Grand Angels

Akadeum Life Sciences, Inc. is a life sciences company based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, founded in 2014. The company specializes in manufacturing microbubble cell separation products designed to facilitate the removal of target cells from biological samples. Its product line includes T cell and B cell isolation kits for both human and mouse cells, as well as products for red blood cell depletion. Akadeum utilizes buoyancy-activated cell sorting technology, employing microscopic microbubbles that capture target cells and float them to the surface for efficient removal. This innovative approach enhances the efficiency of downstream testing and analysis for medical practitioners. The company's products are available for purchase online, and it maintains a strategic partnership with Agilent Technologies.

ONL Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapeutics to protect and improve vision in patients with retinal diseases and conditions. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company specializes in creating photoreceptor protective agents that target the FAS apoptotic pathway. Its drug programs aim to safeguard photoreceptors, thereby enhancing outcomes for patients undergoing surgeries related to retinal detachment and other serious vision-threatening issues. Through its research and development efforts, ONL Therapeutics seeks to provide effective solutions for preserving sight and improving the quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.

Ripple Science Corporation specializes in developing web-based software aimed at enhancing the recruitment and management of participants in clinical, translational, and social science studies. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company offers solutions that streamline various aspects of the research process, including participant tracking, recruitment campaign management, and task management. Ripple Science's flagship product, Ripple SaaS, leverages sales and marketing automation tools to expedite participant recruitment, significantly benefiting academic researchers and clinical trial sites. Currently, its software is utilized by over 75 academic and research centers globally, including prestigious institutions such as Johns Hopkins University and the University of California, Los Angeles. By addressing the challenges of patient recruitment and engagement, Ripple Science enables researchers to enhance communication and collaboration, leading to more efficient study operations and quicker completion times.

Ocuphire Pharma is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Farmington Hills, Michigan, that specializes in developing and commercializing therapies for various ophthalmic disorders. The company’s lead product candidate is Nyxol, a once-daily preservative-free eye drop formulation designed to treat conditions such as dim light vision disturbances, pharmacologically-induced mydriasis, and presbyopia. Nyxol is currently in late-stage clinical development, supported by extensive safety and efficacy data from previous trials. Additionally, Ocuphire is advancing APX3330, an oral tablet aimed at addressing diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, which is in Phase 2 clinical development. The company is also exploring opportunities to acquire further ophthalmic assets and seeks strategic partnerships for global commercialization of its products.

Micro-LAM Technologies, LLC specializes in manufacturing precision laser-focused cutting tools, particularly its hybrid laser-diamond cutting tool system, which is designed for ultra-precision machining of hard and brittle materials such as engineered ceramics, semiconductors, glass, and metals. Established in 2012 and based in Battle Creek, Michigan, the company offers a range of services that include feasibility analysis, process development, system customization, and installation support. These services aim to enhance efficiency and productivity in advanced manufacturing processes across various industries, including optics, aerospace, defense, and automotive. Micro-LAM Technologies is recognized for its innovative approach to solving challenges related to the machining of hard materials, thereby significantly improving production capabilities in the manufacturing sector.

Tetra Therapeutics Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing pharmaceutical drugs that target phosphodiesterase (PDE) sub-type inhibitors for various neurological and non-neurological disorders. The company is known for its lead product, BPN14770, which aims to enhance brain synaptic function through the PKA-CREB pathway, addressing significant conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and developmental disabilities. Tetra Therapeutics also works on therapeutic solutions for individuals affected by traumatic brain injury and other psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. Founded in 2011 and based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the company was previously known as Tetra Discovery Partners, changing its name in August 2019. Tetra Therapeutics has established a strategic collaboration with Shionogi & Co., Ltd., and operates as a subsidiary of the same entity.

Gemphire Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Northville, Michigan, focuses on developing and commercializing therapies for dyslipidemia and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH). The company's lead product, gemcabene, is an oral medication designed to lower LDL cholesterol in patients who cannot achieve lipid-lowering goals, even while on maximally tolerated statin therapy. Gemphire has completed three Phase IIb clinical trials for gemcabene, targeting conditions such as homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, hypercholesterolemia, and severe hypertriglyceridemia. Founded in 2014, the company aims to address unmet needs in cardiometabolic disorders and improve patient outcomes. In late 2019, Gemphire Therapeutics was acquired by NeuroBo Pharmaceuticals in a reverse merger transaction.

VNN, Inc. operates a leading high school sports marketing and networking platform that enables athletes to share videos, pictures, stories, and scores via various digital devices. The platform also allows coaches to report game results to media outlets, enhancing the visibility of high school sports. Serving schools across more than 40 states, VNN has established itself as the largest and fastest-growing entity in the high school sports marketing sector, connecting over seven million fans and adding thousands of new users daily. Founded in 2010 and based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, VNN is dedicated to transforming the consumer experience in the multi-billion dollar high school sports market.

AzulStar is a privately held provider of 4G wireless Internet and communications services to commercial and government customers. Leveraging open standards wireless technology and an all IP wireless architecture, AzulStar delivers unprecedented levels of broadband performance and reliability. AzulStar has pioneered the market for wireless broadband access and won awards for the company's innovation and service quality. With carrier-class networks in the top markets of Michigan and New Mexico, AzulStar offers a variety of high value services including high-speed Internet Access, managed wireless networking and intelligent transportation.