Octet Scientific, founded in 2017, specializes in developing organic electrolyte chemicals designed to enhance the performance of zinc batteries. The company focuses on addressing the specific needs of the zinc battery industry by providing solutions that improve efficiency and extend the cycle life of these batteries. Its products are designed to be integrated seamlessly into existing electrolytes, thereby improving battery functionality across various applications, including backup power, grid storage, portable devices, and mobility solutions. By offering innovative enhancements to battery performance, Octet Scientific enables its customers to deliver more efficient and cost-effective energy storage products.
Dynamac Microwave provides electronic countermeasures, countermeasures, reaction capability equipment, filters and networks, switches, semiconductor devices, associated hardware, and amplifiers.
MFNS specializes in consulting services aimed at the separation of oil and other contaminants from industrial processes and wastewater. The company has developed a nanostructured coating that efficiently cleans up oil, pollutants, and toxins from water. They provide a unique oleophilic and hydrophobic sponge that attracts oil while repelling water, making it a multifunctional solution for environmental cleanup. This sponge can be recycled after its active properties are exhausted, allowing businesses and communities to effectively absorb toxins from water supplies and reduce contamination from industrial runoff. Additionally, MFNS collaborates with clients to create custom solutions, including the development of specialized membranes and sponges tailored to specific industry needs.
Caporus develops advanced thin-film dielectrics designed for high-energy-density capacitors, focusing on reliable capacitive energy storage and filtering at elevated voltages and temperatures. The company's technology addresses the growing demands of next-generation power conversion systems, which are essential for the electrification of transportation and the integration of distributed energy resources into the grid. By providing these innovative solutions, Caporus enables its clients to meet the challenges posed by modern energy requirements.
Boron Nitride Power develops functionalized 2D materials to simultaneously achieve high energy and power density electrochemical energy storage with thermal stability and an environmentally benign and economic composition. Their cathode materials include functionalized hexagonal boron nitride and graphene and are improved versions of the well-known graphene oxide cathode, especially in terms of thermal stability.
NanoPattern Technologies is developing a photopatternable quantum dot formulation to enable the next generation of displays. The company was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.
Verboso develops a speech therapy platform designed to make speech therapy fun, engaging, and data driven using video games powered by AI. The company's platform leverages AI to provide a non-binary grade of speech therapy exercises in real-time allowing the user to control a video game while tracking compliance and improvement data, enabling parents to engage their children in speech therapy sessions while having fun at the same time.
Super.tech is a company that specializes in enhancing quantum computing by integrating software with hardware. Founded in 2020 by Pranav Gokhale and Fred Chong, Super.tech has developed a comprehensive quantum stack that addresses the challenges faced by quantum software developers. This innovative architecture allows software to be explicitly aware of the underlying quantum hardware, facilitating significant speed improvements for practical applications. By bridging the gap between quantum applications and hardware, Super.tech aims to advance the capabilities of quantum computing and support its practical implementation in various fields.
Amber Agriculture, Inc. is a technology company based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2016. The company specializes in Internet of Things (IoT) solutions designed for the agricultural sector, focusing on the automation of grain storage monitoring and management. By providing sensor and analytics technology, Amber Agriculture enables farmers to effectively manage, protect, and market their grain. The firm was established by founders with backgrounds in both agriculture and technology, positioning it at the forefront of automation innovations in the industry. Its initial product is an IoT self-install kit aimed at automating key processes for farmers, enhancing efficiency and productivity at the farm level.
QDIR is a nanomaterials company focused on the development of infrared detectors and imaging arrays for various applications, including industrial and defense sectors. By employing proprietary nanomaterial technology, QDIR aims to deliver high sensitivity and low noise in its products, resulting in enhanced imaging performance compared to conventional infrared detectors. The company's offerings cater to a diverse clientele, encompassing commercial, medical, industrial, and military customers.
Epivara, founded in 2016 and based in Champaign, Illinois, is developing a single-injection alternative to traditional spaying and neutering surgeries. This innovative approach aims to provide a safer and less invasive method for sterilizing pets, eliminating the pain and risks associated with conventional surgical procedures. By utilizing a small capsule, Epivara's solution offers the benefits of neutering, such as preventing overpopulation and reducing reproduction-related diseases, while also sparing pet owners from the costs and lengthy recovery times of surgery. The company's mission centers on enhancing the well-being of animals and their owners through compassionate care and cutting-edge scientific advancements.
Natural Fiber Welding, Inc. is a manufacturer and supplier of innovative fabrics and materials, utilizing technology that transforms plants and natural fibers into durable textiles and products. Founded in 2015 and based in Peoria, Illinois, the company focuses on harnessing renewable resources to create sustainable alternatives to synthetic materials. By leveraging abundant local resources, Natural Fiber Welding aims to develop scalable solutions that are accessible to diverse communities, enhancing the quality and usability of their products while minimizing processing costs. The company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation positions it as a leader in the movement toward environmentally friendly materials.
O2M Technologies develops oxygen imaging devices for effective cancer and regenerative medicine treatments. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.
BiomeSense is revolutionizing human microbiome research by developing novel technologies to enable investigators to collect, store, and analyze the daily microbiome profiles of clinical trial participants in a low-cost, scalable way. By enabling daily profiling, the platform allows investigators the unprecedented ability to tie microbiome changes directly to clinical outcomes in real time, dramatically increasing the research discovery potential.
Creative BioTherapeutics is a biotechnology company developing therapies for cancer and viruses. The company is changing the way that cancer and viral disease research is conducted. It focuses on the root cause of cancer affecting immune evasion and drug resistance.
FruitVaccine is a company based in Champaign, Illinois, that specializes in the manufacture of fruit-based vaccines aimed at providing immunity against various infectious diseases that pose global health challenges. Founded in 2017, the company offers innovative, noninvasive vaccine solutions that can be administered orally. Its products come in various forms, including gummy-like pills, oral drops, and fruit purees. These vaccines are designed to be natural, vegan-friendly, and free from egg-based components, making them an environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional injectable vaccines. By focusing on accessibility and ease of use, FruitVaccine seeks to enhance public health and vaccination rates worldwide.
NUMiX Materials is a specialized water treatment company founded in 2018 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The company focuses on the development and supply of patented sorbents designed to effectively remove dissolved heavy metals from contaminated water. Its innovative approach enhances water treatment processes by minimizing the need for treatment additives, simplifying operational procedures, and reducing costs associated with hazardous waste disposal. NUMiX Materials aims to help clients achieve compliance with process and regulatory standards, regardless of the initial water chemistry, thereby addressing complex liquid stream challenges.
Cloud services have become ubiquitous to all major 21st century economic activities. However, cloud services and technologies can be significantly more powerful than they are now. A persistent barrier to further advancement has been the lack of a large-scale and open cloud research platforms. With funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Chameleon project will provide such a large-scale platform to the open research community allowing them explore transformative concepts in deeply programmable cloud services, design, and core technologies. Chameleon will allow users to explore problems ranging from the creation of Software as a Service to kernel support for virtualization. This broad range of supported research includes many other areas such as developing Platforms as a Service, creating new and optimizing existing Infrastructure as a Service components, investigating software-defined networking, and optimizing virtualization technologies. The Chameleon testbed, will be deployed at the University of Chicago and the Texas Advanced Computing Center and will consist of 650 multi-core cloud nodes, 5PB of total disk space, and leverage 100 Gbps connection between the sites. While a large part of the testbed will consist of homogenous hardware to support large-scale experiments, a portion of it will support heterogeneous units allowing experimentation with high-memory, large-disk, low-power, GPU, and co-processor units. The project will also leverage existing FutureGrid hardware at the University of Chicago and the Texas Advanced Computing Center in its first year to provide a transition period for the existing FutureGrid community of experimental users. To support the broad range of experiments experiments described above, the project will support a graduated configuration system allowing full user configurability of the software stack, from provisioning of bare metal and network interconnects to delivery of fully functioning cloud environments. A special feature of Chameleon is that it provides for an exceptionally close integration of clouds and networks, which substantially enhances the capabilities of both. In addition, to facilitate experiments, Chameleon will support a set of services designed to meet researchers needs, including support for experimental management, reproducibility, and repositories of trace and workload data of production cloud workloads. The project is led by the Computation Institute at the University of Chicago and partners from the Texas Advanced Computing Center at the University of Texas at Austin, the International Center for Advanced Internet Research at Northwestern University, the Ohio State University, and University of Texas at San Antonio, comprising a highly qualified and experienced team. The team includes members from the NSF supported FutureGrid project and from the GENI community, both forerunners of the NSFCloud solicitation under which this project is funded. Chameleon will also form a set of partnerships with commercial and academic clouds, such as Rackspace, CERN and Open Science Data Cloud (OSDC), and will partner with other testbeds, notably GENI and INRIA's Grid'5000 testbed.
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.
Confluency is an engineering company established in 2019 and based in Chicago, Illinois, that focuses on water resource management. The company has developed an AI-based platform aimed at assisting water utilities in managing intricate water and wastewater systems. This platform integrates data with advanced algorithms to enhance the productivity of engineers by reducing the complexity associated with data management. By allowing engineers and planners to concentrate on solving complex issues that necessitate their specialized knowledge and technical skills, Confluency enables them to harness simulation, automation, and data analytics effectively. This approach allows for scalable analyses tailored to the specific challenges faced in water resource management.
EarthSense, Inc. specializes in developing agricultural robotics and artificial intelligence solutions to enhance farming practices. Based in Champaign, Illinois, the company has created TerraSentia, an ultracompact, autonomous robot equipped with various sensors and onboard computing capabilities for plant phenotyping. This innovative technology addresses critical issues in agriculture, such as labor shortages, environmental impacts, and the need for sustainable practices. EarthSense's platform focuses on three main applications: improving crop productivity and sustainability, providing actionable intelligence for growers, and tackling challenges like herbicide-resistant weeds. The modular design of their technology encourages collaboration and innovation within the agricultural sector, ultimately aiming to create a climate-smart agricultural system that enhances plant and soil health while reducing reliance on chemicals and costly inputs.
Non Equity Assistance in 2020
Hubly Surgical Inc. is a medical device company focused on enhancing the safety of neurosurgical procedures. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, with an additional office in Chicago, the company has developed an integrated electric drill system designed to replace traditional hand-cranked drills. This innovative technology aims to reduce the high complication rates associated with common neurosurgical procedures, which can fail up to 20% of the time. The drill system features advancements such as drilling guidance, plunge prevention, and catheter guidance, making it suitable for both operating rooms and emergent settings. By streamlining bedside intracranial access and decreasing reliance on traditional operating room environments, Hubly Surgical seeks to improve the overall safety and efficiency of neurosurgery.
Octet Scientific, founded in 2017, specializes in developing organic electrolyte chemicals designed to enhance the performance of zinc batteries. The company focuses on addressing the specific needs of the zinc battery industry by providing solutions that improve efficiency and extend the cycle life of these batteries. Its products are designed to be integrated seamlessly into existing electrolytes, thereby improving battery functionality across various applications, including backup power, grid storage, portable devices, and mobility solutions. By offering innovative enhancements to battery performance, Octet Scientific enables its customers to deliver more efficient and cost-effective energy storage products.
Celadyne Technologies develops membranes for use in electrolyzers and fuel cells that require minimal heat and water management. The company is founded in 2018 and based in Chicago, IL
EarthSense, Inc. specializes in developing agricultural robotics and artificial intelligence solutions to enhance farming practices. Based in Champaign, Illinois, the company has created TerraSentia, an ultracompact, autonomous robot equipped with various sensors and onboard computing capabilities for plant phenotyping. This innovative technology addresses critical issues in agriculture, such as labor shortages, environmental impacts, and the need for sustainable practices. EarthSense's platform focuses on three main applications: improving crop productivity and sustainability, providing actionable intelligence for growers, and tackling challenges like herbicide-resistant weeds. The modular design of their technology encourages collaboration and innovation within the agricultural sector, ultimately aiming to create a climate-smart agricultural system that enhances plant and soil health while reducing reliance on chemicals and costly inputs.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is a comprehensive public university located in Edwardsville, Illinois. Initially established as a satellite campus of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, SIUE has evolved into a significant educational institution, offering over 85 programs of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. The university is particularly noted for its School of Pharmacy, which features modern facilities and is designed to accommodate the growing demand in the field. The School of Nursing also plays a vital role in the university's academic landscape, with nearly 900 students enrolled in various nursing programs. SIUE emphasizes student engagement through various initiatives, including the Kimmel Leadership Center and the Student Leadership Development Program, which aim to enhance leadership skills and community involvement. Additionally, the university provides extensive financial aid options, including scholarships based on need and merit, to support its diverse student body.
Respondic is a manufacturer of smart adhesive products, founded in 2019 and located in Champaign, Illinois. The company specializes in producing robust, reusable adhesives designed to meet diverse fastening needs. Respondic's adhesives utilize a unique polymer formulation that enables them to achieve a strong and permanent hold on various surfaces. This versatility allows users to employ these adhesives for a wide range of applications, making them suitable for both industrial and consumer use.
FrostDefense, founded in 2018 and based in Champaign, Illinois, specializes in developing innovative frost protection solutions. The company focuses on creating environmentally friendly biofertilizers and patented sprayable compounds designed to combat early spring frost, particularly in vineyards and specialty fruit crops. By offering these frost protection products, FrostDefense aims to help vineyard owners prevent frost damage, thereby enhancing crop yield and improving labor management and mechanized farming operations.
Rhaeos is a pioneering company focused on enhancing care for patients with hydrocephalus through its innovative wearable shunt monitor, which utilizes a thermal biosensor. Originating from research at Northwestern University, Rhaeos is the result of a collaborative effort involving experts from engineering, medicine, and management. The company specializes in developing noninvasive wireless patches that monitor the flow of bodily fluids, including blood, lymph, and cerebrospinal fluid. This technology enables timely treatment for chronic medical conditions, particularly in the field of neurosurgery, by providing real-time data on fluid dynamics. Through its advancements, Rhaeos addresses a significant clinical need, improving patient outcomes and care efficiency.
NanoPattern Technologies is developing a photopatternable quantum dot formulation to enable the next generation of displays. The company was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.
CycloPure, Inc. specializes in the manufacture and sale of polymer adsorbents designed to effectively remove micropollutants from water. The company's innovative products are utilized in residential and assisted living drinking water treatment, as well as portable water filtration projects. CycloPure serves a diverse clientele, including manufacturers of consumer point-of-use products, water treatment operators, engineering firms, medical and commercial enterprises, beverage producers, and textile manufacturers. In addition to its adsorbents, the company offers water testing kits for online purchase. Established in 2016 and headquartered in Encinitas, California, CycloPure also operates a research and technology center in Skokie, Illinois. The company is recognized for pioneering the use of cyclodextrin-based polymer adsorbents, contributing to advancements in water treatment and ensuring the safety and purity of drinking water.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is dedicated to building upon its tradition of excellence in education, research, public engagement and economic development. More than 3,000 faculty members discover and create new knowledge. Their work is an economic engine for the state and is recognized with many of the world’s top academic and creative awards. The campus’ outstanding academic programs, extraordinary resources and bountiful opportunities attract top-caliber students. They join research teams, spend semesters abroad, create art in old and new ways and lead and participate in hundreds of student organizations. The Urbana campus has more than 425,000 alumni who are global leaders across the spectrum of human endeavor.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is a comprehensive public university located in Edwardsville, Illinois. Initially established as a satellite campus of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, SIUE has evolved into a significant educational institution, offering over 85 programs of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. The university is particularly noted for its School of Pharmacy, which features modern facilities and is designed to accommodate the growing demand in the field. The School of Nursing also plays a vital role in the university's academic landscape, with nearly 900 students enrolled in various nursing programs. SIUE emphasizes student engagement through various initiatives, including the Kimmel Leadership Center and the Student Leadership Development Program, which aim to enhance leadership skills and community involvement. Additionally, the university provides extensive financial aid options, including scholarships based on need and merit, to support its diverse student body.
Elmhurst College, founded in 1871 and located in Elmhurst, Illinois, is a non-profit educational institution affiliated with the United Church of Christ. The college offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs, including liberal arts degrees and professional fields such as accounting, journalism, and healthcare. Elmhurst emphasizes a close-knit learning environment that encourages inquiry and individuality, with students required to take a religion course to foster an understanding of various spiritual ideologies. The college also provides pre-professional programs in areas like law and medicine, along with opportunities for adult education. In addition to its academic offerings, Elmhurst supports a vibrant campus life through cultural organizations, performing arts groups, and numerous clubs. The Elmhurst College Endowment, established in 1989, manages $35 million in assets with a focus on alternative investments, primarily venture capital, aiming for a net internal rate of return of 15% to 20%.
Trusted CI is to lead in the development of an NSF Cybersecurity Ecosystem with the workforce, knowledge, processes, and cyberinfrastructure that enables trustworthy science and NSF’s vision of a nation that is a global leader in research and innovation. Are you an NSF project in need of cybersecurity
Lotic Labs develops innovative software focused on enhancing water markets and advancing environmental finance. By integrating fragmented data sets with advanced environmental science models and financial simulations, Lotic Labs facilitates comprehensive analysis of the interplay between financial, operational, and environmental decisions, particularly within the water utility and heavy industrial sectors. The company’s technology is designed to address environmental financial risks, offering tools for climate risk assessment that help minimize revenue and budget variance for water utilities. Additionally, Lotic Labs provides solutions for environmental modeling and analytics, including contract simulation, impact tracking, and opportunity identification, enabling businesses that rely heavily on natural resources to effectively manage the risks associated with volatile environmental conditions.
BassInSight develops fishing visual detection technology to estimate the visibility of objects to fish in complex aquatic environments. The company's headquarters are in Champaign, Illinois.
Developer of a novel drug therapy designed to treat and prevent recurrent kidney stones. The company's therapy is derived from a gut bacterium to prevent and treat kidney stone diseases such as hyperoxaluria and oxalate-based kidney stones as well as renal diseases caused by high levels of oxalate in the body, thereby enabling patients to receive quality drug therapy in order to remove oxalate safely from the body and consequently prevent recurrence of stones.
Embedor Technologies specializes in developing wireless sensor systems designed to monitor the structural health of civil infrastructure. Headquartered in Urbana, Illinois, the company offers a smart sensor platform and software framework that enables real-time assessment of structural conditions, addressing both extreme events and long-term deterioration. By integrating data processing and interpretation capabilities directly into edge devices, Embedor effectively mitigates the challenges associated with data overload often seen in many Internet of Things (IoT) applications. This innovative approach allows for efficient and reliable monitoring of infrastructure, ensuring safety and longevity.
Tagore Technology, founded in January 2011, is located in Arlington Heights, Illinois, near Chicago's O'Hare airport. The company specializes in manufacturing radio frequency products that generate integrated IC power for wireless infrastructure and high-power radios. With a team comprising industry veterans from Motorola and Freescale, Tagore Technology focuses on designing and developing power management systems, including thermal sensors, voltage references, and comparators. Its state-of-the-art laboratories are equipped with advanced RF and power management characterization equipment to support LTE and WiFi standards. By providing affordable solutions, the company enables customers to reduce the size and power consumption of their wireless systems.
Volexion Inc., established in 2018 and located in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries. The company has developed innovative graphene coating technology for use in lithium battery cathode materials. This technology enhances the stability and electrochemical performance of conventional lithium-ion batteries, resulting in improved battery life, power performance, and a broader operating range in terms of temperature and voltage. Through its advancements, Volexion aims to provide clients with superior battery solutions that meet the demands of various applications.
ClearFlame Engines, Inc. specializes in developing and manufacturing engines for heavy-duty applications, focusing on decarbonizing these engines to mitigate the reliance on diesel fuel. The company has created a patented system that allows for the production of high-performance engines at reduced costs, benefiting various sectors including marine, agriculture, transportation, power generation, rail, and construction. Founded in 2016 and based in Woodridge, Illinois, ClearFlame aims to lower operating costs while offering substantial fuel savings to its clients, addressing environmental challenges associated with traditional diesel engines.
CycloPure, Inc. specializes in the manufacture and sale of polymer adsorbents designed to effectively remove micropollutants from water. The company's innovative products are utilized in residential and assisted living drinking water treatment, as well as portable water filtration projects. CycloPure serves a diverse clientele, including manufacturers of consumer point-of-use products, water treatment operators, engineering firms, medical and commercial enterprises, beverage producers, and textile manufacturers. In addition to its adsorbents, the company offers water testing kits for online purchase. Established in 2016 and headquartered in Encinitas, California, CycloPure also operates a research and technology center in Skokie, Illinois. The company is recognized for pioneering the use of cyclodextrin-based polymer adsorbents, contributing to advancements in water treatment and ensuring the safety and purity of drinking water.
Unanimous A.I., Inc. designs and develops swarm artificial intelligence-based software solutions. It offers Swarm AI, a solution that connects people online as real-time systems modeled after natural swarms enabling deeper insights and predictions; and Swarm Insight, a subscription service which builds and deploys intelligent swarms to provide predictive guidance for any application, including sales, marketing, product innovation, and finance. Unanimous A.I., Inc. was founded in 2014 and is based in San Francisco, California with additional offices in Arlington, Virginia; San Luis Obispo, California; Chicago, Illinois; and Washington, District of Columbia.
IntuiTap Medical, Inc. is a Houston-based company that develops innovative devices for spinal punctures, addressing issues of inaccuracy and discomfort associated with these procedures. Founded in 2016, the company has created a handheld device that integrates imaging and needle guidance technology, providing a comprehensive solution for accurate needle placements used in lumbar punctures, spinal anesthesia, and epidurals. By enhancing the precision and efficiency of these procedures, IntuiTap Medical aims to reduce procedural costs and increase confidence among both healthcare providers and patients. The company's focus on improving spinal puncture outcomes positions it as a leader in this specialized medical field.
Mesh++ is a developer of solar-powered wireless communication technologies aimed at providing high-speed WiFi access in public spaces and remote areas. The company specializes in solar-powered routers that leverage mobile processing power to deliver reliable internet connectivity outdoors. By focusing on sustainable solutions, Mesh++ enables users to access high-speed internet at a low cost, enhancing connectivity in environments where traditional infrastructure may be lacking.
ForgeWorks, founded in 2015 and based in Evanston, Illinois, specializes in a digital platform aimed at assisting civic innovators in addressing real-world challenges. The company's platform integrates human-centered design, educational design research, and agile software development, allowing users to rapidly develop innovative solutions. By leveraging advanced academic insights and user research, ForgeWorks empowers civic innovators to create effective systems tailored to community needs.
AreteLabs is a Chicago-based company that has developed an online platform designed to facilitate intra-district math competitions. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on creating educational software that motivates students to achieve academic excellence. Its platform allows for team-based events where students are organized into virtual teams, promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing among participants and educators. Through this innovative approach, AreteLabs aims to enhance the learning experience in mathematics and foster a competitive yet supportive environment for students.
A major research university in the heart of one of the world's greatest cities, UIC provides a world-class education for its students. We are committed to creating and disseminating new knowledge as a university of growing national and international stature. The largest university in the Chicago area, UIC has 27,580 students, 15 colleges-including the nation's largest medical school-and annual research expenditures exceeding $335 million. UIC operates the state's major public medical center and serves as the principal educator of Illinois' physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses and other health-care professionals. A truly global institution, more than a third of UIC students speak English as a second language. UIC's student body-approximately 61 percent undergraduate and 39 percent graduate and professional-is recognized as one of the nation's most diverse. We consider this one of our greatest strengths.
Prenosis, Inc. is a health technology innovator focused on transforming the healthcare industry through advanced precision diagnostics in acute care. By utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, the company analyzes extensive biological and clinical data to provide a comprehensive understanding of patients' health states. This innovative platform aims to enhance real-time information accessibility for healthcare professionals, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing hospital costs. Prenosis envisions a future where diseases are detected and prevented before significant symptoms arise, positioning itself at the forefront of a paradigm shift in healthcare.
ALcorix is a consulting company that specializes in micro-optics prototyping. The company was founded by Nicolaie Moldovan in 2014 and is based in Plainfield, Illinois.
Petronics is a company that specializes in creating robotic pets for cats, with a focus on interactive play and exercise. Founded in 2014 and based in Champaign, Illinois, the company offers Mousr, a robotic toy designed to engage indoor cats in hunting-like activities. Mousr features advanced technology, including 360-degree vision, environmental sensing, and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows it to mimic the movements of prey. This innovative approach not only provides entertainment for cats but also helps address issues like obesity by encouraging active play.
EarthSense, Inc. specializes in developing agricultural robotics and artificial intelligence solutions to enhance farming practices. Based in Champaign, Illinois, the company has created TerraSentia, an ultracompact, autonomous robot equipped with various sensors and onboard computing capabilities for plant phenotyping. This innovative technology addresses critical issues in agriculture, such as labor shortages, environmental impacts, and the need for sustainable practices. EarthSense's platform focuses on three main applications: improving crop productivity and sustainability, providing actionable intelligence for growers, and tackling challenges like herbicide-resistant weeds. The modular design of their technology encourages collaboration and innovation within the agricultural sector, ultimately aiming to create a climate-smart agricultural system that enhances plant and soil health while reducing reliance on chemicals and costly inputs.
Reconstruct, Inc. is a software company that specializes in predictive computer vision data analytics for construction projects. Founded in 2015 and based in Menlo Park, California, with an additional office in Champaign, Illinois, the company offers a visual production management platform that integrates data from drones, fixed cameras, and mobile devices. This platform facilitates progress analysis and documentation by visualizing images and 3D points aligned with Building Information Modeling (BIM). It serves as a virtual command center for project executives, enabling them to manage construction progress, identify potential delays, and enhance coordination among various stakeholders, including general contractors and owners. By providing near real-time insights and reporting on performance issues, Reconstruct helps project teams improve planning, communication, and transparency, ultimately aiming to enhance return on investment and reduce costs in construction projects.
Amber Agriculture, Inc. is a technology company based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2016. The company specializes in Internet of Things (IoT) solutions designed for the agricultural sector, focusing on the automation of grain storage monitoring and management. By providing sensor and analytics technology, Amber Agriculture enables farmers to effectively manage, protect, and market their grain. The firm was established by founders with backgrounds in both agriculture and technology, positioning it at the forefront of automation innovations in the industry. Its initial product is an IoT self-install kit aimed at automating key processes for farmers, enhancing efficiency and productivity at the farm level.
O2M Technologies develops oxygen imaging devices for effective cancer and regenerative medicine treatments. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.
Iria Pharma develops cancer targeting and drug delivery technology to provide a platform for targeted cancer therapeutics. The company was founded in 2016 and is based in Champaign, Illinois.
Octet Scientific, founded in 2017, specializes in developing organic electrolyte chemicals designed to enhance the performance of zinc batteries. The company focuses on addressing the specific needs of the zinc battery industry by providing solutions that improve efficiency and extend the cycle life of these batteries. Its products are designed to be integrated seamlessly into existing electrolytes, thereby improving battery functionality across various applications, including backup power, grid storage, portable devices, and mobility solutions. By offering innovative enhancements to battery performance, Octet Scientific enables its customers to deliver more efficient and cost-effective energy storage products.
The National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA) offers high-performance computing resources and expert assistance to scientists and engineers. It facilitates advanced research by providing access to cutting-edge computational tools and technologies, enabling users to tackle complex scientific and engineering challenges. NCSA’s mission is to empower researchers across various disciplines by enhancing their ability to process and analyze large datasets, thereby fostering innovation and discovery in fields such as climate science, biology, and materials science. Through its services, NCSA plays a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge and supporting the development of new methodologies in computational research.
Innoblative Designs, Inc. is a medical device company based in Chicago, Illinois, with an additional office in Mansfield, Massachusetts. Founded in 2013, the company specializes in developing advanced electrosurgical devices, particularly focusing on radiofrequency ablation technology. One of its key innovations is the Sira™ device, a saline-assisted intraoperative radiofrequency ablation tool that employs bipolar current to create a controlled zone of ablation. Sira's unique design, featuring a saline microinfusion system, enhances contact with target tissue and is compatible with standard electrosurgical generators already utilized in operating rooms. This technology offers surgeons a new, effective option for intraoperative ablation of soft tissue, promoting ease of use and adoption in surgical practices.
Transparent is a developer of neural stimulation, mental training and biofeedback software. The Transparent Corporation is an international collective of researchers, analysts, engineers and enthusiasts who have been brought together by their common interest in brainwave entrainment, biofeedback, psychology and hypnosis. Transparent creates software to meet mental health goals, based on current research and developments in the field of brainwave entrainment and biofeedback.
ClearFlame Engines, Inc. specializes in developing and manufacturing engines for heavy-duty applications, focusing on decarbonizing these engines to mitigate the reliance on diesel fuel. The company has created a patented system that allows for the production of high-performance engines at reduced costs, benefiting various sectors including marine, agriculture, transportation, power generation, rail, and construction. Founded in 2016 and based in Woodridge, Illinois, ClearFlame aims to lower operating costs while offering substantial fuel savings to its clients, addressing environmental challenges associated with traditional diesel engines.
Integrated Protein Technologies offers protein and oligonucleotide workflow automation solutions. The samplestream platform is a platform technology developed by the company that simplifies complex intact biomolecule workflows into user-friendly sample-to-answer solutions. The samplestream platform offers unique characteristics that make it perfectly suited to demanding applications in biopharma, laboratory-developed testing, and in vitro diagnostic applications, with throughput of up to 4 samples/min and simple and flexible software.
Prenosis, Inc. is a health technology innovator focused on transforming the healthcare industry through advanced precision diagnostics in acute care. By utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, the company analyzes extensive biological and clinical data to provide a comprehensive understanding of patients' health states. This innovative platform aims to enhance real-time information accessibility for healthcare professionals, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing hospital costs. Prenosis envisions a future where diseases are detected and prevented before significant symptoms arise, positioning itself at the forefront of a paradigm shift in healthcare.
CycloPure, Inc. specializes in the manufacture and sale of polymer adsorbents designed to effectively remove micropollutants from water. The company's innovative products are utilized in residential and assisted living drinking water treatment, as well as portable water filtration projects. CycloPure serves a diverse clientele, including manufacturers of consumer point-of-use products, water treatment operators, engineering firms, medical and commercial enterprises, beverage producers, and textile manufacturers. In addition to its adsorbents, the company offers water testing kits for online purchase. Established in 2016 and headquartered in Encinitas, California, CycloPure also operates a research and technology center in Skokie, Illinois. The company is recognized for pioneering the use of cyclodextrin-based polymer adsorbents, contributing to advancements in water treatment and ensuring the safety and purity of drinking water.
Briteseed, LLC is a medical device company based in Chicago, Illinois, specializing in the development and commercialization of advanced surgical technologies. Founded in 2012, the company focuses on creating smart surgical tools that enhance the safety and effectiveness of surgical procedures. Its flagship product, SafeSnips, is a real-time blood vessel detection technology that integrates biosensors into minimally invasive surgical instruments, such as laparoscopic and robotic cutting tools. This technology identifies the presence and size of blood vessels in the surgical area and provides alerts to surgeons through video monitors, thereby improving the precision of surgical operations. Additionally, Briteseed is working on hyperspectral imaging technology that aims to deliver real-time sensing of critical anatomical structures, further enhancing surgical outcomes and patient safety.
PixelEXX Systems Inc. develops prototype imaging devices for diagnosing cancer. The products include nanoarrays that take images of molecular signals associated with cellular activity. PixelEXX Systems Inc. was founded in 2008 and is based in Saint Louis, Missouri.
Developer of novel ophthalmic devices designed to advance diagnostics and evaluation of eye disease. The company's ophthalmic biosensor is a novel, hand-held, point-of-service device for the detection of anterior ophthalmic injuries, and also develops novel nanotechnology-based medical devices to address needs in clinical ophthalmology, enabling clinicians to improve ocular care.
Developer of formal methods and formal verification techniques intended to improve the safety, reliability, and correctness of computing systems for aerospace, automotive, and blockchain industries. The company engages in applies formal methods to enhance computing safety for aerospace, automotive, and blockchain industries, enabling organizations to ensure accessible trustworthy computing.
Inspirit IoT is a computer software that focuses on machine learning solutions. It features Xcelo Compiler, SoundGuardian, and DNN Architect. Inspirit IoT's mission is to be the global leader in delivering sensor intelligence. The company was founded in 2016 and headquartered in Champaign, Illinois.
Navipoint Genomics is a bioinformatics analysis software developer that specializes in analyzing entire human genomes. The company was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.
ALcorix is a consulting company that specializes in micro-optics prototyping. The company was founded by Nicolaie Moldovan in 2014 and is based in Plainfield, Illinois.
Innoblative Designs, Inc. is a medical device company based in Chicago, Illinois, with an additional office in Mansfield, Massachusetts. Founded in 2013, the company specializes in developing advanced electrosurgical devices, particularly focusing on radiofrequency ablation technology. One of its key innovations is the Sira™ device, a saline-assisted intraoperative radiofrequency ablation tool that employs bipolar current to create a controlled zone of ablation. Sira's unique design, featuring a saline microinfusion system, enhances contact with target tissue and is compatible with standard electrosurgical generators already utilized in operating rooms. This technology offers surgeons a new, effective option for intraoperative ablation of soft tissue, promoting ease of use and adoption in surgical practices.
Medical device startup developing a diagnostic platform for blood pressure monitoring utilizing a novel parameter
Established in 1996, Orochem Technologies Inc. started as a Biotech and Chromatography company to manufacture unique Sample Prep Technology Products for the Bioanalysis, Drug Discovery, and the Genomics and Proteomics markets. Backed with unique expertise in high throughput formats, membranes and surface chemistries, Orochem was one of the first companies to translate the concept of pre-filters from single to high throughput formats, a concept now widely implemented for sample prep plates in the biotech and analytical markets. In the year 2001 Orochem manufactured the first commercially available Protein Crash and Precipitation 96-well plate for Bioanalytical processes. By the year 2006, with the acquisition of Column Engineering Inc, Orochem evolved to become a “full-service” provider for silica manufacturing utilized for analytical and preparatory chromatography. Orochem invests heavily into R&D in-house and owns strong intellectual property in stationary phases for achiral and Chiral Chromatography.
Petronics is a company that specializes in creating robotic pets for cats, with a focus on interactive play and exercise. Founded in 2014 and based in Champaign, Illinois, the company offers Mousr, a robotic toy designed to engage indoor cats in hunting-like activities. Mousr features advanced technology, including 360-degree vision, environmental sensing, and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows it to mimic the movements of prey. This innovative approach not only provides entertainment for cats but also helps address issues like obesity by encouraging active play.
AE Machines specializes in developing human-centered software that simplifies the maintenance and updating of robotic automation systems. Their platform is designed for small to medium-sized businesses, allowing users to easily design and automate machine movements. By making automation accessible, AE Machines enables clients to enhance their operational efficiency and reduce costs associated with traditional automation methods. The company's focus on user-friendly design aims to streamline the implementation of automation in various business processes.
OceanComm, Inc. develops a wireless underwater modem which enables wireless video streaming underwater and wireless remote control of underwater vehicles. The company was incorporated in 2014 and is based in Champaign, Illinois.
PhotoniCare, Inc. is a medical device company founded in 2013 and based in Champaign, Illinois. The company develops advanced diagnostic tools aimed at improving the standard of care for patients with ear infections. Its primary product, the TOMi Scope, utilizes near-infrared light waves to provide three-dimensional views of the middle ear, allowing physicians to see beyond the eardrum. This innovative device leverages patented technology derived from bioengineering research at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, addressing the limitations of traditional otoscopes, which can only provide surface-level views. By enabling more accurate screening and diagnosis of ear diseases, PhotoniCare aims to enhance patient outcomes and streamline the diagnostic process for healthcare providers.
Autonomic Materials, Inc. is a company based in Champaign, Illinois, specializing in self-healing solutions for the coatings industry. Founded in 2005, it designs and manufactures microencapsulated additives that enhance the performance of coatings, adhesives, and sealants. These additives include dual capsule systems utilizing reactive silicone polymers, single capsule systems for epoxy resin curing, and formulations based on oxygen-initiated cross-linking of alkyd resins. The company’s products provide corrosion protection and enable automatic repair of coating damage at the micron level, making them suitable for diverse applications including automotive, military equipment, infrastructure, and consumer paints. By responding to damage as it occurs, Autonomic Materials helps extend the lifespan and performance of various substrates such as metals, wood, concrete, and plastics, thereby serving industries like alternative energy, industrial maintenance, and oil and gas.
Rithmio, Inc. specializes in gesture recognition technology, offering a platform that enables the development of accurate and personalized gesture-based products. Its software, known as Constellation, is designed to integrate with various motion-sensing devices, including wearables, smartphones, and connected sports equipment. By operating at the sensor, operating system, or application level, Rithmio's technology tracks and analyzes movements in real time, facilitating the creation of advanced wearable technology and connected clothing. The company has established partnerships with leading semiconductor firms and consumer electronics manufacturers to embed its technology at the System on Chip level. Founded in 2011 and initially known as Neurogito, Rithmio rebranded in 2014 and is based in Chicago, Illinois.
Developer of novel ophthalmic devices designed to advance diagnostics and evaluation of eye disease. The company's ophthalmic biosensor is a novel, hand-held, point-of-service device for the detection of anterior ophthalmic injuries, and also develops novel nanotechnology-based medical devices to address needs in clinical ophthalmology, enabling clinicians to improve ocular care.
Soil Diagnostics develops a scalable soil nitrogen measurement system to aid in nitrogen fertilizer management. The company's headquarters are in Champaign, Illinois.
NanoAl LLC is a materials research and technology company based in Ashland, Massachusetts, focused on the design, development, and commercialization of high-performance aluminum alloys. The company specializes in creating alloys that utilize scientifically engineered nanostructures, which enhance their quality and performance. Through its innovative approach, NanoAl aims to provide clients with advanced aluminum materials that meet specific industry needs.
AreteLabs is a Chicago-based company that has developed an online platform designed to facilitate intra-district math competitions. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on creating educational software that motivates students to achieve academic excellence. Its platform allows for team-based events where students are organized into virtual teams, promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing among participants and educators. Through this innovative approach, AreteLabs aims to enhance the learning experience in mathematics and foster a competitive yet supportive environment for students.
Network Perception is providing a pioneering network device configuration analysis software to visualize and manage their network. The company delivers a pioneering solution that enables corporate compliance and cybersecurity managers to gain a complete view of their network security and to immediately determine if its configuration is in alignment with best practices and regulatory standards
Network Perception was launched in 2014 at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Research Park.
Developer of formal methods and formal verification techniques intended to improve the safety, reliability, and correctness of computing systems for aerospace, automotive, and blockchain industries. The company engages in applies formal methods to enhance computing safety for aerospace, automotive, and blockchain industries, enabling organizations to ensure accessible trustworthy computing.
Centaur Systems is a travel software and technology solutions provider.
ExplORer Surgical Corp. is a company that has developed an interactive surgical playbook aimed at enhancing teamwork and communication in the operating room. Founded in 2013 and based in Chicago, Illinois, the company offers a software solution that allows healthcare providers to track real-time case progression, manage tools and supplies, and customize workflows based on patient factors and surgeon preferences. This system reduces disruptions, minimizes waste, and promotes efficiency by providing tailored checklists that help surgical teams coordinate their activities effectively. Additionally, ExplORer Surgical supports OR administrators with performance and scheduling data, improving overall care quality and operational efficiency. The platform also facilitates the introduction of new medical devices, aiding medical education and streamlining processes for medical device companies.
Briteseed, LLC is a medical device company based in Chicago, Illinois, specializing in the development and commercialization of advanced surgical technologies. Founded in 2012, the company focuses on creating smart surgical tools that enhance the safety and effectiveness of surgical procedures. Its flagship product, SafeSnips, is a real-time blood vessel detection technology that integrates biosensors into minimally invasive surgical instruments, such as laparoscopic and robotic cutting tools. This technology identifies the presence and size of blood vessels in the surgical area and provides alerts to surgeons through video monitors, thereby improving the precision of surgical operations. Additionally, Briteseed is working on hyperspectral imaging technology that aims to deliver real-time sensing of critical anatomical structures, further enhancing surgical outcomes and patient safety.
BallotReady, Inc. develops an online and mobile voter guide for local elections. The company aggregates content from sources, such as candidates' Websites, League of Women Voters questionnaires, news articles, campaign finance records, and legislative roll calls; and provides nonpartisan background information on every candidate and referendum on a voter’s ballot. It allows users to compare all candidates on the Illinois ballot; find the information they need on all the candidates they will see in the voting booth; see where candidates stand on the issues that matter to them; and save selected candidates to their mobile device or research candidates in the voting booth. The company was incorporated in 2015 and is based in Chicago, Illinois.