 75 million tissue samples annually, often relying on manual methods that can lead to missed critical diagnostic tissue and misdiagnoses, particularly in colorectal cancer cases. The Adipress addresses this issue by allowing clinicians to prepare complete cancer samples in just 60 seconds, significantly reducing the time compared to traditional methods, which can take up to an hour. Registered with the FDA as a class 1 medical device, the Adipress is supported by two issued US patents and a pending PCT application in Europe. This innovative technology enables clinicians to submit all available tissue for diagnosis, ultimately improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

Transcera is a biotechnology company focused on advancing the treatment of chronic diseases through innovative drug delivery systems. It has developed a novel lipid-based platform that enhances the targeting and absorption of therapeutic molecules, allowing larger drugs to effectively cross cellular barriers. This approach aims to improve the pharmacokinetics of treatments, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes by ensuring that medications are delivered more precisely and efficiently. Transcera's technology represents a significant advancement in drug delivery, addressing critical challenges in the management of chronic conditions.

Building the largest distributed hydroponics farm in the world via robotics and AI

AgZen is a company focused on developing innovative pesticide sprays that enhance the efficacy of agricultural chemicals while minimizing environmental impact. Their patented, food-safe additives and retrofits for sprayers allow pesticide droplets to adhere more effectively to plants. This technology enables farmers to achieve the same level of protection with significantly lower volumes of pesticides, thereby reducing pollution associated with agricultural practices. By optimizing pesticide application, AgZen supports farmers in maintaining plant health and yield while promoting sustainable farming methods.

Gensor develops a virus testing platform based on the gene field-effect transistor technology.

AcousticaBio is a biotechnology company focused on reformulating intravenous medications for subcutaneous delivery. The company has developed a fluid processing technology that creates complex microparticles, enabling the conversion of biologic products typically administered intravenously into highly concentrated, small-volume injections suitable for under-the-skin administration. This innovative approach allows patients to self-administer essential medications with less pain and discomfort, reducing the need for lengthy hospital visits and enhancing overall patient convenience.

Yengii Biosciences develops the Galet smartphone microscope for detecting infectious illnesses such as malaria, sleeping sickness, and tuberculosis. The Galet platform is intended to do very complicated blood film analysis in a simple, portable point-of-care tool, which is now limited to high-end laboratories. Making such blood film analysis more available would allow for the early diagnosis of the most serious health concerns, such as malaria, and will save lives.

Asan Therapeutics utilizes a novel technology that simplifies the treatment of cancer patients to receive only a single injection instead of several painful injections.

Stemloop is a biotechnology company founded in 2019 and based in Evanston, Illinois. It focuses on developing cell-free biosensing products aimed at revolutionizing chemical and molecular testing. By utilizing genetically encoded sensing and response mechanisms, Stemloop creates simple and cost-effective solutions for the accurate and scalable detection of various chemicals. This innovation enables medical professionals to deliver better and faster test results while reducing costs, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of testing processes in healthcare and related fields.

BioSense8 develops biosensors for use in human and animal healthcare, and environmental wellness. The company was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts.

NeuroGeneces is a seed-stage startup dedicated to enhancing memory and mitigating cognitive decline associated with aging. The company leverages advanced research in sleep and neuroscience to improve the natural memory consolidation processes that occur during sleep. It has developed an EEG-based headband equipped with algorithms that synchronize acoustic stimuli to users' Slow Oscillations (SOs) during slow wave sleep, thereby enhancing memory recall. Additionally, NeuroGeneces offers a device that can detect neurodegeneration long before cognitive symptoms appear, allowing for timely interventions. This device monitors various sleep parameters, including quantity and quality, while assessing changes in heart rate variability. By providing valuable clinical decision support for healthcare professionals, NeuroGeneces aims to empower users to optimize their mental and physical performance.

Diamante is a company that develops and manufactures autoimmune disease diagnosis devices using nanomaterials. It exploits plants as bioreactors for the sustainable production of nanoparticles based on modified plant viruses that are used in developing new tools. Diamante was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Verona, Italy.

Vertum Technologies designs & builds robotic farming assistants that help indoor farmers increase yield and improve environmental sustainability.

BestHealth4U focuses on researching and developing advanced medical adhesive technologies aimed at enhancing patient care. The company creates innovative and eco-friendly adhesive solutions designed to prevent skin injuries, accelerate healing, and improve overall patient health. By transforming the attachment methods for bandages, dressings, and medical devices, BestHealth4U enables healthcare providers to minimize skin damage, discomfort, irritation, and the risk of infection. The company's commitment to safe and effective products supports doctors in preventing adhesive-related skin injuries, ultimately promoting better patient outcomes.

Developer of fluidic devices intended to improve the effectiveness of laboratory tests, experiment with innovative therapeutic approaches and reduce animal testing. The company's device includes a wide set of applications, such as cosmetics, oncology and pharmaceutical, toxicology and pollution, nutraceutical and agri-food, enabling clients to cultivate three-dimensional tissues, similar to human ones, in clinically relevant dimensions on which to operate in vitro tests and take decision accordingly.

Leucine Rich Bio is India's first and only Microbiome focused Genomics Based company. While, genomic approaches have gained huge clinical importance allowing us to align towards precision medicine, important uncertainties remain unanswered. The human microbiome, largely recognized as the "Second Genome", while rooted in the principles of genomics, have gained tremendous steam over the past few years. There is a heightened interest among researchers, clinicians and direct consumers in understanding the effects of the microbiome on health and wellness.

Volatile Technologies Ltd, established in 2019 and headquartered in London, UK, specializes in developing innovative artificial intelligence-based portable smell sensors designed for the brewing industry. The company offers a cutting-edge solution that employs multiple layers of machine learning algorithms and unique odor sensor technology to monitor beer aroma at various stages of the brewing process. This technology enables the detection of flavor defects, ensuring consistent responses and enhancing overall panel accuracy in quality control. In addition to its London headquarters, Volatile maintains offices in Shenzhen, China, and Vilnius, Lithuania, further supporting its global reach in the food and beverage production sector.

Greencovery specializes in food upcycling technology that allows food companies to produce sustainable ingredients from side-stream production. The company’s proprietary platform accelerates the time-to-market for new components that would otherwise be difficult to recover, enhancing both feasibility and sustainability for its clients. Greencovery's technology has versatile applications, enabling the production of circular flavors, supplements, and various food ingredients, particularly catering to the expanding markets for sports nutrition, beverages, and protein alternatives. By effectively recovering valuable products from side-streams, Greencovery supports the food industry in creating more sustainable practices.

Frankles has developed BLAST®, the first technological platform based on data science and clean technologies, applied to the extraction, preservation, and concentration of natural compounds. BLAST® allows the design, formulation, and production of new and natural ingredients for the beverage industry.

Digi.Bio is a company based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, that develops a microfluidic platform aimed at automating liquid handling processes in the healthcare industry. Established in 2017, the firm specializes in digital microfluidics and electrowetting technology, which allows for the precise manipulation of droplets at a microscale. By utilizing artificial intelligence, Digi.Bio's software streamlines multistep liquid handling applications, thereby replacing traditional pipetting methods in laboratories. This innovative approach enhances the efficiency of synthetic biology research and supports medical and pharmaceutical companies in automating their workflows, ultimately facilitating the scaling of bioengineering processes.

B'ZEOS is a technology-driven start-up that specializes in developing innovative, seaweed-based packaging solutions aimed at providing sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics. The company focuses on material development and utilizes green processing technology to create bio-based packaging products that are compostable and free from toxic chemicals. By targeting industries seeking to decarbonize and reduce their reliance on conventional plastic, B'ZEOS offers tailored packaging solutions that align with environmental sustainability goals.

Developer of a plant-based food technology designed to reduce meat consumption. The company's technology offers plant-based whole-cuts that contain plant proteins, enabling consumers to have alternatives that mimic the taste, texture, and smell of meat.

Criam is a biotechnology company based in Braga, Portugal, founded in 2015, that focuses on developing medical devices for blood type analysis and disease detection. The company's flagship product, also named Criam, enables rapid and affordable blood test analysis, allowing users to receive immediate information about their health. This medical device can detect various diseases, including HIV, Brucella, tick fever, syphilis, mononucleosis, and meningitis. By positioning itself in the Point-of-Care diagnostic segment, Criam aims to empower individuals with timely health information and contribute to the global monitoring and control of diseases.

Fybraworks Foods, Inc provides alternative meat substitutes and develops animal-free meat structural proteins and synthetic meat by using fermentation techniques. The company was founded in 2020 and is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Reazent, Inc. is an agricultural technology company based in Halifax, Canada, founded in 2018. The company specializes in developing biological-based organic alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals, aiming to provide safe and natural products for agricultural applications. Reazent focuses on enhancing plant growth, yield, and stress resistance, addressing a variety of fungal diseases that affect leafy fruits and vegetables. By offering these innovative solutions, Reazent supports farmers in managing crop disease, improving yield, and increasing their return on investment, while promoting more sustainable and economically viable agricultural practices.

ClearLeaf uses patent-pending technology, organic certified in the EU and Japan, to control and manage a wide range of harmful pests while maintaining natural balances on the farm, protecting farmers and consumers. ClearLeaf currently has pre- and post-harvest solutions for the coffee, banana, multiple vegetables, melon, sugar cane, strawberries and flower sectors. GotaBlanca® is currently sold online in Costa Rica since launching its direct sales program in 2020. Our first product line, GotaBlanca®, is a line of non-toxic contact-action liquid emulsions that uses surface chemistry and colloidal technology to enhance plant growth through the control and management of fungal and bacterial diseases.

Organifarms specializes in the development of innovative harvesting robots tailored for greenhouses and vertical farms. These robots address significant challenges in the agricultural sector, particularly the labor shortage and escalating labor costs faced by growers. By automating critical processes such as harvesting, quality control, and monitoring, Organifarms enables efficient cultivation of labor-intensive crops in indoor farming environments. Their technology not only enhances productivity but also supports sustainable farming practices by allowing for pesticide-free cultivation methods. Through these advancements, Organifarms aims to provide growers with effective tools to improve profitability and streamline operations in the evolving landscape of agriculture.

Green and Seed Corporation innovates rice farming by growing rice outside of the water without sacrificing yield by using the weeding and moisturizing functions of biodegradable films.

Biotic provides an end to end, fully bio-based, fully biodegradable polymer manufacturing process. Enabling optimal transition from fossil-fuel-plastics, with a scalable, fully biological, environmentally friendly process, eliminating recycling needs, contributing towards reducing greenhouse gases emission, with a zero waste and circular economy approach. Our polymer is applicable for the vast majority of today’s plastic demand including packaging, disposables, and single-use products.

FermBiotics is a microbiome company dedicated to enhancing gut health globally. The company specializes in the development of sustainable, fermented plant and seaweed ingredients that serve as food components, dietary supplements, and medical foods. By integrating prebiotics, probiotics, and bioactive compounds, FermBiotics has created a novel category of fermented products aimed at promoting a positive gut microbiome. This innovation supports both human and animal health, enabling families and pet owners to assist the elderly and their animals in maintaining optimal gut health.

Gelatex Technologies is a Techstars-backed materials technology company that invented the fastest technology for producing bio-based nanofibers on a large scale. It is a platform technology that enables faster and up to 100 cheaper nanofiber production for applications like 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering, cultured meat, bio-based filters, eco-friendly leather-like textile, energy storage, wound care, and many more. The technology is patent-pending and the machinery fully functional. The company was founded in 2016 and until COVID-19 pandemic developed eco-friendly leather-like textile from gelatin nanofibers, using this nanofiber production technology as part of the process. COVID-19 was a trigger to understand the wider potential of the technology which then led to pivot. The company is based in Estonia and holding incorporated in UK (2019).

By translating bees’ vibrations and sounds we provide real time pollination and bee health data analysis to beekeepers, farmers, consumers and companies. Thanks to AI and big data we help researchers to know more about and protect the bees.

MycoNourish specializes in the development of beneficial microbes tailored for specific crops, aiming to enhance agricultural production and add value for growers. By leveraging beneficial fungi that work in symbiosis with various crops, the company improves both yield and quality. MycoNourish focuses on customizing advanced strains of microbes to meet the unique needs of different crops, thereby enabling farmers to cultivate healthier produce. This innovative approach not only supports increased agricultural efficiency but also addresses challenges related to food wastage.

FlexSea specializes in the development of innovative biomaterials sourced from renewable marine resources, specifically seaweed, to create sustainable packaging solutions. The company focuses on producing compostable biopolymer materials that serve as alternatives to conventional plastic film packaging. These materials are designed to degrade within weeks and can break down in various environments, including marine, soil, and home-composting settings. By providing environmentally friendly packaging options, FlexSea enables clients to maintain product freshness and safety while minimizing environmental impact.

Poultry farming Management system provides quality animal feed, expert training, Poultry Construction while monitoring & evaluating small/medium scale poultry farmers in Cameroon while facilitating farmers to gain certification with the government for protection and compensation in case of an outbreak (Bird Flu). Due to lack of Veterinary personnel’s, we develop SAVE OUR CHICKENS App which uses Artificial intelligence (AI) to perform instant disease diagnosis by scanning Poultry Farmers chicken’s droppings; screens and analyzed the DNA/RNA to display the results and prescribes the needed treatment by matching the confirmed diagnosis on a smart phone to over 1260 farmers in our database. The App efficiently identifies and discretely recognizes while evaluating the examined images to optimized the diagnosis with more than 95 percent accuracy. The app performed similar to a well-trained veterinarian, and generates decision on each case with referred for treatment within 30 seconds. It’s able to review more than 200,000 scans conducted the same time within a minute and solves the problems of increasing mortalities which confirms 1 out of every 50 chicken now dies a natural death. This promotes decent work for farmers with our pay -as-you-go revenue model of $1 USD per diagnosis.

Proeon Foods specializes in developing a variety of plant-based protein ingredients aimed at food manufacturers. The company offers a range of protein options, including amaranth, hemp seed, mung bean, fava bean, and chickpea proteins. By providing these ingredients, Proeon supports healthier eating habits and promotes clean food practices, catering to the growing demand for natural and sustainable food solutions.

BrightCure Ltd. is a company based in London, United Kingdom, that specializes in developing probiotic-based therapies aimed at treating urinary tract infections (UTIs). Founded in 2019, BrightCure addresses the significant challenge of recurrent and difficult-to-treat UTIs, which affect a large portion of the global population, particularly women. Conventional UTI treatments often fall short in effectiveness and can lead to serious side effects, contributing to the rise of antibiotic-resistant infections. The company focuses on leveraging the natural microbiome to eliminate harmful bacteria while restoring beneficial flora. BrightCure's flagship product, a bioactive intimate cream, is designed to enhance the natural immune response and support urinary tract health. The UTI treatment market is projected to grow significantly, reflecting the urgent need for effective solutions. BrightCure has received recognition for its innovative approach, including seed investment from SOSV and accolades in various competitions, underscoring its potential impact in the healthcare sector.

TissueLabs Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento LTDA is a Brazilian company based in São Paulo, founded in 2019, specializing in the development of laboratory platforms for creating organs and tissues. The company offers a range of products designed for advanced research in drug delivery and organ fabrication. Among its offerings are TissueStart, a 3D bio printer for biofabrication, and MatriXpec, hydrogels that provide tissue-specific microenvironments for three-dimensional cell culture. Additionally, TissueLabs produces MatriCoat, which transforms tissue culture plastics, and MatriWell, cell culture inserts that contain hydrogel. These products are available for purchase through the company’s online portal, facilitating state-of-the-art research and innovation in the field of tissue engineering.

Sophie's BioNutrients is focused on creating sustainable plant-based protein derived from microalgae through advanced fermentation technologies. The company specializes in optimizing strains, precision fermentation, and protein extraction to produce a high-purity protein powder. This innovative product offers various functionalities, catering to the food industry, particularly for the development of imitation seafood products. By leveraging fermentation methods, Sophie's BioNutrients aims to enhance the availability of alternative protein sources while promoting sustainability in food production.

UNISERS is based on nanotechnology and Raman spectroscopy and abbreviates “Universal Surface-Enhanced-Raman-Spectroscopy”. Their patented technology is the only known surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy method which can detect all non-volatile impurities regardless of their chemical properties. Therefore, they can analyse multiple different impurities in liquids within the same test. Their technology is based on sample preparation and Raman scanning. The sample preparation is non-chemical and amplifies the Raman signal of impurities by a factor of ~1,000,000 and makes trace impurities detectable.

Umami Meats develops cultured seafood based on a proprietary, low-cost, and sustainable formulation of growth factors.

WeCo innovation consists of treating on-site via a biological process and an electrochemical reactor killing the bacteria and clarifying the wastewater, producing recycled clean water for flushing. This international patented innovation is the first worldwide to treat and recycle on-site and off-grid black water within 2 hours. WeCo public toilets consume only 350 L of water per year, considering 100 daily users, versus 156,000 L of water per year for standard public toilets.

BioEclosion seeks to enhance user-friendly quantitative diagnostics to new molecular biomarkers for fast identification of emerging diseases that affect global health. The company started its activity with several patents, the most important being Celifast: a non-invasive approach for the detection of celiac disease. Addressing point of care attention of patients, the core technology has been successfully validated and the team is currently working on further development for commercialization.

Babylat is an enricher device is the first automated, small-scale tabletop device for the protein enrichment of human milk.

Grain4Grain is a San Antonio-based food-tech startup focused on producing low-carb, high-protein flour from brewers spent grain, a significant byproduct of the brewing industry. The company has developed a patent-pending process that efficiently dries and mills this spent grain in under 20 minutes, a significant reduction from the conventional six-hour method. By upcycling this resource, Grain4Grain not only creates a nutritious ingredient but also promotes sustainability within the food supply chain. Since its launch 10 months ago, the company has upcycled 120,000 pounds of spent grain and introduced two consumer packaged goods in nearly 200 HEB stores. Additionally, Grain4Grain is actively pursuing contracts with various product makers, bakeries, and even a dog food manufacturer to expand its market reach and product offerings.

Michroma Corporation is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2019. The company specializes in producing natural thermostable colorants derived from filamentous fungi, aiming to replace synthetic and non-sustainable colorants commonly used in food and cosmetics. By leveraging a fermentation process and utilizing colorful fungal strains, Michroma provides a diverse array of pH-stable and heat-stable natural pigments. This innovative approach not only supports sustainability but also caters to the growing demand for vegetarian and environmentally friendly alternatives in the food industry.

Microbe Plus specializes in the development of innovative microbiological bio-products aimed at enhancing plant growth and protection. The company manufactures multi-strain probiotics for plants, which are formulated to safeguard crops against a wide range of pathogens, including diseases and pests. By utilizing carefully selected beneficial bacteria, Microbe Plus seeks to increase crop yields while minimizing the need for synthetic pesticides. Their mission is to create efficient and cost-effective solutions that support the health of various plants, including crops, orchards, flowers, and ornamental species, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Developer of an aqueous technology platform designed to deliver ultra-low friction and efficient lubrication relevant to various medical and technological applications. The company specializes in using hydration water as the lubricating element which spontaneously adsorbs and coats biological as well as artificial surfaces, enabling healthcare and pharmaceutical professionals to coat biological surfaces and also provide the vehicle to encapsulate active pharmaceutical ingredients or supplements and to deliver these to targets that currently are difficult to reach.

TioTech specializes in the development of advanced titania (TiO2) materials for lithium-ion batteries, aiming to enhance their performance and safety. The company's flagship product, TitanBTM, is engineered to function as an anode material, enabling batteries to charge in under six minutes while significantly extending their lifespan. TioTech's proprietary processing methods for titania nanoparticles ensure that the batteries not only charge quickly but also maintain safety across a range of temperatures, including extreme cold. This innovative approach addresses common challenges in battery technology, positioning TioTech as a leader in the next generation of energy storage solutions.

EcoPhage, a biotech company, leverages a disruptive technology for using viruses that attack bacteria (bacteriophages) for crop protection. Its unique approach allows for high throughput screening and cocktail optimization to deliver the most efficient and efficacious phage-based products in crop protection. Farmers’ need for effective, environmentally friendly solutions to combat bacterial diseases in crops prompted the effort to seek additional approaches. Bacteriophages have been recognized as natural enemies of bacteria for decades; yet, there has been a lack of technology for pinpointing the “right” phage combination to effectively fight disease, which inhibited acceptance for applications in agriculture. The company was founded in 2019 and is based in Ness Ziona, Israel.

Kinoko Tech Ltd., founded in 2019 and based in Jerusalem, Israel, specializes in the production of alternative protein products derived from fungi. The company focuses on utilizing deep-tech fermentation processes to create nutritious and flavorful superfoods. By fermenting fungal mycelium, Kinoko Tech develops products that are rich in protein, essential amino acids, and offer a scrumptious taste and aroma. Their offerings are designed to cater to health-conscious consumers seeking allergen-free, gluten-free, and cholesterol-free dietary options. Through its innovative approach, Kinoko Tech aims to promote sustainable food solutions while elevating the nutritional value of everyday meals.

More Foods is a food-tech startup focused on producing high-protein meat alternative products by utilizing by-products from the food industry. The company distinguishes itself by incorporating innovative ingredients, resulting in clean-label products with a short list of components that do not include major allergens. More Foods aims to provide consumers with nutritious options that deliver both protein and fiber, effectively replacing animal meat in various meals.

Matricelf is a biotechnology company that operates 3D print tissues and organs that reducing the risk of implant rejection. The company's proprietary decellularization process separates stromal cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) from a small omental biopsy sample a, A thermo-responsive hydrogel is produced from the ECM. The stromal cells are reprogramed into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) which are then incorporated into the hydrogel before being differentiated into the desired functional tissue using our patent-pending methodology. Matricelf also focuses on spinal cord implants that are produced for patients suffering from intra-abdominal fat biopsy traumatic spinal cord injuries, enabling patients to restore neuronal activity, a motor function that assists them in daily activities, and integrates back into the community. The company was founded in 2019 by Professor Tal Dvir of the Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine from Tel Aviv University.

Naturbeads, a company working to manufacture a replacement ato the ocean-polluting microbeads that, despite initial bans in “rinse-off” cosmetics, are found in many personal and home care products and paints. Naturbeads manufacture a biodegradable alternative to plastic microbeads that could reduce micro plastic pollution in the oceans. The technology to create the cellulose microbeads was developed at the University of Bath by Professors Janet Scott and Davide Mattia from the Centre for Sustainable Chemical Technologies in 2017

Limula Biotech is a Swiss company specializing in the design and development of an automated system for manufacturing cell and gene therapies. The company has created a patented platform that enables the distributed production of genetically engineered cells directly at the patient's bedside, utilizing a patient's white blood cell sample. This fully closed bioreactor system minimizes human intervention during the manufacturing process while maintaining control over cell culture parameters. By facilitating on-site production in hospitals, Limula's technology aims to enhance the safety, accessibility, and efficiency of personalized gene therapies, ultimately reducing time, costs, and logistical challenges. Founded in 2018 and based in Lausanne, Switzerland, Limula Biotech is committed to revolutionizing the delivery of ex vivo gene-engineered cell therapies.

DePoly is a spin off out of the LSMO lab at EPFL- Valais that has developed a novel technology allowing for the chemical recycling of PET plastic back to its main two components ethylene glycol (EG) and terephthalic acid (TPA). Our approach turns low valued materials (PET waste) into high-valued chemicals like TPA creating a circular economy. We expect this process to generate revenue from chemically recycling PET to TPA/EG, which can be sold back to industry to make new virgin PET plastic and allowing for a sustainable source of TPA and EG on the market.

Developer of a diagnostic device designed to measure blood glucose levels in premature infants. The company's technology helps in the identification of premature infants who need an adjustment to their glucose levels, enabling doctors to detect and identify the onset of disease helping in improving the health of premature infants.

Path Ex, Inc. is a Nashville-based company that specializes in manufacturing extracorporeal blood cleansing equipment. Established in 2017, Path Ex has developed a proprietary technology designed to selectively separate and capture bacteria and toxins from human blood, specifically for the treatment of sepsis, a critical condition often resulting from blood-borne infections. This innovative approach focuses on removing intact bacteria from the bloodstream instead of relying on broad-spectrum antibiotics, making it effective against various bacteria types and drug-resistant strains. The technology aims to improve patient outcomes by reducing diagnostic times, lowering treatment costs, decreasing readmission rates, and ultimately decreasing sepsis-related fatalities.

Developer of nanotechnology intended to solve challenges across medicine and other industries. The company uses different types of biomaterials as building blocks and has fabricated diverse types of systems such as nanoengineered hydrogels, nanosized molecular delivery systems, and nanocomposite materials, helping businesses across different industries to use nanotechnology and grow their business.

myBiometry is developing a platform to monitor/manage patients with chronic disease using biomarker data from proprietary sensors and ML to identify patients at risk of treatment failure. Our initial focus is asthma where treatment failure occurs over 46% of the time (11.5M US patients, $80 billion). We are developing a single use, disposable sensor and device to track a biomarker of inflammation in breath. The data determines changes in adherence, treatment response, and risk of attack.

Sano Chemicals is an early stage biotechnology company primarily focused on the development of novel anti-infectives for clinical and agricultural use. The word “Sano” is derived from the Latin word meaning health, thus, they are focused on the development of products that will promote their health and a healthy and sustainable environment. Sano Chemicals is focusing on the development of antifungal treatment options for fungal infections and antifungal bio-control methods for crops. Their goal is to innovate the anti-fungal industry. The antifungal occidiofungin is a completely unique antifungal compound discovered by researchers at Mississippi State University and Texas A&M University. Novel applications in occidiofungin's use are being developed through the innovative endeavors of their scientists. Products that cure fungal infections (nail, skin, and systemic), as well as products that promote a sustainable food supply by targeting fungal diseases in plants are being developed.

To be an innovative and sustainable company offering our clients biotechnological alternatives for the treatment of residual water, capture and recycling of greenhouse gases, for the generation of sustainable products from these residues.

Developer of nanotechnology designed for the agriculture industry. The company's technology improves food safety through the development of novel methods for cleaning and sanitizing, enabling clients with the feasibility of employing nanotechnology to replace traditional post-harvest chlorine wash.

Developer of bioplastic products intended to reduce petroleum dependency, carbon dioxide emissions, and habitat destruction. The company offers economically sustainable plant-based plastic alternatives which are a combination of plant fibers and standard, recycled, or biobased polymers and can be injection molded or extruded into a variety of items, enabling household, automotive, appliance, electronics, and outdoor equipment industries to substitute carbon-negative plant material for petrochemical feedstock without sacrificing quality or margin.

Flowbone is a company based in Lausanne, Switzerland, specializing in injectable biomaterials designed for the minimal-invasive augmentation of fragile bones that are at high risk of fracture. Its innovative technology stimulates the body's self-healing capabilities, allowing for local repair of bone and restoration of natural strength without compromising bone mechanics or blood flow. Flowbone focuses on addressing the needs of patients suffering from chronic insufficiency fractures and aims to enhance bone health, particularly in spine surgery. The company envisions a future where the elderly can maintain a high level of independence and quality of life, free from the debilitating effects of fragility fractures.

Developer of drug delivery solutions intended to facilitate enhanced absorption of co-administered therapies. The company offers novel drug delivery solutions built around its proprietary permeation enhancer, being able to replace current intravitreal injections of biologics with eye drops, enabling users to get patient safety, patient compliance, and decreased health care costs.

Developer of indoor greenhouse tool-kits designed to bring agriculture to the heart of cities so that agricultural products can be within everyone's reach. The company's toolkits require less transport, low energy consumption, less waste, no pesticides, and no GMOs, enabling users to produce fruits and vegetables directly at home with fewer minutes per week of gardening.

Manufacturer of plant-based materials intended to minimize the environmental impact of conventional petroleum-based plastic by making an environmentally friendly alternative. The company utilizes renewable resources for making a plant-based material that looks and works like conventional plastics, reduces CO2 emissions is biodegradable and breaks down safely into harmless compounds, enabling clients with products that are free from conventional plastic materials and do not harm animals or nature.

Aquama offers a technology that enables users to produce their own cleaning and disinfecting solutions on-site using an app. This innovative approach utilizes a process that combines water and salt, which is then electrified to create effective cleaning agents. The solutions provided by Aquama are certified for use against COVID-19, ensuring a high standard of efficacy. By allowing users to generate these products themselves, Aquama aims to reduce logistics and minimize carbon footprints, while also providing a 100% biodegradable alternative for cleaning and disinfecting needs.

Syntr Health Technologies is a start-up company that develops and tests a processing device, SyntrFuge™, for the micro fragmentation of adipose tissue for body contouring. Ahmed Zobi, Hugo Salas, and Justin Stovner established the Irvine, California-based company in 2019.

Developer of a peptide and protein purification technology designed to revolutionize recombinant production processes. The company's technology facilitates the production of enhanced purity products, significantly diminishing the purification challenges prevalent in modern chemical (peptide synthesis) and biological synthesis (recombinant) methods to meet specific requirements, enabling clients to efficiently overcome purification and economy-to-scale obstacles encountered in stock breeding.

Octarine Bio is a biotechnology company based in Copenhagen, Denmark, founded in 2018. The company specializes in the research and development of cannabinoid and psilocybin derivatives using synthetic biology. By employing a biosynthetic platform, Octarine Bio aims to create a range of natural and novel cannabinoid and psilocybin-derived molecules that possess enhanced pharmacokinetic and therapeutic properties. These advancements are designed to support healthcare professionals in treating neurological and psychological disorders, ultimately improving the health and well-being of individuals.

Tzofen is a biotechnology company focused on developing a novel biological platform aimed at treating various types of cancer. This innovative platform has demonstrated the ability to eliminate cancer growth both in vitro and in vivo, highlighting its potential to significantly impact cancer treatment. By advancing this technology, Tzofen seeks to contribute to saving millions of lives affected by cancer.

TeVido BioDevices, Inc. is a biotechnology start-up based in Austin, Texas, focused on developing tissue-engineered products for reconstructive surgery. Established in 2016, the company leverages 3D bio-printing technology and patients' living cells to create custom grafts tailored to individual needs. TeVido's innovative approach aims to enhance options for breast cancer survivors and others experiencing disfigurement, ultimately improving self-esteem and quality of life. In addition to its primary focus on breast reconstruction, TeVido's technology is applicable to a broad range of needs in wound healing and cosmetic surgery, addressing various unmet demands in these fields. The company's advancements in cellular therapy and manufacturing techniques enable the restoration of lost skin color, offering significant improvements in surgical outcomes.

Microbial Pulse Diagnostics is developing and deploying an innovative NIST technology for the rapid measurement of antimicrobial susceptibility. This technology “takes the pulse” of bacterial cells, sensing changes in their metabolism, motility, and growth after exposure to an effective antibiotic.

Radial Biomateriales is a provider of biodegradable packaging and packaging parts. It uses agro-industrial waste to form a packaging solution for biodegradable packaging and industrial or interior design products. The company was founded in 2018 and is based in Zapopan, Mexico.