Electra.aero
Series B in 2025
Electra.aero is a manufacturer of hybrid-electric aircraft focused on sustainable urban and regional mobility. The company specializes in the design of electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) airplanes that incorporate advanced technologies such as pilot assistance systems, powered-lift, and distributed electric propulsion. These innovations allow for on-demand services that eliminate the need for ground charging infrastructure and enable quick turnaround in various environments. Electra.aero aims to provide clients with safe, clean, quiet, convenient, and affordable transportation solutions, contributing to a more sustainable future in aviation.
Magothy River Technologies
Grant in 2025
Magothy River Technologies LLC specializes in developing software solutions for unmanned marine vehicles. The company focuses on creating professional autopilot systems that enhance the operational capabilities of these vehicles. Their technology is designed to improve navigation, control, and overall performance in various marine applications.
Cerbrec
Seed Round in 2025
Cerbrec is a technology company that develops an artificial intelligence (AI) development platform called Graphbook. This platform enables users to build bespoke AI solutions graphically, facilitating collaboration and explanation of AI logic while prioritizing safety and accurate outcomes. It allows clients to create custom AI models using a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface, thereby reducing the need for extensive technical expertise.
Virginia Tech
Grant in 2025
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, known as Virginia Tech, is a public research university located in Blacksburg, Virginia, with additional educational facilities across six regions in the state and a study-abroad site in Switzerland. Established in 1857, Virginia Tech offers 280 undergraduate and graduate degree programs to approximately 34,400 students. The university is recognized for its research capabilities, managing a research portfolio valued at $522 million, which positions it as the 46th university in the United States for research expenditures and the only institution in Virginia among the top 50. Additionally, Virginia Tech is designated as one of the six senior military colleges in the U.S. through its Corps of Cadets ROTC program, making it the state's second-largest public university by enrollment.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Grant in 2025
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), located in Richmond, Virginia, is a prominent research institution known for its extensive academic offerings across various disciplines, including the liberal and fine arts, sciences, and professional fields. VCU comprises more than ten distinctive schools that provide bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in areas such as African American Studies, Business, Nursing, and Clinical Psychology, among others. The university has received numerous accolades, including recognition as a Tier 1 institution by U.S. News and World Report, with particularly high rankings for its School of the Arts, business, and education programs. VCU fosters an active campus life, featuring over 200 student organizations, multiple student publications, and a student radio station. Additionally, it hosts one of the largest university film festivals in the nation, contributing to a vibrant cultural environment on campus. The Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine further enhances the university's reputation, known for excellence in teaching, research, and health care since its founding in 1838.
UVA Health is a comprehensive healthcare system located in Central Virginia, featuring a 600-bed University Hospital that serves as a level I trauma center. It is recognized for its specialized cancer and heart centers, providing advanced care in these critical areas. The health system also encompasses primary and specialty clinics, facilitating access to a wide range of medical services. In addition to its clinical facilities, UVA Health is affiliated with the University of Virginia's School of Medicine and School of Nursing, which contribute to medical education and research. The Claude Moore Health Sciences Library supports the academic and professional development of healthcare providers within the system.
The Advancement Foundation
Grant in 2024
The Advancement Foundation strategies provide infrastructure, support, and resources to create an effective entrepreneurial ecosystem. They provide business and community development services. They support research, testing, and refinement of specific initiatives that help unify activities for business development. They support services focused on coordinating financial resources, training, community engagement, and mentoring.
SeedMetrics provides completely managed, plug-and-play reporting tools for the decision-maker. It offers financial and operational data solutions to executives and board members of lower-middle market enterprises.
Joltz
Pre Seed Round in 2024
Joltz offers a full product suite spanning Bitcoin, Lightning, and the cutting-edge Taproot Assets protocol so any business can easily integrate stablecoins on Lightning, wallet functionality, user incentives, or other infrastructure such as swapping services or nodes into their existing tech stack. We've built the world's first non-custodial Taproot Assets enabled wallet & SDK to prepare for the massive adoption wave when stablecoins come to the Lightning Network later this year. Beyond stablecoins, Taproot Assets also enables many compelling new use cases on Bitcoin for both Web3 and non-Web3 businesses. Our services cover the following: - Enterprise-level API for developers - Standalone Bitcoin/Lightning/Taproot Asset Wallet & Licensed Wallet SDK - Bitcoin/Lightning Service & Swapping Infrastructure - Zapier automations for thousands of 3rd party apps
Virginia Commonwealth University
Grant in 2024
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), located in Richmond, Virginia, is a prominent research institution known for its extensive academic offerings across various disciplines, including the liberal and fine arts, sciences, and professional fields. VCU comprises more than ten distinctive schools that provide bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in areas such as African American Studies, Business, Nursing, and Clinical Psychology, among others. The university has received numerous accolades, including recognition as a Tier 1 institution by U.S. News and World Report, with particularly high rankings for its School of the Arts, business, and education programs. VCU fosters an active campus life, featuring over 200 student organizations, multiple student publications, and a student radio station. Additionally, it hosts one of the largest university film festivals in the nation, contributing to a vibrant cultural environment on campus. The Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine further enhances the university's reputation, known for excellence in teaching, research, and health care since its founding in 1838.
Rho Impact
Pre Seed Round in 2023
Rho Impact is a company that specializes in providing data-driven climate impact forecasts to assist investors and organizations in developing and implementing effective net-zero strategies. Its platform, Koi, delivers real-time, auditable data that allows users to evaluate the potential effects of climate technologies across various sectors and regions. By integrating expert research and advanced artificial intelligence, Rho Impact equips stakeholders with the necessary tools to accurately model avoided emissions and validate their contributions to global decarbonization initiatives. The company's focus on addressing the challenges of impact and ESG planning, tracking, and reporting enables clients to streamline their strategies, manage environmental, social, and governance risks, and meet stakeholder expectations and regulatory requirements.
OccasionGenius
Grant in 2023
OccasionGenius, LLC is an innovative event technology company based in Richmond, Virginia, that operates an online platform designed to assist planners in discovering local ideas for various occasions. Founded in 2014 and previously known as PartyRVA, OccasionGenius utilizes proprietary algorithms and artificial intelligence to classify and recommend events tailored to individual user interests. The platform caters to multiple sectors, including hotels, universities, relocation services, and real estate agents, offering tailored event digests and customized recommendations that enhance customer engagement and community integration. By continuously learning from user interactions, OccasionGenius develops a personalized experience, making it a valuable resource for both event seekers and local merchants looking to promote their offerings.
Nessle is a digital health platform designed to support new and expectant parents throughout their parenting journey. The company connects users with perinatal experts, offering on-demand virtual care tailored to their needs. Through a secure portal, parents can pose questions and receive guidance, facilitating access to essential resources and expert advice at every stage of parenthood.
Liberty University
Grant in 2023
Liberty University, established in 1971 and located in Lynchburg, Virginia, is a prominent Christian university known for its extensive online education offerings. Spanning over 7,000 acres near the Blue Ridge Mountains, the university provides more than 700 programs of study, including both undergraduate and graduate degrees, with approximately 350 programs available online. Liberty University is committed to fostering a Christian environment through its dedicated faculty, who emphasize mentorship and a biblical worldview. The institution aims to equip students with the values, knowledge, and skills necessary to make a positive impact in the world.
DataClassroom
Grant in 2023
DataClassroom is an educational platform aimed at students in grades 6 through 12, founded in 2017 and based in Charlottesville, Virginia. The company focuses on equipping middle and high school students worldwide with essential data skills through its innovative platform. By engaging users with data, DataClassroom fosters foundational skills in data analysis and interpretation, allowing students to effectively perform data visualization and understand integrated statistics.
ChowCall is an eCommerce platform designed specifically for the military community, facilitating connections between military customers and a range of retailers. By addressing the unique challenges of access, logistics, and addressing faced by this hard-to-reach market, ChowCall aims to enhance the quality of life for military personnel and their families. The company utilizes proprietary technology to enable efficient last-mile fulfillment, ensuring that customers can conveniently receive hot meals from local restaurants delivered directly to barracks, homes, or offices. This innovative approach not only provides military customers with diverse dining options but also opens up previously untapped revenue streams for civilian retailers.
Splice is a data automation and API-led connectivity platform for shipping and logistics. We connect, translate and automate data and apply our universal integration capacity to extend and strengthen ecosystems. Data is everywhere, but too often it is inaccessible or incompatible with the applications that need it. Splice bridges the data and process gaps to resolve complex technical challenges and make systems interoperable. We offer three main products. - Splice Platform is a low-code workflow automation system. - Splice Exports tracks export receiving windows at over 50 terminals in North America and with major ocean carriers. - Yard Spot creates a common operating picture of container yards and intermodal assets to drive yard productivity and higher asset utilization. Splice drives three key outcomes. Productivity - Enable event-driven automation across systems. - Speed up processes and performance. - Save time handling data and eliminate rework. Efficiency - Integrate once to offer boundless connections. - Automate processes to decrease OpEx. Technology Optimization - As modern middleware, Splice bridges process gaps. - Optimize systems to enhance current technology investments and decrease CapEx. Splice enables many systems to act like one. Single Point of Integration: - Utilize 100+ pre-built integrations to save time and cost. Once a connection is in place, it can be reused to save time and expense. Data Translation: - Logistics data comes in many formats and flavors, and Splice translates them so systems speak the same language and everyone stays on the same page. Individualized Workflows: - As a low-code platform, Splice makes it fast and easy to replicate or reorganize the workflows.
CvilleBioHub
Grant in 2023
CvilleBioHub serves to strengthen the regional biotechnology industry through engagement, resourcing and advocacy.
University of Virginia
Grant in 2023
University of Virginia is an educational institution that offers undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate, and professional degree programs in the fields of architecture, arts, sciences, law, medicine, and nursing. The schools of the university include School of Architecture, College of Arts and Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, School of Law, School of Medicine, McIntire School of Commerce, Darden Graduate School of Business Administration, and School of Nursing. The university offers 51 bachelor's degrees in 47 fields, 84 master's degrees in 67 fields, 6 educational specialist degrees, two first-professional degrees (law and medicine), and 57 doctoral degrees in 55 fields. Affiliated with 7 Nobel laureates, it has produced 5 NASA astronauts, 7 Marshall scholars, 4 Churchill scholars, 29 Truman scholars, and 50 Rhodes scholars. Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia in 1819. He wished the publicly-supported school to have a national character and stature. It is the first non-sectarian university in the United States and the first to use the elective course system. Jefferson considered the founding of the university to be one of his greatest achievements. Undertaking the project toward the end of his life after a long and illustrious career that included serving as a colonial revolutionary, political leader, writer, architect, inventor, and horticulturalist, he was closely involved in the university's design. He planned the curriculum, recruited the first faculty, and designed the Academical Village, a terraced green space surrounded by residential and academic buildings, gardens, and the majestic center-point, the Rotunda. The most recognizable symbol of the university, the Rotunda stands at the north end of the Lawn and is half the height and width of the Pantheon in Rome which was the primary inspiration for the building. The Lawn and the Rotunda have served as models for similar designs of centralized green areas at universities across the United States. The university was opened for classes in 1825 with a faculty of eight and a student body numbering sixty-eight. Jefferson took great pains to recruit the most highly qualified faculty, five of whom were found in England and three in the United States. Instructions were offered in ancient languages, modern languages, mathematics, moral philosophy, natural philosophy, chemistry, law, and medicine. Jefferson opposed the granting of degrees on the grounds that they were ‘artificial embellishments’. In 1824, however, the Board of Visitors authorized granting the Master of Arts degree. The Doctor of Medicine or M.D. was awarded to the first graduates of the School of Medicine in 1828 and the Bachelor of Law degree or LL.B. was first awarded for law school graduates in 1842. The bachelor's degree was awarded beginning in 1849, but became the standard undergraduate degree and a prerequisite for the master's degree in 1899 bringing the university into conformity with other institutions of higher learning. The PhD has been awarded since 1883.
Luna Labs is a technology development company specializing in advanced materials, engineered systems, and biotechnology solutions. It focuses on creating impactful products for defense, industrial, and healthcare sectors. The company has developed a gene therapy platform that enhances the delivery of nucleic acids and proteins, while also offering long-duration, autonomous monitoring capabilities for corrosivity and environmental conditions in challenging environments. This innovative approach allows organizations to assess the technical feasibility of new ideas, align their technologies with customer requirements, and develop effective solutions.
Teleqo Tech is a company that provides mobile mapping. A mobile mapping firm that combines LiDAR, photography, and Radio Frequency (RF) data to create a better understanding of the overall environment.
George Mason University Foundation
Grant in 2023
The George Mason University Foundation, established in 1966 and based in Fairfax, Virginia, plays a crucial role in supporting George Mason University by managing private gifts and an endowment fund. Its primary mission is to generate private support for the university, facilitating investments that enhance educational resources and opportunities. The Foundation is responsible for the administration and investment of these private contributions, ensuring their effective use to benefit the university community. By fostering connections with donors and alumni, the Foundation contributes to the university's growth and development, enabling it to provide a diverse range of academic programs and cultural experiences to its students. Through its efforts, the Foundation helps to sustain the university's reputation as a leading public institution focused on research, learning, and community engagement.
Grantable is a technology company that specializes in AI-assisted grant writing. Their platform is designed to help individuals and organizations seeking grants to write more effective proposals, saving time and increasing their chances of securing funding. The platform uses AI to generate content, organize information, and ensures data security.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Grant in 2023
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), located in Richmond, Virginia, is a prominent research institution known for its extensive academic offerings across various disciplines, including the liberal and fine arts, sciences, and professional fields. VCU comprises more than ten distinctive schools that provide bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in areas such as African American Studies, Business, Nursing, and Clinical Psychology, among others. The university has received numerous accolades, including recognition as a Tier 1 institution by U.S. News and World Report, with particularly high rankings for its School of the Arts, business, and education programs. VCU fosters an active campus life, featuring over 200 student organizations, multiple student publications, and a student radio station. Additionally, it hosts one of the largest university film festivals in the nation, contributing to a vibrant cultural environment on campus. The Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine further enhances the university's reputation, known for excellence in teaching, research, and health care since its founding in 1838.
Developer of machine-learning analytics platform designed to offer passive, fail-safe monitoring and analysis of physical layer communications in industrial control systems. The company's platform offers solutions in areas such as serial network design, OT network baselining, incident simulation, incident response planning, and more.
George Mason University Foundation
Grant in 2023
The George Mason University Foundation, established in 1966 and based in Fairfax, Virginia, plays a crucial role in supporting George Mason University by managing private gifts and an endowment fund. Its primary mission is to generate private support for the university, facilitating investments that enhance educational resources and opportunities. The Foundation is responsible for the administration and investment of these private contributions, ensuring their effective use to benefit the university community. By fostering connections with donors and alumni, the Foundation contributes to the university's growth and development, enabling it to provide a diverse range of academic programs and cultural experiences to its students. Through its efforts, the Foundation helps to sustain the university's reputation as a leading public institution focused on research, learning, and community engagement.
Healthcare Quality Consultants
Grant in 2023
Healthcare Quality Consultants is a Compliance and Legal Nursing Firm that provides Legal Nurse Consulting Services, Regulatory/Compliance Consulting and Educational Services, and Nursing Expert Witness Services.
Nasoni, LLC is a manufacturer based in Suffolk, Virginia, specializing in the design and production of advanced fountain faucets. Founded in 2015, the company offers a range of products, including centerset and widespread faucets in various finishes such as polished chrome, brushed nickel, and black nickel. Nasoni focuses on integrating smart sensor technology with intelligent algorithms to enhance user experience and promote health and wellness in the home. By transforming bathrooms into centers for personal care, Nasoni empowers individuals to maintain their health more independently and efficiently. The company's products are marketed through sales representatives and online channels.
HOP into Homecare
Grant in 2023
HOP into Homecare was founded with the goal of revolutionizing home health care by establishing comprehensive clinical care programs in homes.
Jeeva Informatics Solutions Inc. is an AI-driven company specializing in decentralized clinical trials, aiming to streamline clinical trial operations by bringing trials directly to patients' homes. Founded in 2013 and based in Herndon, Virginia, Jeeva focuses on cell and gene therapies as well as vaccines, addressing the challenges of patient recruitment, adherence to trial protocols, and minimizing patient burden. By leveraging advanced data analytics and algorithms, the company enhances participant diversity and accelerates the identification of suitable candidates for clinical trials. This approach not only improves patient retention but also facilitates faster market access for innovative therapies, ultimately contributing to the effectiveness of bringing new medical solutions to the market.
AnswersNow, Inc. is a company that specializes in developing a mobile platform aimed at supporting parents and caregivers of children with autism. Founded in 2016 and based in Richmond, Virginia, the platform offers a range of educational resources, behavioral learning tools, and on-demand expert support. It facilitates a step-by-step learning process for children while allowing caregivers to save, store, and monitor their child's progress. The platform connects users through private messaging and video, providing personalized guidance and emotional support. AnswersNow's team consists of board-certified behavioral analysts, ensuring that users receive expert advice from professionals with extensive training and qualifications.
Virginia Tech
Grant in 2023
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, known as Virginia Tech, is a public research university located in Blacksburg, Virginia, with additional educational facilities across six regions in the state and a study-abroad site in Switzerland. Established in 1857, Virginia Tech offers 280 undergraduate and graduate degree programs to approximately 34,400 students. The university is recognized for its research capabilities, managing a research portfolio valued at $522 million, which positions it as the 46th university in the United States for research expenditures and the only institution in Virginia among the top 50. Additionally, Virginia Tech is designated as one of the six senior military colleges in the U.S. through its Corps of Cadets ROTC program, making it the state's second-largest public university by enrollment.
KAPPA AgTech
Grant in 2023
KAPPA AgTech creates agricultural technology that helps farmers increase the sustainability of their crop production.
Shenandoah Community Capital Fund
Grant in 2023
Shenandoah Community Capital Fund, established in 2008, is a non-profit organization based in Staunton, Virginia. It supports entrepreneurship across the entire Shenandoah Valley by offering acceleration and incubation services, along with essential business skills development.
Verge helps entrepreneurs and seeks to build partnerships with government, business, academia, and other organizations in order to progress the region. Verge facilitates regional connectivity, communication, and collaboration by identifying regional priorities and funding to develop innovation and biotech projects and solutions.
SCOUT Space
Seed Round in 2023
SCOUT Space, founded in 2019, is focused on enhancing space safety and transparency through advanced in-space observation systems. The company launched its products and services in June 2021, providing spacecraft with the capability to detect and understand their surroundings. Its orbital distributed sensor network significantly improves Space Domain Awareness, which promotes responsible use of the space environment. SCOUT Space specializes in in-orbit satellite inspection, proximity operations systems, and analytics, helping clients maintain satellite health and prevent catastrophic failures and orbital debris. By delivering these innovative solutions, SCOUT Space aims to safeguard orbital infrastructure while also offering cost-effective strategies for satellite management.
Startup Virginia
Grant in 2023
Startup Virginia (SVA) is a nonprofit high-growth business incubator and entrepreneurial hub where innovators can learn, collaborate, and grow.
Electra.aero
Grant in 2023
Electra.aero is a manufacturer of hybrid-electric aircraft focused on sustainable urban and regional mobility. The company specializes in the design of electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) airplanes that incorporate advanced technologies such as pilot assistance systems, powered-lift, and distributed electric propulsion. These innovations allow for on-demand services that eliminate the need for ground charging infrastructure and enable quick turnaround in various environments. Electra.aero aims to provide clients with safe, clean, quiet, convenient, and affordable transportation solutions, contributing to a more sustainable future in aviation.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Grant in 2023
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), located in Richmond, Virginia, is a prominent research institution known for its extensive academic offerings across various disciplines, including the liberal and fine arts, sciences, and professional fields. VCU comprises more than ten distinctive schools that provide bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in areas such as African American Studies, Business, Nursing, and Clinical Psychology, among others. The university has received numerous accolades, including recognition as a Tier 1 institution by U.S. News and World Report, with particularly high rankings for its School of the Arts, business, and education programs. VCU fosters an active campus life, featuring over 200 student organizations, multiple student publications, and a student radio station. Additionally, it hosts one of the largest university film festivals in the nation, contributing to a vibrant cultural environment on campus. The Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine further enhances the university's reputation, known for excellence in teaching, research, and health care since its founding in 1838.
Viva Vita is inspired by a single goal: to improve the mental health and quality of life of seniors. Viva Vita delivers virtual reality (VR) to retirement communities and homes in easy and economical bundles.
ReachSuite is a comprehensive IT solution for businesses manufacturing or importing substances.
Humanitru is a provider of integrated software solutions tailored for nonprofit organizations across various sectors, including museums, food banks, and higher education. The company's platform consolidates multiple engagement avenues, such as donation processing, membership payments, volunteer management, event coordination, and digital marketing, into a single system. This integration enables nonprofits to develop comprehensive behavioral profiles and donor cohorts, facilitating improved donor retention and acquisition. By automating operational tasks like marketing and workflows, Humanitru empowers organizations to make informed fundraising decisions, ultimately enhancing revenue generation. The software also includes strategic tools for email marketing, account management, and analytics, allowing nonprofits to focus on community-building efforts. Humanitru aims to redefine nonprofit software, equipping organizations with the essential tools to meet the expectations of modern donors.
CodeLock, founded in 2021 and headquartered in Virginia, USA, specializes in cybersecurity software designed to enhance the security of the software supply chain and improve software development practices. The company employs a patent-pending approach that establishes a zero trust-based chain-of-custody between developers and the code they create. This innovative framework underpins CodeLock's user-friendly compliance and security platform, which offers features that enable users to track, trace, audit, and secure their software development processes effectively. Through its solutions, CodeLock aims to provide robust security measures for software development and ensure the integrity of software supply chains.
Torev Motors
Grant in 2023
Torev Motors is a manufacturing company that focuses on producing axial flux electric motors for the automotive and aerospace sectors. Established in 2022 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the company’s innovative motor architecture is designed to deliver high power density while significantly reducing the reliance on rare earth metals. This patented design enables a cost-effective and modular approach to motor production, enhancing performance and vehicle control. By providing electric motors that are both efficient and affordable, Torev Motors aims to support the transition to electric vehicles and contribute to lower energy consumption during charging, thereby addressing key challenges in the industry.
Skyphos Technologies
Grant in 2023
Skyphos Technologies specializes in high-resolution micro-SLA (uSLA) 3D printers and associated services tailored for the microfluidics and lab-on-a-chip markets. The company enables researchers to produce microfluidic chips on demand without the need for a clean room, significantly reducing development time from months to mere days. With the capability to print at resolutions between 5 and 100 micrometers, Skyphos's technology is uniquely positioned to address a substantial portion of the $8.4 billion global microfluidic chip market. Their printers integrate seamlessly with popular design platforms, allowing for the creation of complex internal structures essential for cell interrogation without manual assembly. Additionally, Skyphos provides manufacturing services, producing chips for research or larger-scale runs with a fast turnaround, often shipping within five days. The company simplifies the process with a straightforward pricing model and offers no-charge design changes, making it an attractive option for labs looking to accelerate innovation in microfluidic technologies.
Crunchy Hydration
Grant in 2023
Crunchy Hydration is a producer of sparkling waters designed to promote mindful hydration. The company offers a range of flavors infused with Cannabidiol oil, aiming to support a balanced mind and body. Each beverage is crafted to be calorie-free and free from preservatives and sugar, making it a health-conscious choice for consumers. Through its unique product offerings, Crunchy Hydration seeks to help customers stay hydrated while also potentially alleviating anxiety.
Schribble is a user experience company that leverages sophisticated technologies to build groundbreaking solutions for higher education institutions.
Sunny Day Fund
Venture Round in 2023
Sunny Day Fund specializes in providing banking and emergency savings services, primarily through its employer-focused platform. This platform automates and incentivizes workplace emergency savings, helping employees build accessible savings through their employers, with optional cash incentives. Additionally, the company offers a financial well-being diagnostic tool. Interested parties can inquire about these services through an online form on their website.
Organizing4Innovation
Grant in 2023
Organizing4Innovation is a consulting firm that provides project management, integrated training, and innovation management services.
MINTangible is a company focused on enhancing the Intellectual Property and Digital Rights management for non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and the broader web 3 ecosystem. It operates a digital platform designed to facilitate a more reliable environment for NFT transactions on blockchains. The platform allows buyers to quickly verify the intellectual property rights associated with tokens before making a purchase. Additionally, it assists minting platforms and marketplaces in addressing wrongful activities, thereby helping clients safeguard their rights and secure their digital assets effectively. MINTangible aims to foster trust and security within the evolving landscape of digital currencies and NFTs.
Carilion Clinic
Grant in 2023
Carilion Clinic is a multi-specialty medical centre. Patient centered care, medical education, research, wellness, cancer care, dermatology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, paediatrics, cardiac and vascular care, children's hospital, women's services, home care and hospice, rehabilitation, neurology, pulmonary, and orthopaedics are among the services they provide.
Allocortech is a company that specializes in providing products and services for avionics, control systems, and general embedded systems applications, with the aim of enhancing air travel accessibility. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Waynesboro, Virginia, Allocortech offers a range of services including safety-critical control system architecture design, control system component design, and comprehensive electronics testing and analysis. The company focuses on verifying and validating systems and strategies, as well as offering electronics design, assembly, and testing tailored to meet the specific requirements of its clients. Through its expertise, Allocortech enables the customization of commercial off-the-shelf products for various project needs.
Aravenda is a developer of cloud-based consignment management software tailored for e-commerce stores. The platform integrates with Shopify POS, providing resellers with a comprehensive tool for managing inventory and streamlining sales processes. Aravenda's software facilitates the online listing of inventory, automates payout calculations, and supports online payment processing. By combining inventory management with a user-friendly interface, Aravenda enables businesses to enhance their point-of-sale transactions and improve efficiency in online selling across various platforms.
NearStar Fusion
Grant in 2023
NearStar Fusion is focused on the development of innovative fusion power plants using a tritium-free pulsed impact fusion approach. By employing hypervelocity plasma railguns, the company aims to create a system that fires solid projectiles at magnetized deuterium fuel targets, generating clean and sustainable energy through pulsed fusion reactions. This design minimizes development time, construction, and operational costs while enhancing reliability and longevity. NearStar Fusion's technology capitalizes on existing materials and systems, thus reducing the need for significant investments in new material science and simplifying supply chains. The company's mission is to provide a consistent and environmentally friendly energy source for the global community.
Publication Academy
Grant in 2023
Publication Academy is an online learning platform for professionals looking to hone their thought leadership abilities. It offers best-in-class instruction on how to publish peer-reviewed articles in influential journals, write winning grant proposals, and effectively disseminate research findings via social media, partnerships with journalists, and both policy and evidence briefs.
Pangea Chat is a developer of an innovative language learning platform that integrates principles of game design and advancements in natural language processing. The company focuses on delivering guided and personalized language training through conversational contexts, allowing users to learn languages while engaging in text-based interactions with friends. Its AI-driven system effectively monitors users' vocabulary expansion and tracks progress in various content areas, facilitating a tailored learning experience. Pangea Chat aims to make language acquisition more engaging and effective by leveraging technology to enhance communication and learning.
Karambit.AI specializes in software supply chain security. It offers a platform that automates the static analysis of compiled binaries, enabling it to detect and prevent unauthorized modifications or malicious code injections, even in closed-source software. This helps organizations ensure the integrity of their software supply chain and protect against sophisticated attacks.
Linebird is a technology company based in Richmond, VA, that specializes in creating automation solutions for utilities. Founded in 2018, Linebird is focused on revolutionizing the inspection and maintenance of power transmission infrastructure through the development of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The company is working on a prototype that utilizes a patent-pending process to enable unmanned systems to interact with live transmission lines using modified linemen's tools. This innovative approach aims to enhance safety and reduce costs associated with utility inspections and maintenance. By improving operational efficiencies, Linebird enables clients to reinvest savings into grid enhancements, ultimately resulting in more reliable electricity services for consumers.
Sentek Instrument
Grant in 2023
Sentek Instrument manufactures a range of fiber optic sensing solutions and sensor systems for various industries.
FedScout is a software and services company focused on the federal market.
Advanced Aircraft Company
Grant in 2022
Advanced Aircraft Company is an aeronautical engineering and aircraft manufacturing firm based in Hampton, Virginia, founded in 2015. The company specializes in the production of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial systems (UAS), primarily targeting military and defense markets. Its product lineup includes advanced aircraft designed for long-endurance operations, utilizing a series hybrid electric propulsion system and Distributed Electric Propulsion (DEP) technology. These systems enable the aircraft to operate effectively in challenging land and maritime conditions without the need for operational infrastructure, allowing clients to enhance mission performance and reduce operational costs.
Medentum Innovations
Grant in 2022
Medentum Innovations promotes health equity and transforming healthcare through affordable, high-performance point-of-care devices and AI diagnostics.
Agricision provides autonomous drone technology to offer farmers with accurate data when timing is important for disease identification.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Grant in 2022
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), located in Richmond, Virginia, is a prominent research institution known for its extensive academic offerings across various disciplines, including the liberal and fine arts, sciences, and professional fields. VCU comprises more than ten distinctive schools that provide bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in areas such as African American Studies, Business, Nursing, and Clinical Psychology, among others. The university has received numerous accolades, including recognition as a Tier 1 institution by U.S. News and World Report, with particularly high rankings for its School of the Arts, business, and education programs. VCU fosters an active campus life, featuring over 200 student organizations, multiple student publications, and a student radio station. Additionally, it hosts one of the largest university film festivals in the nation, contributing to a vibrant cultural environment on campus. The Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine further enhances the university's reputation, known for excellence in teaching, research, and health care since its founding in 1838.
Virtual Sally
Grant in 2022
Virtual Sally by Mill Mountain Technologies is a patent-pending, paradigm changing solution for streamlining front desk operations, creating workflow efficiencies, and reducing operating costs.
Rimstorm is a comprehensive managed security service provider specializing in the outsourced monitoring and management of security devices and systems. The company focuses on helping clients safeguard their data and adhere to federal cybersecurity regulations by offering practical and cost-effective solutions. Rimstorm's platform automates policy creation and maintenance, providing situational awareness through clear visual indicators of compliance. Additionally, it delivers cyber-managed security, cloud security, and remote monitoring services, allowing organizations to gain visibility into system usage and user access. By doing so, Rimstorm enables its clients to enhance their cybersecurity posture and protect against potential catastrophic events.
Virginia Tech
Grant in 2022
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, known as Virginia Tech, is a public research university located in Blacksburg, Virginia, with additional educational facilities across six regions in the state and a study-abroad site in Switzerland. Established in 1857, Virginia Tech offers 280 undergraduate and graduate degree programs to approximately 34,400 students. The university is recognized for its research capabilities, managing a research portfolio valued at $522 million, which positions it as the 46th university in the United States for research expenditures and the only institution in Virginia among the top 50. Additionally, Virginia Tech is designated as one of the six senior military colleges in the U.S. through its Corps of Cadets ROTC program, making it the state's second-largest public university by enrollment.
Polaris Semiconductor
Grant in 2022
Polaris Semiconductor is an extremely high-performance DC voltage regulators for space.
NFTYDoor is a digital lending platform designed to enhance financial independence and liquidity for its users. The company offers a streamlined one-minute application process, immediate loan offers, and a quick closing window. NFTYDoor specializes in home equity loans, facilitating financing for home renovations, education expenses, large purchases, and debt consolidation. By prioritizing efficiency and user accessibility, NFTYDoor enables customers to effectively manage their finances and achieve their financial goals.
OneUp Technologies
Grant in 2022
OneUp is a competition app where people can donate to charities and win money.
Kinometrix Inc. is a healthcare analytics company based in Fairfax, Virginia, founded in 2017. The company specializes in developing a risk assessment and notification system aimed at preventing avoidable patient falls within hospitals. Utilizing an artificial intelligence platform, Kinometrix analyzes electronic health record data to deliver real-time predictions of patient fall risk. Its software employs machine learning algorithms and wearable balance sensor technology to alert healthcare staff to specific risk factors, such as gait impairment and medication effects. By providing actionable insights and individualized assessments, Kinometrix enables clinicians to effectively monitor and manage patients' fall risk status, ultimately enhancing patient safety and care outcomes.
Mobius Materials
Grant in 2022
Mobius Materials operates a marketplace that specializes in the buying and selling of preowned electronic components, particularly semiconductors. The company sources components from vetted suppliers, including multinational OEMs and contract manufacturers, ensuring that each part undergoes thorough authenticity testing to combat counterfeiting. By leveraging proprietary anti-counterfeit technology, Mobius Materials facilitates a transparent and efficient process for companies to source and dispose of electronic components. This approach not only helps businesses meet tight production deadlines with immediate stock shipments but also supports sustainability efforts by promoting the recycling of electronics. Ultimately, Mobius Materials aims to enhance inventory performance and profitability for its customers while reducing their environmental impact.
Gigzilla is an online networking platform that connects essential workers with employers in various industries. The company aims to facilitate the hiring process by allowing gig workers to apply for part-time and full-time job opportunities across multiple projects. Through its platform, businesses can efficiently find and engage freelance talent, enabling them to adapt and scale their operations according to project needs. By serving as a hub for essential workers and employers, Gigzilla enhances the recruitment landscape in industries that rely on flexible labor solutions.
Agricision is a technology company focused on enhancing efficiency in global food production through innovative solutions for precision farming. The company has developed a smart farming device equipped with Bluetooth technology and a high-quality GPS module. When mounted on the bonnet of a tractor, this device tracks essential farm-related data such as soil moisture, temperature, and salinity. By providing farmers and soil experts with valuable insights into soil and crop conditions, Agricision enables them to implement targeted strategies for improving farming techniques and optimizing agricultural outputs.
Reelist is a company that specializes in connecting employers with Generation Z talent through a video-first social media platform. The platform leverages artificial intelligence to enhance candidate engagement, reduce hiring inefficiencies such as ghosting, and create job videos for posting and running job ads. By focusing on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Reelist helps businesses attract and hire top talent from a demographic that is highly active in consuming video content online.
BlueVigil specializes in tethered hovering observation platform technology, providing mobile aerial solutions for law enforcement, first responders, and event organizers. Their platforms are equipped to carry various cameras, sensors, and radio equipment, offering a low-altitude vantage point for critical operations. In addition to aerial observation, BlueVigil manufactures tether power systems designed for enterprise drone vehicles. Their innovative reactive spool tether system is self-contained and features proprietary power management circuitry and a flight control system, allowing it to connect with most off-the-shelf unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This technology enables extended flight times by supplying continuous power through the tether, eliminating the need for a dedicated operator.
Industrial Intelligence
Grant in 2022
Industrial Intelligence is a product development firm specializing in enhancing safety within industrial settings. It focuses on creating innovative solutions to improve security and efficiency of industrial procedures. Its flagship product is a dust accumulation monitoring system designed to continuously track hazardous and combustible dust levels inside facilities. This technology alerts operations teams when dust accumulation reaches unsafe levels, enabling clients to proactively prevent fires and explosions in manufacturing, processing, and agricultural facilities.
AtWork Systems
Grant in 2022
AtWork Systems, Inc. is a software company located in Herndon, Virginia, specializing in cloud-based solutions for small and medium-sized businesses. Its primary product, the OneLynk platform, offers a suite of integrated applications designed to enhance workforce, financial, and project management. The platform's enterprise-class SaaS offerings feature reconfigurable applications that allow users to customize workflow using default templates without the need for coding. By automating essential business transactions related to human capital management, accounting, and project management, AtWork Systems enables clients to streamline routine tasks, thereby improving operational efficiency and productivity. The company's services are particularly valuable for commercial professional services firms and government contractors, providing them with a comprehensive shared services back-office ecosystem.
Micro Harmonics
Grant in 2022
Micro Harmonics is a manufacturing company that designs and produces isolators, circulators, and attenuator products.
Ditto operates as a payment platform built for project-based work.
Magazine Jukebox
Seed Round in 2022
Magazine Jukebox is a digital entertainment company based in Norfolk, Virginia, founded in 2020. It offers a platform that provides magazines, games, and trivia across various industries, enhancing the waiting experience in commercial spaces. The platform uses a contactless, QR code-based system, allowing users to access content via their own smartphones or smart devices without physical materials or paywalls. This service is geofenced uniquely for each proprietor, ensuring secure and localized access. Magazine Jukebox serves sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, automotive services, and transit centers, providing a convenient and engaging experience through SMS text, email, or app integration.
BloomCatch is a company that specializes in a mobile plant recognition application, founded by Ray Magee in 2016 in Centreville, Virginia. The application utilizes a combination of machine learning and live human expertise to accurately identify plants and provide users with detailed horticultural information. By allowing users to capture images of plants, the app facilitates connections between home gardeners and local plant experts, as well as retailers, thereby promoting healthier and more vibrant gardening experiences. BloomCatch aims to enhance the gardening community by making expert knowledge accessible and connecting customers with the resources they need for successful plant care.
Reelist is a company that specializes in connecting employers with Generation Z talent through a video-first social media platform. The platform leverages artificial intelligence to enhance candidate engagement, reduce hiring inefficiencies such as ghosting, and create job videos for posting and running job ads. By focusing on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Reelist helps businesses attract and hire top talent from a demographic that is highly active in consuming video content online.
Grantable is a technology company that specializes in AI-assisted grant writing. Their platform is designed to help individuals and organizations seeking grants to write more effective proposals, saving time and increasing their chances of securing funding. The platform uses AI to generate content, organize information, and ensures data security.
Terravive is a leading innovator and supplier of compostable foodservice consumables, offering a wide range of products such as cups, cutlery, straws, to-go containers, and various types of bags and packaging materials. Based in the USA, the company specializes in the design and manufacture of patented products that decompose quickly in various environments, including freshwater, seawater, and composting facilities. Terravive's offerings are FDA-approved for food contact and adhere to multiple domestic and international sustainability standards. As a woman, minority, and veteran-owned business, Terravive emphasizes environmental responsibility by providing robust plant-based packaging that naturally breaks down into oxygen, water, and organic matter within ninety days, thereby helping reduce the carbon footprint for both individuals and corporations. The company currently distributes its products across five continents, strengthening its commitment to addressing environmental pollution through innovative solutions.
Perfusion Medical
Grant in 2022
Perfusion Medical has an IV solution for tissue perfusion restoration developed at VCU of medicine and is being commercialized. They have the potential to be game changers in the treatment of severe blood loss. PEG-20k IV solution's main mechanism of action in treating severe hypovolemic shock is to increase tissue perfusion, allowing for the rapid transfer of oxygen into oxygen-depleted tissues and organs.
Happyly is a corporate benefits platform designed to enhance work-life balance and foster meaningful connections among employees. The company utilizes proprietary technology to offer curated activities and events tailored to individual needs, including localized outdoor activities, volunteer opportunities, and custom vacation getaways. By focusing on the holistic well-being of employees, Happyly aims to improve corporate culture, boost employee engagement and retention, and ultimately enhance overall productivity. Through shared experiences and activities, Happyly helps organizations build dynamic and connected workforces, allowing employees to thrive both personally and professionally.
SylLab Systems
Grant in 2022
SylLab Systems, Inc. is a cybersecurity company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2019. It specializes in providing cryptography-as-a-Service aimed at securing organizations' end-users' personal information. The company offers Sovran, a cryptographic service that focuses on access control and encryption of personal identifiable information. SylLab's solutions are designed to protect networks and Internet of Things (IoT) devices from cyber-attacks and emerging quantum threats. By delivering both software encryption and hardware configuration, the company enhances encryption performance, ensuring that vital assets remain secure and accessible at critical speeds. Additionally, SylLab's enterprise data security platform includes features like data mapping, data protection, compliance training management, and incident management, which collectively help clients mitigate the risks of data breaches.
InDust solutions
Grant in 2022
InDust solutions provides high temperature cameras,pneumatic conveying,dust collection systems and special equipment.
Ourobio is a company focused on developing innovative, bio-based technologies aimed at advancing decarbonization and reducing microplastic pollution. By utilizing engineered microorganisms, Ourobio transforms industrial byproducts into a low-footprint, fully biodegradable polymer and performance-enhancing additives. This process not only provides sustainable alternatives to petrochemicals but also addresses environmental concerns by minimizing the impact of plastic waste. Through its proprietary bioprocess, Ourobio enables clients to adopt eco-friendly solutions, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Team Excel is a company that focuses on enhancing student engagement and success through an online education platform. By leveraging teamwork and competition, it aims to motivate students and improve their educational outcomes. The platform gamifies success metrics, transforming the learning experience into an enjoyable and competitive environment. Students can earn points and compete based on various criteria, including academic performance, attendance, and community service. This innovative approach allows for personalized educational experiences that foster individual growth and academic achievement, particularly benefiting schools and nonprofit organizations dedicated to student development.
BCMstrategy Inc. is a technology company based in Alexandria, Virginia, that specializes in public policy predictive analytics. Founded in 2017, the company develops automated tools that quantify and analyze geopolitical and regulatory risks using natural language processing and proprietary patented processes. Its platform converts public policy language into structured data, enabling users to make informed decisions amidst the complexities of information overload. BCMstrategy's offerings include API development, Slack integration, and detailed analytical reports, catering to a diverse clientele that includes risk managers, advocates, investors, journalists, and corporate strategy executives. By providing daily global momentum measurements and time-series data, BCMstrategy empowers its users to navigate shifts in public policy effectively.
Aravenda is a developer of cloud-based consignment management software tailored for e-commerce stores. The platform integrates with Shopify POS, providing resellers with a comprehensive tool for managing inventory and streamlining sales processes. Aravenda's software facilitates the online listing of inventory, automates payout calculations, and supports online payment processing. By combining inventory management with a user-friendly interface, Aravenda enables businesses to enhance their point-of-sale transactions and improve efficiency in online selling across various platforms.
Applied Impact Robotics
Grant in 2022
Applied Impact Robotics, Inc. is a company based in Ashburn, Virginia, specializing in the development and commercialization of customized robotic and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions across various industries. The company has engineered a robotic inspection system specifically designed to examine crude oil tank floors while the tanks remain operational. This innovative technology utilizes pneumatic vibration to effectively navigate through sludge and sediment, allowing for inspections that would typically necessitate offline tank cleaning. By facilitating inspections in challenging environments, Applied Impact Robotics helps organizations enhance efficiency and reduce operational downtime.
CybrBase provides ICAP Training and Customer Discovery.
Royelles is a game based learning company focused on igniting GIRLS and non-binary individuals towards Leadership,STEAM life-path. Royelles mobile app-based learning adventures are powered by AR, AI and voice technologies.
Evizia is a life science tools company that focuses on developing genomic tools applicable in various fields such as nanotechnology and material science. The company specializes in providing innovative solutions for genomic diagnosis, utilizing advanced techniques like chemical barcoding to prepare and label DNA. These tools enable users to identify polymorphisms, which are variations in gene length, and address the complexities of genomic analysis. Through its cutting-edge technology, Evizia aims to enhance the capabilities of researchers and scientists in their work with genomic data.
Magazine Jukebox
Seed Round in 2022
Magazine Jukebox is a digital entertainment company based in Norfolk, Virginia, founded in 2020. It offers a platform that provides magazines, games, and trivia across various industries, enhancing the waiting experience in commercial spaces. The platform uses a contactless, QR code-based system, allowing users to access content via their own smartphones or smart devices without physical materials or paywalls. This service is geofenced uniquely for each proprietor, ensuring secure and localized access. Magazine Jukebox serves sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, automotive services, and transit centers, providing a convenient and engaging experience through SMS text, email, or app integration.