The University System of Maryland Momentum Fund

Impruvon Health focuses on enhancing the health and well-being of individuals with complex medication regimens, particularly those in home or long-term care settings. The company has developed a medical technology platform that automates medication management, addressing the needs of specific groups such as individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, those recovering from addiction, and veterans. Their platform features smart alerts, reminders, and live notifications to prevent unauthorized access to medications, thereby promoting safety and compliance. By streamlining the storage, administration, and record-keeping processes associated with medication, Impruvon Health aims to reduce errors, thefts, and overdoses, ultimately supporting individuals and their caregivers in maintaining independence and security.

Minnowtech, headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, specializes in aquaculture technology. The company offers a software imaging platform that enables shrimp farmers worldwide to estimate shrimp abundance non-invasively with precision. By utilizing artificial intelligence and image analysis, Minnowtech's solution optimizes feeding regimes, harvest times, and overall farm management, enhancing market-size shrimp production while minimizing risks to juvenile shrimp. This innovative approach addresses a critical challenge in the aquaculture industry, improving farmers' livelihoods and contributing to global food security and marine environment sustainability.

N5 Sensors, Inc. is a technology company based in Rockville, Maryland, specializing in the development and commercialization of advanced sensors for multi-room and personal monitoring applications. Founded in 2012, the company focuses on creating chemical sensor technology capable of detecting harmful gases such as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, as well as other lesser-known environmental hazards. N5 Sensors employs fabrication processes typically used for silicon computer chips, resulting in small, accurate devices that can simultaneously detect multiple gases. These sensors are integrated into a cloud-connected ecosystem, enabling industrial workers, first responders, and military personnel to assess environmental dangers in real-time using their smartphones, thereby enhancing safety and awareness in potentially hazardous situations.

Astek Diagnostics is a healthcare company that develops precision diagnostic technology aimed at improving the diagnosis and treatment of bacterial infections. The company has created a platform that assists physicians in prescribing the correct antibiotics for patients suffering from bacterial sepsis within one hour. Utilizing a single-use cartridge, Astek Diagnostics' device identifies bacterial infections in urine by measuring the oxygen consumption of bacterial species, significantly reducing the turnaround time for results. This innovative approach not only facilitates timely treatment but also helps combat antibiotic resistance through effective susceptibility testing.

Marinalife, LLC, established in 2000 and based in Baltimore, Maryland, specializes in providing marina information and cruising concierge services for boaters. As a subsidiary of Snag A Slip, LLC, Marinalife offers a comprehensive suite of travel services, including boat slip reservations and detailed marina information. The Marinalife Cruising Club membership grants boaters access to valuable travel resources, such as trip itineraries and destination guides, aimed at enhancing their boating experiences. Additionally, the company publishes Marinalife magazine, a quarterly travel and lifestyle publication that features engaging articles about marinas, cruising stories, and helpful tips for boaters. Through these offerings, Marinalife aims to support and enrich the boating community.

Kaster is a developer of construction management software that aims to streamline communication between general contractors and trade partners. By addressing the complexities and fragmentation often found in construction project communications, Kaster provides a unified workspace that minimizes the risk of critical items being overlooked. The software consolidates communication traditionally conducted through email, phone, and text, thereby enhancing the clarity of field operations. It collects and tracks essential documents from subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors, allowing job site managers to effectively oversee daily production, hours, and reports across multiple projects. This innovative approach helps reduce project delays, disputes, and claims, ultimately improving financial outcomes for all parties involved.

Linshom is a healthcare technology company that develops wearable, FDA-cleared sensors for continuous, predictive respiratory monitoring at the patient's bedside or home. Their core product, an operating room quality respiratory profile, enables early detection of respiratory decline, reducing costly rapid response activations and ICU transfers, thereby improving patient outcomes and lowering healthcare costs.

GivHero, Inc. is a company that develops a health and fitness mobile application aimed at enhancing employee wellness. Founded in 2017 and based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, GivHero focuses on setting personalized health goals for activities such as running, biking, weight loss, and blood sugar management. The platform not only encourages employees to engage in healthier behaviors but also connects their wellness activities to social causes they care about, providing meaningful motivation through sponsorship and rewards. This approach fosters increased employee engagement and productivity while also helping to lower long-term insurance costs for employers. By automating wellness program administration, GivHero simplifies the process for organizations looking to support their employees' health initiatives.

Sunstone Credit is dedicated to democratizing access to solar energy for small and medium-sized businesses. By integrating climate, finance, and technology, the company has developed a robust technology platform that collaborates with leading financial institutions and a nationwide network of solar developers. This approach allows Sunstone to provide straightforward, affordable solar loan products with flexible terms and a simplified application process. Through these services, SMBs can finance their solar installations, enabling them to own their solar assets and benefit from reduced energy costs while contributing to a more sustainable environment. Sunstone Credit's mission is to facilitate a transition to cleaner energy sources, ultimately supporting a greener future for all.

AquaLith Advanced Materials specializes in the development of innovative lithium-ion battery materials. The company has secured exclusive rights to a portfolio of patents from the University of Maryland, which focus on advancements made by researchers in the field of chemical and materials engineering. AquaLith's technology includes an ultra-high energy cathode, a novel silicon anode, and a non-flammable aqueous electrolyte, all designed to enhance the performance of lithium-ion batteries. This technology addresses key challenges such as efficiency in low temperatures, faster charging times, and improved safety by reducing fire risks associated with short circuits. The company's materials aim to provide high energy density while being cost-effective and abundant, ultimately benefiting consumer electronics and other applications in need of reliable battery solutions.

Liatris specializes in the development and manufacturing of innovative insulation products aimed at enhancing energy efficiency for businesses and individuals. The company focuses on creating environmentally safe, non-flammable, and non-toxic insulation materials derived from naturally occurring substances such as asbestos, cork, cotton, and wool. Liatris' products are engineered to meet the growing demand for fire resistance in buildings while providing significant performance improvements and energy savings. This approach allows engineers and the construction sector to reduce costs through affordable manufacturing and easy installation, making living and working environments more comfortable and safer.

Veralox Therapeutics specializes in the development of small molecule therapeutics aimed at addressing the underlying pathologies of thrombosis and type one diabetes. The company focuses on innovative treatment paradigms informed by a deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in these diseases. By targeting conditions such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis, Veralox Therapeutics aims to enhance patient outcomes and facilitate complete recovery from diabetes. Through its research and development efforts, the company seeks to provide effective and transformative therapies for individuals affected by these serious health conditions.

miRecule, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative therapies for cancer and muscular dystrophy through its proprietary microRNA-based drug discovery platform, DREAmiR. Founded in 2016 and based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, the company leverages genomic and outcome data from thousands of patients to identify genetic abnormalities associated with diseases. This platform integrates genomic sequencing, expression, and prognostic data to identify candidates for microRNA replacement therapy, enabling the creation of tailored RNA therapeutics that can directly target and rectify these genetic issues. miRecule's research is aimed at developing first-in-class therapies, with current lead programs addressing Head & Neck Cancer and Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy. Through its advanced approach, miRecule aims to provide solutions that help patients overcome the debilitating effects of their conditions.

Kaster is a developer of construction management software that aims to streamline communication between general contractors and trade partners. By addressing the complexities and fragmentation often found in construction project communications, Kaster provides a unified workspace that minimizes the risk of critical items being overlooked. The software consolidates communication traditionally conducted through email, phone, and text, thereby enhancing the clarity of field operations. It collects and tracks essential documents from subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors, allowing job site managers to effectively oversee daily production, hours, and reports across multiple projects. This innovative approach helps reduce project delays, disputes, and claims, ultimately improving financial outcomes for all parties involved.

Dynamhex operates an emission monitoring platform that provides detailed insights into energy consumption data for individuals, corporations, and government entities. The platform enables users to measure their emission footprints and develop effective reduction strategies aligned with science-based targets. By employing geospatial analytics and advanced visualization techniques, Dynamhex helps city governments and businesses make informed, environmentally responsible decisions. This functionality supports climate leaders in their efforts to combat climate change by facilitating timely and data-driven decision-making.

Voxy EnGen is a career-focused, virtual English language education training platform for organizations and employers working with immigrants and refugees.

Qualytics is a technology company based in Baltimore, Maryland, founded in 2020, that specializes in data quality surveillance. The company has developed a platform designed to monitor and protect against data pipeline corruption. Its core technology includes a data firewall that captures erroneous data at the source, preventing it from affecting downstream data platforms. This system integrates with data pipelines and flows, alongside a surveillance hub, to ensure comprehensive monitoring. Additionally, Qualytics leverages machine learning to automatically generate and refine data rules through supervised workflows, enabling organizations to detect and respond to anomalies in real time. The platform includes active measures such as message-level quarantining to address potential issues swiftly.

VisiSonics Corporation is a company specializing in the development and marketing of advanced 3D sound capture, analysis, and reproduction technologies. Founded in 2010 as a spinout from the University of Maryland, VisiSonics offers a range of innovative products, including the RealSpace panoramic audio camera system, digital array microphones, and spatial audio solutions for headphones. Their proprietary RealSpace technology integrates audio signal processing with computer vision to provide immersive sound experiences across various applications, including consumer electronics, gaming, teleconferencing, and industrial acoustic analytics. The company's solutions are utilized by a diverse clientele, including audio surveillance firms, research institutions, and automotive manufacturers, addressing complex acoustic challenges. VisiSonics is committed to delivering next-generation products that enhance user performance and experience in both consumer and professional markets.

NextStep Robotics Inc. is a company based in Baltimore, Maryland, that specializes in manufacturing a robotic device aimed at treating foot drop, a condition that affects walking ability. Established in 2017, the company enables clinics to offer personalized robotic therapy through an adaptive software system that assesses and provides tailored assistance to patients. This innovative approach allows lower-skilled clinic staff to operate the device, freeing therapists to concentrate on more hands-on treatments. The technology is designed to transition into an AI-based system that optimizes training protocols based on individual patient deficits, thereby improving therapy outcomes. NextStep Robotics’ device is classified as a Class 1 Exercise Device, allowing for immediate revenue generation through direct sales and leasing, software subscriptions, and service contracts, all while providing clinics with a reimbursable therapy option for patients who previously had no effective treatment.

KaloCyte Inc., established in 2016 and based in Baltimore, Maryland, is a pre-clinical stage healthcare biotechnology company focused on developing innovative solutions for life-threatening blood loss scenarios. The company's flagship product, ErythroMer, is an artificial red blood cell substitute designed to be dried and bio-inspired, intended for use when stored red blood cells are unavailable or undesirable. This product aims to address critical gaps in trauma care services by providing a demonstrated proof of concept for treating hemorrhage situations effectively.

Pathotrak, LLC is a food safety technology company based in College Park, Maryland, founded in 2016. The company specializes in developing rapid testing kits for the detection of food-borne pathogens, notably bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. Utilizing a patented microfiltration technology, Pathotrak significantly reduces the testing time required for detecting pathogens, shortening the typical process from 1-2 days to approximately 6 hours. This acceleration not only meets and exceeds FDA and USDA regulations but also integrates seamlessly into existing detection systems. By enabling faster results, Pathotrak's innovations help food producers expedite product release, reduce holding times and costs, facilitate rapid recalls, and ultimately enhance food safety, contributing to the prevention of foodborne outbreaks.

InferCabulary is a digital visual vocabulary tool that supports vocabulary acquisition and critical thinking using semantic reasoning. It enables students to learn the nuanced meanings of words.

ARMR Systems LLC is a company based in Baltimore, Maryland, that specializes in the development of advanced wearable hemorrhage control systems aimed at enhancing the survivability of traumatic injuries on the battlefield. Founded in 2014, ARMR Systems creates innovative medical devices that offer reliable and flexible solutions for hemorrhage control when immediate medical assistance is unavailable. Their products, featuring an ergonomically designed harness combined with a tourniquet-style device, provide rapid compression to damaged arteries, thereby minimizing blood loss in critical areas. Focused on supporting warfighters and field-based personnel, ARMR Systems delivers lifesaving trauma care capabilities that meet the unique demands of the battlefield environment. The company is dedicated to collaboration across various institutions, leveraging a multi-disciplinary team to draw upon diverse perspectives in their problem-solving approach.

Minnowtech, headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, specializes in aquaculture technology. The company offers a software imaging platform that enables shrimp farmers worldwide to estimate shrimp abundance non-invasively with precision. By utilizing artificial intelligence and image analysis, Minnowtech's solution optimizes feeding regimes, harvest times, and overall farm management, enhancing market-size shrimp production while minimizing risks to juvenile shrimp. This innovative approach addresses a critical challenge in the aquaculture industry, improving farmers' livelihoods and contributing to global food security and marine environment sustainability.

NeoProgen, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Baltimore, Maryland, that specializes in the development of cell therapies for heart attack patients. Founded in 2018, the company focuses on advancing neonatal cardiac progenitor cells, aiming to innovate treatment options within the biotechnology and cardiac therapy sectors. NeoProgen is dedicated to addressing the needs of individuals affected by heart conditions through its research and therapeutic advancements.

Veralox Therapeutics specializes in the development of small molecule therapeutics aimed at addressing the underlying pathologies of thrombosis and type one diabetes. The company focuses on innovative treatment paradigms informed by a deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in these diseases. By targeting conditions such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis, Veralox Therapeutics aims to enhance patient outcomes and facilitate complete recovery from diabetes. Through its research and development efforts, the company seeks to provide effective and transformative therapies for individuals affected by these serious health conditions.

Gemstone Biotherapeutics is a biotechnology company based in Baltimore, Maryland, focused on developing innovative technologies for therapeutic applications in wound care and other chronic diseases. Founded in 2013, the company specializes in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with a particular emphasis on vascularization and angiogenesis. Gemstone Biotherapeutics leverages licensed technology from Johns Hopkins University to create polymeric hydrogels and stem cell engineering methodologies aimed at improving advanced wound healing and tissue regeneration. The company's technologies are designed to provide rapid and cost-effective wound healing with improved clinical outcomes for patients.

Retrium, Inc. is a software company based in Silver Spring, Maryland, that specializes in developing solutions for agile retrospectives. Founded in 2016, Retrium provides a platform that enhances team collaboration during retrospectives by offering a range of prebuilt facilitation techniques, such as 4Ls, Mad Sad Glad, Start Stop Continue, and Lean Coffee. The platform is designed to operate alongside video or audio conferencing tools, facilitating distributed scrum retrospectives and enabling organizations to create actionable plans that promote continuous improvement. By allowing teams to inspect their workflows and adapt based on insights gained, Retrium aims to help organizations deliver value to their customers more effectively.

PaverGuide is a manufacturer specializing in structural bases for paving systems, utilizing recycled plastic materials to create a permeable pavement reservoir. Designed to exceed H-20 loading standards, PaverGuide's products facilitate faster and more cost-effective installation compared to traditional stone bases. With a remarkable 90% void space, these systems not only function as effective rainwater reservoirs but also enhance infiltration capabilities. The company's innovative solutions aim to reduce stormwater runoff, urban flooding, and erosion while improving water quality and minimizing environmental impacts. By promoting sustainable practices, PaverGuide supports clients in achieving their goals of increased productivity and enhanced ecological responsibility.

Zest Tea, founded in 2014 and headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, specializes in high-caffeine teas aimed at enhancing mental clarity and energy levels. The company offers a diverse range of caffeinated tea products that combine caffeine with amino acids such as L-Theanine, which work together to prolong energy and promote steady alertness. Zest Tea focuses on providing beverages that are low to no sugar and made from natural ingredients, catering to customers seeking refreshing and energizing options.

North American Wave Engine Corporation, founded in 2015 and headquartered in College Park, Maryland, specializes in the design and development of innovative wave engines for jet propulsion applications. The company focuses on leveraging recent scientific advancements to create technology that achieves exceptional Thrust-to-Weight and Thrust-Specific Fuel Consumption ratios, all while eliminating the need for moving parts. This approach positions North American Wave Engine at the forefront of propulsion technology, aiming to enhance efficiency and performance in the aerospace sector.

NextStep Robotics Inc. is a company based in Baltimore, Maryland, that specializes in manufacturing a robotic device aimed at treating foot drop, a condition that affects walking ability. Established in 2017, the company enables clinics to offer personalized robotic therapy through an adaptive software system that assesses and provides tailored assistance to patients. This innovative approach allows lower-skilled clinic staff to operate the device, freeing therapists to concentrate on more hands-on treatments. The technology is designed to transition into an AI-based system that optimizes training protocols based on individual patient deficits, thereby improving therapy outcomes. NextStep Robotics’ device is classified as a Class 1 Exercise Device, allowing for immediate revenue generation through direct sales and leasing, software subscriptions, and service contracts, all while providing clinics with a reimbursable therapy option for patients who previously had no effective treatment.

MF Fire, established in 2014 and based in College Park, Maryland, is a fire technology company specializing in the design and manufacture of modern wood stoves. The company's flagship product, Catalyst, employs intelligent control systems to optimize combustion, improve user experience, and reduce emissions. Catalyst stoves are controlled via smartphone or remote, offering convenience and efficiency while eliminating undesirable aspects of traditional wood stoves.