MassChallenge

OSEM provides best-in-class solutions to nanodrugs manufacturing that revolutionize healthcare, to revolutionize drug delivery systems and contribute to the advancement of life-saving therapeutics.

Freshean is a nanotechnology company focused on advancing clean air solutions. By employing cutting-edge nanoengineering design and nanofabrication techniques, Freshean aims to eliminate harmful chemical substances and odors from indoor environments. The company's goal is to contribute to a pollutant-free and carbon-neutral future, ensuring healthier air quality for businesses and their occupants. Through its innovative approach, Freshean seeks to create fresh and clean indoor environments, thereby enhancing the overall well-being of individuals and communities.

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

We founded AtomicAI to bring advances in computing and machine learning to nanomaterials manufacturing. We believe that nanomaterials will transform energy, electronics, and quantum technologies. But nanomaterials are really hard to make. We're here to help.

Intelligent NanoFiber uses advanced material made of polypropylene that can be used for different purposes. Its high absorption characteristics can be used for air filtration, oil and gas clean-up, heat transfer, and desert greening. The company was founded in 2020 and based in College Station, Texas.

Kismet Technologies specializes in innovative material technologies aimed at enhancing infection control on surfaces. The company has developed NanoRAD, a nanotechnology that provides long-lasting protection against pathogens, significantly reducing the risk of illness from contact with contaminated surfaces. This technology is designed to be safe for human contact, effectively combating harmful germs such as MRSA and norovirus. By using NanoRAD, Kismet Technologies not only helps decrease surface-borne infections but also contributes to environmental sustainability by minimizing chemical releases and plastic waste.

NanoFlowX is leading the waterproofing industry with patented IP68 technology. The world's most versatile solution is capable of coating and protecting electronics in any industry, in any application. Partnered with IMSA WeatherTech and Lucas Oil Off Road Regional series.

Diamante is an Italian company founded in 2016 and headquartered in Verona, specializing in the development and manufacture of diagnostic devices for autoimmune diseases using advanced nanomaterials. The company utilizes plants as bioreactors to produce nanoparticles derived from modified plant viruses. This innovative approach facilitates the creation of new diagnostic tools and therapies aimed at addressing autoimmune diseases, particularly through techniques that involve the re-induction of these conditions. By leveraging plant-based nanotechnologies, Diamante is positioned to contribute significantly to advancements in autoimmune disease diagnosis and treatment.

Gelatex is a materials technology company based in Estonia, founded in 2016 and incorporated in the UK in 2019. The company has developed a patented technology for producing bio-based nanofibers efficiently and cost-effectively, making it possible to produce these materials at a scale that is significantly faster and cheaper than traditional methods. Gelatex's production process utilizes gelatin derived from low-value waste in the meat and leather industries, ensuring that its products are made from natural and non-toxic substances, which promotes sustainability in the textile sector. Initially focused on creating eco-friendly leather-like textiles, the company pivoted during the COVID-19 pandemic to explore a broader range of applications for its nanofibers, including 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering, cultured meat, bio-based filters, energy storage, and wound care.

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.

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.

Grapheal is a Medtech startup focused on developing embedded and wearable biosensors that leverage graphene transistors for enhanced functionality. Their devices are designed to be minimalistic and digital, enabling the dosing of biomarkers and detection of pathogens through a smartphone interface. By integrating advanced sensing nanomaterials with wireless connectivity and data analysis capabilities, Grapheal's biosensors facilitate field diagnostics and remote patient monitoring. This approach aims to make healthcare more accessible and accurate, allowing medical professionals to effectively monitor patient progress and healing.

En Solución is focused on enhancing food safety by integrating novel technologies and advanced sensing and control processes. The company is currently developing a high-concentration nanobubble generating device that features recirculating and regenerative functions, designed to produce significant concentrations of nanobubbles in wash water baths. This innovative technology aims to offer superior efficacy in cleaning and sanitizing by combining effective pathogen-killing agents with an improved delivery and control system. By leveraging nanotechnology, En Solución seeks to provide clients with alternatives to traditional post-harvest chlorine washes, ultimately modernizing practices within the agriculture industry.

Parx Materials recognized a growing demand for plastics with antibacterial/antimicrobial properties and from their expertise they knew that the available solutions to achieve such materials were not suitable for large-scale application/adoption because of their possible harmful effects on humans, animals or the environment as a whole. They had foreseen the dangers, insecurities and disadvantages of these solutions. Over four years of dedicated biomimetic research has been invested to create a 100% safe and biocompatible technology to inhibit the growth of bacteria on the surface of plastic with the use of a Biomimetic approach in the design and engineering of the materials. The discoveries and inventions done during this research are truly unique and groundbreaking. A team of 11 professors, scientists and researchers with decades of experience in the field of Nano- and biotechnologies and skilled in chemical analyses and chemical-physical and microbial analyses have been working together with a renown European university for chemistry. The result is a worldwide patent-pending innovation for highly effective plastics with an antibacterial/antimicrobial effectiveness rate of 98-99% measured according to ISO 22196 and most of all: safe. Parx Plastics Sanipolymers are safe for humans, safe for animals and safe for the environment.

Integricote specializes in the manufacturing of advanced nanocoating materials designed to provide strong protective finishes for various surfaces. Their products include sealers with additives that create a mold and mildew-resistant barrier, enhancing the longevity and appearance of protected surfaces. Additionally, Integricote offers specialized cleaners that effectively renew and refresh areas affected by water damage due to flooding or heavy rains. The company’s innovative hydrophobic coatings repel stains and water, allowing clients to improve the quality and durability of their surfaces and structures.

VoltXon introduces a new kind of NanoGenerator energy harvester to the market and develops a life-long and battery-free cardiac pacemaker.

Anavo Medical specializes in developing nanoparticle-based pharmaceutical products aimed at enhancing wound healing and minimizing complications associated with skin grafts. The company's innovative formulation utilizes bioactive nanoparticles suspended in a user-friendly matrix, incorporating active ingredients such as metal oxide nanoparticles. These components possess anti-inflammatory and neo-angiogenic properties, which stimulate blood vessel regeneration and mitigate inflammation. By leveraging advanced nanotechnology, Anavo Medical's products empower healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes, ensuring safer surgeries and promoting faster recovery for individuals undergoing skin transplantation procedures.

AeroShield specializes in the production of a super-insulating, nanoporous glass material designed for energy-efficient windows. This innovative material, made from silica aerogel, provides optical clarity akin to traditional glass while delivering insulation performance that is 50% superior to standard windows. By integrating AeroShield's technology between two glass panes, manufacturers can significantly enhance the thermal efficiency of their products. Additionally, the payback period for AeroShield-enhanced windows is up to five times faster than that of comparable high-performance windows, making it an attractive option for both manufacturers and consumers. This focus on sustainability and energy efficiency supports industry compliance goals and improves overall product performance.

SolGro is a company specializing in the development of nanomaterials and nanotechnology aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity. It focuses on creating innovative greenhouse canopies that incorporate advanced nanomaterials into the glazing. This technology effectively converts wasted sunlight into usable light, thereby boosting photosynthesis in plants. As a result, farmers benefit from reduced harvest times, increased crop yields, and improved quality of produce. SolGro's services encompass a range of applications, including agriculture, greenhouse technology, and plastics, all designed to optimize light utilization and enhance crop production.

ZeoVation Inc., founded in 2016 and located in Columbus, Ohio, specializes in the production of nanozeolites and hierarchical zeolites. These advanced materials are designed to enhance a variety of consumer products, including skin care lotions, sunscreens, and laundry detergents, by improving the efficiency of water softeners and filtration systems. ZeoVation also supplies zeolite materials to various markets such as sun and skin care, home care, healthcare, coatings, and water and gas purification. The company focuses on developing innovative solutions, including a controlled-release antimicrobial and antiviral particle that can be integrated into various applications like sprays, coatings, and textiles. This technology aims to combat the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, thereby contributing to safer and cleaner products.

Multiscale Systems produces industrial innovations through technical engineering services and a robust in-house R&D program. The company specializes in metamaterial composites and focuses on advanced manufacturing.

Nanochon is focused on creating innovative implantable medical devices designed to address cartilage damage in joints. Utilizing advanced 3D printing techniques and a unique nanomaterial, the company aims to develop solutions that not only replace lost and damaged cartilage but also promote the growth of new tissue. This approach allows medical practitioners to access cost-effective and on-demand devices that enhance treatment outcomes, particularly for young and active patients suffering from knee injuries and diseases. Through its technology, Nanochon seeks to improve the overall quality of care in orthopedics.

EMet Nanotech speeds up the conventional cryo-EM sample preparation process by up to 20X to create more effective therapies for biopharma.

Swistor specializes in the development of high energy and ultra fast-charging battery replacements, utilizing carbon nanotube supercapacitors to enhance charging speed and extend battery life. The company aims to provide solutions that allow electronic devices to charge in under two minutes while ensuring the use of environmentally friendly and safe materials. Targeting major mobile phone manufacturers and the growing sector of self-powered IoT devices, Swistor seeks to enable businesses to offer superior battery performance in their products, promoting sustainability and efficiency in energy storage solutions.

Resistell AG, founded in 2018 and located in Muttenz, Switzerland, develops and markets a diagnostic device for antibiotic susceptibility testing. Utilizing nanomotion technology, the device detects the movement of living bacterial cells to assess their resistance to antibiotics, offering a rapid alternative to traditional culture-based methods. This innovative approach allows for timely and accurate identification of the most effective antibiotics for patients, addressing the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance.

Folia Water is a manufacturing company dedicated to producing affordable water filters designed to enhance access to clean drinking water, particularly for underserved populations. The company's flagship product, Folia Filters™, utilizes antimicrobial filter paper embedded with silver nanoparticles to effectively reduce waterborne pathogens. With a focus on cost efficiency, Folia Water employs a patented coating process that transforms standard industrial paper into a highly functional material, enabling the production of filters at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods. By leveraging large-scale paper machinery, Folia Water aims to improve the quality of life for working-class consumers by providing them with a low-cost solution for purified drinking water.

ALAnostics is a biopharmaceutical company that specializes in oncodiagnostics, originating as a spin-off from the University of Geneva. The company focuses on developing innovative tumour painting technology designed to assist surgeons in the real-time identification and removal of breast cancer during surgery. By utilizing nanomedicines for fluorescence-guided surgery, along with 5-ALA prodrugs for photodynamic therapy and light-activated antimicrobials, ALAnostics aims to enhance the accuracy of tumor removal, ultimately improving patient outcomes and saving lives.

DetraPel, Inc. is a cleantech advanced materials company founded in 2013 and based in Framingham, Massachusetts. The company specializes in producing hydrophobic liquid repellent sprays that protect various objects from spills and stains. Utilizing nanotechnology, DetraPel's innovative coatings are PFAS-free and designed to repel dirt effectively while being non-flammable, non-toxic, and non-corrosive. These properties ensure that the product is safe for use on fabrics and shoes, without compromising their texture or material integrity. DetraPel's offerings are also resistant to ultraviolet light, rust, and ice, making them versatile cleaning solutions for consumers seeking to maintain the appearance and longevity of their belongings.

Blue Fairy Med is a manufacturer of innovative wearable medical devices designed for the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The company specializes in a unique system that integrates wires, adhesive electrodes, sensors, and textiles into a single soft garment. This device facilitates wireless monitoring of vital signs for premature infants, enhancing the ability of healthcare providers to track and manage their well-being. By offering a seamless and comprehensive approach to infant care, Blue Fairy Med aims to transform treatment methodologies, improve patient outcomes, and establish new standards of care for vulnerable newborns.

SurgePower Materials is a green technology company that produces high purity graphene, a specialty carbon based nanomaterial, from a renewable resource, by using cost effective and eco-friendly process. SurgePower Materials is well positioned to develop and commercialize manufacturing of specialty carbon based nanomaterials, and redefine the graphene market, and be a leader in the global graphene market. With their dedicated and experienced team consisting of inventors, business directors, project managers and researchers, the best of SurgePower Materials is yet to come.

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.

Nanosynex is a diagnostic test that checks bacterial resistance to antibiotics in a record time, using a phenotypic approach that involves microfluidic techniques and fluorescent-based analysis. The test helps doctors determine faster (same-day results) the most appropriate antibiotic treatment for their patients, helping them recover in a shorter time and preventing the spread of resistant bacteria in the environment. By limiting prolonged hospitalization, Nanosynex allows to save significant healthcare costs.

Nanogence SA, established in 2017 and located in Renens, Switzerland, specializes in the development of innovative material solutions for the construction industry. The company focuses on creating synthetic, tailor-made materials that enhance the performance and sustainability of construction applications, including cement and concrete. By leveraging advanced knowledge in chemistry, material science, and nanotechnology, Nanogence has developed patented additive formulations that significantly improve the binding efficiency of cement and concrete while reducing carbon emissions by up to 50%. This enables manufacturers to achieve valuable cost savings, enhance durability, and contribute to more sustainable construction practices in a rapidly growing global market.

NerveSolutions is a biomedical technology company innovating implantable nerve interface devices.

IbtiCare specializes in advanced antibacterial technology that utilizes Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) to create coatings with nanoparticles that render surfaces antibacterial. This innovative solution effectively targets and eliminates a broad spectrum of dangerous bacteria, including those resistant to conventional drugs. The technology is designed to be fast-reactive, durable, and stable, ensuring long-lasting protection for various surfaces. IbtiCare's antibacterial solution has successfully passed clinical trials and has received validation from leaders in the healthcare sector, positioning it as a superior alternative to traditional antibacterial methods. The company's mission is to combat bacterial infections and enhance safety across multiple environments.

Klahas is developing nanosensors for gas detection. To date billions of people mainly in cities unknowingly breath polluted air. The gas sensor market worth $2.5B has 6% annual growth. Their patented technology, a nano-sized molecule based gas sensor for dangerous gases (NOx, NH3, COx, benzol) monitors air pollution and can be integrated in smart devices, especially wearables. Standard fabrication technologies are used to fabricate a low power consumption, highly sensitive nanotech sensors that will enter a market with annual growth rate of 10-15%.

Biomicrogels Group is a developer and patent holder of biomicrogels, innovative materials derived from agricultural waste such as sugar beet, apple, and sunflower pomace. The company focuses on addressing global environmental and climate change challenges through its biomicrogel-based solutions, which are effective in various applications including produced water treatment, cutting fluid separation, vegetable oil extraction, and cleaning oil spills on land and at sea. Additionally, Biomicrogels Group manufactures a range of eco-friendly household cleaning products under the brand WONDERLAB. Their technology features nanoscale organic polymer particles that possess surface-active properties, enabling them to encapsulate and separate mineral and vegetable oils and fats from water or solid surfaces, thereby facilitating efficient purification and recycling processes.

Lux Labs specializes in the development of advanced optical materials through innovative nanophotonics and polymer fabrication techniques. The company has created a transparent display technology that allows users to transform ordinary windows or clear surfaces into fully functional projection displays. This technology incorporates optical angular selective films and wavelength-selective scattering films, enabling the retrofitting of any clear substrate into an effective transparent display. By leveraging these cutting-edge methods, Lux Labs aims to redefine how visual information is presented in everyday environments.

ConquerX is a biotechnology company that specializes in innovative molecular profiling solutions aimed at enhancing clinical trials in precision medicine. The company offers a flagship product, the EbeGen, which is an electro-chemical biosensor capable of simultaneously detecting various molecular targets, including DNAs, RNAs, and mirRNAs, without the need for sequencing or qPCR. This technology is ten times more cost-effective compared to traditional methods. Additionally, ConquerX has developed a pan-cancer test designed to differentiate between cancerous and healthy cells. Using high-throughput genomic and proteomic profiling along with proprietary nanotechnology, this tool enables oncologists to screen established biomarkers across various cancer types, thereby improving the accuracy and efficiency of cancer diagnoses.

HICS Inc., founded in 2014, specializes in real-time nano accuracy measurement and inspection. The company has developed advanced machine vision technologies, specifically 3D-NDM/R and 3D-NDM/T, which are designed to measure and inspect nanoscale depths with precision. This innovative technology allows for the quantitative assessment of 3D nanoscale defects and foreign materials, offering LED panel manufacturers effective solutions for rigid nano inspections. HICS aims to revolutionize the nano industry, particularly in the machine vision sector, by enhancing speed and accuracy in measurement and inspection processes.

Inspecto Solutions Ltd specializes in developing a portable nanoscale scanner designed to detect food contaminants quickly and cost-effectively. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Israel, the company provides an application that serves a wide range of stakeholders in the food industry, including farmers, producers, suppliers, buyers, retailers, and quality assurers. Inspecto's technology overcomes the limitations of traditional laboratory methods, allowing users to identify contaminants in minutes rather than relying on lengthy sampling processes. The solution offers real-time analysis of various parameters and integrates cloud storage with blockchain technology to ensure data safety and enhance traceability. By enabling large volumes of scans, Inspecto Solutions aims to improve business performance through effective quality assurance and supply chain management.

BIORASIS was established in Dec. 2007 with an initial goal to commercialize UCONN’s and OSCI’s wireless, needle-implantable, miniaturized (0.5 x 0.5 x 5 mm) sensor platform for real time, continuous glucose monitoring. In addition to glucose monitoring Biorasis is working towards outfitting its sensor platform to monitor other bio-analytes in the body that are important in other disorders such as cardiovascular, cancer, liver, kidney abnormalities, stroke and epilepsy.

Novarials Corporation, based in Woburn, MA, specializes in the large-scale and cost-effective manufacturing of high-quality one-dimensional nanomaterials. The company produces a diverse range of nanomaterials, including ceramic, semiconducting, and metallic nanowires and nanotubes, as well as innovative materials such as nanosheets and nanoporous substances. This extensive selection allows clients to access a vast library of nanomaterials, supporting their research and development needs across various applications.

Vecoy Nanomedicines Ltd., a privately held company, incorporated in Israel in 2010, is a leading company in the application of nanomedicine technologies to the complex issues of viral diseases. The Vecoy technology will fundamentally change the treatment of viral infections by administering novel nano-scale virus-traps that capture and destroy viruses.

EnerLeap is a patented, new lithium ion battery technology. In today's lithium ion batteries, the powder binders break down quickly, stunt performance and jeopardize safety. EnerLeap replaces these inefficient binders with a rigid 2D titanium silicide nanonet. The result is a lighter weight, faster charging, longer lasting and safer battery. We have lab scale prototypes and are currently planning to enter the $12B global lithium ion market through the consumer electronic space.

Cellanyx is focused on advancing cancer diagnostics through innovative technologies that integrate matrix biology, nanomedicine, and engineering principles. The company has developed a live-cell biomarker-based diagnostic test that aids in assessing the oncogenic and metastatic potential of tumors, particularly in prostate, skin, and breast cancers. This diagnostic tool provides physicians with two critical metrics: one that predicts the growth potential of a biopsy and another that evaluates its metastatic risk. By offering objective prognostic information at the point of diagnosis, Cellanyx enhances treatment decision-making for patients who are being monitored or are surgical candidates. Additionally, Cellanyx aims to leverage its technology for compound discovery, creating cell-based assays that can identify less toxic and more effective compounds to inhibit cancer cell growth and metastasis, ultimately supporting the development of personalized therapeutic strategies.

Cerahelix, Inc. is a company based in Orono, Maine, that specializes in the design and manufacture of ceramic membrane filters for a variety of applications, including water purification, resource recycling, and biomass processing. Founded in 2011, Cerahelix develops bio-derived products utilizing patented DNA template technology to create sub-nanometer pores in ceramic membranes. This innovative approach allows for the effective filtration of minute particles, enabling the separation of salts, metal ions, and other impurities at the molecular level. The company offers a range of products, including single-channel elements for laboratory and small pilot studies, multi-channel elements for commercial applications, and filter element housings. Additionally, Cerahelix provides laboratory test systems for research and development purposes. Its products serve multiple industries, including food and beverage, mining, pharmaceuticals, and waste-to-energy.

Fluorescent Nanoscopy is a breakthrough technology for optical microscopy suited for live cell imaging with tens times enhanced resolution. It helps develop new drugs and materials, achieve breakthrough results in fundamental research and to improve clinical and QA tests. This can be done by both increasing resolution in cell research and increasing data density on surfaces of microarrays. The technology has a strong IP protection and gives an opportunity to create new markets.

NanoLab brings world-class molecular diagnostics into the point of care market. They have a patent pending device capable of becoming a fully featured platform diagnostic tool. They also have an attractive, $1.2 billion initial market with cardiac enzyme panel tests to diagnose heart attacks. They use nanoscale magnetic sensors and tags to achieve sensitivities over 20 times greater than the current gold standard, with results available in 15 minutes in a purely portable package.

At Privo Technologies, they are developing an entirely new class of targeted treatments such as chemotherapy drugs, radiation sensitizers and radiation protectors and mitigators. Their proprietary nano-engineered platform is based on innovations in nanotechnology and material science discovered at MIT's Langer laboratory. Privo's platform is designed to create robust treatments for a wide range of indications while reducing or limiting the treatments harmful side effects. They deliver drugs via the mucosa with the initial focus on oral cavity mucosa. They are excited about building a pipeline of treatments with a range of product candidates in oncology, infectious diseases, and radiation. Their initial product candidate is a treatment for the critically underserved worldwide market of oral cancer. They are developing their novel targeted treatments for worldwide markets at their facilities in the greater Boston area.