Polsky Center at the University of Chicago

Nutrad is intelligent supply chain software that deeply links brands, distributors, and retailers – replacing tedious, error-prone, manual tasks with AI – creating frictionless commercial trade on a global scale.

Inclusive+ is a health technology company dedicated to enhancing healthcare for LGBTQIA+ patients. The organization focuses on improving access to care and clinician education, ensuring that healthcare providers are equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver culturally responsive and medically appropriate services. By developing a comprehensive platform for customized training, Inclusive+ addresses the specific healthcare needs of the LGBTQIA+ community, aiming to rectify systemic disparities in medical treatment and support. Through its initiatives, the company seeks to create a more inclusive healthcare environment that empowers both patients and providers.

Demi is a company focused on promoting composting as a mainstream practice, specifically targeting the 40 million Americans living in apartments who collectively produce over 200 million pounds of food waste weekly. By partnering with residential buildings, Demi provides a tech-enabled "compost-as-a-service" system that includes aesthetically designed bins, smart collection pods, and a user-friendly mobile app. This service not only simplifies the composting process but also serves as a valuable amenity that can help reduce traditional waste management costs. Additionally, Demi's offerings support sustainability and wellness certifications, allowing communities to enhance their environmental credentials while contributing to lower emissions. Through its innovative approach, Demi aims to foster a culture of composting, making it accessible and beneficial for urban dwellers.

Inclusive+ is a health technology company dedicated to enhancing healthcare for LGBTQIA+ patients. The organization focuses on improving access to care and clinician education, ensuring that healthcare providers are equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver culturally responsive and medically appropriate services. By developing a comprehensive platform for customized training, Inclusive+ addresses the specific healthcare needs of the LGBTQIA+ community, aiming to rectify systemic disparities in medical treatment and support. Through its initiatives, the company seeks to create a more inclusive healthcare environment that empowers both patients and providers.

Haylon Technologies develops advanced battery systems designed for diverse applications across sectors. Their innovative solutions offer extended endurance and durability for aircraft, adaptable storage with increased capacity for energy grids, and resilient, high-efficiency performance for space applications.

OrisDX develops a non-invasive salivary diagnostic test for early detection of oral cavity pre-malignancies and cancers. Its product employs biomarker-based molecular genomic techniques, allowing healthcare professionals to diagnose oral cancer through genetic testing of saliva.

Natuur Brands specializes in manufacturing natural plant-derived ingredients, particularly flavorless nanoemulsions designed for easy infusion into beverages, food products, and cosmetics. The company offers innovative water-soluble cannabinoid infusion solutions that enable brands, entrepreneurs, and manufacturers to create diverse hemp-infused products with precision and efficiency. By providing perfectly dosed cannabinoid emulsions, Natuur Brands empowers clients to simplify the infusion process while maintaining high performance and quality at accessible price points. This allows businesses to effectively integrate cannabinoids into an array of consumer goods, enhancing their product offerings in the growing cannabinoid market.

StandOutSearch is a free database containing all internships, research opportunities, and summer programs for high school students. The organization raised $30,000 from The University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Innovation in 2022. In addition to listing over 1000 free opportunities for high school students, StandOut Search also provides its own program, StandOut Connect. StandOut Connect is a selective program that helps provide students with legitimate professional training, helping them find internships at companies in their interest area.

Pippin Title offers a cloud-based software for efficient management of title search workflows across all U.S. states. Its AI-enabled platform streamlines the process for various sectors, including green energy and financial institutions, providing reliable title documents to facilitate timely transactions.

The first industry-focused language learning mobile App. Using the latest frameworks Taplingua delivers the most relevant language skills according to the employee’s role and industry.

LongD is an app and website that provides the long-distance traveler with convenient, efficient, safe, flexible and economical intercity ground transportation service.

Safe Rate is a developer of a comprehensive home loan marketplace designed to streamline the mortgage process for consumers. The company utilizes advanced technology, including tokenization and decentralized ledger systems, to assist users from the initial stages of saving for a down payment through to the final repayment of their mortgages. Safe Rate offers tailored financing options for residential mortgage purchases, catering to various stakeholders such as homebuyers, real estate agents, and builders. By redirecting advertising funds typically used by other lenders, Safe Rate provides financial incentives, such as contributions towards mortgage loans, enhancing affordability for its clients. This innovative approach positions Safe Rate as a facilitator of diverse mortgage products and financing solutions in the real estate market.

BiomeSense develops an integrated hardware, software, and data platform to scale microbiome data collection and analysis for clinical research. The company integrates at-home monitoring of the gut microbiome through its GutLab smart-bathroom system with the MetaBiome time-series analytics platform to connect microbiome changes with clinical outcomes in real time. Its platform supports large-scale, densely longitudinal datasets to discover, validate, and commercialize microbiome biomarkers, enabling clinicians to apply microbiome insights to improve human health. Founded in 2018 and based in Chicago, BiomeSense seeks to advance precision medicine by providing end-to-end microbiome measurement and analytics.

Seurat Therapeutics Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Chicago, Illinois, that focuses on developing innovative treatments for migraine headaches. Founded in 2016 and emerging from research at the University of Chicago, the company specializes in an intranasal drug and nasal spray formulation using insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). This medication aims to stimulate brain health and enhance recovery from migraine attacks by mimicking natural physiological processes. Seurat Therapeutics is dedicated to translating scientific discoveries into effective therapies, providing patients with more efficient and rapid relief from migraine symptoms.

Ascent Technologies, Inc. specializes in regulatory compliance software designed for financial services firms. Founded in 2015 and based in Chicago, Illinois, the company offers a cloud-based platform that analyzes business activities to identify potential compliance obligations. This platform aids firms in tracking and adhering to relevant regulatory requirements. Ascent's solutions encompass change management, obligations management, issue tracking, and provide access to industry reference materials and compliance documentation. By streamlining the compliance process, Ascent enables firms to maintain their regulatory standards effectively.

Oxalo Therapeutics develops therapies to treat rare kidney diseases and prevent recurrent oxalate-related stones, focusing on primary hyperoxaluria and other oxalate pathologies. It leverages microbiome science, translational research, and early-stage technology to create a gut-derived therapy that safely removes oxalate from the body, reducing stone recurrence and related renal complications.

ImmunArtes is a biotechnology company focused on developing vaccines and therapeutics to combat staphylococcus aureus, including its antibiotic-resistant strains. The company aims to address the immune evasion mechanisms employed by these bacteria, which contribute to increased rates of antibiotic resistance and challenges in treatment. ImmunArtes is dedicated to providing effective vaccination solutions that protect patients from staph infections, with a strong emphasis on demonstrating efficacy in preclinical models. Through its innovative approach, the company seeks to enhance patient outcomes by preventing colonization and the diseases associated with these pathogens.

Onchilles Pharma is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, founded in 2017. The company focuses on the discovery and development of first-in-class biologic therapies specifically designed for cancer treatment. By leveraging innovative research on neutrophil and macrophage biology, Onchilles Pharma aims to create next-generation immunotherapies that selectively target cancer cells while sparing normal cells and tissues. This approach not only enhances the efficacy of cancer treatment but also minimizes toxicity, providing medical professionals with effective options to treat patients suffering from cancer.

AVnovum Therapeutics is developing a new class of antimicrobial therapy that is patent protected. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

Switched Source LLC, based in East Lansing, Michigan, specializes in developing innovative equipment solutions for electric distribution companies aimed at enhancing the resilience and efficiency of power delivery systems. Founded in 2015, the company offers a patented power-electronics device that features a controllable valve for managing power flow. This technology facilitates the modernization of electric distribution systems, enabling utilities to transition towards smarter and more reliable grid infrastructures. By improving the efficiency and reliability of the last mile of electricity delivery, Switched Source plays a crucial role in reducing power outages and supporting the shift away from coal-based energy sources. The company has established strong connections with Michigan State University and collaborates with various partner utilities and original equipment manufacturers to deploy its advanced solutions.

Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, AMOpportunities connects international medical students with clinical training opportunities in the U.S. Through its platform, it offers access to over 200 clinical sites across 70+ specialties, providing visa assistance and housing support.

Triple specializes in augmented reality software aimed at enhancing the retail shopping experience. The company's technology allows consumers to visualize products in their own homes using 3D models, making the online shopping process more immersive and intuitive. By enabling retailers to convert traditional product photography into dynamic AR representations, Triple facilitates a seamless transition into augmented reality commerce. This innovative approach positions Triple as a key player in transforming how brands and retailers engage with customers in the digital marketplace.

Banyan is a FoodTech company looking to grow the local food economy. Our first product, FoodSource, is a B2B local food e-commerce platform that makes it easier, cheaper, and more efficient for buyers and sellers to transact. FoodSource enables users to browse, order/sell, invoice and pay across multiple clients, all on a common marketplace. By digitizing these common administrative tasks, FoodSource reduces overhead costs and improves the local food buying experience for our customers.

BallotReady is an online, non-partisan voter guide for local elections that aggregates content from candidate websites, League of Women Voters questionnaires, news articles, campaign finance records, and legislative roll calls to provide nonpartisan background information on every candidate and referendum on a voter's ballot. The platform enables users to compare all candidates on their ballot, obtain essential information needed in the voting booth, and save selected candidates to a mobile device for offline review. It supports civic engagement by offering data services and digital tools that help voters understand their entire ballot and make informed choices.

ExplORer Surgical Corp. is a Chicago-based company that specializes in developing an interactive surgical playbook aimed at enhancing teamwork and efficiency in operating rooms. Founded in 2013, the company offers a software solution that allows healthcare providers to optimize surgical workflows, customize processes based on patient needs and surgeon preferences, and track case progression in real time. This tool facilitates improved communication among surgical teams, enabling them to coordinate activities and manage tools and supplies effectively, ultimately reducing disruptions and waste. Additionally, ExplORer Surgical provides administrators with valuable performance and scheduling data to enhance the quality of care. The company's innovative approach not only supports surgical teams but also assists medical device companies in the efficient rollout of new devices and improves medical education.

Navipoint Genomics is a bioinformatics analysis software developer headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and founded in 2015. The company specializes in the analysis of entire human genomes, providing tools that enhance the speed and efficiency of large-scale genomic analysis. Its software facilitates the transfer and examination of full human genomes, significantly reducing analysis time. Additionally, Navipoint Genomics develops a pipeline that enables the investigation of gene expression changes and the detection of fusion transcripts at the whole-transcriptome level. This capability allows clients to achieve improved reporting quality, characterized by high confidence values and fewer false negatives in their genomic analyses.

Praedictus Climate Solutions, founded by experts including Joshua Elliott, Ian Foster, David Kelly, and Robert Okabe, specializes in developing advanced software tools that generate more precise and timely crop yield projections than traditional methods. Their innovative technology combines global and regional weather forecasts to provide quantitative agricultural predictions, empowering clients in commodity markets to make data-driven trading decisions. The company has received funding from the Innovation Fund to validate its system across diverse crops and geographies.

Markit Medical, Inc. operates an online platform that facilitates healthcare cost comparison and appointment scheduling for patients. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the platform allows users to evaluate healthcare options based on convenience, price, and qualifications before leaving their primary care provider's office. It supports physicians by providing scheduling assistance and personalized referral solutions, enhancing shared decision-making and patient engagement at the point of care. Additionally, Markit Medical enables insurers to offer price transparency, helping patients make informed financial decisions regarding their healthcare. The platform aims to empower patients, improve satisfaction ratings, and streamline the healthcare navigation process.

Nip is a food delivery platform designed to streamline the online ordering process. Recognizing the challenges of browsing multiple restaurants and menus, Nip simplifies the experience by curating the best dishes available in local areas. The platform features a user-friendly mobile application that allows customers to easily search for and select meals from various restaurants. By leveraging technology, Nip ensures quick delivery, making it convenient for users to enjoy their favorite foods at home, often at discounted prices.

Lynx, operating through its VirtualKEY application, offers a comprehensive solution for Airbnb hosts and property management companies to manage access to vacation rentals without the need for physical keys. The platform provides several features, including digital keys for guests that are active during their stay, notifications for property owners, and temporary access for cleaning staff. Additionally, it enhances the guest experience by enabling automated and personalized communications, streamlining check-out processes, and facilitating service requests directly through the app. Lynx also retails various types of remote and smart locks online. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the company aims to simplify property rental management, allowing owners to maximize occupancy and revenue without the complications of traditional key exchange.

TripWeave is a company that specializes in providing a unique social travel experience for young adults. It offers a platform where users can form groups based on shared interests and social networks to embark on self-led journeys around the world. TripWeave handles accommodations and creates expert itineraries, but the travelers have the freedom to explore at their own pace. The company distinguishes itself by incorporating local experiences that are not typically accessible to tourists, providing an authentic glimpse into local cultures.

LabRepo is a provider of an open-source laboratory information management system designed to facilitate access to comprehensive laboratory-related information. The platform caters to researchers, educators, and academicians, allowing them to efficiently manage and retrieve data pertinent to their laboratory activities. By offering an open-source solution, LabRepo aims to enhance collaboration and innovation within the scientific community, making vital information readily available to support research and educational initiatives.

Wink-edit is an online educational technology platform focused on improving users' writing skills through a combination of text correction and e-learning features. The company employs a team of qualified professionals who proofread submissions and offer detailed feedback, enabling users to learn from their mistakes. Each submission contributes to a personalized learning experience, allowing individuals to track and analyze their progress through a Custom Learning Center. In addition to text correction, Wink-edit provides spoken and written English tutorials, catering to a diverse range of learning needs.

Tap Recorder is a developer of an innovative audio recording application tailored for iOS users. The application utilizes intuitive taps and swipes, allowing users to effortlessly record, annotate, and share audio without the need to look at their devices. This design enables individuals to create audio notes seamlessly, minimizing distractions during important conversations. By focusing on gesture-based controls, Tap Recorder enhances the user experience, making it easier for users to capture and manage their audio content in a convenient and efficient manner.

Eislee is a company that specializes in the creation of chic and effortless apparel and accessories, emphasizing mindful sourcing and manufacturing practices. The brand is dedicated to versatile design, producing high-quality pieces crafted from 100% baby alpaca yarn. These products are knitted in a reputable production facility located in Lima, Peru, which is known for its collaboration with several prominent fashion brands. Eislee's focus on quality ensures that its clothing is suitable for everyday wear and designed to last for many years, appealing to consumers who value sustainable and durable fashion.

Nomwell is a company that has developed a mobile application focused on enhancing the restaurant discovery experience. The platform facilitates the sharing of restaurant recommendations among users and their friends, creating a network of trusted advice for dining choices. Through its application, users can easily track and organize their favorite dining spots, as well as uncover new restaurants that are popular with their social circles. By leveraging personal connections and recommendations, Nomwell aims to simplify the decision-making process for users seeking dining options they are likely to enjoy.

RiMO Therapeutics, LLC is a nano-pharmaceutical company focused on oncology drug development, established in 2015 and headquartered in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. The company utilizes its proprietary nanoscale coordination polymer (NCP) technology, which enhances the effectiveness of immunotherapy and X-ray radiotherapy through a novel radiotherapy-radiodynamic therapy (RT-RDT) mechanism. This innovative platform significantly increases the efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors and other therapeutic agents, particularly in lowly immunogenic solid tumors, by fostering T cell infiltration and reducing the necessary X-ray doses to eliminate local tumors in preclinical models. RiMO's clinical candidates are designed to be intrinsically non-toxic, allowing for the combination of multiple therapeutic modalities to improve treatment outcomes while minimizing side effects.

SmartLine is a waitlist management solution tailored for the restaurant industry, offering an innovative application that enhances operational efficiency. The platform enables restaurants to manage reservations and customer seating through an iPad application, replacing traditional front-of-house systems. Additionally, SmartLine provides digital tools for tracking statistics, improving customer engagement, and facilitating marketing efforts. Restaurants utilize the service by paying monthly subscription fees, which are based on customer volume, allowing for scalable options to suit different business sizes.

Enlistics is a hiring startup that uses advanced statistics and machine learning to algorithmically match applicants and businesses.

All Rise is a company that specializes in providing an online platform designed to track and navigate courtrooms. The platform creates a virtual network connecting lawyers, judges, and other legal professionals who are actively involved in courtroom cases and trials. This enables users to seek real-time advice and stay updated about live trials and activities in courtrooms without needing to be physically present. Additionally, All Rise offers services related to litigation matters, family law, criminal defense, workers' compensation, and social security disability.

Janus Choice, LLC is a healthcare technology company focused on enhancing the hospital discharge process and facilitating informed transitions to post-discharge care. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Rockford, Illinois, the company offers an innovative search engine that utilizes a patentable algorithm to match patients' clinical and social needs with appropriate skilled nursing facilities. This platform empowers patients and their families to make informed decisions about their care options while still in the hospital, thereby improving the overall patient experience and reducing hospital length of stay. By streamlining the discharge process, Janus Choice benefits not only patients and their families but also hospitals and skilled nursing facilities, contributing to a more efficient continuum of care. The company was established by individuals who recognized the challenges of navigating post-discharge care for their loved ones, leading to a solution that addresses the needs of all stakeholders involved in the healthcare transition process.

Sensei is an online ACT prep resource to help students understand their weaknesses early so they have the time to genuinely understand the material and improve their scores.

OpenShelf is a product search engine that enables consumers to quickly determine what's available and where they can buy it. Unlike other product search platforms, OpenShelf is entirely free and is open to any seller selling nearly anything. Products may be uploaded manually using the OpenShelf cataloging tool or by any number of pre-existing product data feeds.

HighStride offers app-based physical training programs for runners. It enables them to set personalized training plans, analyze every run, and crate challenges with others.

Lumii Health is an online enrollment platform. They provide tools for managing employee benefits and give businesses the analytics they need to make strategic decisions. They help employees with their health insurance options.

Anonymonkey provides a safe platform where young adults can express their opinions and emotions freely and without judgment through anonymous posts while still maintaining the relevancy and campus community that are not supported on existing anonymous platforms.

Norm's Farms is committed to producing sustainable, natural, and delicious elderberry products from the North American variety of elderberry, Sambucus canadensis.

Quantitative Insights, Inc. is a company focused on enhancing the clinical and commercial potential of its innovative product, QuantX, a Computer-Aided Diagnosis (CAD) system. It offers patient management services that leverage advanced imaging and research to improve diagnostic processes. The company's primary offering is an intuitive CAD workstation that integrates machine learning technology to assess breast abnormalities. This platform is designed to assist radiologists in improving both the efficiency and accuracy of breast cancer diagnoses, thereby contributing significantly to the field of medical imaging and patient care.

Quantitative Insights, Inc. is a company focused on enhancing the clinical and commercial potential of its innovative product, QuantX, a Computer-Aided Diagnosis (CAD) system. It offers patient management services that leverage advanced imaging and research to improve diagnostic processes. The company's primary offering is an intuitive CAD workstation that integrates machine learning technology to assess breast abnormalities. This platform is designed to assist radiologists in improving both the efficiency and accuracy of breast cancer diagnoses, thereby contributing significantly to the field of medical imaging and patient care.