National Science Foundation

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency established in 1950 and based in Alexandria, Virginia. It is dedicated to supporting research and education in science and engineering across a wide range of disciplines. The NSF provides significant non-dilutive funding, up to $1.5 million, to startups and small businesses through its America's Seed Fund initiative, which is part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program mandated by Congress. With an operating budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF is committed to advancing fundamental research and education, thus fostering innovation and technological development in the United States.

James Donlon

Program Director

Debasis Majumdar

Program Director

Graciela Narcho

Staff Associate

Sethuraman Panchanathan

Director

Past deals in Skincare

Superior Nano

Grant in 2022
Superior Nano specializes in the development and manufacturing of topical skincare products that leverage advanced nanotechnology. The company's offerings include serums and moisturizers designed to enhance skin appearance and health. These products combine multiple anti-aging ingredients into a single formulation, effectively targeting concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and overall skin firmness. By utilizing this innovative approach, Superior Nano aims to provide consumers with effective solutions for achieving a more radiant complexion without resorting to invasive procedures.

Canomiks

Grant in 2022
Canomiks operates a genomics and artificial intelligence-based technology platform that focuses on testing and certifying the biological efficacy and safety of ingredients and formulations. Its services cater to the functional food and beverage, dietary supplement, and skincare industries, allowing companies to develop safe and effective products efficiently. By leveraging omics science, data analytics, machine learning, and bioinformatics, Canomiks streamlines the validation process for product efficacy, ultimately enabling clients to enhance product quality while reducing development time and costs. The company's long-term vision is to actualize the concept of food as medicine.

SunFly Brands

Grant in 2021
SunFly Brands, Inc. is a Seattle-based company that specializes in developing innovative solutions to improve sunscreen application and enhance sun safety. Founded in 2016, the company creates invisible ink stamps and ultraviolet indicator stamps designed to be worn under sunscreen. These stamps change color to signal users when it is time to reapply sunscreen, addressing a critical issue where many individuals apply only a third of the recommended amount and fail to reapply frequently enough. This behavior contributes to excessive UV exposure, leading to sunburns, skin cancers, and premature skin aging. With skin cancer being the most prevalent cancer in the U.S., SunFly Brands aims to raise awareness and encourage safer sun practices through their unique products.

Seaspire Skincare

Grant in 2021
Seaspire Skincare specializes in the development and manufacturing of multifunctional colorants and active ingredients derived from oceanic biodiversity. The company focuses on creating innovative solutions to address chronic and cosmetic hair and skin conditions while aiming to replace harmful components in traditional sunscreens. One of its key products features the biomolecule Xanthochrome, which provides enhanced protection against a wider spectrum of ultraviolet radiation compared to existing physical and chemical filters. This technology is designed for preventative skincare, promoting a healthier approach that minimizes adverse effects on both human and marine health. Through its sustainable and less toxic formulations, Seaspire Skincare contributes to advancing the skincare industry towards safer and environmentally friendly practices.

BioAesthetics

Grant in 2021
BioAesthetics LLC, founded in 2015 as a spin-out from Tulane University, is focused on developing innovative reconstruction options for breast cancer patients following mastectomies. The company specializes in a tissue-engineered nipple-areolar complex (NAC) that serves as an acellular graft to be used by plastic and reconstructive surgeons during the breast reconstruction phase. This product allows the patient's own cells to integrate with the graft, facilitating the regeneration of a natural nipple and areola. Currently in the pre-clinical phase, this patent-pending technology aims to provide a more effective and aesthetically pleasing solution for patients who have experienced incomplete or removed NACs due to illness, surgery, or congenital conditions. BioAesthetics is headquartered in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

ZeoVation

Grant in 2020
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.

Benanova

Grant in 2020
Benanova specializes in developing environmentally benign nanoparticle systems for various industries, including disinfectants, cosmetics, and agriculture. The company's innovative Environmentally-benign Nanoparticles (EbNPs) are crafted from natural materials, offering high efficacy while being safe for both humans and the environment. These proprietary nanoparticles are reportedly 100 times more effective than traditional nanosilver, positioning them as advanced alternatives for antimicrobial and antifungal applications. Benanova is also working on customized solutions aimed at reducing chemical use in agricultural practices by up to 90%, thus minimizing environmental impact and costs associated with crop protection. The technology behind these products was developed by researchers at North Carolina State University, and the focus on sustainable, advanced functionality reflects Benanova's commitment to creating lasting benefits for consumers, society, and nature.

Rochal Industries

Grant in 2020
Rochal Industries LLC is a research-oriented company based in San Antonio, Texas, specializing in the development and manufacturing of biomaterials for the wound care and eye care industries. Founded in 2014, the company focuses on creating antimicrobial materials designed to reduce opportunistic pathogens and biofilms. Rochal Industries provides a range of transformative products aimed at wound re-epithelialization, necrotic tissue debridement, and transdermal drug delivery. The company is committed to advancing healthcare solutions from initial concept through preclinical and clinical development while adhering to quality and regulatory standards.

Benanova

Grant in 2020
Benanova specializes in developing environmentally benign nanoparticle systems for various industries, including disinfectants, cosmetics, and agriculture. The company's innovative Environmentally-benign Nanoparticles (EbNPs) are crafted from natural materials, offering high efficacy while being safe for both humans and the environment. These proprietary nanoparticles are reportedly 100 times more effective than traditional nanosilver, positioning them as advanced alternatives for antimicrobial and antifungal applications. Benanova is also working on customized solutions aimed at reducing chemical use in agricultural practices by up to 90%, thus minimizing environmental impact and costs associated with crop protection. The technology behind these products was developed by researchers at North Carolina State University, and the focus on sustainable, advanced functionality reflects Benanova's commitment to creating lasting benefits for consumers, society, and nature.

HelioBioSys

Grant in 2020
HelioBioSys is a biotechnology company that specializes in marine cyanobacteria. The company uses marine cyanobacteria that grow on air, seawater, and sunlight. They produce a variety of complex biopolymers. HelioBioSys has developed cost-effective ways to harvest and process them into concentrated polysaccharides and hydrogels. These sustainably-derived biomaterials have applications in cosmetics, sunscreens and bioplastics.

Gadusol Laboratories

Grant in 2019
Gadusol Laboratories, based in Corvallis, Oregon, is a startup focused on developing non-toxic sunscreens through the use of patented synthetic biology technology. The company specializes in producing natural sunscreen antioxidants derived from marine organisms, specifically gadusol, which is utilized by aquatic creatures to protect themselves from sunburn. As concerns about the environmental and health impacts of conventional sunscreen ingredients grow, Gadusol Laboratories aims to provide safe, effective, and comfortable alternatives for consumers.

Gadusol Laboratories

Seed Round in 2019
Gadusol Laboratories, based in Corvallis, Oregon, is a startup focused on developing non-toxic sunscreens through the use of patented synthetic biology technology. The company specializes in producing natural sunscreen antioxidants derived from marine organisms, specifically gadusol, which is utilized by aquatic creatures to protect themselves from sunburn. As concerns about the environmental and health impacts of conventional sunscreen ingredients grow, Gadusol Laboratories aims to provide safe, effective, and comfortable alternatives for consumers.

Bluelene

Grant in 2019
Bluelene is an online retailer specializing in face care products that focus on anti-aging and skin health. The company utilizes a patented ingredient, methylene blue, which penetrates human cells to enhance mitochondrial function. This innovative approach not only improves overall skin health but also aids in repairing aging damage and protecting against sun exposure. Bluelene's formulations are designed to extend the lifespan of skin cells, thereby promoting better connective tissue and facilitating wound healing. Their products cater to both men and women, offering effective solutions for maintaining healthy skin.

ZeoVation

Grant in 2019
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.

Cybele Microbiome

Grant in 2019
Cybele Microbiome is a company focused on enhancing skin health through precision control of the microbiome. Utilizing a proprietary AI platform that integrates machine learning with advanced biotechnology, Cybele Microbiome develops customized skincare products aimed at improving the skin's natural barrier. The company's approach includes genetic sequencing methods and the use of sustainable nutrient sources to create targeted natural solutions that support the microbiome. By leveraging AI tools and microbiome science, Cybele Microbiome seeks to revolutionize skincare, enabling customers to maintain skin integrity while promoting overall health and longevity.

HelioBioSys

Grant in 2018
HelioBioSys is a biotechnology company that specializes in marine cyanobacteria. The company uses marine cyanobacteria that grow on air, seawater, and sunlight. They produce a variety of complex biopolymers. HelioBioSys has developed cost-effective ways to harvest and process them into concentrated polysaccharides and hydrogels. These sustainably-derived biomaterials have applications in cosmetics, sunscreens and bioplastics.

Benanova

Grant in 2018
Benanova specializes in developing environmentally benign nanoparticle systems for various industries, including disinfectants, cosmetics, and agriculture. The company's innovative Environmentally-benign Nanoparticles (EbNPs) are crafted from natural materials, offering high efficacy while being safe for both humans and the environment. These proprietary nanoparticles are reportedly 100 times more effective than traditional nanosilver, positioning them as advanced alternatives for antimicrobial and antifungal applications. Benanova is also working on customized solutions aimed at reducing chemical use in agricultural practices by up to 90%, thus minimizing environmental impact and costs associated with crop protection. The technology behind these products was developed by researchers at North Carolina State University, and the focus on sustainable, advanced functionality reflects Benanova's commitment to creating lasting benefits for consumers, society, and nature.

Gadusol Laboratories

Grant in 2017
Gadusol Laboratories, based in Corvallis, Oregon, is a startup focused on developing non-toxic sunscreens through the use of patented synthetic biology technology. The company specializes in producing natural sunscreen antioxidants derived from marine organisms, specifically gadusol, which is utilized by aquatic creatures to protect themselves from sunburn. As concerns about the environmental and health impacts of conventional sunscreen ingredients grow, Gadusol Laboratories aims to provide safe, effective, and comfortable alternatives for consumers.

Manus Bio

Grant in 2017
Manus Bio Inc. is a biotechnology company that specializes in recreating plant processes in microorganisms to produce natural ingredients through advanced fermentation technology. Founded in 2011 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes a combination of metabolic engineering, protein engineering, and systems biology to develop microbes capable of generating a variety of plant-based ingredients. These ingredients have diverse applications, including flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, cosmetics, vitamins, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemicals. Manus Bio operates manufacturing facilities in Cambridge and Augusta, Georgia, and has established a strategic partnership with BBGI Public Company Limited. The company was previously known as Manus Biosynthesis, Inc. before changing its name in June 2018.

InnovaNutra

Grant in 2017
InnovaNutra, founded in 2015 and headquartered in Davis, California, specializes in bio-based encapsulation food technology aimed at enhancing the bioaccessibility of nutrients and phytochemicals for food and medicinal applications. The company offers a cloud-based software-as-a-service product suite that formulates concentrated amounts of health-promoting nutrients while mitigating undesirable flavors such as bitterness or astringency. This innovative technology enables businesses to enhance the shelf-life and delivery of sensitive natural ingredients used in food and skincare products, facilitating the development of clean label offerings in the food and cosmetic sectors.

Renuvix

Grant in 2016
Renuvix is a manufacturer of bio-based resins and polymers, catering to formulators in various industries including paints, coatings, composites, adhesives, cosmetics, and personal care products. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota, the company focuses on developing innovative resin and synthetic rubber solutions. Renuvix's products enable formulators to achieve lower volatile organic compound emissions in paints and coatings, while also enhancing the performance characteristics of thermosets through high cross-link density.

InnovaNutra

Grant in 2015
InnovaNutra, founded in 2015 and headquartered in Davis, California, specializes in bio-based encapsulation food technology aimed at enhancing the bioaccessibility of nutrients and phytochemicals for food and medicinal applications. The company offers a cloud-based software-as-a-service product suite that formulates concentrated amounts of health-promoting nutrients while mitigating undesirable flavors such as bitterness or astringency. This innovative technology enables businesses to enhance the shelf-life and delivery of sensitive natural ingredients used in food and skincare products, facilitating the development of clean label offerings in the food and cosmetic sectors.

Renuvix

Grant in 2014
Renuvix is a manufacturer of bio-based resins and polymers, catering to formulators in various industries including paints, coatings, composites, adhesives, cosmetics, and personal care products. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota, the company focuses on developing innovative resin and synthetic rubber solutions. Renuvix's products enable formulators to achieve lower volatile organic compound emissions in paints and coatings, while also enhancing the performance characteristics of thermosets through high cross-link density.

Manus Bio

Grant in 2013
Manus Bio Inc. is a biotechnology company that specializes in recreating plant processes in microorganisms to produce natural ingredients through advanced fermentation technology. Founded in 2011 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes a combination of metabolic engineering, protein engineering, and systems biology to develop microbes capable of generating a variety of plant-based ingredients. These ingredients have diverse applications, including flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, cosmetics, vitamins, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemicals. Manus Bio operates manufacturing facilities in Cambridge and Augusta, Georgia, and has established a strategic partnership with BBGI Public Company Limited. The company was previously known as Manus Biosynthesis, Inc. before changing its name in June 2018.

Rubitection

Grant in 2013
Rubitection Inc. is a company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializing in early assessment and management of skin health, particularly focusing on the prevention of bedsores and diabetic foot ulcers. Founded in 2010, Rubitection has developed the Rubitect Assessment System, a handheld device designed for caregivers, doctors, and nurses to detect early signs of skin issues. This system provides features such as risk analytics, remote monitoring, and care plan management, allowing users to measure changes in tissue properties and assess overall skin health. Rubitection aims to establish itself as the global standard for skin health monitoring and care management, applicable not only in wound care but also in dermatology and cosmetic fields.

Manus Bio

Grant in 2012
Manus Bio Inc. is a biotechnology company that specializes in recreating plant processes in microorganisms to produce natural ingredients through advanced fermentation technology. Founded in 2011 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes a combination of metabolic engineering, protein engineering, and systems biology to develop microbes capable of generating a variety of plant-based ingredients. These ingredients have diverse applications, including flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, cosmetics, vitamins, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemicals. Manus Bio operates manufacturing facilities in Cambridge and Augusta, Georgia, and has established a strategic partnership with BBGI Public Company Limited. The company was previously known as Manus Biosynthesis, Inc. before changing its name in June 2018.

Rochal Industries

Grant in 2012
Rochal Industries LLC is a research-oriented company based in San Antonio, Texas, specializing in the development and manufacturing of biomaterials for the wound care and eye care industries. Founded in 2014, the company focuses on creating antimicrobial materials designed to reduce opportunistic pathogens and biofilms. Rochal Industries provides a range of transformative products aimed at wound re-epithelialization, necrotic tissue debridement, and transdermal drug delivery. The company is committed to advancing healthcare solutions from initial concept through preclinical and clinical development while adhering to quality and regulatory standards.

Manus Bio

Grant in 2012
Manus Bio Inc. is a biotechnology company that specializes in recreating plant processes in microorganisms to produce natural ingredients through advanced fermentation technology. Founded in 2011 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company utilizes a combination of metabolic engineering, protein engineering, and systems biology to develop microbes capable of generating a variety of plant-based ingredients. These ingredients have diverse applications, including flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, cosmetics, vitamins, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemicals. Manus Bio operates manufacturing facilities in Cambridge and Augusta, Georgia, and has established a strategic partnership with BBGI Public Company Limited. The company was previously known as Manus Biosynthesis, Inc. before changing its name in June 2018.
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