National Science Foundation

The National Science Foundation (NSF), established in 1950 and located in Alexandria, Virginia, is an independent federal agency dedicated to advancing fundamental research and education across all scientific and engineering disciplines. With an annual budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF operates America's Seed Fund, which allocates nearly $200 million each year to support startups and small businesses through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This initiative provides non-dilutive funding of up to $1.5 million to assist in research and development efforts, thereby facilitating the transformation of scientific discoveries into commercially viable products and services. By helping to de-risk technology, the NSF plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and addressing societal challenges through scientific advancements.

James Donlon

Program Director

Sean L. Jones

Assistant Director for Mathematical and Physical Sciences

Sethuraman Panchanathan

Director

Ben Schrag Ph.D

Program Director and Policy Liaison, SBIR / STTR

Past deals in AgTech

Transparent Path

Grant in 2023
Transparent Path is a technology provider specializing in supply chain visibility, particularly for the food industry. The company utilizes Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, edge computing, and artificial intelligence to create a secure and scalable platform that allows food manufacturers, processors, logistics partners, and retailers to monitor and manage supply chain issues in real-time. By offering both software and hardware solutions, Transparent Path enables its clients to gain insights into logistics, product quality, and risk management, helping them to detect and address problems before they escalate. This proactive approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also reduces costs and waste associated with perishable goods. Founded by Eric Weaver, who has extensive experience in enterprise transformation, Transparent Path aims to foster a more resilient and agile supply chain.
The Georgia Institute of Technology is a state-funded research university based in Atlanta, Georgia. The institute offers degree programs in architecture, computing, engineering, arts, business, and sciences. Georgia Tech, as the institute is commonly referred to, is organized into six colleges and contains 31 departments. Georgia Tech is a public institution and receives funding from the State of Georgia.

OmniVis

Grant in 2022
OmniVis operates a portable pathogen detection platform that allows for the rapid and accurate measurement of pathogens in various environments, particularly in food processing facilities. The company provides an easy-to-use hardware device in conjunction with disposable test kits that can analyze swabs or liquid samples. This streamlined process reduces the pathogen detection time to just 30 minutes, making it both efficient and cost-effective for health organizations. By focusing on user-friendly technology, OmniVis aims to enhance the accuracy of pathogen detection while ensuring affordability and simplicity in its application.

Protabit

Grant in 2022
Protabit engineers proteins for industrial, agricultural, and healthcare applications. Its platform technology is being developed via a strategic partnership with the Monsanto Company and the California Institute of Technology. Protabit’s protein engineering approach combines computational modeling with high-throughput screening and directed evolution to expand the diversity of protein sequences that can be explored to produce novel proteins.

Earthshot Labs

Grant in 2022
Developer of a climate mitigation platform designed for ecological restoration at a planetary scale. The company's platform develops a comprehensive tool for people all around the world to algorithmically determine the specific regenerative strategies for individual land parcels and landscape-level ecosystem regeneration, enabling clients to realize their land's full natural and economic potential.

Altect

Grant in 2022
Altect eliminates the build-up of explosive and toxic gases. Their TRAPS uses a series of physiochemical processes to neutralize flammable and toxic battery gases into inert, non-hazardous gases. They enabled fire protection systems to provide preventative fire mitigation protection for Li-ion batteries, regardless of whether they are installed in an electric vehicle or stored in a warehouse.

iTherapy

Grant in 2022
iTherapy offers multi-sensory, universal technology to students with autism and other special needs. The company's technology is used to create educational equipment that improves communication skills by combining science, technology, and play, allowing for better teaching methods for those with learning disabilities. iTherapy was founded by Matthew Guggemos and Lois Jean Brady.

Aqua Science

Grant in 2022
Aqua Science offers a global platform of technologies and fast and reliable solutions for the testing and treatment of water. They provide research and development, custom reagent and kit manufacture, product assembly, lyophilization services, and contract manufacturing services.

Canomiks

Grant in 2022
Canomiks provides a genomics, bioinformatics and AI-based Product Superiority Platform that enables companies within the functional food and beverage, dietary supplement and skincare industries to create safe and efficacious products. Canomiks' long-term vision is to make food as medicine a reality.

OT App Design

Grant in 2022
OT App Design specializes in developing machine learning-based assessment tools aimed at evaluating handwriting proficiency and cognitive skills in students, particularly those in grade six. The company's innovative screening tool utilizes advanced algorithms to identify potential motor and cognitive delays, providing educators and parents with valuable insights into individual student needs. By focusing on the early detection of deficits, OT App Design enhances the educational experience, enabling targeted interventions that support the development of essential skills. This research and development initiative is dedicated to improving the assessment practices within educational settings, ultimately fostering better outcomes for students.

OrganicSmart

Grant in 2022
Developer of a food tracking platform designed for customers, retailers, restaurants, and the food service industry. The company's platform offers a food supply chain and solution for food traceability, safety, and freshness, eliminating the possibility to alter any critical food information.

Acrigen Biosciences

Grant in 2022
Acrigen Biosciences focuses on enhancing the safety and efficacy of gene editing technologies, particularly those based on the CRISPR-Cas system. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Berkeley, California, the company develops innovative solutions that aim to produce effective in vivo drug therapies to combat various diseases. Acrigen's proprietary technologies include Acro proteins that regulate the CRISPR-Cas gene editing process and an advanced bioinformatics discovery software platform that identifies suitable CRISPR systems for human therapeutic applications. Through these advancements, Acrigen Biosciences seeks to improve the precision, efficacy, and safety of genetic therapies, ultimately contributing to the potential prevention and cure of debilitating diseases.

PureBiomass

Grant in 2022
Developer of a photo-bioreactor system intended for algae cultivation. The company's system is composed of a metal support cage, a plastic bladder containing culture volume, and a sterile harvest apparatus for the continual collection of pre-concentrated culture, equipped with both pH and temperature control options, enabling production facilities to reduce their carbon footprint and maintain a low rate of water consumption, in order to minimize their impact on the local and global environment.

Hardshell Labs

Grant in 2022
Hardshell Labs focuses on developing innovative, internet-controlled devices aimed at environmental conservation and wildlife protection. The company creates a network of remotely operable, artificial intelligence-enhanced rovers designed to deter bird pests from agricultural crops and various facilities, thereby minimizing avian damage. These devices are particularly valuable in protecting crops from ravens and crows, as well as in mitigating infestations at landfills and composting sites. Hardshell Labs also conducts predation research on endangered juvenile desert tortoises, assessing threats posed by avian predators, and engages in laser research for agricultural applications. Through these initiatives, the company provides humane and commercially viable solutions to wildlife management challenges, supporting both environmental conservation and agricultural productivity.

Pathotrak

Grant in 2022
PathOtrak, LLC specializes in developing food safety testing kits that facilitate the rapid detection of pathogens, such as Salmonella and E. coli, in food products. Founded in 2016 and located in College Park, Maryland, the company employs innovative microfiltration technology in its sample-preparation kits to significantly reduce testing time from days to hours. This advancement not only enhances food safety but also allows producers to release products more quickly, improving the balance between shelf life, profitability, and safety in the food industry. PathOtrak's solutions are validated through extensive testing and analysis, addressing the critical needs of various stakeholders involved in ensuring a safe food supply.

Ryp Labs

Grant in 2022
Stixfresh is focused on developing and commercializing groundbreaking and innovative technologies that will significantly reduce food waste via all-natural methods. Our first product, the Stixfresh stickers, have the potential to do just that. Stixfresh can reduce certain fresh fruit waste across the entire supply chain by extending their shelf-life, and keeping them fresher, longer. The Stixfresh technology, consists of an FDA-approved sticker that is coated with our patent-pending formulation, which is composed of 100% natural ingredients. The sticker is simply peeled and applied to the surface of certain fruits in order to extend its shelf-life by up-to 14 days. The formulation includes compounds that work together to create a protective layer around the fruit, which slows down the ripening process. Independent studies have shown that fruits treated with the Stixfresh sticker have increased sweetness, higher retention of moisture, and sustained cellular structure resulting in increased firmness.

ARIX Technologies

Grant in 2021
ARIX Technologies, Inc. is a robotics and data analytics company that specializes in developing crawling robots for pipeline inspection in the oil and gas sector. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Jackson, Louisiana, with an engineering office in Houston, Texas, the company’s technology combines robotics with advanced data analytics to enhance the detection and analysis of corrosion in pipeline assets. This innovative approach not only improves safety and sustainability for petrochemical facilities but also offers significant cost savings in manufacturing operations. Through its solutions, ARIX Technologies aims to transform pipeline monitoring practices, enabling companies to better manage their infrastructure.

Akttyva Therapeutics

Grant in 2021
Akttyva Therapeutics focuses on developing targeted therapeutics aimed at addressing cell barrier dysfunction, particularly in vascular barrier disorders. The company leverages its understanding of biological pathways, along with artificial intelligence and machine learning, to design innovative treatments. By concentrating on the structural aspects of cell barriers, Akttyva Therapeutics aims to provide solutions that enable healthcare professionals to effectively manage various medical conditions related to cell barrier dysfunction.

Spekciton

Grant in 2021
Spekciton Biosciences specializes in biophotonic measurement systems and services aimed at enhancing agricultural performance and sustainability. The company develops innovative technologies that enable the rapid and precise detection of plant stress and viability, providing farmers with essential insights for improving crop management. Additionally, Spekciton offers biosensors designed to quickly identify soil and water contamination, supporting environmental health and agricultural productivity. Through its advanced measurement solutions, the company contributes to a better understanding of bioprocesses, ultimately aiding in the cultivation of resilient and sustainable crops.

Ranial Systems

Grant in 2021
Developer of a real-time process automation platform designed to provide converging cognitive artificial intelligence and edge computing runtime. The company's platform focuses to cater alternative domains and strategic initiatives in smart energy, real-time plant monitoring, and wearable technology automation and spree to explore the emerging market potentials dealing with context-aware, business process automation, advisory services on product development and co-innovation, enabling businesses to solve their critical problems in business process automation space.

Fortiphyte

Grant in 2021
Fortiphyte offers agricultural protection products that help to protect crops from disease and reduce fungicide use. The company was founded in 2017 and is based in Berkeley, California.

Labby

Grant in 2021
Labby Inc. is a technology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2017. It specializes in developing a smartphone-based wireless optical spectrometer for testing milk composition, primarily serving farmers and dairy processors. The company's AI-driven cloud platform translates raw optical data into actionable insights for individual animals and entire herds, facilitating rapid mastitis detection and timely intervention. In addition to its primary focus on dairy, Labby's technology has applications in the beer and wine production industry, offering tools for counterfeit detection, quality control, and serving as a virtual brewmate for homebrewers. The platform also aids in monitoring spoilage along the supply chain, detecting adulterants and contamination, and tracking harvest cycles while providing meteorological data mapping for farm-level analytics.

AMBOTS

Grant in 2021
AMBOTS Inc. is commercializing the patent-pending swarm 3D printing and assembly technologies. This technology aims to automate manufacturing with a swarm of smart and autonomous mobile robots, from everyday products to houses and infrastructures. Just like how a swarm of bees or wasps would work together to build their nests, the swarm of smart mobile robots can work together to print and assemble products based on digital models on demand. AMBOTS stands for Autonomous Mobile ROBOTS and Advanced Manufacturing ROBOTS.

Sequegenics

Grant in 2021
Developer of a novel approach augmented low-pass long-read NGS designed to facilitate the detection of complex genetic variation. The company's platform processes long-read ngs raw data DNA sequences, enabling clients to minimize time spent on variant calling and have resolved variants, with a reduction of cost, and improved tat and scalability.

Zeteo Tech

Grant in 2021
Zeteo Tech LLC is a defense technology company that focuses on researching, developing, prototyping, and commercializing innovative solutions in the fields of biodefense and medical devices. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Maryland, the company specializes in creating advanced instrumentation, such as fieldable biological mass spectrometers that can identify airborne microbes, proteins, and lipids. This technology aids in screening for infectious diseases and other biological threats, allowing healthcare professionals to automate detection in operational environments while reducing costs. Additionally, Zeteo Tech's portfolio includes air and water purification systems, portable power solutions, and technologies for CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives) detection and decontamination. The company serves a diverse clientele, including national security agencies, private enterprises, and government organizations within the United States.

TRGel

Grant in 2021
TRGel develops glucose-based biopolymers that can be used instead of calcium alginate for encapsulation. The company was founded in 2010 and is based in Irvine, California.

Maijker

Grant in 2021
Maijker Corp commercializes groundbreaking AI and sensor technology research. The company uses Industry Standards to develop novel approaches to applying AI to specific manufacturing problems.

AdvanceH2O

Grant in 2021
AdvanceH2O is a developer of an online platform that specializes in water treatment solutions applicable to both small systems and utility-scale plants. The company aims to enhance global water management by providing advanced water purification technology and next-generation monitoring and data informatics platforms. These tools improve the reliability and predictability of water treatment alternatives, enabling clients to adopt innovative methods that prevent environmental and health crises linked to ineffective water treatment practices. By focusing on these goals, AdvanceH2O seeks to address critical challenges in water management and ensure safer, more efficient water treatment processes.

Novel Farms

Pre Seed Round in 2021
Novel Farms, Inc. specializes in the production of cell-based meat products aimed at ethical consumers. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Berkeley, California, the company focuses on developing innovative 3D bioscaffolds that are cruelty-free, cost-effective, and customizable. These bioscaffolds facilitate the co-culturing of fat and muscle cells, essential for achieving the desired marbling and texture in cell-based meats. By leveraging synthetic biology, Novel Farms seeks to enhance the structure and flavor profiles of these products, ultimately aiming to recreate the taste and texture of traditional meats such as Jamon Iberico. The company's mission is to transform cell-based meat into a premium culinary experience for the next generation of conscious eaters while addressing key challenges in the cellular agriculture industry.

Modular Science

Grant in 2021
Modular Science focuses on automating the majority of processes in vegetable farming through the development of specialized modular machines. These farming bots are designed to significantly reduce manual labor by handling various tasks involved in food production, thereby enhancing efficiency and sustainability. By leveraging automation, Modular Science aims to promote healthier agricultural practices that benefit both humans and the environment.

Frugi Biotechnology

Grant in 2021
Frugi Biotechnology is a synthetic biology company based in Ames, Iowa, founded in 2020. The company specializes in developing modular, paper-based diagnostics aimed at managing viral outbreaks. Frugi's services include creating custom cell-free extracts that facilitate the building and testing of learn cycles for clients involved in protein biomanufacturing and protein discovery. This allows clients to detect pathogens in a simplified and cost-effective manner, enhancing the capabilities for outbreak management and response.

Minnowtech

Grant in 2021
Minnowtech is an aquaculture technology company based in Baltimore, Maryland, focused on improving shrimp farming through innovative software solutions. The company has developed a non-invasive imaging platform that leverages artificial intelligence and image analysis to accurately estimate shrimp abundance and biomass in ponds. This technology allows shrimp farmers to optimize feeding regimes, enhance harvests, and manage risks associated with juvenile shrimp health. By addressing critical challenges in the aquaculture industry, such as the assessment of shrimp growth and optimal harvest times, Minnowtech aims to improve the livelihoods of farmers while contributing to global food security and the sustainability of marine environments.

Super.tech

Grant in 2021
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.

NeuroTechR3

Grant in 2021
NeuroTechR3 is a biomedical device and digital health start-up focused on creating affordable rehabilitation technologies to enhance upper extremity function in individuals affected by brain injuries, such as stroke and cerebral palsy. The company's flagship product, R3THATM, utilizes machine learning and cloud technology to facilitate personalized telerehabilitation through exergames designed to promote neuroplasticity. This innovative approach incorporates motion tracking, analytics, and real-time biofeedback, enabling a more proactive and patient-centered rehabilitation process. Founded in 2020 by a team of four women and spun out from the New Jersey Institute of Technology and Rutgers School of Health Professions, NeuroTechR3 is strategically positioned in the local market, collaborating with rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient centers, and therapists. The company's expertise lies in the intersection of biomedical engineering and computer science, allowing for the development of data-driven solutions that enhance patient recovery outcomes. NeuroTechR3 aims to disrupt the exergame rehabilitation field by providing sustainable and accessible options for individuals with various impairments, ultimately contributing to the overall improvement of human health.

Eden Concepts

Grant in 2021
Eden Concepts is a precision agriculture technology development and consulting firm based in Lenoir City, Tennessee, founded in 2018. The company focuses on enhancing farm productivity for small farmers by providing innovative solutions for vegetable and specialty crop cultivation. Its precision systems are designed to prepare and plant germinated seeds, replacing traditional methods of growing and transplanting seedlings. This approach not only improves soil health but also offers flexibility in crop selection, thereby helping farmers reduce labor costs and streamline energy-intensive farming processes.
Innogized Technologies develops, produces, markets and sells cutting edge hardware and software technologies designed to create a better everyday life for infants and caregivers everywhere. We provide unique tools, insights and guidance that enables caregivers to proactively recognize and address potential risks and to create optimally nurturing environments. We empower caregivers to be the best they can and make it easier to enjoy all that parenting has to offer.

Alerje

Grant in 2021
Alerje, Inc. is a Detroit-based company that develops an innovative epinephrine auto-injector designed to fit into a smartphone case, enhancing accessibility for individuals with food allergies. The device is complemented by a mobile application that alerts a user’s CareCircle, which includes emergency services, family, friends, caregivers, and medical professionals, providing crucial location and health information during emergencies. Founded in 2015, Alerje focuses on improving the quality of life for those affected by food allergies by integrating emergency medicine with digital health solutions. The platform aims to foster better dietary decisions among families, allergists, insurers, and pharmaceutical companies through improved patient adherence and real-time communication.

Amber Agriculture

Grant in 2021
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.

Teale

Grant in 2021
Teale is a technology company based in Adkins, Texas, founded in 2020, that specializes in drilling optimization. The company develops advanced technology designed to transmit significant amounts of data from downhole drilling operations to the surface for processing. By utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning, Teale's technology aims to quickly analyze and determine the optimal parameters for efficient drilling operations. This innovation enables energy companies to enhance their drilling processes, identify areas for optimization, and potentially gain better control over their operations.

Desert Valley Tech

Grant in 2021
Desert Valley Tech, founded in 2018 and based in Mesa, Arizona, specializes in developing cold chain storage systems designed to preserve temperature-sensitive items such as blood, pharmaceuticals, biologics, and organs. The company's innovative system maintains pre-set temperatures while optimizing power consumption, providing customizable modular storage solutions suited for various scenarios. This technology enhances the ability of medical professionals to ensure the safe transport and storage of critical medical supplies, ultimately improving survival rates in challenging and remote medical environments.

Terra Cover

Grant in 2021
Terra Cover is a monitoring platform operator based in Denver, Colorado, specializing in applications for insurance and water resource management. Founded in 2020, the company utilizes data, machine learning, and physics to provide insights into the Earth's constantly changing surface. Its platform enables businesses to analyze satellite imagery and geospatial data at scale, facilitating improved decision-making in resource management and risk assessment.

VecTech

Grant in 2021
VecTech specializes in advanced mosquito and tick surveillance through a cloud-connected system of smart traps. These traps capture mosquito specimens, which are then imaged and automatically analyzed using AI-based identification algorithms to classify them by genus and species. Each specimen is tagged with GPS coordinates, and the collected data is displayed on a centralized dashboard for expert review. This innovative approach significantly reduces labor costs associated with traditional surveillance methods, enabling scientists and public health organizations to monitor mosquito populations more effectively. By providing timely and precise data, VecTech supports efforts to combat mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria, allowing for early detection of potential outbreaks and tailored interventions.

Nitricity

Grant in 2021
Nitricity is an energy company focused on developing a system for producing carbon-free fertilizer. Utilizing its innovative technology, the company generates ready-to-use nitrogen from air, water, and renewable electricity. Nitricity produces both nitric acid and ammonia, which can be utilized individually or combined to create ammonium nitrate fertilizer. This approach aims to provide farmers with effective products that minimize wasteful runoff, allow for precise application timing, and enhance nitrogen delivery globally. Through its sustainable practices, Nitricity seeks to support agricultural efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Engineering Technologies provides E-Bin, which encourages recycling, then developed Platypus to produce energy from the ocean and is now working on the Platypus Prowler, an AUV that travels indefinitely under the sea. They released a mobile app, E-Bin, which encourages recycling.

Earthshot Labs

Grant in 2021
Developer of a climate mitigation platform designed for ecological restoration at a planetary scale. The company's platform develops a comprehensive tool for people all around the world to algorithmically determine the specific regenerative strategies for individual land parcels and landscape-level ecosystem regeneration, enabling clients to realize their land's full natural and economic potential.

InGateyGen

Grant in 2021
Operator of an agricultural biotechnology company committed to developing and producing allergen-free peanuts. The company develops its agricultural products using technology like genomics, proteomics, plant tissue culture and plant propagation, providing consumers with high-value agricultural products that enhance and save human lives.

Weav3d

Grant in 2021
WEAV3D Inc. is a company based in Norcross, Georgia, that specializes in the development of composite forming technology. Founded in 2017, it commercializes a unique composite forming machine that integrates weaving and composite consolidation into an automated, continuous process. This innovative technology significantly reduces waste, cycle time, and material handling costs. By utilizing techniques such as continuous lamination, D-LFT compression molding, and injection molding, WEAV3D Inc. enables the fabrication of composite parts that can lower production costs by up to 75% compared to traditional carbon fiber composite methods. The company's technology was initially developed at the Georgia Institute of Technology, showcasing its roots in advanced research and innovation.

CelluDot

Grant in 2021
CelluDot is a biopolymer company that is working to solve the problem of agrochemical drift. The company was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

HealthTrends.AI

Grant in 2021
HealthTrends.AI is a trusted third party delivering ongoing authoritative health information that is independently auditable. Our mission is to help organizations turn health data into actionable information. We offer a platform-agnostic solution embedded in our products. Products are available as streaming feeds, APIs, and dashboards enabling flexible integration with 3rd party tools (Power BI, Tableau, etc.). Our tools are designed to be easily accessible and plug into and enhance your existing in-house systems with an intuitive platform.

NeuroTechR3

Grant in 2021
NeuroTechR3 is a biomedical device and digital health start-up focused on creating affordable rehabilitation technologies to enhance upper extremity function in individuals affected by brain injuries, such as stroke and cerebral palsy. The company's flagship product, R3THATM, utilizes machine learning and cloud technology to facilitate personalized telerehabilitation through exergames designed to promote neuroplasticity. This innovative approach incorporates motion tracking, analytics, and real-time biofeedback, enabling a more proactive and patient-centered rehabilitation process. Founded in 2020 by a team of four women and spun out from the New Jersey Institute of Technology and Rutgers School of Health Professions, NeuroTechR3 is strategically positioned in the local market, collaborating with rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient centers, and therapists. The company's expertise lies in the intersection of biomedical engineering and computer science, allowing for the development of data-driven solutions that enhance patient recovery outcomes. NeuroTechR3 aims to disrupt the exergame rehabilitation field by providing sustainable and accessible options for individuals with various impairments, ultimately contributing to the overall improvement of human health.

Carrisan Technologies

Grant in 2021
Carrisan Technologies is a food technology company established in 2019 and located in Davis, California. The company specializes in developing innovative antimicrobial solutions aimed at preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses and minimizing food losses. Its technology encompasses antimicrobial coatings for equipment surfaces, methods for biofilm removal, and sanitation processes for food production. Carrisan Technologies serves various sectors, including agriculture, food processing, and foodservice, providing effective measures to combat cross-contamination in these industries.

SoilSerdem

Grant in 2021
SoilSerdem, founded in 2020 and headquartered in Ames, Iowa, specializes in developing soil fertility maps through an optimized soil sampling method. The company utilizes machine learning algorithms and remotely sensed data to enhance the accuracy and resolution of soil maps. This innovative approach provides farmers and agronomists with detailed, actionable insights that support their workflows and improve operational efficiency. By enabling precise and sustainable management of soil resources, SoilSerdem aims to help its clients achieve greater profitability in their agricultural practices.

Benchmark Labs

Grant in 2021
Benchmark Labs, based in San Francisco, California, specializes in AI-driven weather forecasting tailored for the agricultural sector and other industries. The company delivers precise, asset-specific forecasts that help clients navigate the challenges posed by changing weather patterns. By utilizing Internet of Things (IoT) sensors from various manufacturers, Benchmark Labs provides critical data that enables organizations to optimize renewable energy generation and manage water allocation effectively. The accuracy of their forecasts is essential for maintaining infrastructure and operational efficiency in the face of increasing weather variability.

Canopii

Grant in 2021
Canopii is a greenhouse technology company providing turn-key farms integrated with cost-effective labor automation and energy management systems to support local and sustainable production of fresh produce.

Pomodyne

Grant in 2021
Pomodyne is a technology company based in Mountain View, California, focused on transforming fruit crop cultivation. Founded in 2019, the company employs plant biotechnology and controlled environment agriculture to tackle significant challenges such as climate change, food safety, and food security. By innovating agricultural practices, Pomodyne aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the agriculture industry, ultimately contributing to a more secure food system.

Kepley BioSystems

Grant in 2021
Developer of life science platform intended to provide accurate methods to test dangerous endotoxins. The company provides advanced healthcare innovations for the detection of blood-borne pathogens, enabling physicians to develop a rapid and sensitive diagnostic for detecting bloodstream infection.

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.

New Horizon Biotech

Grant in 2021
New Horizon Biotech specializes in biotechnology and biopharmaceutical products, focusing on optimizing supply chains and ensuring consistent quality globally at a reduced cost. The company is finalizing tests of its patented Single Use Horizontal Fermentor system (SUHF™), which is designed for single-use microbial fermentation. This innovative system is set to enhance production efficiencies and operational cost savings, offering significant advantages over traditional fermentor designs. By improving the microbial fermentation process, New Horizon Biotech aims to support the production of high-value biopharmaceuticals, including antibiotics, vaccines, and therapeutic proteins, thereby strengthening the global competitive edge of its clients.

OmniVis

Grant in 2021
OmniVis operates a portable pathogen detection platform that allows for the rapid and accurate measurement of pathogens in various environments, particularly in food processing facilities. The company provides an easy-to-use hardware device in conjunction with disposable test kits that can analyze swabs or liquid samples. This streamlined process reduces the pathogen detection time to just 30 minutes, making it both efficient and cost-effective for health organizations. By focusing on user-friendly technology, OmniVis aims to enhance the accuracy of pathogen detection while ensuring affordability and simplicity in its application.

Aquagga

Grant in 2021
Aquagga is a spinout company from the University of Alaska and the University of Washington, focused on developing innovative wet-waste treatment technology. The company utilizes supercritical water (sH2O) technology in conjunction with advanced additive manufacturing to effectively clean and desalinate various industrial effluents. By reducing environmental contaminants with lower energy consumption, Aquagga aims to provide significant social and environmental benefits. Its approach seeks to address pressing environmental challenges while fostering positive societal impacts through sustainable technological solutions.
Aura Intelligent Systems provides solutions in the fields of radio technology, robotics, and artificial intelligence.​ Its patented technology provides 5D situational awareness without the harmful effects of interference, jamming, and multipath. Their technology is based on a 5G hardware architecture and intelligent software that can be programmed.

Intrinsyx Bio

Grant in 2021
Intrinsyx Bio focuses on the development and commercialization of plant probiotics derived from extensive academic research on the plant microbiome conducted at the University of Washington. The company specializes in a collection of endophytic microbes that enhance nitrogen fixation, improve phosphorus efficiency, and bolster plants' resilience against various stressors, including salinity and drought. Its innovations include shelf-stable microbial inoculants designed to significantly boost crop yield and nutrient use efficiency. These advancements have attracted interest from major players in the agricultural sector, as they offer a sustainable solution to enhance crop productivity while reducing reliance on excess fertilizers.

CasTag Biosciences

Grant in 2021
CasTag Biosciences specializes in cell biology and regenerative medicine, focusing on revolutionizing the speed of endogenously protein analysis. The company aims to accelerate scientific discovery by offering tools that allow scientists to study novel genes in any experimental model.

AthemBio

Grant in 2021
AthemBio develops game-changing technologies and turns them into solutions to major bioprocessing challenges encountered during biologics manufacturing.

Akorn Technology

Grant in 2021
Developer of food technology designed to reduce food loss and food waste naturally. The company offers coatings made with upcycled sustainable and abundant grain by-products and also increases the shelf life of food and delivers long-lasting, safe, tasty, and nutritious produce options for modern diets and lifestyles, enabling clients and customers to get multifunctional edible coatings.

CO2 Sync

Grant in 2021
CO2 Sync, founded in 2019 and based in Cody, Wyoming, specializes in the development of genomically optimized plants aimed at achieving specific desired traits. The company operates in stealth mode, focusing on innovative agricultural solutions to enhance plant performance and adaptability.

Silvec Biologics

Grant in 2021
Developer of RNA therapies designed to inoculate trees, vines, and bushes against diseases, eliminating the need for genetic modification. The company's RNA therapy includes introducing a virus like RNA bacterial inside the tree veins to destroy viral and fungal pathogens, enabling food growers to ensure abundant and diverse food supplies while protecting natural resources.

GreenSight

Grant in 2021
GreenSight Agronomics, Inc. is a company that develops advanced drone technology and a cloud-based platform aimed at improving agricultural and turf management. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Brookline, Massachusetts, GreenSight manufactures automated drones equipped with sophisticated sensors and data analytics capabilities. Its offerings include services for turf monitoring, crop management, irrigation, and pest detection. The company provides actionable insights through its drone technology, which allows land managers in sectors such as agriculture, energy, and construction to gather daily aerial intelligence efficiently. Notably, GreenSight's solutions have been designed to significantly reduce water and chemical usage, thereby saving costs and enhancing sustainability for golf courses and farms. By detecting plant stress and diseases early, the platform enables timely intervention by agrochemical companies, ultimately improving crop health and operational efficiency.

Biomilitus

Grant in 2021
Biomilitus is a biotechnology company that intends to use insect larvae to produce animal feed with less land and a lower carbon footprint. The company was founded in 2019 and is headquartered in Sacramento, California.

Novo Aero Technology

Grant in 2021
Novo Aero Technology, Inc. specializes in the development of Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft, utilizing innovative aerospace technology. Founded in 2018 and based in Raleigh, North Carolina, the company employs a lift-generating mechanism that features compact propellers positioned within ducts in the aircraft's fuselage. This design allows for a more efficient powertrain with fewer moving parts compared to traditional helicopter systems. By focusing on enhancing fuel efficiency and performance, Novo Aero Technology aims to provide significant advantages for helicopter and business jet manufacturers in the competitive aerospace market.

GeoMat

Grant in 2021
GeoMat is a nanotechnology company headquartered in Columbia, South Carolina, that specializes in oil remediation. Founded in 2014, the company has developed a technology that utilizes nanoparticles and magnets to effectively separate oil from water mixtures. This innovative platform enables the removal of oil from both soil and water, allowing industries to clean major water bodies and natural resources. GeoMat's solutions aim to ensure the availability of drinkable and decontaminated water while also addressing the challenges posed by oil spills.

GMJ Technologies

Grant in 2021
GMJ Technologies develops microanalytical technologies for biopharmaceutical and biomedical applications. The company was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

BiomeSense

Grant in 2021
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.

Heirloom

Grant in 2021
Heirloom is focused on developing innovative carbon capture and utilization technology to address climate change by capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide. The company utilizes a mineralization process known as enhanced weathering, which aims to remove one billion tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. By deploying its Direct Air Capture solution at a gigaton scale, Heirloom facilitates the restoration of the atmosphere through natural processes, while minimizing secondary impacts and reducing extraction needs. This approach positions Heirloom as a leader in the effort to mitigate climate change through effective carbon dioxide removal strategies.

Atlas AI

Grant in 2020
Atlas AI P.B.C is a technology company based in Palo Alto, California, founded in 2018. The company specializes in artificial intelligence-based API software aimed at promoting sustainable development, particularly in emerging markets. Through its web platform, Atlas AI employs machine learning to provide decision-makers with insights that enhance planning, management, and assessment of investments and development programs. The software generates reliable socioeconomic estimates related to agricultural productivity, household asset wealth, and access to essential infrastructure, such as power and transportation. By constructing these measures for Sub-Saharan Africa, Atlas AI enables both private and public organizations to effectively allocate resources and monitor high-stakes initiatives, ultimately advancing economic well-being in the regions they serve.

US Air Tech

Grant in 2020
US Air Tech develops a low-cost advanced satellite communication ground terminal and satellite module. The company's headquarters are in Tucson, Arizona.

TRIC Robotics

Grant in 2020
TRIC Robotics develops an autonomous, non-chemical pesticide alternative for strawberry farms. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Newark, DE.

TEGA Therapeutics

Grant in 2020
TEGA Therapeutics, Inc. is focused on developing glycoscience-related technologies aimed at treating life-threatening diseases. Founded in 2013 and based in La Jolla, California, the company specializes in enhancing the delivery of enzyme replacement therapies to the brain, particularly for lysosomal storage disorders. By leveraging glycoside-enhanced delivery methods, TEGA addresses significant challenges in reaching the central nervous system, thereby improving treatment outcomes. Additionally, the company produces bio-engineered heparan sulfate and heparin, which play crucial roles in various physiological processes. TEGA's mission is to improve the quality of life for patients by providing innovative solutions for unmet medical needs, utilizing rigorous scientific methods to advance the therapeutic potential of glycans in medicine.

Symbrosia

Grant in 2020
Symbrosia is a California-based company founded in 2018 that produces a cattle feed supplement designed to reduce methane emissions. The company has developed a symbiotic system to cultivate macroalgae, specifically seaweed, which is incorporated into cattle feed. This innovative approach not only aims to mitigate the environmental impact of livestock farming but also promotes sustainable practices in the agricultural sector. By focusing on the integration of sustainable seafood into their products, Symbrosia seeks to address the significant challenge of methane emissions generated by cattle.

Unlocked Labs

Grant in 2020
Solving gout using engineered probiotics

Nanomatronix

Grant in 2020
Operator of an engineering platform intended to focus on biotechnology, microelectronics, and nanotechnology. The company's platform assists the healthcare, energy, and defense industries and also helps in the transition of novel biomedical, chemical processing, microelectronics, nanomaterial, and photonics technologies, enabling healthcare, energy, and defense industries to easily design, prototype, package, screen, qualify and produce application-specific integrated circuits for terrestrial and harsh environments.

Pathotrak

Grant in 2020
PathOtrak, LLC specializes in developing food safety testing kits that facilitate the rapid detection of pathogens, such as Salmonella and E. coli, in food products. Founded in 2016 and located in College Park, Maryland, the company employs innovative microfiltration technology in its sample-preparation kits to significantly reduce testing time from days to hours. This advancement not only enhances food safety but also allows producers to release products more quickly, improving the balance between shelf life, profitability, and safety in the food industry. PathOtrak's solutions are validated through extensive testing and analysis, addressing the critical needs of various stakeholders involved in ensuring a safe food supply.
Leading Edge Equipment Technologies, Inc. manufactures and supplies manufacturing equipment to solar panel manufacturers. The company offers floating silicon method, which helps to reduce manufacturing cost of silicon wafers, increases commercial solar panel power, and reduces manufacturing emissions. Leading Edge Equipment Technologies, Inc. was formerly known as Leading Edge Crystal Technologies, Inc. and changed its name to Leading Edge Equipment Technologies, Inc. in May 2020. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Wilmington, Massachusetts.

Ascribe Bioscience

Grant in 2020
Ascribe Bioscience develops products that enable farmers to combat crop pathogens without negative impacts on the environment. The company is currently developing a seed treatment product that acts by boosting crops’ natural defenses.

Solvus Global

Grant in 2020
Developer of a material manufacturing technology designed to specialize in the areas of additive manufacturing, machine learning, and sustainable materials processing. The company's technology provides an online portal for the purchase of quality-controlled, custom-processed, and custom-packaged powders for the cold spray and additive manufacturing that are processed as per quality standards, and customized data management systems are incorporated directly into manufacturing cells, enabling clients to have real-time, secure cloud synchronization and build machine-learning-powered feedback controls to maximize process performance.

GRO Biosciences

Grant in 2020
GRO Biosciences is leveraging breakthrough technologies from computational protein design and synthetic biology to develop best-in-class protein therapeutics with enhanced properties. The company has established multiple genomically recoded strains of bacteria that can incorporate non-standard amino acids into proteins to confer increased potency, stability, and targeted delivery. GRO Biosciences is applying its technology platform to develop improved protein therapeutics for diabetes, growth disorders and autoimmunity. The company, co-founded by Dr. George Church, is located at the Harvard Life Lab, a shared laboratory space for high-potential life sciences and biotechnology startups founded by Harvard faculty, alumni, students, and postdoctoral scholars.

Tortuga AgTech

Grant in 2020
Tortuga AgTech focuses on enhancing agricultural practices through the development of digital horticulture systems that integrate robotics, automation, precision data analytics, and machine learning. By automating labor-intensive tasks such as picking, packing, and trimming, Tortuga AgTech aims to significantly reduce the manual labor required in farming while increasing yields through optimized growing conditions. The company's mission is to promote a healthier society and a thriving ecosystem by empowering growers to produce unique, nutritious food that is environmentally sustainable. This approach not only helps farmers compete with large-scale agriculture but also fosters the creation of local technical jobs. Ultimately, Tortuga AgTech strives to provide fresher and healthier products to communities near their grower clients.

MAIA Analytica

Grant in 2020
AI software tools for Wastewater Treatment

Guardion

Grant in 2020
Guardion is a company focused on developing advanced sensor technology that enhances safety by detecting and tracking potential threats, such as dirty bombs, in urban areas. It has created the world's first radiation detector that utilizes the quantum properties of nanomaterials, allowing for the production of low-cost, sensitive, and low-power detectors that can be deployed on a large scale. The company's innovations include analytical instruments, chemical detectors, and portable radiation detectors, all designed for applications that require high sensitivity, miniaturization, and ease of manufacturing. These technologies support various industries, including aerospace, medical, and national security, by enabling data collection in challenging environments. Guardion has received recognition for its contributions, winning awards such as the MassChallenge 2017 Gold Prize and participating in the Techstars Autonomous Tech Accelerator.

Acrigen Biosciences

Grant in 2020
Acrigen Biosciences focuses on enhancing the safety and efficacy of gene editing technologies, particularly those based on the CRISPR-Cas system. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Berkeley, California, the company develops innovative solutions that aim to produce effective in vivo drug therapies to combat various diseases. Acrigen's proprietary technologies include Acro proteins that regulate the CRISPR-Cas gene editing process and an advanced bioinformatics discovery software platform that identifies suitable CRISPR systems for human therapeutic applications. Through these advancements, Acrigen Biosciences seeks to improve the precision, efficacy, and safety of genetic therapies, ultimately contributing to the potential prevention and cure of debilitating diseases.

AgThera Inc.

Grant in 2020
General Probiotics (GP) is a biotechnology company that discovers, develops and commercializes a new class of antimicrobial medicines for infectious diseases. GP engineers are world leaders in advanced probiotics. GP probiotics are tailored to eliminate pathogens effectively and reliably. GP has been awarded Small Business Innovative Research grants by the US National Science Foundation and the US Department of Agriculture to pursue an unparalleled, AI-enabled R&D program.

Theion Agriculture

Grant in 2020
Theion Agriculture is a company based in Iowa City, Iowa, that specializes in developing fertilizer additives aimed at enhancing the growth rates of leafy greens in indoor farming environments. Founded in 2017, Theion's products are designed for application across various crops, including leafy greens, legumes, and maize. By providing these innovative additives, the company enables farmers to improve crop yields and focus on maximizing productivity in their operations.

iTherapy

Grant in 2020
iTherapy offers multi-sensory, universal technology to students with autism and other special needs. The company's technology is used to create educational equipment that improves communication skills by combining science, technology, and play, allowing for better teaching methods for those with learning disabilities. iTherapy was founded by Matthew Guggemos and Lois Jean Brady.
Developer of a versatile CMOS-integrated biosensor platform designed for rapid genomic identification. The company's platform aims to achieve target sensitivities exceeding current state-of-the-art while doing so in a portable form factor, enabling healthcare professionals to reduce patient health costs.

FloraPulse

Grant in 2020
FloraPulse specializes in providing advanced water stress sensors that enhance the productivity and efficiency of growers in the fruit and nut sectors. Originating from research at Cornell University, the company's patented microsensors measure stem water potential directly within the water-carrying tissue of crops, ensuring accurate and reliable readings. This technology enables growers to receive daily irrigation advice on their mobile devices, allowing for precise water management tailored to their specific crops and goals. By leveraging these tools, FloraPulse aims to help farmers optimize crop yield and quality while reducing costs and managing risks effectively.

Qatch Technologies

Grant in 2020
QATCH Technologies company that’s developing a tool to determine the injectability and manufacturability of biopharmaceutical products. Its proprietary technology can determine if a formulation is injectable or if there will be viscosity related manufacturing problems at very early stages.

Lux Semiconductors

Grant in 2020
Developer of thin-film transistors designed to overcome current bottlenecks in semiconductor chip integration. The company leverages its proprietary system-on-foil platform designed for heterogenous integration and offers a patent-pending system-on-foil platform integrating the silicon circuitry for patterned flexible silicon substrate, enabling designers of aerospace, defense, clean energy, medical, and consumer internet-of-things electronics, to fabricate densely integrated devices that are durable, lightweight and flexible.
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