MassChallenge

MORSE Corp offers customer-focused algorithm development, software development, and system integration services for machine learning, artificial intelligence, mission planning, situational awareness, computer vision, and manned and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Rhoman Aerospace specializes in developing advanced flight control software for drones. Their innovative solution enhances energy efficiency, expands mission capabilities, and significantly reduces the time required for custom engineering and tuning, making it a versatile and time-saving option for various drone applications.

SCALE Advanced Biocomposites specializes in the development of natural-fiber composites aimed at advancing the use of bio-based materials across various industries, including sporting goods, automotive, wind power, and aerospace. The company's innovative materials and technologies offer an effective alternative to carbon fiber, enhancing performance while simultaneously reducing costs and greenhouse gas emissions. This approach supports clients in their efforts to decarbonize high-performance composites, contributing to a more sustainable built environment. Through its focus on creating new, bio-based materials, SCALE seeks to significantly lower emissions and promote the adoption of eco-friendly solutions in multiple sectors.

SpaceSense.ai, founded by Jyotsna and Sami, focuses on making satellite data accessible and actionable for businesses. With a mission to simplify the complexity and reduce the costs associated with satellite data, the company aims to empower data scientists across various industries, including agriculture, insurance, banking, and environmental sectors. SpaceSense's platform leverages satellite-based monitoring technology to facilitate the development of geospatial artificial intelligence, allowing organizations to efficiently monitor climate change, manage exposure risk, and enhance operational efficiency. By automating challenging tasks related to AI and geospatial data, SpaceSense seeks to democratize the use of satellite technology, transforming it into a practical tool for everyday use.

MIPRONS is on a mission to develop a space propulsion system for nanosatellites.

Analatom is an engineering company that offers hardware or software corrosion sensing and monitoring solutions for condition-based maintenance that includes aircraft, bridges, vehicles, heavy equipment, helicopters, pipelines, ships, and wind turbines. The company's contact modes are mail, phone, and physical address.

Stellar Project is a space technology startup based in Padua, Italy, that focuses on innovative solutions for light satellites. The company specializes in the development of miniature low-power laser communication terminals, which enhance communication capabilities in the space sector. In addition to its manufacturing efforts, Stellar Project provides consultancy services that assess the risks associated with spacecraft missions, particularly concerning the threats posed by space debris and space weather. Through its advanced technologies and risk analysis, Stellar Project aims to contribute significantly to the evolving space economy.

M Aerospace RTC is an aerospace company based in Austin, Texas, founded in 2018. It specializes in advanced metal 3D printing technology, focusing on the development of large-scale metal printers. The company offers a diverse range of metal materials and combinations, enabling the production of significant components. M Aerospace RTC aims to support the 3D printing industry by providing rapid prototyping and cost-effective production solutions, thereby enhancing manufacturing capabilities in various sectors.

Endeavor Composites is a developer and manufacturer of advanced composite materials, focusing primarily on the automotive, aerospace, and maritime industries. The company specializes in producing defect-free, fully isotropic carbon fiber non-woven reinforcing fiber mats made from long fibers, which are created using a cost-effective and high-speed production process. Endeavor Composites offers a zero-waste solution for fiber and composite manufacturers, enabling the efficient production of various components including battery casings, access panels, and under-the-hood parts.

krtkl inc., founded in 2014 and based in San Francisco, California, specializes in providing high-reliability hardware and software solutions for real-time applications in robotics, sensing, and space industries. The company's offerings facilitate edge-based artificial intelligence, sensor fusion, computer vision, video processing, and industrial control, enabling users to implement advanced technology in size, weight, and power-constrained environments. krtkl aims to democratize access to sophisticated technological solutions, with its products being utilized in numerous mission-critical commercial and defense systems. The company’s focus on modular and open-standards-based computing solutions allows for rapid development and deployment of advanced capabilities across various sectors.

Rotor X supplies aircraft components to defence contractors for advanced tactics. It involves the manufacturing of customised aircraft and helicopter kits. They support the existing helicopter owners around the world with parts and maintenance services. An online inquiry form is available on their websites.

FlyWorks Ltd., founded in 2019 and based in Beer-Sheva, Israel, specializes in developing a drone multirotor platform featuring a hybrid propulsion system designed for extended flight durations. The company’s innovative technology integrates a single internal combustion engine with small electric motors, allowing drones to carry significant payloads while maintaining a lightweight structure. This approach not only enhances performance but also ensures safety and cost-effectiveness. FlyWorks' patent-pending drive technology is versatile enough to be adapted for various drone sizes and applications, including land surveying and air-taxi services. By enabling high-resolution, multi-sensor inspections of large-scale power line infrastructure, FlyWorks aims to revolutionize the capabilities of commercial drones in multiple industries.

Ejenta Inc. is a San Francisco-based company that develops an intelligent personal assistant platform utilizing artificial intelligence to enhance user engagement across various sectors, including healthcare, government, and space. Founded in 2012, Ejenta leverages exclusively licensed NASA technology and two decades of research in human activity modeling and multi-agent systems. The platform enables real-time monitoring of users' daily activities and adherence to mission plans, providing personalized advice, coaching, and support. Ejenta's technology integrates wearable and ambient sensors, allowing health providers to care for patients remotely and predict health outcomes based on diverse data sources. Users can interact with their personal agents through mobile devices, Smart TVs, and natural language interfaces, facilitating a seamless user experience. The platform is notably operational in NASA's Mission Control for the International Space Station, demonstrating its capabilities in high-stakes environments.

Graphene Composites Ltd (GCL) is a nanotechnology startup focused on developing advanced composite materials by combining graphene, known for its exceptional strength, with aerogel, recognized as one of the lightest and most effective insulators and shock absorbers. This innovative approach results in composites that are approximately 100 times stronger than steel while weighing less than 1/100th of steel's weight. GCL's technology employs a production process akin to that used in carbon fiber aircraft components, involving the layering and curing of graphene-infused polymers and aerogels. The resulting materials offer superior shock and impact resistance, making them suitable for applications in various sectors, including aerospace, renewable energy, and protective armor. Through collaborations with the Graphene Application Centre at the Centre for Process Innovation, GCL aims to create life-enhancing products that leverage the unique properties of these advanced materials.

Nautilus Defense specializes in the development and manufacturing of advanced systems for maritime surveillance and structural monitoring. The company creates integrated textile and composite systems that incorporate strain-sensing yarns, antennas, and wearable technologies. These innovations allow for the monitoring of structural assets and their environments, enhancing performance through rapid experimental development. Nautilus Defense's offerings include deployable systems, device arrays, and embeddable systems, all designed to deliver cutting-edge capabilities efficiently.

Ozark Integrated Circuits provides design techniques, modeling and design tools for integrated circuits and systems on chip for extreme environments.

Synthara AG, a Swiss semiconductor startup founded in 2019 and based in Zurich, specializes in designing advanced smart sensors for industrial Internet of Things (IoT) applications and other energy-sensitive uses. The company focuses on developing energy-efficient computational AI chips tailored for various applications, including wearables, health monitoring, augmented reality/virtual reality, and aerospace technologies. Its flagship product, ComputeRAM, serves as a drop-in replacement for traditional SRAM, enabling complex calculations to be performed directly in memory. This innovation significantly reduces CPU workload, enhances system performance, and improves efficiency, particularly for AI applications. Synthara's technology is processor-type agnostic, compatible with architectures such as RISC-V, ARM, and x86, allowing seamless integration into existing microcontroller platforms. By empowering chipmakers and device manufacturers, Synthara aims to lower costs, accelerate time to market, and foster new avenues for innovation in the semiconductor industry.

FlyingBasket is a company based in South Tyrol, Italy, that specializes in drone delivery systems, particularly heavy-payload cargo drones capable of lifting up to 100 kg. The company operates a Drone as a Service model across various industries, including telecommunications, energy, and logistics. FlyingBasket designs, manufactures, and operates its own unmanned aerial vehicles, which are particularly suited for delivering goods to remote locations such as mountainous regions and islands. Additionally, the company offers services in civil protection, cable stretching, monitoring, and multi-sensor analysis, providing clients with efficient solutions for tasks that are traditionally challenging and expensive to execute.

Elemental Coatings specializes in the development of advanced coatings designed to prevent ice buildup on various surfaces. The company's innovative products significantly reduce ice adhesion strength while ensuring durability and stability against chemicals and ultraviolet exposure. These coatings are highly customizable, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, including aerospace, automotive, trucking, power transmission and generation, as well as consumer markets. By addressing the challenges posed by ice accumulation, Elemental Coatings provides effective solutions for industries where ice buildup is a critical concern.

TechnoCarbon is a France-based startup focused on developing innovative, low-carbon-footprint materials aimed at transforming the architecture and industrial sectors. The company has introduced CarbonFibreStone™ (CFS™), a high-performance composite designed to replace traditional materials such as reinforced concrete, steel, and aluminum, which are known for their environmental impact. By utilizing a patented technology, TechnoCarbon creates a new family of materials that not only meet the technical demands of construction but also promote energy efficiency and resource conservation. CFS™ is suitable for a wide range of applications, including construction, infrastructure, aerospace, defense, luxury goods, furniture, and high-fidelity audio, positioning TechnoCarbon as a key player in the push for sustainable building practices.

Rapid Liquid Print is working on 3D printers that create stretchy products for industrial materials. Their services include medical devices, footwear, home goods, furniture, aviation, and automotive components.

Scott Massey met Ivan Ball while working together on a NASA funded research project at Purdue University in an effort to create life support systems for future space colonies. What started as an introduction to an the innovating technology of hydroponics, left them both wondering why there was not a standard, aeroponic device for consumers to grow their own produce. After extensively researching patents of existing systems on the market, Scott and Ivan realized that the design they were drawing out on napkins had not yet been conceived. It was at that moment, Heliponix™ (formerly Hydro Grow) was founded. What started as a dream for these young engineers who wanted to make a difference in the world became a literal kitchen startup in an apartment on campus at Purdue University as Ivan and Scott built their initial prototypes which were funded by working night shifts as full-time students.

Silencions specializes in advanced acoustic technology aimed at reducing noise pollution through innovative material structures. The company's engineered, sub-wavelength periodic architecture significantly minimizes noise and vibration across various demanding sectors, including aerospace, automotive, construction equipment, and household items. This technology enables clients to effectively address noise issues in diverse environments, regardless of the source of the sound. Silencions is composed of an interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers with extensive international experience from leading research institutes in Europe, positioning the company as a pioneer in vibration and noise suppression solutions.

Aerospec Technologies is a Chicago-based technology company specializing in the development of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with an intelligent three-axis flight control system. This system autonomously inspects, monitors, and collects high-quality data, particularly for the energy industry. By providing advanced drone inspection services, Aerospec Technologies aims to enhance operational safety and efficiency while facilitating the adoption of renewable energy solutions. The insights generated from their technology enable clients to improve safety measures for all stakeholders and reduce maintenance costs associated with their assets.

United Aircraft Technologies provides the aerospace, electrical transportation industry, among others with a smart fastener for electrical wiring that takes off weight (improves payload capacity) and increases maintenance operations through the use of our sensors, AR and AI. Taking something that takes days or weeks down to a day. Helping improve the cost of operating the vehicles. This was based on the life experience of the co-founder, Daryian, who was an aircraft electrician for the US Army and Navy for over 12 years until he got injured because of the thousands of fasteners used today and then became an engineer to create a solution.

Dronistics, based in Lausanne, Switzerland, specializes in developing a personal drone delivery system designed for last-centimeter delivery to hard-to-reach locations. The company's drones operate autonomously, utilizing GPS technology and a web application that can be accessed from various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Each delivery is facilitated through a 4G internet connection, ensuring seamless control and communication. Dronistics emphasizes safety in its operations, incorporating multiple safety checks to protect individuals during the flight and delivery process. This innovative approach enables logistics and online retail companies to effectively address delivery challenges in remote areas.

GyroGear is a multidisciplinary team composed of designers, engineers, and medical professionals focused on developing innovative solutions for individuals with hand tremors caused by Parkinson's disease and essential tremor. Their flagship product, the GyroGlove, is a wearable device that utilizes advanced aerospace-grade gyroscopes to mechanically stabilize hand tremors. By addressing this critical issue, GyroGear aims to enhance the quality of life, independence, and dignity of those affected by these conditions. The company is dedicated to providing an effective and straightforward solution for managing hand tremors, thereby improving daily functioning for its users.

NODAR, Inc. is a Boston-based company that specializes in manufacturing advanced sensors for various transportation modes, including cars, trucks, drones, ships, trains, and aircraft. Established in 2018, NODAR focuses on developing cutting-edge camera-based 3D vision systems aimed at enhancing the safety and reliability of autonomous vehicles. Their flagship product, Hammerhead, utilizes off-the-shelf cameras to deliver long-range, ultra-precise depth sensing essential for Level 3 and Level 4 autonomous applications. This technology enables critical functionalities such as collision warning, path planning, and automatic emergency braking, while ensuring cost-effectiveness and high performance. NODAR's innovations target automotive, marine, and railway industries, providing solutions that meet the growing demand for reliable 3D sensing technology in the mainstream automotive market.

D-Fend Solutions specializes in counter-drone technology, providing autonomous systems designed to manage rogue drone incidents in sensitive environments. Their flagship product, EnforceAir, is deployed globally across various sectors, including military, public safety, airports, prisons, and critical infrastructure. This technology enables clients to detect, identify, and take control of unauthorized drones, ensuring their safe landing while maintaining operational continuity. D-Fend Solutions has been recognized for its best-in-class capabilities, with implementations at high-tier U.S. government agencies, including military and law enforcement, as well as major international airports. By autonomously executing RF and cyber-takeovers, EnforceAir enhances security and facilitates the uninterrupted flow of communications and commerce.

AirWorks Solutions, LLC, established in 2017 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in providing innovative aerial mapping and surveying solutions for the construction industry. The company leverages AI-powered technology to automate the creation of maps and 3D models from aerial data, streamlining the pre-construction process and addressing a significant data bottleneck. AirWorks' offerings include maps, site plans, proprietary processing software, 3D modeling for BIM software, engineering support, and quality control. Its solutions have been adopted by leading civil engineering companies, demonstrating its position as an industry leader. Originally spun out of MIT in 2018, AirWorks aims to serve as the foundational geospatial analytics platform for various industries.

Cleo Robotics is focused on creating innovative drone technology tailored for indoor use and confined spaces. The company develops compact, lightweight, and portable drones that facilitate safe operations for reconnaissance and inspections. These drones are designed to be user-friendly, enabling clients to gather essential data in challenging environments, such as those lacking GPS or in hazardous locations. Cleo Robotics aims to enhance operational safety and efficiency in various sectors through its advanced drone solutions.

Guardion specializes in advanced sensor technology aimed at enhancing safety and security through innovative detection systems. The company has developed the world's first radiation detector that leverages the unique quantum properties of nanomaterials, resulting in low-cost, sensitive, and energy-efficient devices suitable for widespread deployment. Guardion's products include analytical instruments and portable chemical and radiation detectors, designed for use in challenging environments across various sectors, including aerospace, medical, and national security. Recognized for its contributions to technology and innovation, Guardion received the MassChallenge 2017 Gold Prize and the Technology in Space Prize from the Center for Advancement in Science in Space and Boeing. In early 2018, the company was selected for the inaugural cohort of the Techstars Autonomous Tech Accelerator, sponsored by the Air Force.

Hedron is focused on developing a network of data relay satellites that facilitate real-time communication between Earth and space. Their modular and scalable system employs a hybrid RF-optical communication approach, providing connectivity for low-Earth orbit satellites. Hedron's imaging satellites generate valuable data that address critical global challenges, including food and water security, climate change monitoring, and disaster mitigation. By offering a series of data relay nodes, the company enables clients to optimize the global economy and enhance understanding of the planet, paving the way for innovation and improved insights in various sectors.

Airscort focuses on developing advanced drone docking stations that facilitate fully autonomous operations for commercial drones. Its products are compact, reliable, and cost-effective, featuring military-grade materials and various integrated technologies, including sensors, temperature control units, and precision landing systems. These docking stations enable drones to perform critical missions without human involvement, positioning Airscort as a key player in the expanding drone industry, which is valued at $150 billion. The company's solutions cater to diverse sectors, including defense, energy, and agriculture, allowing clients to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs through improved utility and automation.

TFC Simulations is an IT services company that assembles high-performance computers. It designs modular simulators for training, private, or recreational use. Their simulators cater to cars, airplanes, helicopters, and gamers and offer customizable solutions to fit any budget.

De-Ice is an MIT spin-out focused on developing advanced ground and in-flight ice protection systems for the aerospace industry. The company offers an electric de-icing technology that improves operational efficiency by replacing traditional on-ground chemical solutions with a faster, safer, and more cost-effective alternative. This innovative system not only minimizes disruptions to operations but also enhances the capability for flights to access remote locations. Additionally, it improves in-flight performance by eliminating the need for bleed air, thereby supporting a more efficient and reliable aviation experience.

Aerotain specializes in creating engaging entertainment experiences at live events through innovative aerial advertising. The company has developed a lightweight interactive airship drone that floats above crowds, displaying digital advertisements in various formats such as placards, banners, and posters. This unique approach allows brands to enhance their visibility and marketing efforts from an elevated position, making it particularly effective in busy areas, sports venues, and shopping locations. By combining technology and creativity, Aerotain provides a platform for brands to promote newly launched products and engage with audiences in a memorable way.

FLYX.Systems develops technological platforms for the new IUAS, fully autonomous, no human intervention. They are creating the infrastructure for a new generation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, fully autonomous, reliable and redundant for industrial applications that will expand aerospace productivity for both rural and urban areas. They have designed a landing platform that allows "industrial drones" to land, recharge and take­off without human intervention/error in a matter of seconds. Applications include package transportation, mapping, day/night security, agriculture, quick response, and a big ETC.

Hedron is focused on developing a network of data relay satellites that facilitate real-time communication between Earth and space. Their modular and scalable system employs a hybrid RF-optical communication approach, providing connectivity for low-Earth orbit satellites. Hedron's imaging satellites generate valuable data that address critical global challenges, including food and water security, climate change monitoring, and disaster mitigation. By offering a series of data relay nodes, the company enables clients to optimize the global economy and enhance understanding of the planet, paving the way for innovation and improved insights in various sectors.

Response Technologies, LLC, founded in 2015 and located in Coventry, Rhode Island, specializes in additive manufacturing and advanced material science. The company develops innovative techniques for creating 3D textile structures and reinforced composites, focusing on sectors such as national defense, energy, aerospace, automotive, and transportation. Notably, Response Technologies manufactures explosion-resistant fuel tanks that enhance safety and effectiveness in fuel containment for its clients across these industries. As of December 2020, Response Technologies operates as a subsidiary of Bell Textron Inc.

Poly6 Technologies, Inc. specializes in digital manufacturing solutions tailored for the biotechnology, aerospace, and electronics industries. Established in 2015 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, the company leverages advanced 3D printing technology to create innovative products. Poly6 develops stimuli-responsive material systems that integrate hardware, software, and materials into established production processes, enhancing engineering design capabilities and system efficiency. Originating from MIT's Langer Lab, the company addresses gaps between theoretical design and practical manufacturing, allowing for the production of complex components with improved tolerance control. In certain industry verticals, Poly6's digitization approach can reduce manufacturing costs by as much as 30%, while also simplifying regulatory compliance and material specifications. Additionally, Poly6 is engaged in creating environmentally friendly bioplastics derived from citrus waste, aimed at minimizing environmental pollution and providing sustainable manufacturing solutions for various sectors, including aviation and energy.

They develop and manufacture robust commercial UAV LiDAR and photogrammetry platforms for Telecom, Utilities, Engineers, Surveyors and more.

D-Orbit S.r.l. is an Italian New Space company founded in 2011 and headquartered in Sesto Fiorentino, Italy. The company specializes in providing solutions for satellite design, development, launch, commissioning, and decommissioning, with a focus on enabling the safe disposal of artificial satellites to mitigate space debris. D-Orbit offers a range of services, including last-mile delivery of satellites, orbital transportation, and space logistics, aimed at optimizing operations both in orbit and on the ground. By streamlining all phases of a satellite mission, D-Orbit enhances spacecraft design, reliability, and resource utilization while reducing operational costs. The company operates with a commitment to social benefit and environmental sustainability, catering to the needs of satellite owners and operators in a rapidly evolving space marketplace. With approximately 35 employees, D-Orbit also has subsidiaries in Washington, DC, and Lisbon, Portugal.

Sword & Plough is a socially conscious brand founded in 2012 by sisters Emily and Betsy Nunez, who were inspired by their military upbringing. The company focuses on recycling military surplus materials, transforming them into stylish bags and accessories. Sword & Plough aims to employ veterans, reduce waste, and foster a greater understanding and appreciation for veterans among civilians. By merging fashion with a meaningful mission, the brand appeals to socially aware consumers looking for products that reflect their values. The company's commitment to supporting veterans and promoting sustainability distinguishes it in the marketplace.

Altaeros Energies, Inc. specializes in the development and supply of airborne wind turbines designed to harness high-altitude winds for renewable energy generation. Established in 2010 and located in Somerville, Massachusetts, the company’s innovative products target various sectors, including rural and island communities, agriculture, emergency response, and military operations. By combining aerospace technology with wind energy solutions, Altaeros aims to provide abundant and low-cost renewable energy. The company has garnered support from multiple funding sources, such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Science Foundation, and has been recognized with awards like the 2011 ConocoPhillips Energy Prize.

Altaeros Energies, Inc. specializes in the development and supply of airborne wind turbines designed to harness high-altitude winds for renewable energy generation. Established in 2010 and located in Somerville, Massachusetts, the company’s innovative products target various sectors, including rural and island communities, agriculture, emergency response, and military operations. By combining aerospace technology with wind energy solutions, Altaeros aims to provide abundant and low-cost renewable energy. The company has garnered support from multiple funding sources, such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Science Foundation, and has been recognized with awards like the 2011 ConocoPhillips Energy Prize.