At SeedSprint, We’re always on the lookout for disruptive innovation in industries like biotech, medtech, chemical and materials, energy, and beyond. Here are five innovations that caught our attention this fall.

(1) Secure AI Labs 

MIT spinout Secure AI Labs (SAIL) has created a platform that encourages greater collaboration in the healthcare industry. The platform enables organizations to share encrypted patient data protected by SAIL’s AI algorithm. In the end, innovations like SAIL invite broader healthcare discoveries powered by larger, cross-functional data sets that don’t compromise om patient privacy.

(2) Tia

Female-led healthcare company Tia is revolutionizing women’s health with its holistic healthcare service offerings. Tia offers comprehensive primary care, mental health, and gynecology services both in-person and virtually. The company recently raised a $100 million Series B, which the company will use to scale its geographic and demographic reach. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from Tia soon!

(3) Amazon’s Astro

Amazon’s first home robot, Astro, is an interactive surveillance technology intended to monitor your home while you are away. Astro’s movement is limited to the home and the owner can remotely access its camera and microphone. Amazon plans to bring Astro to market soon, so keep your eyes peeled!

(4) UPS drone delivery

UPS’ Flight Forward drone service recently received government approval to service commercial entities, including hospitals and college campuses. This milestone marks a national adoption of drones as a means of streamlining and maximizing delivery service capabilities. Are residential drone deliveries next? UPS thinks they’re not far off!

(5) Spring Health

April Koh, CEO of mental health platform Spring Health, recently became the youngest female multi-billion-dollar startup leader as the company secured a $190 million Series C. Koh started Spring Health in response to the financial inaccessibility of mental health services and the lack of digital mental health options. Now, she is determined to establish Spring Health as a sustainable public service that offers expansive mental health benefits. We can wait to see what’s next for KOhn and her team.

Innovation happens fast and it can be difficult to keep up with all the exciting developments happening every day. Subscribe to our newsletter for monthly updates on the latest in innovation and more from our community.

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The segment of “Emerging technology startups profiled on SeedSprint” features five life science companies whose tech is innovating treatment and detection efforts in various areas of health, from cancer to neurodegenerative diseases. These companies’ technologies evidence how small, molecular interventions can alter the human life course and display the power of life science R&D in affecting broad, evolutionary change. Read about their impact here!

(1) TargetGene Biotechnologies (Indication(s): Various; Based in Israel)

TargetGene has developed a precise gene-editing platform to treat and cure diseases by permanently editing patients’ DNA. The TargetGene Genome-Editing Engine (TGEE) uses two guide RNAs and allows for greater specificity, safety, and efficiency than existing treatments. As a result, it is possible to treat diseases with only a single treatment as opposed to chronic therapy. At present, Targtene’s TGEE system has been successfully implemented in human cell lines. The company hopes to apply it to human gene therapy soon. View SeedSprint Profile.

(2) Nyrada (Indication(s): Cardiovascular, Neuroscience, and Inflammatory; Based in Australia)

Nyrada is developing novel small molecule drugs for cardiovascular, neuroprotection, and inflammation treatments. The company’s cardiovascular program uses a PCSK9 inhibitor to treat high blood LDL-cholesterol levels in patients who cannot take statin drugs. The neuroprotection program aims to develop a drug that will limit the number of brain cells that die after a stroke or traumatic brain injury, hence reducing the associated long-term disability and improving patient outcomes. Nyrada is also developing drugs to treat inflammation in the cases of peripheral neuropathy and autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis. View SeedSprint Profile.

(3) PPB Technology (Indication(s): Various; Based in Australia)

PPB Technology has developed CYBERTONGUE®, a device that can detect lactose and proteases in milk samples in a matter of minutes. This allows producers to quickly test their supply to ensure quality and safety for consumption. CYBERTONGUE®’s biosensor technology is currently being expanded to detect other targets, including allergens, hormones, toxins, antibiotics, and biomarkers for various diseases. The company hopes to further develop its technology for applications in environmental monitoring, biosecurity, and health. View SeedSprint Profile.

(4) ADx Neurosciences (Indication(s): Neuroscience; Based in Belgium)

ADx Neurosciences is developing tailor-made biomarker assays to detect neurodegenerative diseases before symptoms appear. Their solutions are designed to fit individual needs and are scalable and suited for clinical use. This allows In Vitro Diagnostics (IVD) companies to focus on drug development with the need for specific biomarkers already resolved. ADx’s portfolio includes biomarkers that detect Alzheimer’s pathology, neuronal damage, synapse degeneration, Lewy bodies, and more. The company is currently working towards ISO certification of its antibody production process. View SeedSprint Profile.

(5) Cellestia Biotech (Indication(s): Oncology; Based in Switzerland)

Cellestia is developing therapies to control pathogenic gene expression in cancer and autoimmune diseases. Their therapies involve selective inhibition of transcription factors in the cell nucleus which were previously undruggable targets. Recent advances have allowed for the identification of molecule binding pockets in these transcription factors that can be targeted with small molecule drugs. Their lead compound, CB-103, is currently in Phase 2 clinical development and is successfully treating patients with ACC, T-ALL, breast cancer, and rare NOTCH-positive tumors. View SeedSprint Profile.

Now more than ever, amidst Covid-19, the life sciences sector plays an essential role in preserving and improving global health. SeedSprint has a growing number of life science startups and technologies like these, and we are excited to see the impact their tech will continue to make.

Interested in learning more about the thousands of companies and technologies on SeedSprint? Keep an eye out for more segments “Emerging technology startups profiled on SeedSprint!”

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Medtech is an exciting field and is one of the fastest-growing sectors on SeedSprint. From wearables to interventional devices, to digital health and beyond, medtech is at the forefront of innovation. Here are six devices that have the potential to diagnose conditions faster, treat disease more accurately, and facilitate overall better health and patient care. 

(1) Articulate Labs (Focus: Orthopedics; Based in Dallas, Texas)

2020 Texas A&M New Ventures Competition semi-finalist and 2019 TechConnect Defense Innovation Award-winning company Articulate Labs is developing the wearable KneeStim device. KneeStim provides personalized, data-driven physical therapy. Worn around the knee, the device uses machine learning to analyze patient movement. Based on these movements, the device responds with directed neuromuscular electrical stimulation. KneeStim provides data to enable more personalized physical therapy that can be performed daily or as needed while being directed remotely by professional therapists. Ultimately, this style of physical therapy is more convenient and has the potential to increase compliance and improve post-surgery outcomes. At present, the KneeStim prototype has undergone a feasibility study. We can’t wait to see what’s next for Articulate Labs! View SeedSprint profile.

(2) Ergosuture (Focus: Surgical; Based in Boston, Massachusetts)

Ergosuture aims to improve deep-tissue suturing with its first product, Drive’N Roll. This handheld device uses rollers to grip the needle at the tip of the device. As such, sutures can be placed in any direction. In addition to allowing for minimally invasive suturing, surgeons can learn to operate the Drive’N Roll more easily than other handheld devices. Ultimately, the device makes suturing less expensive than robotic-assisted suturing. Moreover, their device is easy to maneuver, less strenuous to use, and faster than suturing by hand. View SeedSprint profile.

(3) Vixiar Medical (Focus: Cardiovascular; Based in Baltimore, Maryland)

Johns Hopkins spinout, Vixiar Medical, is developing a non-invasive, point-of-care system to monitor heart disease. The system consists of a device paired with a mobile app. The Vixiar Indicor utilizes a finger photoplethysmography sensor to determine intrathoracic volume by measuring pulse response to the Valsalva maneuver. Since pulse response changes in patients before more obvious symptoms appear, the company hopes to detect changes in cardiac health earlier. This way, the treating physician can make more informed decisions for patients with cardiopulmonary disease. So far, this technology has been tested in multiple clinical studies with promising results. View SeedSprint profile.

(4) Jogo Health (Focus: Digital Health, Orthopedics; Based in Bridgewater, New Jersey)

Jogo Health bridges cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality with physiotherapy through its wearable and connected mobile app. The technology takes advantage of neuroplasticity to rewire the brain to strengthen muscles and reduce pain. The company’s digital treatments can be used to treat neuromuscular conditions such as stroke, cerebral palsy, and chronic pain. Currently, Jogo Health is developing and commercializing several digital therapeutics that treat these conditions and more. View SeedSprint profile.

(5) OtoNexus Medical Technologies (Focus: Otology; Based in Seattle, Washington) 

OtoNexus Medical Technologies is revolutionizing the way that middle ear infections are diagnosed with its proprietary ultrasound otoscope. The scope uses Doppler ultrasound which works through the air, rather than a gel. The device collects and analyzes quantitative data on the fluid in the middle ear. This new data then allows physicians to accurately differentiate between viral and bacterial infections. Thus, the doctor can reduce the number of antibiotic prescriptions to only cases where they are necessary. In the end, these improvements to diagnosis decrease health care costs and the over-prescription of antibiotics. View SeedSprint profile.

(6) ThermopeutiX (Focus: Cardiovascular; Based in Poway, California)

ThermopeutiX specializes in catheter devices for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases. The company’s TwinFlo catheter can transform the way an acute stroke is treated by inducing selective hypothermia. The device provides rapid cooling targeted regionally to the brain rather than the entire body. In the end, this rapid cooling provides neuroprotection from hypoxic damage. Further, it does so without side effects that may result from total-body hypothermia. In addition to delivering this quick and selective temperature change, ThermopeutiX’s TwinFlo Catheter can be used to simultaneously deliver therapeutics and diagnostic elements to the brain during the intervention. View SeedSprint profile.

These emerging medtech companies are uniquely poised to drastically improve patient care and health. They represent just a few of the many startups moving the field of medtech forward. Keep your eye out for future installments of Emerging Technology Companies Profiled on SeedSprint and discover more innovative startups with us!

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Clean energy is quite the buzzword these days…but what does it mean? Further, how is it different from energy sources like oil and gas? Read on to learn more about this exciting technology area and some of the emerging clean energy companies you’ll find on SeedSprint!

Clean energy vs. fossil fuels

The majority of the world’s energy comes from the carbon-rich deposits we now call fossil fuels. Fossil fuels include coal, natural gas, and oil. Together, they supply about 80 percent of the world’s energy.

When they are burned, fossil fuels release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. Unfortunately, these greenhouse gases build up in the atmosphere. This buildup causes global temperatures to rise. In the end, burning fossil fuels contributes to environmental damage and climate change.

Further, fossil fuels are non-renewable. As we continue to use them, they run out. By contrast, clean energy recycles the earth’s resources.

Clean, green, sustainable, and renewable

Many people use terms like clean energy, green energy, sustainable energy, and renewable energy interchangeably. However, there are some key differences between these terms.

• Clean Energy is derived from sources and methods that minimize the production of greenhouse gases like carbon.
• Green Energy is derived from natural sources. It minimizes the production of environmental pollutants like carbon.
• Sustainable Energy is derived from sources that will theoretically be able to produce power far into the future.
• Renewable Energy is derived from naturally replenishing sources, such as biofuels.

Around the world, people and companies continue to adopt new power sources. According to Bloomberg New Energy Finance, sustainable energy will account for half of our global energy mix by 2030.

Here are a few of the pioneering clean energy startups profiled on SeedSprint. With their technology, they are working hard to help us meet our growing power demands.

(1) SAFCell (Pasadena, CA, USA)

SAFCell has developed a novel solid acid technology that can be used in fuel cells and hydrogen generators. Using electrocatalytic reactions, the company’s SAFCell stacks convert liquid fuels into electrical energy or hydrogen. The stacks also help minimize carbon emissions. The technology also has several advantages. For example, it can metabolize a variety of different types of fuel. Further, it operates at moderate temperatures is relatively inexpensive. View SeedSprint profile.

(2) Active Energy Systems (Knoxville, TN, USA)

Active Energy Systems’ novel ice thermal storage system makes air conditioning more energy-efficient. The company’s Ice Chiller leverages Icephobic Heat Exchange technology. This innovation repels ice from the cooling surface. This prevents insulating ice from building up. In the end, it cools large spaces at a low cost. View SeedSprint profile.

(3) b.fab (Dortmund, Germany)

b.fab’s proprietary bioproduction platform converts carbon dioxide and hydrogen into value-added chemicals and biofuels. The company produces formic acid from readily available carbon and hydrogen. From there, aerobic or anaerobic microbes convert the formic acid into chemicals. This process is both sustainable and cost-effective. View SeedSprint profile.

(4) 247Solar (Great Falls, VA, USA)

247Solar generates power by heating air to activate microturbines. Any additional heat that is produced is then stored for later use. 247Solar’s solutions can also store energy and generate power in solar, wind, or industrial settings. Ultimately, 247Solar fills the gap between solar energy production and consumption. View SeedSprint profile.

(5) Ionomr Innovations (Vancouver, Canada)

Ion exchange materials are vital to the operation of many clean energy technologies. Unfortunately, many of the traditional materials used contain toxic fluorine. That’s where Ionomr comes in. The company is commercializing a range of novel ion-exchange membranes and polymers. From fuel cells to hydrogen production systems, Ionomr has got you covered. View SeedSprint profile.

Sustainability and innovation

Curious about the impact of sustainability on innovation? Check out our past blog posts on green chemistry technologies, Microsoft’s climate pledge, or General Motors’ commitment to becoming carbon-neutral. Stay tuned for future installments of ‘Emerging technology startups profiled on SeedSprint.” Catch you next time!

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In late May, the SeedSprint team attended the 2021 Texas A&M New Ventures Competition (TNVC). The competition is held annually and is hosted by Texas A&M Innovation Partners and the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station. 

This year’s finals event showcased 6 innovative startups. The companies ranged in technology area from MedTech to Life Science to Computer Science and were chosen from 20 semi-finalists. The winners secured non-dilutive funding and prizes from the competition sponsors. Read on to learn more about this year’s finalists!

(1) Ictero Medical (Technology Area: MedTech)

Ictero Medical is commercializing a safe and effective method to treat gallstones non-surgically. The company’s CholeSafe system is a minimally invasive cryoablation device. This catheter-based system treats gallstones in place of surgery. This system reduces recurrent stone formation and improves recovery. At present, the company is refining its prototype and conducting animal trials.

(2) CodeWalker (Technology Area: Computer Science)

CodeWalker has developed a software tool that creates a three-dimensional map of source code. This tool allows for easy visualization of algorithms. It helps developers identify inefficiencies and errors. The company’s application is language agnostic. Additionally, it can work with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. The tool is available to both consumers and organizations.

(3) MicroSilicon (Technology Area: Sensors)

MicroSilicon developed a novel system for asphaltene monitoring of oil recovery using quantum radio frequency sensors. These sensors monitor asphaltene aggregation and send measurements directly to the cloud. From there, the system analyzes the measurements using AI. The technology is currently being field-tested. MicroSilicon’s vision is to expand its technology to monitor additional oil recovery issues such as corrosion.

(4) Starling Medical (Technology Area: MedTech)

SeedSprint member, Starling Medical, is tackling Neurogenic Bladder Dysfunction with its new UrinControl System. The device replaces constant self-catheterization with a once-a-month catheter. Further, the device integrates with Startling’s mobile, AI-powered telehealth monitoring service. The company seeks to improve the lives of its patients by reducing the amount of self-catheterization needed. Startling also aims to decrease the cost of equipment used to monitor urinary health and treat bladder dysfunction. Currently, Starling Medical is developing a prototype for its UrinControl System and training its AI diagnostic platform. The company hopes to begin animal studies soon.

(5) Koda Health (Technology Area: MedTech)

Koda Health makes end-of-life care decisions easier and empowers patients through its online platform. The platform guides patients through the creation of advanced directives and medical power of attorney documentation. Koda’s online application aims to stimulate value-based discussions of care early on. They also educate patients on treatment preferences and help improve outcomes for end-of-life care.

(6) Vitanova Biomedical (Technology Area: Life Science)

Vitanova Biomedical’s goal is to treat cancer without common chemotherapy side effects. The company developed a system that contains a targeted pH-disrupting drug that is activated by infrared light. The light activates the process of intracellular acidosis within tumors. Recently, Vitanova obtained promising results in a variety of cancers both in vitro and in animal models. Currently, the company is focused on commercializing its prostate cancer therapy.

Congratulations to all the TNVC finalists and semi-finalists! The Texas innovation ecosystem is certainly one to keep an eye on.

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Over the last two decades, the toxicity of hundreds of pesticides in the United States doubled for pollinators and other species that contribute to ecological balance. Pesticides are meant to protect crops from harmful pests. However, they can end up doing more harm than good.

As environmental sustainability becomes an increasingly important issue, more and more companies aim to offer healthier and more sustainable solutions. 

Paving the way to safer crop protection strategies

Part of the 500 FoodTech companies to watch by Forward Fooding, ClearLeaf is a Costa Rica-based startup. The company develops sustainable crop protection strategies. Through these strategies, ClearLeaf aims to protect the environment and optimize farmers’ profits.

As a nation, Costa Rica is a global leader in sustainability. More recently, the country has experienced rapid growth in technology innovation, especially in the life sciences.

ClearLeaf’s mission is to treat plants as carefully as we would with our skin. It’s a valuable approach since traditionally, pest control can lead to a number of long-term problems. For example, pest control methods can weaken soil, cause environmental destruction, and cause health problems for workers and consumers.

ClearLeaf’s solution to these problems is a line of non-toxic contact-action liquid emulsions that enhance plant growth while simultaneously managing pests.

Emerging into the Global Market

Recently, ClearLeaf’s flagship GotaBlanca® product obtained a certificate of conformity to the Europe Union Organic Standard. At the same time, the company raised a $500,000 Seed Round. Now, ClearLeaf is beginning to raise a Seed Plus Round of $2.5 million.

“We are also in the process of moving our headquarters into the US to facilitate growth into that market, better also for IP protection and lastly, be closer to our new investors and strategic partners,” says Nestor Zuniga, ClearLeaf’s Managing Director.

In other news, the company secured a broad distribution agreement with one of the largest agrochemicals distributors in Costa Rica and Central America.

“We are proud to open this new chapter for ClearLeaf. We already have interested investors for this Seed Plus Round and are open to hearing from more, to go forward with the development of our Company and our vision for safe and sustainable agriculture,” says Zuniga.

Growth for Startups

As startups like ClearLeaf emerge into the market, they often face new challenges. Some of the most common challenges can include scaling production capabilities, gaining access to new markets, and securing funding to fuel continued growth.

The SeedSprint platform puts emerging technology startups, technology commercialization staff, and industry tech scouts from all over the world directly in touch.

New to our blog? Stay tuned for more news on emerging technologies and open innovation. To keep up with the latest, sign up for our newsletter!

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In the Spring of 2020, Covid-19 suddenly changed our lives and the ways we interact with each other. However, over the past year or so, many new technologies were rapidly introduced to combat these challenges. SeedSprint member, NanoLayr (formerly Revolution Fibres), is at the forefront of this battle. They are protecting frontline workers through their innovative personal protective equipment (PPE) technology.   

NanoLayr Invests in PALAS Testing Machine to Fight the Spread of Covid-19 

NanoLayr is a New Zealand-based nanofiber company that we have featured previously on the blog. The company recently made a significant investment in a PALAS testing machine to enhance the development and performance of its filtration media. The PALAS PMFT 1000 testing rig is one of the world’s leading machines in testing masks for their ability to filter particles, bacteria, and viruses such as Covid-19. Over the course of the pandemic, PALAS has been providing many hospitals with the ability to test the protective masks they use. This effort has helped to contain the spread and protect frontline workers.  

Instantaneous Testing Improves Efficiency in Mask Production 

As many of us know, Covid-19 spreads easily from person to person. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, spreads more efficiently than influenza in current studies. Since it most commonly spreads through close contact, especially through respiratory droplets and through airborne transmission, authentic PPE levels are crucial to prevent the spread of the virus.

Ray Connor, NanoLayr’s CEO, says the PALAS testing machine is key to advancing the performance of its FilterLayr nanofibre filter media product. The FilterLayr filter media is used in face masks that meet and exceed N95 and N99 standards. “The PALAS enables us to test face masks to ensure they meet required standards and properly protect people and health workers who are on the frontline of the pandemic in New Zealand and around the world,” says Connor.

PALAS allows NanoLayr to test its filters instantly at required international standards. In the past, the company had to send the material overseas to be tested. The testing rig can evaluate respiratory masks more effectively than standard testing with an exact analysis of filter mask efficiency for SARS-CoV-2 (size approx. 120 nm up to 160 nm). When the products are ready to take to market, they are sent to a third-party testing lab for certification.  

Nanofibre filters are the future of COVID-19 Protection Equipment 

The PALAS testing machine has played an instrumental role in the advancement of filter media with added functionality, including anti-microbial properties. The diameters of nanofibre range from 10-300 nanometres, which is 10-100 times smaller than conventional melt-blown microfibres.

Dr. Gareth Beckermann, Technical Manager at NanoLayr, says “Nanofiber filter media is very effective in protecting against viruses such as Covid, bacteria and other toxic particles which can be just 100 nanometres. Our nanofibre filter media can trap 99% of microscopic particles such as spores, allergens, and bacteria.”

Nanofiber is also recognized as a more breathable fabric available for filter media. This feature makes it a more comfortable and effective way to protect against Covid-19.

NanoLayr supplies filtration media to multiple overseas face mask manufacturers, such as HALO in the US. They also supply media to HVAC systems, including leading New Zealand home solutions company HRV. The PALAS machine is one of the many ways NanoLayr is working to meet high international demand for their products.  

Companies like NanoLayr are bringing increasingly effective products to market to protect individuals from Covid-19. As we all adjust to this virus, even more solutions will be introduced. Keep an eye out for more posts from SeedSprint on emerging technologies! 

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Last week, we attended the second round of the MIT $100K Entrepreneurship Competition: Accelerate. Accelerate is the second of three rounds of a pitch competition hosted by MIT each winter. As part of the event, ten startup finalists present their technologies in a 90-second pitch.

This year, the showcase was hosted via Zoom. Read on to learn about this year’s finalists!

(1) Candelytics (Technology area: Aerospace and Defense)

Candelytics is a 3D analytics and LiDAR startup that has partnered with a Department of Defense research lab to change how maritime law enforcement is conducted. Drawing from extensive experience in military and engineering, Candelytics uses 3D visualization and object recognition to search for illegal drugs, weapons, and human trafficking activities. 

(2) Floe (Technology area: Energy & Environmental)

Floe is a cleantech startup that is building a smart solution to damaging ice dams. The company’s machine learning IoT deicer system uses environmentally-friendly, non-toxic antifreeze fluid to efficiently remove ice from buildings. Additionally, the platform’s IoT system collects year-round data. This data can then be sold to companies seeking longitudinal trends to maintain their facilities more efficiently. 

(3) Gaia AI (Technology area: Energy & Environmental)

Gaia AI uses solar-powered autonomous drones to tackle climate change. The company has developed drones that plant AI-powered germination pods that promote reforestation and carbon sequestration. These drones enable LiDAR-powered computer vision to provide valuable insights that can help create intelligently designed forests. 

(4) Go-Aut (Technology area: MedTech)

Go-Aut is a digital health platform that supports children with developmental disabilities. The platform’s online assessment helps primary care providers detect developmental disorders in children before the age of 3. By combining familial and environmental risk factors with a child’s progress on cognitive functioning tests, Go-Aut empowers parents and physicians to support children as early as possible.

(5) Harvest (Technology area: Fintech)

Harvest is an online platform that is revolutionizing the loan industry. The platform groups loan-seekers into homogenous groups such as “law students” or “medical students.” Using these groupings, students can regain collective bargaining power in student loan negotiations. This eBay-style bidding model simplifies the communication process between groups and lenders to support a new way of borrowing money. 

(6) Human Dynamics (Technology area: Computer Science & Robotics)

Human Dynamics is building automated solutions to tackle sanitation demands in the food manufacturing industry. Combining LiDAR, thermal scanning, and machine learning, the company has developed engineered drone robots that reduce our reliance on human labor. This solution offers a faster and cheaper solution to food sanitfation.

(7) KANO (Technology area: Life Science)

KANO addresses the major manufacturing bottleneck in the production of cell and gene therapies by engineering mass DNA production processes. Using phages and bacteria as ssDNA biofactories, KANO facilitates the scaling of innovative nucleic-acid-based therapies.

(8) Osmoses (Technology area: Energy & Environmental)

Osmoses is developing a membrane technology for the industrial separation of water and natural gases. The company uses molecular filters to replace existing energy-intensive separation methods. This method provides a cleaner solution that simultaneously purifies natural gas and captures carbon to tackle climate change.

(9) Project Prana (Technology area: MedTech)

Project Prana is an emerging medical device startup that is committed to expanding emergency ventilation capacity. Their primary product, iSAVE, can be retrofitted onto existing ventilators to support the personalized treatment of two patients simultaneously. They also have a remote monitoring app that provides ICUs with individualized data for each patient. This solution provides a much-needed safe and reliable solution to the global ventilator shortage, which has been especially prevalent during the Covid-19 crisis.

(10) ProtectEd (Technology area: Aerospace and Defense)

ProtectEd builds bookcases that provide critical protection against violent attacks in a matter of seconds. Their patented bookcase design easily locks into place in front of the doors to classrooms, government buildings, or religious institutions and can provide a physical and ballistic barrier in the event of a violent attack. The bookcase is a simple and easy-to-use solution to provide security without a fear-invoking militarized appearance. 

The competition at this year’s Accelerate was fierce! In the end, Go-Aut won the $10K Audience Choice Award. Meanwhile, Candalytics, Human Dynamics, and Go-Aut made it to the final stage of the MIT $100K Competition, Launch.

Launch will take place later this spring. Then, the first-place team will win the coveted $100K prize. Stay tuned!

Interested in learning about more emerging technologies in a specific technology area? Check out some of our past blog posts on topics like Chemical and Materials, Biopharma, MedTech, Green Chemistry, and Cross-Sector Technologies aiding in the fight against Covid-19!

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In this installment of ‘Emerging technology startups profiled on SeedSprint’, we recognize 9 startups that are leveraging their technologies to combat the Covid-19 pandemic. These startups have transformed their existing innovations or ramped up the development of new tech to help address the multifaceted challenges presented by the virus.

Here are some of the startups that you’ll find on SeedSprint that are at the forefront of the fight against Covid-19:

(1) NS Nanotech (Technology area: Optics and Electronics, Based in Michigan, USA)

NS Nanotech’s ShortWaveLight™ Emitters produce invisible UV light via their patented nitride semiconductor technology. This far-UVC light inactivates human coronaviruses and flu viruses. The technology offers the ability to disinfect without contact and the hazard of current germicidal UV lights. The Emitters are integrated into their personal, portable ShortWaveLight™ Purifiers. These devices can disinfect both surfaces and air to help reduce the spread of Covid-19. View SeedSprint profile.

(2) AccuBreath (Technology area: Medical Devices, Based in Utah, USA)

AccuBreath has developed a portable and easy-to-use ventilator that has the potential to treat Covid-19 patients requiring ventilation in emergencies, or patients at home needing temporary assistance. The company’s ventilator can be powered by either battery or a wall power source. Further, it can be operated by users who are not medical professionals. AccuBreath is currently finishing its prototype and plans to apply for FDA Emergency Use Authorization to help meet the demand for ventilators during future waves of the pandemic. View SeedSprint profile.

(3) NuvOx Pharma (Technology Area: Pharmaceuticals, Based in Arizona, USA)

We previously featured NuvOx Pharma on our blog for their novel NanoO2™ technology. NanoO2™ increases the delivery of oxygen from the lungs to the tissue via dodecafluoropentane microbubbles. In response to the current health crisis, NuvOx has begun exploring their NanoO2™ technology as a treatment for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), which is a serious complication of Covid-19. The company is currently in phase IIa clinical trials for the treatment of ARDS in Covid-19 patients. View SeedSprint profile.

(4) Breathe99 (Technology Area: Medical Devices, Based In: Minnesota, USA)

Breathe99 has developed industrial-grade B2 filters and facemasks to help protect against environmental aerial contaminants and aerosols. These B2 filters are composed of four layers, including two filtering polypropylene layers. The spun-bond polypropylene layer’s electrostatic charge traps particles as small as 0.1 micrometers. Meanwhile, the melt-blown polypropylene layer’s fine mesh physically obstructs particles. The masks’ filters can be replaced and their accompanying outer covering is washable and reusable, which reduces waste compared to other industrial face masks. Breathe99’s masks are commercially available for non-medical use. In the longer term, the company plans to seek certification for medical use from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. View SeedSprint profile.

(5) MindCheck (Technology Area: Digital Health, Based in Australia)

MindCheck has developed a series of web-based mental health assessments. Users can take these assessments to check and track their levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. MindCheck’s assessments are completely confidential. Users can take advantage of the tool to increase awareness of their emotional state, assess environmental and lifestyle factors that may contribute to distress, and select from individualized recommendations and actions to address their needs. The current health crisis has been socially and emotionally taxing for all, so MindCheck’s online software is a great way to stay on top of your mental and emotional health. MindCheck’s assessments are available to both individuals and organizations. View SeedSprint profile.

(6) Aequor (Technology Area: Chemical, Based in California, USA)

We previously featured Aequor in another edition of ’emerging technology startups profiled on SeedSprint’ for their innovative non-toxic biocides and dispersants. We think their technology is pretty neat. In response to Covid-19, Aequor’s microbial testing has been busy advising businesses on effective cleaning protocols so they can operate safely. At the same time, Aequor has been hard at work continuously improving its antimicrobial cleaners and water treatments. Their hope is to tackle resistant ‘superbugs’ using nontoxic formulations to protect our health as well as the environment. View SeedSprint profile.

(7) Enable Biosciences (Technology Area: Diagnostics, Based in California, USA)

Enable Biosciences has leveraged their antibody detection platform to create highly sensitive and specific immunoassays for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Their assays can be used in both serum and dried blood spot samples. Their ADAP (Antibody Detection by Agglutination PCR) diagnostic platform works by binding to antibodies via a DNA-antigen conjugate. The aggregates that form from these antigen-DNA conjugates and human antibodies can then be detected and quantified via PCR. The company’s SARS-CoV-2 serum assay has been approved by the FDA for emergency use. Meanwhile, they have submitted their dried blood spot assay to the FDA for review; it is currently available for research use. View SeedSprint profile.

(8) Liberate Medical (Technology Area: Medical Devices, Based in Kentucky, USA)

Advanced Covid-19 cases often require patients to receive mechanical ventilation. Among other complications, ventilation can lead to respiratory muscle atrophy if use is prolonged. Disuse muscle atrophy can make weaning off of mechanical ventilation difficult, lengthen ICU stays, and increase mortality. Luckily, Liberate Medical’s novel VentFree Respiratory Muscle Stimulator prevents respiratory muscle atrophy via electrical stimulation to contract respiratory muscles in sync with mechanical respiration. This method can be used from the onset of mechanical ventilation, which may reduce the length of time that patients must be ventilated. Liberate Medical’s ventilator has received emergency use authorization in the US and has received CE marking in the EEA. View SeedSprint profile.

(9) Grip Molecular (Technology Area: Diagnostics, Based in Minnesota, USA)

Grip Molecular is developing a chip-based Covid-19 diagnostic test that uses 3D printed graphene nanoelectronics to detect both nucleic acid and antibodies in patient samples. The assay uses solid-state electronics rather than chemical reagents, making it fast, cost-effective, and portable. By detecting both nucleic acid and antibodies, the test can determine the state of Covid infections, and can even be read on a smartphone. GRIP Molecular is working to rapidly develop its technology, which has the potential to lead to faster and more complete Covid-19 diagnoses. View SeedSprint profile.

Innovations like these will help limit the spread of Covid-19 and lead to better health outcomes for patients. We commend these startups for channeling their expertise to help tackle the diverse challenges that we face as a result of the current health crisis.

Keep your eyes peeled for future installments of ‘Emerging technologies profiled on SeedSprint’ to learn about more impactful technologies and startups!

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In today’s “Emerging technology startups profiled on SeedSprint” segment, we feature 8 innovative emerging biopharmaceutical companies. These companies are transforming medicine by rethinking their approach to unmet clinical needs and harnessing biological systems to solve them.

With knowledge and tools in biology advancing rapidly, companies are stepping up to apply cutting-edge research to health challenges, old and new. Here are some of the emerging biopharmaceutical companies you’ll find on SeedSprint:

(1) Ambulero (Indication(s): Vascular Disease; Based in Florida, USA): Ambulero is a University of Miami spin-out that is developing novel regenerative treatments for Vascular Disease. Ambulero’s therapies deliver E-selectin to heal damaged vascular tissue via engineered, ‘supercharged MSCs’ or classic AAV vectors. The therapies have the potential to prevent amputation in patients with chronic vascular conditions like Rare Ischemic Disease and Diabetic Critical Limb Ischemia. The company’s cell therapy has received regenerative medicine advanced therapy (RMAT) designation by the FDA. Ambulero is funded by the NIH’s Vascular Interventions/Innovations and Therapeutic Advances (VITA) Program. View SeedSprint profile

(2) Cellestia Biotech (Indication(s): Cancer; Based in Switzerland): Cellestia Biotech is tackling previously untreatable cancers using novel small molecule drugs that target transcription of NOTCH-activated oncogenic genes. The company’s lead candidate, CB-103, inhibits the NOTCH transcription factor complex. CB-103 has a lower toxicity profile than existing treatments like monoclonal antibodies and gamma-secretase inhibitors because it bypasses the gastrointestinal tract. CB-103 is in clinical trials. View SeedSprint profile

(3) NuvOx Pharma (Indication(s): Stroke, Cancer, Covid-19; Based in Arizona, USA): NuvOx Pharma’s NanO2(TM) utilizes the physical properties of dodecafluorpentane to deliver oxygen throughout the lungs, bloodstream, and tissue in microbubbles. In animal studies, NanO2(TM) has shown therapeutic efficacy at a fraction of the dose of other perfluorocarbon delivery methods. NuvOx has secured NIH funding to conduct clinical trials for the treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke and Glioblastoma. View SeedSprint profile

(4) OrPro Therapeutics (Indication(s): Cystic Fibrosis, Covid-19; Based in California, USA): OrPro’s Theradux® technology treats obstructive airway diseases by targeting thioredoxin to the extracellular surface of epithelial cells in the lung. Thioredoxinan is an anti-inflammatory enzyme with mucous-regulating properties. OrPro’s lead candidate, ORP100S, is an aerosolized formulation of Theradux technology. It can be used with existing home and outpatient devices for easy adoption in patients with Cystic Fibrosis or severe Covid-19. View SeedSprint profile

(5) Vitabolus (Indication(s): Crohn’s Disease, Aging; Based in California, USA): Vitabolus has developed an oral delivery method for cell therapy. The method bypasses the gut to deliver healing cells directly to the intestines. The company’s enteric-coated, acid-resistant capsules have demonstrated efficacy in animal models. Vitabolus’s oral cell therapy is also being investigating for anti-aging, neurological, and inflammatory indications. The company plans to begin clinical studies for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) soon.  View SeedSprint profile

(6) Eurkarys (Indication(s): Cancer, Liver Diseases; Based in France): Eukarys is developing safe, well-tolerated, self-vectorized synthetic gene therapy. The company’s innovative platform technology can be used to treat most human diseases. Eukarys’ first therapy, EUK-LPR, is designed to reduce mortality after partial liver resection by specifically inducing hepatocyte proliferation. The treatment has demonstrated excellent efficacy and tolerance in animals and will enter in regulatory preclinical phase in the next year. The company has two other candidates for the treatment of colorectal cancer and Wilson’s disease. These therapies are currently in the early R&D phase. View SeedSprint profile

(7) GLG Pharma (Indication: Cancer; Based in Massachusetts, USA): GLG Pharma is developing and repurposing small molecule inhibitors to target cancers driven by STAT3 misregulation. The few STAT3 inhibitors currently on the market interfere with signaling molecules, causing many off-target effects and causing safety issues. GLG Pharma’s compounds target the phosphorylation and binding of STAT3 to DNA. As a result, the compounds yield safe toxicity profiles and can even reverse treatment-resistance in cancers. GLG Pharma is currently in clinical trials for Leukemia and Breast Cancer. View SeedSprint profile

(8) Oxidien Pharmaceuticals (Indication(s): Kidney Disease; Based in Florida, USA): Oxidien mitigates kidney stone disease by treating a significant unmet need in hyperoxaluria. The company’s clinically validated enzyme, OX-1, is a dried recombinantly expressed oxalate decarboxylase enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of oxalate to formic acid and carbon dioxide. It is delivered orally with meals to the stomach where OX-1 is highly active and stable in the presence of acid and proteases. The enzyme acts in the gastrointestinal tract but systemically reduces urinary oxalate. The enzyme demonstrated both safety and efficacy in reducing urinary oxalate in healthy volunteers. View SeedSprint profile

The biopharmaceutical industry has a market size of over $200 billion. With rapid growth expected from the incorporation of tools like artificial intelligence, regenerative therapies, and genetics, the field just keeps getting more exciting. 

On SeedSprint, you’ll find over 3,000 biopharmaceutical startup and technology profiles for a diversity of indications. Not on SeedSprint yet? SeedSprint is free of charge for startups and research institutions and available at a flat annual fee for large corporations. You can sign up here!

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