Richard King Mellon Foundation

Conduction is a technology company that provides an interactive digital music platform for students. Its software enables learning various aspects of music, such as beat making, composition, and sheet music education, while fostering student engagement and increasing classroom participation. The platform also facilitates digital performances by local musicians or classmates, bringing music education to life.

MoneyStack operates a financial counseling platform aimed at addressing the financial challenges faced by individuals experiencing psychological distress, particularly those affected by problem gambling. Recognizing that financial issues significantly impact mental health, the platform connects mental health treatment providers with vetted financial counselors, enabling a comprehensive approach to treatment. By integrating financial counseling into mental health care, MoneyStack enhances recovery outcomes for clients while helping providers reduce turnover and lowering healthcare costs for payers. The platform offers educational content tailored to community needs, fostering financial literacy and confidence among users. With a focus on a community-based approach, MoneyStack has secured partnerships with nine state governments and generated over $100,000 in revenue in 2023. Its HIPAA-compliant services are innovative in bridging the gap between behavioral health treatment and financial advice, setting it apart in the marketplace.

Allegheny College, located in Meadville, Pennsylvania, offers a personalized educational experience that nurtures the unique skills and interests of its students. By encouraging interdisciplinary learning, the college helps students develop critical thinking skills that are increasingly valued in a global marketplace. The institution also manages an endowment fund, which is supported by investments, gifts, and donations from alumni. This fund provides essential annual funding that supports the college’s strategic initiatives, ensuring a sustainable and enriching environment for its educational programs. The executive management team oversees the assets of the endowment to maximize its impact on the college's mission.

LoanBYE offers a tax-free student loan repayment benefit.

The Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) offers a full range of academic programs on an accessible and convenient campus. Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, CCAC has additional campuses throughout the region. The main campus in Pittsburgh awards vocational certificates and diplomas. They also offer academic and career-oriented associate’s degrees. Some examples of Pittsburgh’s diverse majors are: * Art * Aviation Technology * Business * Computer Forensics * Court Reporting * Culinary Arts * Engineering Technology * Film * Global Studies * Social Work * Theatre While pursuing their degree, CCAC students may also enjoy the comfortable and accessible campus facilities. There are several dining facilities, lounge areas, a student services center and a performing arts center, all of which are conveniently located in the same structure. To gain admission to CCAC, applicants will need to submit an admissions application and transcripts. Entering students will also need to take a placement exam. There are additional admissions requirements for healthcare programs. Community College of Allegheny County offers federal financial aid awards like grants and loans. CCAC also offers more than 10 scholarships. Criteria for scholarships include one’s academic performance and background.

STEM Coding Lab provides under-resourced children with the computer skills needed in the digital economy. They offer computer science and coding education to K-8 students who would not otherwise have access to it.

The Advanced Leadership Institute to develop black executive leadership in order to benefit businesses, organizations, and communities.

Optimus Technologies is a clean energy technology company located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializing in advanced fuel systems for medium and heavy-duty truck fleets. The company manufactures the Vector System, which allows diesel engines to operate solely on 100% biodiesel. This innovative technology facilitates a seamless transition to low-carbon fuels by integrating into existing engine operations without the need for significant modifications or replacements. By enabling fleet operators to run exclusively on biodiesel, Optimus helps reduce both fuel costs and emissions, addressing the challenges of achieving emissions reductions in heavy-duty applications while meeting renewable fuel targets.

Resilient Lifescience focuses on the development of a wearable medical device aimed at preventing opioid overdose deaths. The device is designed to detect overdose events and automatically administer naloxone, a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. This innovative technology empowers individuals to respond to overdose situations effectively, even in the absence of immediate assistance from others, thereby enhancing patient safety and potentially saving lives.

SetPoint Medical is a clinical-stage bioelectronic medicine company based in Valencia, California, focused on developing implantable neuromodulation devices aimed at treating chronic autoimmune diseases. The company is creating a platform that stimulates the vagus nerve to activate the body's natural inflammatory reflex, leading to a systemic immune-restorative effect. This innovative approach offers an alternative treatment option for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, with the potential for reduced risks and costs compared to traditional drug therapies. SetPoint Medical, originally known as Innovative Metabolics Inc. until its name change in 2008, aims to provide patients and healthcare providers with effective solutions for managing debilitating inflammatory diseases.

Advanced Optronics specializes in the design and manufacture of implantable sensors aimed at enhancing intraoperative monitoring during surgeries. These innovative sensors provide real-time feedback to surgeons, helping to minimize trauma and prevent damage to residual hearing during implant procedures. The company focuses on developing flexible and biocompatible sensor systems that facilitate less invasive surgical techniques across various medical applications. By integrating flexible micro-electromechanical system sensors with cochlear implants, Advanced Optronics aims to improve surgical outcomes and support surgeons in performing procedures with greater precision and care.

Toyz Electronics is a Pennsylvania-based company that specializes in technology-driven solutions for the education sector. The firm has developed a gamified learning platform aimed at empowering students to acquire STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) skills, alongside entrepreneurship and storytelling. By integrating hip-hop culture, music, gaming, and design elements, Toyz Electronics offers a project-based curriculum that is both culturally relevant and responsive. This innovative approach allows students to create their own superhero avatars and narratives while learning a diverse range of technical and soft skills, effectively transforming their ideas into reality.

Pennsylvania Women Work is a nonprofit workforce development organization dedicated to helping individuals find financial stability.

STEM Coding Lab provides under-resourced children with the computer skills needed in the digital economy. They offer computer science and coding education to K-8 students who would not otherwise have access to it.

Gus Gear specializes in the development and manufacturing of wearable securement clothing designed to protect implanted medical devices. The company's flagship product, the Central Line Vest, effectively prevents damage, breakage, and accidental removal of central catheters. By providing securement solutions for various medical devices, including ostomy pouches and feeding tubes, Gus Gear aims to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life. Their innovative approach enables patients to maintain a higher level of independence and well-being while undergoing medical treatment, allowing them to live their lives to the fullest despite any health challenges.

Fabric Health is a healthcare service provider that operates within laundromats, focusing on enhancing the health and well-being of families. By utilizing the two hours that families spend at laundromats, the company offers access to local healthcare resources and information. This innovative approach allows families to engage with digital health services and improve their overall health experience while attending to their laundry needs.

Module specializes in the development of modular housing projects that aim to provide innovative residential solutions for the urban environment. The company focuses on designing and constructing homes in a modular fashion, which allows for smart architectural designs to be accessible to a broader audience. By offering a pay-as-you-go model, Module enables potential homeowners to acquire the appropriate amount of living space tailored to their needs, making homeownership more affordable and flexible. The company's approach seeks to meet the demands of modern living while ensuring that customized housing services are available to its clients.

Meta Mesh is a non-profit organization formed in response to the need for low-cost WiFi solutions for underserved areas.

Behaivior LLC is a digital health company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, focused on predicting and preventing addiction relapses through innovative technology. Founded in 2017, Behaivior develops a platform that combines wearable devices and machine learning algorithms to monitor key physiological signals such as heart rate and motion. This system, known as Recovery, is designed to support mental health recovery and wellness by delivering timely interventions based on real-time data. By utilizing a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model, Behaivior empowers individuals to maintain their recovery process while enabling care providers to better assist their clients. The integration of AI and behavioral health technology allows Behaivior to recognize patterns in human behavior, ultimately aiming to enhance mental well-being and reduce the incidence of crises, including relapse.

Carnegie Mellon University is a renowned private research university, offering undergraduate and graduate programs across diverse fields, with a strong focus on technology and arts. It is particularly distinguished for its School of Computer Science, recognized globally for its research and education, and the Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy, which uniquely combines management and policy expertise. The university serves various sectors, including education, technology, and the arts, contributing significantly to these fields through its academic programs and research.

The University of Pittsburgh, established in 1787 as the Pittsburgh Academy, is a prominent state-related research university recognized for its academic excellence and research capabilities. It is a member of the Association of American Universities, which includes 62 leading doctorate-granting institutions in North America. The university ranks 24th globally and is recognized as one of the top public universities in the United States, holding the top position in Pennsylvania. The University of Pittsburgh is noted for its strong research productivity and impact, as evidenced by its high ranking in the Performance Rankings of Scientific Papers for World Universities. The university's Pittsburgh School of Medicine, founded in 1886, provides professional medical education, including a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Pitt's students have received numerous prestigious awards, including four Rhodes Scholarships between 2006 and 2012, making it one of the few public institutions to achieve such recognition.

HilleVax is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company established in 2021 and based in Boston, Massachusetts. The company specializes in the development and commercialization of innovative vaccines. Its primary focus is on HIL-214, a vaccine candidate that utilizes virus-like particle (VLP) technology aimed at preventing moderate-to-severe acute gastroenteritis caused by norovirus infection.

The Citizen Science Lab operates as a nonprofit organization. The Citizen Science Lab provides an accessible space to connect young people with opportunities to increase STEM knowledge, academic achievement, and self-confidence.

Highmark Health is a national health and wellness organization that operates a diverse portfolio of businesses aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery. It includes Highmark Health Plan, one of the largest Blue Cross Blue Shield insurers in the United States, along with a regional hospital and physician network. The organization also encompasses companies that provide dental solutions, reinsurance, population health management, and innovative technology solutions. Highmark Health is focused on serving its customers and communities while maintaining financial strength and stability, advancing its Living Health strategy to improve overall health outcomes.

SetPoint Medical is a clinical-stage bioelectronic medicine company based in Valencia, California, focused on developing implantable neuromodulation devices aimed at treating chronic autoimmune diseases. The company is creating a platform that stimulates the vagus nerve to activate the body's natural inflammatory reflex, leading to a systemic immune-restorative effect. This innovative approach offers an alternative treatment option for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, with the potential for reduced risks and costs compared to traditional drug therapies. SetPoint Medical, originally known as Innovative Metabolics Inc. until its name change in 2008, aims to provide patients and healthcare providers with effective solutions for managing debilitating inflammatory diseases.

GID BIO, Inc. is a prominent company in the field of cellular therapy, specializing in a tissue processing platform that facilitates cell-based treatments for various medical conditions, including osteoarthritis of the knee. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Louisville, Colorado, the company focuses on innovative solutions that utilize patients' own cells for therapeutic purposes. GID BIO's technology uniquely harvests and isolates stromal and vascular cells, including stromal progenitor cells, to aid in pain management, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair. The approach allows healthcare providers to perform procedures that enable patients to walk in and walk out the same day, making it a convenient option for cell-based therapies. The team consists of experienced executives, adipose tissue scientists, and surgeons dedicated to advancing reliable and cost-effective treatment options.

Center that CARES is a community benefits organization that is dedicated to the development and enrichment of pre-k to college age youth, primarily living in the Hill District.

The Mediation Council of Western Pennsylvania (MCWP) is the premier association of professional mediators in Western Pennsylvania. MCWP mission is to promote the use of mediation and other collaborative processes for resolving disputes and managing conflict, and support the professional development of mediator practitioners.

For years in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, Westmoreland County Community College has been providing an education for local students in order to prepare them for the working world. Along with a collection of fantastic educational programs, the school also offers academic advising, tutoring, child care, computer resource center, counseling, and transfer services. Programs include subjects like Applied Science, Baking & Pastry, Casino and Gaming, Computer Numerical Control, Homeland Security Management, Dental Hygiene, Fire Science Technology, Horticulture, Legal Assisting, Library Science, Nursing, Robotics, and many other fields. WCCC has two computer programs called DISCOVER and MYCAREERMAKER, which store career information available for student use. Also available in the career service center are a career library filled with information, trained counselors who are prepared to assess a student’s career course, and interview preparation workshops. Financial aid options are available at WCCC to eligible students. There are loans, grants, work-study, and scholarship programs such as the volunteer firefighter tuition waiver program, Ronald Waugaman police academy scholarship, nursing-specific scholarships, and many more. For more information, contact Westmoreland County Community College today.

CytoAgents, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, established in 2018. The company specializes in developing protein-based drugs aimed at treating viral infections, particularly influenza, and addressing life-threatening symptoms associated with Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS). CRS is an overreaction of the immune system that results in systemic inflammation, often referred to as a cytokine storm. One of its primary products, GP1681, acts as an agonist of a G-protein coupled receptor, targeting the immune response in various medical conditions. CytoAgents focuses on creating treatments for multiple indications with significant unmet medical needs, including those arising from oncology CAR-T cell therapy, COVID-19, and respiratory epidemics, thereby providing healthcare professionals with innovative tools to manage patients experiencing severe immune reactions.

Riverlife is a nonprofit that promotes reuse of the city’s riverfronts.

CHS focuses on the strengths of the people who use its services and provides support for them to nurture healthy relationships, realize their individual goals and full potential, and build their community. On any given day, you will find a group of older neighbors in the lobby talking to residents of their residential programs. They are talking about the Pirates, what is going on abroad, or someone’s new puppy. But underneath those conversations is a group of people watching out for each other, sharing their joy and sorrow, and cherishing the roles each of them plays in their community. When that happens and people come together and support one another, they are able to address individual needs, prevent crises from occurring, and achieve their individual and collective goals.

Flint RiverQuarium, a one-of-a-kind adventure in Albany, Georgia, featuring a unique blue hole spring with more than 120 mysterious creatures.

The University of Pittsburgh, established in 1787 as the Pittsburgh Academy, is a prominent state-related research university recognized for its academic excellence and research capabilities. It is a member of the Association of American Universities, which includes 62 leading doctorate-granting institutions in North America. The university ranks 24th globally and is recognized as one of the top public universities in the United States, holding the top position in Pennsylvania. The University of Pittsburgh is noted for its strong research productivity and impact, as evidenced by its high ranking in the Performance Rankings of Scientific Papers for World Universities. The university's Pittsburgh School of Medicine, founded in 1886, provides professional medical education, including a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Pitt's students have received numerous prestigious awards, including four Rhodes Scholarships between 2006 and 2012, making it one of the few public institutions to achieve such recognition.

Phathom Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Buffalo Grove, Illinois, focused on developing and commercializing innovative treatments for gastrointestinal diseases. Established in 2018 and launched in 2019, the company is advancing its lead drug candidate, vonoprazan, a potassium-competitive acid blocker (P-CAB) that effectively inhibits acid secretion in the stomach. Vonoprazan is currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease and is also being studied in combination with antibiotics for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection. The company aims to address significant unmet medical needs in patients suffering from acid-related disorders and has assembled a team of experts in the gastrointestinal and pharmaceutical fields to drive its development efforts.

Nuvaira, Inc. is a medical device company focused on developing innovative treatments for obstructive lung diseases, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The company has created a novel, catheter-based Lung Denervation System designed to address airway nerve hyperactivity, a common issue in patients with COPD and asthma. This minimally invasive procedure targets the parasympathetic nerves of the lungs, aiming to enhance lung function, improve exercise capacity, and elevate the quality of life for affected individuals. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Nuvaira was previously known as Holaira, Inc. before rebranding in June 2017.

Earlens is a medical technology company focused on improving the hearing experience for individuals with hearing loss. It has created the Earlens Contact Hearing Solution, a unique device that directly stimulates the eardrum using a small lens, replicating the natural hearing process. Unlike conventional hearing aids that amplify sound, the Earlens solution delivers sound directly to the eardrum, providing superior sound quality and a broader bandwidth. This innovative, non-surgical approach allows for automatic adjustments in challenging listening environments while minimizing feedback. The technology received FDA clearance in 2019 for its second generation, marking a significant advancement in hearing solutions aimed at enhancing the quality of life for those with hearing impairment.

The Westmoreland Museum of American Art is to offer a place to share compelling and meaningful cultural experiences that open the door to new ideas, perspectives and possibilities.

GlobeImmune, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Louisville, Colorado, dedicated to developing therapeutic products for cancer and infectious diseases through its proprietary Tarmogen platform. The company’s pipeline includes GS-4774, currently in Phase 2 trials for hepatitis B virus treatment, and various candidates targeting cancer, such as GI-6207 for medullary thyroid cancer, GI-6301 for tumors expressing the brachyury protein, and GI-4000 for resected pancreatic cancer. Additionally, GlobeImmune is advancing several candidates for infectious diseases, including GI-19000 for tuberculosis, GI-2010 for HIV, and GI-18000 for hepatitis D virus, currently in preclinical stages. The Tarmogen platform also includes products designed to address challenges in cancer therapy, such as preventing the emergence of mutated escape variants. The company has established strategic collaborations with Gilead Sciences and Celgene Corporation. Originally founded as Ceres Pharmaceuticals in 1995, GlobeImmune changed its name in 2001 to reflect its focus on innovative immunotherapy solutions.

LuMend Inc. designs, develops, manufactures and markets medical devices intended to enable physicians to safely, predictably and cost effectively cross Chronic Total Occlusions (CTO) in the coronary vasculature, allowing subsequent conventional guide wire placement across target stenotic lesions. The company was founded in 1996 by two pioneering interventional cardiologists, John Simpson, PhD, MD, and Matthew Selmon, MD.

Simcoach Games, a company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in developing 3D games and simulation products focused on workplace safety and operational training. Founded in 2005, the company creates realistic training simulations that allow users to experience equipment, processes, and workplace scenarios without real-world risks. Its offerings include industrial safety training simulations, interactive edutainment applications, and specialized tools like the Virtual Medical Device Training and the Safetyworks Lift Truck training product. Additionally, Simcoach Games provides the Forklift Safety Sim, a simulation-based training solution that educates forklift operators on OSHA safety principles. By integrating game design techniques with effective learning principles, Simcoach Games aims to foster sustainable behavior change and improve knowledge retention among learners across various industries, including manufacturing, utilities, and healthcare.