NorthSpring Capital Partners

DarwinAI Corp. is a Canadian company that specializes in artificial intelligence technology, particularly in the development of deep neural networks for enterprise applications. Founded in 2017 and based in Waterloo, the company offers GenSynth, a software platform designed for developers and data scientists to streamline the deep learning development process. GenSynth employs generative synthesis technology, allowing for the automatic creation of optimized, explainable AI models that meet specific performance criteria while ensuring transparency throughout the development stages. Additionally, DarwinAI has developed an AI-powered visual quality inspection system aimed at enhancing the PCBA manufacturing lifecycle. This system leverages specialized optics and advanced algorithms to detect defects in products, improving quality and consistency while reducing costs for manufacturers.

Forcen develops and manufactures force-sensing film for various industries, including surgical robotics, industrial robotics, and aerospace. Its film can be integrated into parts or assemblies of devices in these sectors, providing real-time force feedback. Founded in 2015, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

Yourika Labs is a Canadian company based in Waterloo, established in 2016, that specializes in developing artificial intelligence-based platforms focused on enhancing online learning experiences. By leveraging extensive AI research from the University of Waterloo, the company has created its proprietary platform, ORBITS, which aims to improve remote learning for high school, university, and college students. The platform offers real-time personalized content for STEM subjects, identifying specific learning gaps and providing machine-powered tutoring that mimics human interaction. Additionally, it delivers valuable learning analytics to instructors, facilitating better engagement between students and teachers while optimizing time management in the educational process.

Forcen develops and manufactures force-sensing film for various industries, including surgical robotics, industrial robotics, and aerospace. Its film can be integrated into parts or assemblies of devices in these sectors, providing real-time force feedback. Founded in 2015, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

Underknown is a Toronto-based digital media company that focuses on producing short-form web series for social video platforms. The company specializes in creating data-driven content that simplifies complex subjects related to science, history, geography, and culture, aiming to educate and inspire creative thinking among its audience. Underknown's mission is to deliver fun and engaging educational material that enhances understanding of various topics, allowing viewers to explore hypothetical worlds and possibilities through its diverse range of documentary-style content. By leveraging multiple social media channels, Underknown effectively reaches a global audience with its innovative approach to digital storytelling.

Nicoya Lifesciences Inc. is a Canadian company based in Kitchener that specializes in developing advanced sensor products for the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Founded in 2012, Nicoya creates instruments designed to analyze biomolecular interactions, including proteins, antibodies, DNA, RNA, and small molecules. Their product lineup includes surface plasmon resonance (SPR) instruments, spectrophotometers, sensor chips, reagents, and accessories, as well as the OpenSPR, a personal label-free biomolecular analysis instrument. In addition to hardware, Nicoya offers software solutions for real-time kinetic analysis, instrument control, and optical peak tracking, enhancing the capabilities of their analytical tools.

RYSE, formerly known as AXIS Labs, Inc., specializes in the automation of window shades through its innovative product, Gear. This device allows users to motorize and automate their existing window shades quickly and efficiently. Gear has been recognized as the 2017 Motorized Product of the Year by the Consumer Technology Association, highlighting its impact in the industry. The accompanying mobile application, compatible with both iOS and Android platforms, enables users to control and schedule their shades conveniently from their smartphones. Headquartered in Toronto, with additional offices in New York City and Shenzhen, RYSE aims to revolutionize the window shade market by integrating smart technology into everyday products.

Intellijoint Surgical Inc. is a Canadian medical device company founded in 2010 and headquartered in Waterloo, Canada. The company specializes in orthopedic surgical solutions, particularly with its flagship product, Intellijoint HIP. This miniaturized system aids orthopedic surgeons in the selection, positioning, and alignment of implants during hip replacement surgeries. Utilizing a combination of hardware and software, the device incorporates miniature optical sensors and microelectronics to provide quantitative intra-operative data on cup position, leg length, and offset. By offering this real-time feedback, Intellijoint HIP enhances surgical accuracy and improves patient outcomes while minimally impacting surgical workflow. The system is designed to be cost-effective and user-friendly, adding approximately 3-5 minutes to the surgical procedure. Intellijoint Surgical's innovations in orthopedic navigation have garnered recognition, including the North American Frost & Sullivan Enabling Technology Leadership Award in 2016.