Ontario Brain Institute

The Ontario Brain Institute, established in 2010 and based in Toronto, is a provincially-funded, not-for-profit research center dedicated to advancing neuroscience. Its mission is to position Ontario as a global leader in brain research, commercialization, and care. The Institute fosters collaborations among researchers, clinicians, industry stakeholders, patients, and their advocates to drive innovation and develop products and services aimed at improving the lives of individuals affected by brain disorders. By providing grants and financing to companies in the neurotechnology sector across Canada, the Ontario Brain Institute seeks to maximize the impact of neuroscience and enhance the overall landscape of brain health and treatment.

Tom Mikkelsen

President and CSO

42 past transactions

Grey Matter Neurosciences

Seed Round in 2025
Grey Matter Neurosciences is a neurotechnology company specializing in the development of innovative medical devices and drug-device combinations to address age-related brain disorders, with a primary focus on dementia. Their flagship technology is a portable ultrasound helmet, designed to non-invasively enhance brain function in seniors with Alzheimer's disease.

Yellowbird Diagnostics

Grant in 2024
Yellowbird Diagnostics develops innovative imaging dyes that enhance medical imaging procedures used for the early detection of various disorders, including those affecting the brain, heart, and kidneys. By focusing on biomedical imaging methods, the company offers chemical contrast agents that deliver critical molecular information about conditions such as inflammation and cancer. These advanced solutions reveal previously undetectable signs of disease, empowering physicians to make more informed medical decisions. Through its plug-and-play technologies, Yellowbird Diagnostics aims to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes in clinical settings.

RetiSpec

Series A in 2024
RetiSpec is focused on creating a non-invasive eye scanner designed for the early detection of Alzheimer's Disease pathology, potentially years before symptoms manifest. By employing AI-driven retinal imaging technology, RetiSpec's approach allows for a straightforward eye exam that identifies markers of neurodegenerative diseases. This innovation aims to provide healthcare providers with a means to deliver accessible, affordable, and scalable early diagnosis, facilitating timely interventions with emerging therapeutics that can significantly impact the progression of the disease.

Progress Place

Grant in 2024
Progress Place is a non-profit organization that provides treatment for mental illness, depression, and anxiety.

The Royal

Grant in 2024
The Royal is a mental health care and academic health sciences center that focuses on providing comprehensive mental health services, advocacy, and research. It specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of complex mental health disorders in adults, including a geriatric outreach behavioral support program. Through its commitment to mental health care, The Royal aims to enhance understanding and support for individuals facing mental health challenges while contributing to academic research and education in the field.

Sonaro

Grant in 2023
Sonaro is a pioneering company specializing in AI-driven solutions for medical imaging. It focuses on enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of atherosclerotic plaque diagnosis and stroke risk assessment, particularly using ultrasound scans. The company's core technology transforms 2D ultrasound data into precise 3D models of carotid arteries, improving diagnostic precision, reducing operator workload, and providing rapid results. This innovation aims to make advanced vascular disease diagnosis more accessible and beneficial to patients and healthcare providers alike.

Savyn Tech

Grant in 2023
Savyn Tech operates a digital therapy platform specializing in mental health support. It focuses on managing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression through evidence-based techniques. The platform offers breathing exercises to help users manage symptoms and guided eye motion therapy to address negative thought patterns, empowering individuals to take control of their mental health at their own pace.

PragmaClin Research

Grant in 2023
PragmaClin is a digital health innovator focused on transforming the management of Parkinson's Disease and other neurological disorders. The company develops advanced assessment tools that leverage cutting-edge technology to facilitate remote monitoring and management of movement disorders. By allowing patients to assess and track the severity of their symptoms from the comfort of their own homes, PragmaClin empowers individuals to take an active role in their health journey. This approach not only enhances the quality of care but also aims to improve the overall well-being of patients dealing with the challenges of Parkinson's Disease.

Foqus

Grant in 2023
Foqus is a company specializing in AI and quantitative imaging technology aimed at enhancing MRI scans. It develops a medical imaging system that leverages quantum information algorithms and machine learning techniques to produce higher-resolution medical images. By improving the sensitivity of magnetic resonance technology, Foqus enables healthcare organizations and medical professionals to conduct scans more efficiently and generate clearer signals at a reduced cost. Through its innovative software solutions, the company seeks to significantly advance the quality and speed of MRI imaging in the medical field.

Axem Neurotechnology

Grant in 2023
Axem Neurotechnology is focused on enhancing accessibility to neurotechnology and empowering individuals with insights about their brain health to improve their quality of life. The company offers a portable neuroimaging system that tracks and predicts recovery of movement function during rehabilitation for conditions such as hemiparesis. Utilizing a proprietary optical imaging system, assessment software, and data analytics, Axem measures neural biomarkers to support neurological rehabilitation. This approach allows therapists to make informed treatment decisions, while services are provided remotely, ensuring convenience through video communication and personalized home exercise programs facilitated by an easy-to-use brain sensor.

Think Self-Management

Grant in 2023
Think Self-Management is a health technology company that empowers medical professionals to better support patients with chronic diseases. It offers evidence-based, self-management tools and resources, aiming to enhance patients' quality of life by reducing the impact of chronic conditions and fostering self-management skills.

Mesosil

Seed Round in 2023
Mesosil specializes in the development of responsive antimicrobial materials aimed at preventing infections at the interface between medical devices and tissue, particularly in dental applications. Their innovative technology enhances the performance of dental restoratives and implant surfaces, leading to improved patient outcomes without altering the workflow of dental practitioners. By significantly reducing the risk of recurrent cavities, detachment of dental restorations, and peri-implant infections, Mesosil's solutions contribute to better long-term results for dental procedures. Their materials are designed to address various dental issues, including treatment of cavities and implant infections, thereby supporting dentists in delivering safer and more effective care.

Roga

Pre Seed Round in 2023
Roga develops a therapeutic wearable device aimed at reducing stress and anxiety. Designed to be worn discreetly, the device functions similarly to headphones, delivering gentle electrical pulses to the brain. These pulses signal safety to the nervous system and help alter brain oscillation patterns through guided app-based therapies. By providing relief and enhancing mental well-being, Roga's innovative technology offers an accessible solution for individuals seeking to manage their stress and anxiety effectively.

Novela Neurotech

Grant in 2022
Novela Neurotech is medical technology startup with a research legacy in neuromodulation originating in the University of Waterloo in Canada. Novela has developed the Neureka™ smart technology platform to accelerate the discovery & development of new safer treatments for epilepsy, narcotic addiction, depression, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's diseases, and many other neurological disorders

Cove Neurosciences

Grant in 2022
Cove Neurosciences is transforming the way data is used to understand the human brain.

Roga

Grant in 2022
Roga develops a therapeutic wearable device aimed at reducing stress and anxiety. Designed to be worn discreetly, the device functions similarly to headphones, delivering gentle electrical pulses to the brain. These pulses signal safety to the nervous system and help alter brain oscillation patterns through guided app-based therapies. By providing relief and enhancing mental well-being, Roga's innovative technology offers an accessible solution for individuals seeking to manage their stress and anxiety effectively.

Pearl Interactives

Grant in 2022
Pearl Interactives specializes in creating interactive media tailored for children of all abilities, focusing on wellness, play, and learning. The company has developed a unique platform that includes its flagship product, Bootle Blast, which combines innovative mixed reality technology with engaging video game experiences. This system targets children and youth with neuromotor conditions, facilitating exercises that aim to improve their functional abilities. Additionally, the platform incorporates real-life musical instruments and touch-free interactive games, promoting shared musical play while also helping to alleviate anxiety. Through these offerings, Pearl Interactives strives to foster an inclusive environment that enhances the developmental opportunities for children.

Raft Digital Therapeutics

Grant in 2022
Raft Digital Therapeutics is focused on developing a virtual support platform that enables patients to engage in unsupervised, at-home exercise programs. By offering an affordable solution, the company promotes sustainable adherence to physical therapy, making the process enjoyable and accessible. Raft's team comprises industry, technical, and business experts who collaborate to create products that maintain long-term appeal, ensuring that patients can successfully integrate therapeutic exercises into their daily routines.

Eyful

Grant in 2022
Eyful specializes in providing innovative eyeglasses for individuals suffering from macular degeneration. The company utilizes advanced technology, including artificial intelligence, to develop an augmented reality platform that enhances vision for those affected by this condition. By personalizing enhancement algorithms and analyzing ophthalmologic data, Eyful's smart glasses aim to help users regain lost sight and improve their overall vision. The focus on leveraging cutting-edge technology underscores Eyful's commitment to addressing the challenges faced by people with vision loss.

Ora Medical

Grant in 2022
Ora Medical specializes in developing innovative rehabilitation technology aimed at enhancing mobility for children with physical challenges. Their flagship product, Levity, is a smart pediatric gait trainer that utilizes a unique partial weight-bearing mechanism, enabling children to engage more freely with their environment using their arms. This device not only promotes independence but also collects real-time data to assist parents and clinicians in monitoring each child's rehabilitation journey. Additionally, Ora Medical's technology incorporates artificial intelligence to adapt to the user's needs, facilitating personalized progress and allowing patients to achieve optimal mobility at their own pace.

NeuroQore

Convertible Note in 2022
NeuroQore, Inc. is a company based in Ottawa, Canada, specializing in the development of a monophasic repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation system aimed at treating treatment-resistant depression. Founded in 2012, NeuroQore focuses on creating innovative neuromodulation treatments for various neurobehavioral conditions, including major depressive disorder and suicidality. The company collaborates with leading universities and research clinics to advance its research and therapeutic solutions. Its technology features a semiconductor switch that generates a unique magnetic pulse, designed to help patients improve their quality of life by addressing these challenging disorders.

Qurcan Therapeutics

Seed Round in 2021
Qurcan Therapeutics is focused on developing advanced therapeutic solutions for solid tumors, particularly brain cancers. The company has created a nanotechnology-based drug delivery platform that enhances the precision of cancer treatment by overcoming challenges associated with traditional drug delivery methods. This platform improves the release of therapeutic agents while minimizing liver accumulation, allowing for more effective targeting of difficult-to-reach tumors. Among its innovations is Manganescan®, a theranostic agent that serves as both an MRI contrast agent and a radio-sensitizer, enabling early detection of brain tumors and enhancing the effectiveness of radiation therapy. By facilitating improved drug delivery and modulating the tumor microenvironment, Qurcan Therapeutics aims to increase therapeutic efficacy and extend patient survival in the fight against solid tumor cancers.

VRapeutic

Grant in 2021
VRapeutic is a company that develops virtual reality software aimed at therapeutic applications, particularly for individuals with autism, ADHD, and cerebral palsy. Its platform includes a range of software modules that create immersive educational scenarios designed to teach essential life skills, including motor, cognitive, social, and academic abilities. By integrating artificial intelligence and internet-of-things technologies, the software enhances therapy sessions and allows therapists to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment provided to users.

Diamond Therapeutics

Venture Round in 2021
Diamond Therapeutics is a Toronto-based company dedicated to developing innovative therapies for mental health conditions through the potential of psychedelic compounds. The company focuses on creating sub-perceptual, non-hallucinogenic treatments, which are designed to be safe and suitable for at-home use. By concentrating on these treatments, Diamond Therapeutics aims to address a wide range of neuropsychiatric conditions, seeking to enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies and promote faster recovery for patients. The company's mission aligns with the urgent need to improve mental health care, aiming to deliver significant benefits to a diverse patient population and contribute meaningfully to the global mental health crisis.

Steadiwear

Seed Round in 2021
Steadiwear is a company focused on developing innovative solutions for individuals suffering from hand tremors, particularly those with Parkinson's disease. Its flagship product, the Steadi-One, is the world's first battery-free glove designed to intelligently reduce tremors. This lightweight and compact glove employs a smart fluid mechanism that provides resistance against hand tremors, allowing users to regain independence and enhance their quality of life. The Steadi-One is classified as a Class I medical device and has received FDA registration. It became available for pre-order in August 2019, with the first batch of units delivered in December 2019, followed by a full-scale launch planned for March 2020.

Inteligex

Grant in 2020
Inteligex is focused on developing innovative stem cell-based therapeutics aimed at restoring function in patients with spinal cord injuries and other central nervous system diseases. The company is pioneering novel technologies that modify the spinal microenvironment and provide regenerative therapeutic cells to replace essential cells lost due to injury. Through its development program, Inteligex aspires to become the first entity to offer an effective treatment for spinal cord injuries, a condition that currently lacks viable therapies. The successful implementation of its solutions could benefit hundreds of thousands of patients globally, significantly advancing the field of regenerative medicine.

CerebTalk

Grant in 2020
Cerebtalk specializes in brain-computer interface (BCI) technology aimed at enhancing communication for individuals with severe motor impairments, such as those affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, strokes, cerebral palsy, and non-verbal autism. In addition to its communication tools, the company develops wireless in-ear EEG earphones that work in conjunction with a dedicated application. This technology allows users to monitor their stress levels, sleep quality, and physical activity, thereby promoting overall physical and mental wellness. Cerebtalk's innovative approach addresses both communication barriers and wellness tracking for users with diverse needs.

Epineuron

Grant in 2020
Epineuron Technologies, Inc. is a medical device company based in Hamilton, Canada, focused on developing innovative treatment solutions for peripheral nerve injuries. Founded in 2016, Epineuron is pioneering bioelectronic medicine with a mission to set new standards in nerve repair and regeneration. The company is creating a range of surgical solutions, including an electroceutical device that provides electrical stimulation to enhance the natural healing processes of injured peripheral nerves. By accelerating nerve regeneration, Epineuron aims to offer patients advanced care options and aims to establish itself as a leader in the field of bioelectronic nerve therapy.

NeuroQore

Convertible Note in 2020
NeuroQore, Inc. is a company based in Ottawa, Canada, specializing in the development of a monophasic repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation system aimed at treating treatment-resistant depression. Founded in 2012, NeuroQore focuses on creating innovative neuromodulation treatments for various neurobehavioral conditions, including major depressive disorder and suicidality. The company collaborates with leading universities and research clinics to advance its research and therapeutic solutions. Its technology features a semiconductor switch that generates a unique magnetic pulse, designed to help patients improve their quality of life by addressing these challenging disorders.

Zentrela

Seed Round in 2019
Zentrela Inc. is a neurotechnology company based in Hamilton, Canada, that specializes in developing end-to-end EEG systems aimed at reducing accidents caused by cognitive impairment during driving or working. Founded in 2015, Zentrela has created the Zentrela wellness system, a wearable device that leverages artificial intelligence to decode human brain activity. The company focuses on the legalized cannabis industry, utilizing its proprietary technology to create a comprehensive scientific database that captures consumer experiences with cannabis products. By analyzing brainwave data, Zentrela aims to transform the development, promotion, and sale of cannabis products, shifting the industry's focus from plant-based data to consumer experience insights. Its technology also includes applications for workplace safety, enabling professional drivers to maintain alertness and better manage cognitive challenges associated with THC use.

Stabilo Medical

Seed Round in 2019
Stabilo Medical is a manufacturer of medical equipment and innovative wearable devices focused on enhancing rehabilitation for stroke victims. The company has developed a specialized vest that aids in core muscle exercises by detecting slouching and assisting users into an upright position. This design allows stroke patients to engage in safe and effective exercise independently, reducing the need for constant therapist supervision. Stabilo Medical also provides a range of products related to disability and end-of-life care, with an online inquiry form available on their website for customer engagement.

Qurcan Therapeutics

Grant in 2018
Qurcan Therapeutics is focused on developing advanced therapeutic solutions for solid tumors, particularly brain cancers. The company has created a nanotechnology-based drug delivery platform that enhances the precision of cancer treatment by overcoming challenges associated with traditional drug delivery methods. This platform improves the release of therapeutic agents while minimizing liver accumulation, allowing for more effective targeting of difficult-to-reach tumors. Among its innovations is Manganescan®, a theranostic agent that serves as both an MRI contrast agent and a radio-sensitizer, enabling early detection of brain tumors and enhancing the effectiveness of radiation therapy. By facilitating improved drug delivery and modulating the tumor microenvironment, Qurcan Therapeutics aims to increase therapeutic efficacy and extend patient survival in the fight against solid tumor cancers.

TruReach Health

Grant in 2018
TruReach Health specializes in developing user-friendly mobile applications that deliver cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) lessons and tools. Their platform enables users to engage in step-by-step exercises, track symptoms, and monitor their mental health progress, ultimately providing accessible mental wellness support.

Curv Health

Grant in 2018
Curv Health is a multidisciplinary virtual clinic founded in 2017, with offices in Toronto and Halifax. It provides a health technology platform that enables healthcare providers to establish and manage their own digital practices. The platform facilitates a digital care network where patients can schedule both virtual and in-person appointments with a variety of allied healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists, dietitians, psychotherapists, and counselors. By focusing on mental performance coaching, Curv Health aims to enhance the accessibility of mental health services, particularly for young athletes, helping them address the mental challenges associated with sports and ultimately increasing the number of meaningful years lived globally.

Supports Health

Grant in 2018
Give your patient’s family the support they deserve, so that you can focus on providing the best comprehensive care to your patient.Supports Health will improve loved ones outcomes, reduce re-admittance rates and helps families feel cared for.

Cerebian

Grant in 2018
Cerebian is a developer of a brain-computer interface-based operating system that enhances human interaction with computers and facilitates communication between individuals. This innovative system allows users to control electronic devices using their brainwaves, making it particularly beneficial for incapacitated patients. By enabling stroke patients to interact with technology through thought, Cerebian's technology supports rehabilitation and improves the quality of life for those with physical limitations. The company's focus is on creating solutions that bridge the gap between human cognition and digital devices, fostering a new way for users to engage with technology.

Welbi

Grant in 2018
Welbi is a company focused on enhancing the quality of life for older adults in senior living communities by optimizing care delivery. Its platform simplifies administrative tasks, allowing staff to dedicate more time to engaging residents and fostering meaningful connections. By offering personalized programming and real-time insights, Welbi equips senior living communities with the tools necessary to understand and respond to the evolving needs of their residents. This approach aims to prevent social isolation among older adults and enrich their overall experience within these communities.

Steadiwear

Grant in 2017
Steadiwear is a company focused on developing innovative solutions for individuals suffering from hand tremors, particularly those with Parkinson's disease. Its flagship product, the Steadi-One, is the world's first battery-free glove designed to intelligently reduce tremors. This lightweight and compact glove employs a smart fluid mechanism that provides resistance against hand tremors, allowing users to regain independence and enhance their quality of life. The Steadi-One is classified as a Class I medical device and has received FDA registration. It became available for pre-order in August 2019, with the first batch of units delivered in December 2019, followed by a full-scale launch planned for March 2020.

HiNT (Healthcare Innovation in NeuroTechnology)

Grant in 2017
HiNT is developing a wearable point-of-care monitoring device that detects a stroke with EEG and alerts high-risk patients, Its care givers, and their medical support team when the patient is having a stroke.

KalGene Pharmaceuticals

Venture Round in 2015
KalGene Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a privately held company based in Candiac, Canada, that specializes in the development of precision medicine for Alzheimer’s disease. Founded in 2006, KalGene collaborates with prominent clinician-scientists and academic institutions across North America and Europe. The company's focus is on creating targeted therapeutics and companion diagnostics aimed at enhancing clinical outcomes and survival rates through personalized medicine. By utilizing individual biological signatures, KalGene's approach seeks to predict patient responses to specific therapies, enabling healthcare providers to tailor treatments to meet the unique needs of each patient.

Sound Options Tinnitus Treatment

Grant in 2015
Sound Options Tinnitus Treatments Inc. is a health technology company based in Ancaster, Canada, founded in 2012. It specializes in developing healthcare software that offers individually tailored sound therapy for tinnitus, a prevalent hearing disorder affecting approximately one in ten individuals. Utilizing advanced computational neuroscience and tinnitus research, the company creates customized treatments based on each client's audiogram and tinnitus profile. The effectiveness of its sound therapy has been validated through clinical studies conducted at McMaster University. Sound Options has also established partnerships with various independent and franchised hearing clinics across Canada, making its innovative tinnitus treatment accessible to patients and hearing healthcare professionals.
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