Early-Stage Innovations Shine at the 16th Annual First Look Forum
by Brian Walsh
A new treatment for faster bone healing, an aroma-based disbursement device for large-scale applications, and a novel approach to reduce aging in electronics – these are just some of the patent-pending innovations presented at the 16th Annual First Look Forum at the WE Energies Historic Public Service Building in Milwaukee on April 18th.
Featuring seven promising technologies, the Forum gave professors and students from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Medical College of Wisconsin, and Marquette University a chance to share their work with investors and companies from all over southeast Wisconsin.
“We hand-picked these projects because they have exciting commercial potential, promising early data, and researchers who are dynamically engaged in innovation,” noted Jessica Silvaggi, UWM Research Foundation President. She added, “Our goal is to make worlds collide. The Forum brings together businesses, investors, entrepreneurs, and researchers to connect in real-time and envision opportunities for fruitful partnerships.”
UWM Featured Presentations
Lower Cost & Longer Life for Power Electronics, Dr. Chanyeop ParkDr. Park has developed game-changing technology that improves performance and reduces aging of electronic devices involved in energy infrastructure. As the world makes advances in electrification, industries involved in aerospace, shipping, rail, and energy grids all stand to gain from this foundational innovation. Learn more.
BonePro for Bone Health, Dr. Priyatha Premnath
Dr. Premnath is developing a groundbreaking therapy that promotes bone healing and regeneration. Less invasive than current practices, her impactful approach holds the promise of faster post-injury recovery and addresses the unique needs of vulnerable populations, from the elderly to children and military personnel. Learn more.
Smelling Profits in a Smell-Producing Device, Dr. Krishna Pillai, Abul Borkot, Md Rafiqul Hasan
Dr. Pillai’s team has designed an innovative device to redefine how we control scent and repellent dispensers. By enabling users to control fan and wick-rotation motor speeds, the device offers customizable release rates and is suitable for diverse spaces – small and large, indoor and outdoor. Learn more.
The UWM Research Foundation is looking for innovation partners to help move these technologies to market. Engagement could include mentoring, providing pilot sites, co-founding startups, collaborating on federal grant applications, funding opportunities for talent development through sponsored research, and more. To discuss further, please contact Brian Walsh at brianw@uwmrf.org.