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, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Farmington Hills, Michigan, dedicated to developing and commercializing therapies for various ophthalmic disorders. The company's primary focus is on innovative treatment options for front and back of the eye conditions, with its lead product candidate, Nyxol eye drops, currently in Phase 3 clinical development. Nyxol is a once-daily, preservative-free formulation aimed at addressing issues such as dim light or night vision disturbances, pharmacologically-induced mydriasis, and presbyopia. Additionally, Ocuphire is advancing another candidate, APX3330, a twice-daily oral tablet, which is entering Phase 2 clinical trials to target diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema by inhibiting angiogenesis and inflammation. The company also seeks to explore opportunities for acquiring additional ophthalmic assets and forming strategic partnerships for global commercialization.

Micro-LAM Technologies, LLC, founded in 2012 and based in Battle Creek, Michigan, specializes in manufacturing precision laser-focused cutting tools. The company's flagship product is the Micro-LAM Optimus T+1, a hybrid laser-diamond cutting tool system designed for ultra-precision machining of advanced engineered ceramics, semiconductors, glass, metals, and other materials. In addition to its cutting tools, Micro-LAM offers feasibility analysis, process development, system customization, and installation and support services. These services include manufacturing setup evaluations, laser absorption tests, hardness reduction tests, sample machining, and value proposition analyses. The company serves a diverse range of industries, including optics, aerospace, defense and armor, semiconductor, and automotive.

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 prominent high school sports marketing and networking platform that serves as a digital hub for athletes, coaches, and fans. The platform enables athletes to upload videos, photos, stories, and scores, while allowing coaches to report game results to various media outlets. VNN is dedicated to enhancing the experience of high school sports by aggregating the fragmented market and providing advertising and promotional services. The company has established a significant presence, serving schools across multiple states, including Alabama, California, and Texas, and has gained a rapidly growing user base, with over 7 million fans engaging with the platform daily. Founded in 2010 and based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, VNN aims to transform the consumer experience in high school sports by leveraging technology and connectivity.

AzulStar, Inc. is a provider of 4G and 5G wireless broadband Internet and communications services, catering to commercial, government, and multi-tenant unit clients. Established in 2003 and based in Ada, Michigan, the company operates carrier-class networks in key markets in Michigan and New Mexico. AzulStar offers a range of services, including high-speed Internet access, managed wireless networking, and intelligent transportation solutions. The company utilizes open standards wireless technology and an all-IP wireless architecture to ensure high performance and reliability in its broadband offerings. AzulStar has received recognition for its innovative approaches and commitment to service quality in the wireless broadband access sector.

TransCorp Spine manufactures medical devices and procedures to restore spinal function and preserve healthy tissue. Its product includes SpinePort, a MIS access system. David Lowry, Des O'Farrell, and Scott Tuinstra founded TransCorp Spine in 2008. It has its headquarters in Byron Center in Michigan.