ACTIVE STARTUPS

Founded 2024

Innovative treatments for brain cancers

Amlal Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to developing innovative treatments for brain cancers, targeting both primary and metastatic tumors in pediatric and adult patients. Their approach involves using small molecule therapeutics that enhance existing treatments like radiation and chemotherapy by specifically targeting cancer cells. This method aims to improve treatment effectiveness while minimizing harmful side effects. Promising preclinical studies have shown significant improvements in tumor control and survival rates, showcasing Amlal’s potential to transform brain cancer therapy.

Elafar Therapeutics, LLC

Drug for Improving Memory

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) affects over 6 million Americans, and the number is expected to double by 2050. Memory loss is a major burden for patients and caregivers, with current costs exceeding $355 billion. While no cure exists, Elafar Therapeutics is working to develop specific enzyme inhibitors that could improve memory by enhancing the brain’s ability to adapt and change. Their lead candidate, MJM-1, has shown promise in crossing the blood-brain barrier and improving memory, but further refinement is needed for better selectivity and efficacy in treating AD.

PerryMedical, LLC

Device to help first responders

PerryMedical, founded by William Perry, a UWM biomedical engineering graduate from the, is developing a bariatric lift device to help medical workers safely move patients weighing 400-1,000 pounds. This device addresses the high injury rates among EMTs and caregivers, particularly from bariatric patients, who account for 25% of serious injuries despite being only 5% of calls. With UWMRF grant funding, the team is building and testing a prototype to ensure it meets the needs of their initial customer base.

Founded 2023

Reducing maternal mortality

Freyja was founded by UWM nursing professor Dr. AkkeNeel Talsma to develop the MaternityMetrix webapp which is dedicated to reducing maternal mortality by providing accessible, clinically-vetted guidance on perinatal health. The platform empowers expectant families with vital information for every stage of pregnancy, labor, and early parenthood. MaternityMetrix aims to close knowledge gaps, ensuring all pregnant people receive the support they need for safer childbirth experiences.

Roboheal, LLC

Creating cutting-edge robotic solutions designed to empower individuals with upper and lower limb dysfunctions.

Roboheal Innovations builds on over a decade of research in assistive and rehabilitation robotics. The team has developed advanced robotic solutions to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. Roboheal is committed to delivering cutting-edge, empathetic technology that makes a meaningful impact on users. Key products include wheelchair-mounted robotic arms, rehabilitation exoskeletons, telerehabilitation platforms, and versatile robotic manipulators.

Founded 2020

Water Sensors. Heavy Metal Sensors.

Founded in 2020, Septillionth is developing a hand-held digital lead detector that allows anyone to accurately test water for contamination without special training. The company is collaborating with industry partners and working on a prototype. With plans to field-test the device within a year, Septillionth is focused on making water testing easier and safer for everyone.

Founded 2018

Novel anti-inflammatory drug, with lead clinical indications in asthma/COPD, dermatology, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Pantherics was cofounded by Dr. Alexander Arnold, Chemistry Professor and director of the Milwaukee Institute for Drug Discovery at UWM. The company is dedicated to developing innovative treatments for disorders linked to inflammation. This non-steroidal approach is being developed for asthma, symptom control in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other lung disorders.  The research and development pipeline includes novel drug compositions for digestive, urinary, and dermatological indications such as eczema.

Striving to improve women’s health through chemistry.

Estrigenix is dedicated to improving women’s health by developing safe, non-hormonal treatments for menopause symptoms, like hot flashes, without increasing the risk of breast cancer or stroke. Research shows that severe hot flashes can be linked to a higher risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. The company’s mission is to create innovative solutions that not only relieve menopause symptoms but may also help prevent Alzheimer’s, helping women lead healthier, longer lives.

Improving healthcare outcomes through the creation of innovative medical devices.

RoddyMedical’s SecureMove-TLC, was created by UWM nurse graduate, Lindsey Roddy, after a near-tragic medical tubing accident. It is a single-use device that secures and organizes medical tubes, lines, and cords to prevent hazardous dislodgement during patient movement. By improving patient safety and therapy efficiency, SecureMove-TLC helps patients recover faster, reduces hospital stays, and saves hospitals significant costs tied to early discharge and fewer complications.

Founded 2017

Concretology LLC

Hydrophobic coatings for concrete

Concretology is a startup founded by Dr. Konstantin Sobolev, a professor of civil and environmental engineering. The company is commercializing a long-lasting, spray-on water repellent coating that can be applied to various surfaces, including concrete, ceramic, metal, and wood. This innovative coating offers multiple benefits, such as corrosion protection, prevention of chemical transport through porous materials, icing prevention, self-cleaning properties, and antimicrobial effects. Initially targeting concrete, Concretology’s coating has the potential to be used on a wide array of surfaces for several years.

Fluid Flow

Interact with CFD model in real time

Fluid Flow Experiences is a startup founded by Dr. Tom Hansen, a Programmer/Analyst and researcher at the UWM School of Freshwater Sciences. The company has developed the Immersive Fluid Flow Experience, an interactive simulation that visually demonstrates fluid dynamics. This technology uses a computer-simulated fluid flow model projected on a large screen. As people move in front of the screen, their shadows interact with the simulation, creating colorful and complex fluid patterns. The goal is to implement this technology in both temporary settings, such as trade shows and corporate events, and permanent installations in places like airports, lobbies, hospitals, and entertainment venues.

Next generation Lithium-Ion Batteries

COnovate is a Milwaukee-based startup revolutionizing battery technology with their innovative material, graphene monoxide (GmO). This unique, solid form of carbon monoxide enhances battery performance and is cost-effective, scalable, and environmentally friendly. Their technology promises to significantly improve battery efficiency and sustainability. Additionally, COnovate sources their materials domestically from bio-renewable feedstocks, ensuring a secure and sustainable supply chain.

Founded 2015

High performance metal matrix composite alloys

Intelligent Composites is a Milwaukee-based manufacturer specializing in novel material platform technologies. Their focus lies in creating self-lubricating metal-matrix composites (MMCs). These MMCs offer several advantages, including weight reduction within internal combustion engines, decreased oil consumption, and improved energy efficiency. By leveraging these materials, manufacturers can design engines that meet or exceed performance goals while maintaining cost-effectiveness. They are also currently focused on the use of these lighter materials in drones.

Founded 2013

T3BioScience

Non-antibiotic agricultural products

T3 BioScience is addressing the critical global issue of antibiotic resistance through their crop protection products. Led by Biology Professor Ching-Hong Yang, the company focuses on developing natural biopesticides as sustainable alternatives to traditional antibiotics, particularly in agriculture. Their flagship product, RejuAgro, is a biopesticide derived from soil microbes, offering organic solutions to combat plant diseases like citrus greening and citrus canker. The company is also working on solutions for other crops, such as apple fire blight and fungal crop diseases. T3’s innovative approach aims to reduce antibiotic use in farming, aligning with growing demands for environmentally friendly practices.

Founded 2012

TCARE Inc.

Derisking long-term-care insurance claims

TCARE® is an evidence-based caregiving platform designed to reduce caregiver burnout and delay nursing home placement for loved ones. Developed through cutting-edge research, TCARE® provides personalized care plans and support for family caregivers, improving both their well-being and the outcomes for care recipients. By using predictive analytics and tailored interventions, TCARE® helps families maintain care at home longer, reducing overall healthcare costs and enhancing quality of life.

Founded 2010

Fast, Accurate & Simple Lead Testing

NanoAffix Science is revolutionizing water quality testing with its graphene-based sensors. Their technology enables fast, accurate detection of contaminants like lead in real-time, providing results in minutes. By offering affordable, easy-to-use solutions, NanoAffix is making water safety more accessible for communities and industries alike, aiming to ensure clean water worldwide.