National Science Foundation

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency established in 1950 and based in Alexandria, Virginia. It is dedicated to supporting research and education in science and engineering across a wide range of disciplines. The NSF provides significant non-dilutive funding, up to $1.5 million, to startups and small businesses through its America's Seed Fund initiative, which is part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program mandated by Congress. With an operating budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF is committed to advancing fundamental research and education, thus fostering innovation and technological development in the United States.

James Donlon

Program Director

Debasis Majumdar

Program Director

Graciela Narcho

Staff Associate

Sethuraman Panchanathan

Director

Past deals in Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Grant in 2023
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a prominent research institution and land-grant university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It provides a comprehensive range of liberal arts studies and professional programs, catering to diverse academic interests. The university's expansive campus offers approximately 600 undergraduate and graduate majors, alongside more than 9,000 courses across various disciplines, including fields such as accounting and zoology. Additionally, UW-Madison fosters a vibrant student life with numerous activities and organizations, enhancing the educational experience for its students.

WiSys Technology Foundation

Grant in 2023
WiSys Technology Foundation works hand in hand with the University of Wisconsin System to support research and technology development, link campus innovators with industry leaders and speed technology transfer through patent and licensing activities.

The Water Council

Grant in 2023
The Water Council, established in 2009, is a Milwaukee-based organization dedicated to positioning the region as a global leader in water technology. It achieves this by fostering collaboration among water technology companies, entrepreneurs, academic research programs, and related professionals. The Council's primary focus is on driving economic development, research, and education in the water sector.

Marquette University Endowment

Grant in 2023
Marquette University is a prominent Catholic institution located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, offering a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university provides degrees in fields such as Civil and Environmental Engineering, Operations and Supply Chain Management, and Clinical Mental Health Counseling, alongside professional training in law, medicine, and dentistry. Marquette emphasizes the integration of Christian values into its educational framework, promoting community service and volunteerism among its students. The campus features dedicated resources for community engagement and spiritual growth, including a community service center and a ministry center. Additionally, the university supports students through financial aid options to help alleviate the cost of tuition. Marquette University aims to foster a comprehensive educational experience rooted in Jesuit principles, preparing students to contribute positively to society.

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

Grant in 2022
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh provides students with state-wide resources and ensures academic quality and accountability. UW Oshkosh is committed to providing students with a broad knowledge base and transferable skills as well as a strong sense of values and ethics that prepares them for civic leadership in society. UW Oshkosh is part of the robust University of Wisconsin System—one of the largest systems of public higher education in the country. It was founded in 1871 and its headquarters is located in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Rapid Radicals Technology

Grant in 2021
Rapid Radicals Technology specializes in advanced wastewater treatment solutions aimed at helping municipal sewerage districts manage combined sewer overflows. Founded in 2016 and based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the company has developed a decentralized, high-rate treatment technology that integrates rapid solids removal with a proprietary advanced oxidation process. This fully automated system is versatile, catering to various applications, including municipal wastewater treatment, industrial high-strength waste management, and emergency scenarios requiring mobile or compact solutions. By providing reliable and cost-effective wastewater management options, Rapid Radicals Technology supports clients in fostering a more resilient water infrastructure.

Pyran

Grant in 2021
Pyran LLC, based in Madison, Wisconsin, specializes in the development of 1,5-pentanediol, an environmentally friendly compound derived from renewable wood and crop waste resources, such as corn cobs. Founded in 2017, the company serves the chemical industry by providing a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based chemicals. Pyran's diol product is utilized as a raw material in the production of various everyday materials, including paints, coatings, adhesives, biodegradable films, and plastics. By offering renewable five-carbon products, the company enables clients to access higher-performing and cost-effective materials while addressing the challenges posed by diminishing natural resources and climate change.

AgraFilms

Grant in 2021
AgraFilms is a biotechnology company founded in 2019 and based in Madison, Wisconsin, focused on providing sustainable solutions to mitigate crop loss. The company specializes in biocontrol methods, utilizing an amoebic biocontrol approach to address environmental and health challenges associated with synthetic antibiotics and pesticides. By offering natural treatments, AgraFilms aims to empower farmers with effective technology to prevent agricultural diseases and control crop damage, thereby enhancing overall crop health and productivity.

Pyran

Grant in 2020
Pyran LLC, based in Madison, Wisconsin, specializes in the development of 1,5-pentanediol, an environmentally friendly compound derived from renewable wood and crop waste resources, such as corn cobs. Founded in 2017, the company serves the chemical industry by providing a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based chemicals. Pyran's diol product is utilized as a raw material in the production of various everyday materials, including paints, coatings, adhesives, biodegradable films, and plastics. By offering renewable five-carbon products, the company enables clients to access higher-performing and cost-effective materials while addressing the challenges posed by diminishing natural resources and climate change.

VasoGnosis

Grant in 2020
VasoGnosis is an AI-powered diagnostic and surgical planning software platform focused on cerebrovascular diseases, particularly brain aneurysms. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the company develops a computed-assisted diagnostic tool that automates the analysis of brain aneurysms. This tool offers advanced visualization and analysis of an individual's vascular anatomy in the affected region, supporting neurosurgeons and interventional neuroradiologists in making informed decisions that enhance patient outcomes. By leveraging machine learning, VasoGnosis aims to improve the quality of care for patients with complex vascular conditions.

Cellulose Sciences International

Grant in 2020
Cellulose Sciences International develops novel methods for utilizing celluloses and lignocellulosic. The headquarters of the company are in Madison, Wisconsin.

Rapid Radicals Technology

Grant in 2019
Rapid Radicals Technology specializes in advanced wastewater treatment solutions aimed at helping municipal sewerage districts manage combined sewer overflows. Founded in 2016 and based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the company has developed a decentralized, high-rate treatment technology that integrates rapid solids removal with a proprietary advanced oxidation process. This fully automated system is versatile, catering to various applications, including municipal wastewater treatment, industrial high-strength waste management, and emergency scenarios requiring mobile or compact solutions. By providing reliable and cost-effective wastewater management options, Rapid Radicals Technology supports clients in fostering a more resilient water infrastructure.

Pyran

Grant in 2019
Pyran LLC, based in Madison, Wisconsin, specializes in the development of 1,5-pentanediol, an environmentally friendly compound derived from renewable wood and crop waste resources, such as corn cobs. Founded in 2017, the company serves the chemical industry by providing a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based chemicals. Pyran's diol product is utilized as a raw material in the production of various everyday materials, including paints, coatings, adhesives, biodegradable films, and plastics. By offering renewable five-carbon products, the company enables clients to access higher-performing and cost-effective materials while addressing the challenges posed by diminishing natural resources and climate change.

Cell Reprogramming & Therapeutics

Grant in 2018
Cell Reprogramming & Therapeutics, founded in 2013 and based in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, specializes in developing innovative cell reprogramming technologies aimed at treating central nervous system diseases. These technologies facilitate the generation of stem cell lines and specific differentiated cell types from patients' somatic cells, which can be utilized for disease modeling, toxicity screening, and drug discovery. By enabling researchers to create advanced cellular models, the company contributes to the development of therapeutics for various neurological disorders, thereby opening new avenues for treatment and enhancing understanding of these complex conditions.

Carroll University Endowment

Grant in 2018
Carroll University, located in Waukesha, Wisconsin, is dedicated to fostering student potential through integrated learning and skill training, while promoting enduring values and community engagement. The institution honors a Christian tradition but remains inclusive, welcoming students from all backgrounds. With a diverse range of undergraduate programs, including fields such as Accounting, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, and Theatre Arts, as well as graduate offerings in areas like Physical Therapy and Business Administration, Carroll provides comprehensive academic opportunities. The university encourages student involvement through over 50 clubs, including Greek life and service organizations, allowing for a vibrant campus life. The admissions process evaluates applicants based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, and community service, while financial aid is available to those demonstrating need. Additionally, Carroll University manages an endowment fund, with earnings supporting scholarships, research, and various academic programs, all overseen by its board of trustees.

systeMECH

Grant in 2017
systeMECH specializes in developing innovative and scalable manufacturing processes, particularly focusing on bonding and layer transfer technologies. Founded in 2011 by David Grierson and Kevin Turner, the company aims to commercialize advancements from research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Its core services revolve around creating small-scale manufacturing techniques for flexible micro- and nano-scale devices. systeMECH offers expertise in micro- and nanofabrication, emphasizing methods to fabricate advanced flexible electronics, photonics, MEMS, and semiconductor devices. By enabling the direct transfer of high-performance materials and devices to flexible substrates, the company supports researchers and innovators in enhancing their applications across various industries.

ConsortiEX

Grant in 2017
ConsortiEX Inc. is a health care technology company that serves pharmacies by providing systems and services for the ordering, distribution, and tracking of pharmaceuticals within hospitals in the United States. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, ConsortiEX offers Assure-Trak, an enterprise resource planning system designed to facilitate the collection, integration, management, and sharing of pharmacy information, particularly for the compounding of sterile products. The company also delivers a range of health care information technology services, which include pedigree management, IV workflow management, inventory and logistics management, and quality management reporting. Additionally, ConsortiEX provides compliance services related to the Drug Supply Chain Security Act as well as e-commerce order management services to support the compounding pharmacy needs of its member institutions and affiliates.

Xylome

Grant in 2016
Xylome offers solutions that enable first generation biofuel manufacturers to use second generation technology solutions in their manufacturing process. It offers them with advisory, implementation, and support services. Xylome develops a range of non-conventional yeasts and yeast technology solutions for experimental assessments. Xylome was founded by Thomas W Jeffries in 2007. It is based in Madison, Wisconsin.

GlucanBio

Grant in 2016
GlucanBio is a developer of innovative biomass conversion technology that focuses on producing furan derivatives such as furfural, HMF, DMF, THF, and FDCA. Originating from research at the University of Wisconsin and the Center for Biorenewable Chemicals at Iowa State, the company's processes fractionize biomass under mild conditions, resulting in cost-effective production of specialty and commodity chemicals. This approach not only enhances performance but also supports clients in transitioning toward sustainable practices. With a team that includes experts in catalysis and early-stage commercialization, GlucanBio is well-equipped to address technical challenges in the industry and capitalize on strong market opportunities.

Fiberstar

Grant in 2015
Fiberstar, Inc. is a research and development company based in River Falls, Wisconsin, specializing in the production of natural ingredients that enhance food freshness and nutrition. The company is known for its Citri-Fi line, which consists of multi-functional fibers derived from orange pulp, aimed at improving food quality, nutritional value, and label transparency. Citri-Fi products are utilized in various applications, including moisture management, oil and fat reduction, and as replacements for synthetic ingredients in a wide range of food categories such as bakery items, dairy products, sauces, and snacks. Additionally, Fiberstar produces Hydro-Fi, a texturizing ingredient for the food industry. The company holds an exclusive worldwide license for patented biotechnology developed at the University of Minnesota, and its ongoing investment in research has facilitated the development of innovative solutions for the food, personal care, and industrial markets.

ConsortiEX

Grant in 2015
ConsortiEX Inc. is a health care technology company that serves pharmacies by providing systems and services for the ordering, distribution, and tracking of pharmaceuticals within hospitals in the United States. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, ConsortiEX offers Assure-Trak, an enterprise resource planning system designed to facilitate the collection, integration, management, and sharing of pharmacy information, particularly for the compounding of sterile products. The company also delivers a range of health care information technology services, which include pedigree management, IV workflow management, inventory and logistics management, and quality management reporting. Additionally, ConsortiEX provides compliance services related to the Drug Supply Chain Security Act as well as e-commerce order management services to support the compounding pharmacy needs of its member institutions and affiliates.

C-Motive

Grant in 2015
C-Motive Technologies Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Madison, Wisconsin, specializes in the development and commercialization of innovative electric motor technology. The company focuses on creating sustainable motors that operate using static electricity, eliminating the need for rare earth materials and significantly reducing copper usage. C-Motive's electrostatic motors are designed to deliver high torque density for stationary industrial applications and e-mobility, aiming to decarbonize these sectors. By utilizing lightweight metals, plastics, and dielectric materials instead of traditional components like steel and copper coils, C-Motive's technology offers double the power at half the weight. With over 90% efficiency in direct drive low-speed applications, these motors represent a significant advancement in clean technology, contributing to lower carbon emissions in various industries.

Xylome

Grant in 2015
Xylome offers solutions that enable first generation biofuel manufacturers to use second generation technology solutions in their manufacturing process. It offers them with advisory, implementation, and support services. Xylome develops a range of non-conventional yeasts and yeast technology solutions for experimental assessments. Xylome was founded by Thomas W Jeffries in 2007. It is based in Madison, Wisconsin.

systeMECH

Grant in 2015
systeMECH specializes in developing innovative and scalable manufacturing processes, particularly focusing on bonding and layer transfer technologies. Founded in 2011 by David Grierson and Kevin Turner, the company aims to commercialize advancements from research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Its core services revolve around creating small-scale manufacturing techniques for flexible micro- and nano-scale devices. systeMECH offers expertise in micro- and nanofabrication, emphasizing methods to fabricate advanced flexible electronics, photonics, MEMS, and semiconductor devices. By enabling the direct transfer of high-performance materials and devices to flexible substrates, the company supports researchers and innovators in enhancing their applications across various industries.

GlucanBio

Grant in 2015
GlucanBio is a developer of innovative biomass conversion technology that focuses on producing furan derivatives such as furfural, HMF, DMF, THF, and FDCA. Originating from research at the University of Wisconsin and the Center for Biorenewable Chemicals at Iowa State, the company's processes fractionize biomass under mild conditions, resulting in cost-effective production of specialty and commodity chemicals. This approach not only enhances performance but also supports clients in transitioning toward sustainable practices. With a team that includes experts in catalysis and early-stage commercialization, GlucanBio is well-equipped to address technical challenges in the industry and capitalize on strong market opportunities.

HealthMyne

Grant in 2015
HealthMyne, Inc. is a healthcare informatics company based in Madison, Wisconsin, established in 2013. It specializes in providing innovative imaging solutions and analytics primarily for cancer care providers. The company's technology enhances clinical decision-making by offering real-time, evidence-based imaging insights that facilitate improved patient care while also reducing delivery costs. HealthMyne's platform includes features such as tumor image manipulation, automatic tumor staging, specialized reporting, and management of incidental findings, all aimed at streamlining clinical workflows. By integrating electronic health records and image repositories, HealthMyne supports physicians in diagnosing and treating patients more effectively, ultimately enhancing clinical collaboration and quality assurance in patient management.

Imbed Biosciences

Grant in 2013
Imbed Biosciences, Inc. is a privately held medical device company based in Madison, Wisconsin, that specializes in developing innovative technologies for embedding bioactive molecules in wound dressings and surgical implants. The company focuses on creating antibacterial silver nanofilms that facilitate the sustained release of non-toxic silver in wounds, thereby preventing infections and promoting faster healing. Imbed’s advancements aim to address the significant market for managing surgical and chronic wounds, valued at approximately $3 billion in the U.S. and Europe. As a spin-off from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Imbed benefits from four years of research conducted by a multidisciplinary team of engineers, veterinary scientists, and medical surgeons, collectively bringing over 25 years of expertise in clinical wound management.

C-Motive

Grant in 2013
C-Motive Technologies Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Madison, Wisconsin, specializes in the development and commercialization of innovative electric motor technology. The company focuses on creating sustainable motors that operate using static electricity, eliminating the need for rare earth materials and significantly reducing copper usage. C-Motive's electrostatic motors are designed to deliver high torque density for stationary industrial applications and e-mobility, aiming to decarbonize these sectors. By utilizing lightweight metals, plastics, and dielectric materials instead of traditional components like steel and copper coils, C-Motive's technology offers double the power at half the weight. With over 90% efficiency in direct drive low-speed applications, these motors represent a significant advancement in clean technology, contributing to lower carbon emissions in various industries.

NanoAffix

Grant in 2013
NanoAffix Science is a company focused on developing innovative technology for real-time detection of contaminants in drinking water. Utilizing graphene-based sensors with nanometer-thick layers, the company enables rapid and cost-effective onsite testing for harmful substances, such as lead, heavy metal ions, bacteria, and nutrients. This technology aims to provide cleaner and smarter water solutions for consumers. NanoAffix Science operates as a spin-off from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Research Foundation, leveraging exclusively licensed patented technologies. Recently, the company has secured equity investments from notable water manufacturing firms to advance the prototyping of real-time water sensor chips, furthering its mission to create digital solutions for ensuring safe drinking water.

HealthMyne

Grant in 2013
HealthMyne, Inc. is a healthcare informatics company based in Madison, Wisconsin, established in 2013. It specializes in providing innovative imaging solutions and analytics primarily for cancer care providers. The company's technology enhances clinical decision-making by offering real-time, evidence-based imaging insights that facilitate improved patient care while also reducing delivery costs. HealthMyne's platform includes features such as tumor image manipulation, automatic tumor staging, specialized reporting, and management of incidental findings, all aimed at streamlining clinical workflows. By integrating electronic health records and image repositories, HealthMyne supports physicians in diagnosing and treating patients more effectively, ultimately enhancing clinical collaboration and quality assurance in patient management.

GlucanBio

Grant in 2013
GlucanBio is a developer of innovative biomass conversion technology that focuses on producing furan derivatives such as furfural, HMF, DMF, THF, and FDCA. Originating from research at the University of Wisconsin and the Center for Biorenewable Chemicals at Iowa State, the company's processes fractionize biomass under mild conditions, resulting in cost-effective production of specialty and commodity chemicals. This approach not only enhances performance but also supports clients in transitioning toward sustainable practices. With a team that includes experts in catalysis and early-stage commercialization, GlucanBio is well-equipped to address technical challenges in the industry and capitalize on strong market opportunities.
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