South Carolina Research Authority

Created to facilitate applied research, product development and commercialization programs, and to strengthen South Carolina's Knowledge Economy by creating high wage-earning jobs. SC Launch provides entrepreneurs with key tools for success to help build technology startups, jobs and equity in the future for South Carolina. SC Launch provides access to business, academic and economic development entities through the SC Launch Resource Network. SC Launch is a collaboration among SCRA and South Carolina's university research foundations: Clemson University, the University of South Carolina and the Medical University of South Carolina.

Derek Willis

Sr. Program Manager

Past deals in Grant

Pensievision

Grant in 2023
Pensievision focuses on advancing medical imaging technologies for the early detection and analysis of cervical cancer. The company specializes in a 3D imaging and diagnostic device that utilizes proprietary software and artificial intelligence algorithms, combined with a liquid lens, to generate high-resolution, all-in-focus images. This innovative approach allows for cervical cancer screening that is more accessible, cost-effective, and user-friendly compared to traditional methods. Notably, Pensievision's technology eliminates the need for lab results and additional clinic visits, streamlining the diagnostic process. Additionally, it can be integrated with a patented therapeutic solution as part of a comprehensive screen-and-treat strategy, enhancing the capabilities of clinicians in identifying pre-cancerous cervical lesions at an early stage.

Algistor

Grant in 2023
Algistor is a sterile algae and bacteria manufacturing company that develops algae farming and separates oleic fatty oils from the microalgae chlorella vulgaris using artificial intelligence.

Infinity Collar

Grant in 2022
Infinity Collar is the Fort Mill-based startup created the first and only fully portable and customizable pet containment system. It allows users to keep their pets safe wherever they go while also giving them the freedom to explore the area they are in without physical hardware constraints.

SiteMarker

Grant in 2022
SiteMarker is a Mt. Pleasant-based startup provides a software platform that collects and provides land development data in real time. The service is helpful for landowners, lenders, design firms, developers, contractors, inspectors, and municipalities.

Humimic Medical

Grant in 2022
Humimic Medical produces high-quality, professional, synthetic medical gelatins using state-of-the-art techniques. The gelatins products are used in medical research, simulations, and other types of health care training.
Integrated Micro-Chromatography Systems, LLC is a biotechnology company founded in 2012 and located in South Carolina. The company specializes in the development and distribution of innovative products and services aimed at precision medicine. Its key offerings include IMCSzyme, a genetically modified pure beta-glucuronidase, and IMCStips. These products are designed to serve various sectors, including clinical and forensic toxicology, university research, and health science organizations, as well as US federal government agencies. Through its advanced biotechnology solutions, Integrated Micro-Chromatography Systems supports the growing demand for precision in medical and scientific applications.

Bird Dog Deals

Grant in 2022
Bird Dog Deals, LLC, is a Columbia-based real estate acquisition automation software company that streamlines underwriting for large investors looking to buy single family homes across the country.

New Forge

Grant in 2021
New Forge is a system integrator and technology supplier of AR software and hardware. New Forge helps businesses reduce downtime and increase ROI with wearable solutions using augmented reality and assisted reality technologies.

Dynamic Flow Systems

Grant in 2021
Dynamic Flow System is a Data Integration, transformation and Visualization platform that provides data-driven, lean toolkits for process improvement, including monitoring, predictive analytics, auditing, and supply management.
Carolina Diagnostic Solutions provides diagnostic and treatment devices and services to manage chronic pulmonary diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, asthma, and COPD.

University of South Carolina Office of Economic Engagement

Grant in 2021
The Office of Economic Engagement is the single convergence point for industry, researchers, entrepreneurs and government officials looking to engage with UofSC.

Bird Dog Deals

Grant in 2021
Bird Dog Deals, LLC, is a Columbia-based real estate acquisition automation software company that streamlines underwriting for large investors looking to buy single family homes across the country.

GoodUnited

Grant in 2020
GoodUnited, Inc. operates a platform that enables nonprofits to connect and share campaigns with supporters through social links, email templates, and other marketing materials. GoodUnited, Inc. was formerly known as inKind, Inc. The company was incorporated in 2014 and is based in Charleston, South Carolina.

Zark

Grant in 2020
Zark is a mobile app for gamers to challenge friends to play their favorite games online together while earning rewards. Users connect with friends by scheduling a challenge to play together.

Engin LLC

Grant in 2020
Engin LLC provides innovative solutions through collaboration, engineering, and design. Engin offers a range of mechanical design capabilities such as traditional CAD, generative design, and DfAM to develop the right solution.
Blue Eye Soft is an IT Software Solutions company which focuses on providing right managed services, IT, Engineering solutions & Staff as per clients need.

Aravis BioTech

Grant in 2020
Aravis Biotech develops a medical device implant that will monitor the healing of hip surgery patients. The device provides information to the provider and the patient about when and how to begin weight-bearing activities.

Lydex Pharmaceuticals

Grant in 2020
Lydex Pharmaceuticals develops small molecule drug therapy for liver ischemia/reperfusion (IR) to prevent additional damage to the liver during surgical procedures and transplants.

ScopeStack

Grant in 2020
ScopeStack develops a web-based platform for IT and engineering professionals that provides a simple-step pricing tool.

Confidence

Grant in 2020
Confidence is a haircare company developing products designed for African American hair. The company is also developing all-natural ingredients to produce organic hair formulas.

Pensievision

Grant in 2020
Pensievision focuses on advancing medical imaging technologies for the early detection and analysis of cervical cancer. The company specializes in a 3D imaging and diagnostic device that utilizes proprietary software and artificial intelligence algorithms, combined with a liquid lens, to generate high-resolution, all-in-focus images. This innovative approach allows for cervical cancer screening that is more accessible, cost-effective, and user-friendly compared to traditional methods. Notably, Pensievision's technology eliminates the need for lab results and additional clinic visits, streamlining the diagnostic process. Additionally, it can be integrated with a patented therapeutic solution as part of a comprehensive screen-and-treat strategy, enhancing the capabilities of clinicians in identifying pre-cancerous cervical lesions at an early stage.

Aconabolics

Grant in 2020
Aconabolics is specializing in the synthesis of stable, isotopically labeled organic acids, keto acids, and amino acids for diagnostics pharmaceutical research, and metabolic analysis. Our proprietary reaction pathways enable the generation of both known and non-fermentable metabolites. Major products include isotopic and structural isomers of biochemical intermediates and analogs.

Constructis

Grant in 2020
Constructis is a leader in kinetic energy. With the high demand for clean energy Constructis has brought to life a roadway system that allows traffic to create renewable energy. How does it work? The Roadway Energy Sensory System or R.E.S.S are roadway installed power modules capable of capturing vehicle traffic and converting it into usable energy that can be stored or distributed directly to the Grid.

Railmo

Grant in 2020
Railmo is changing the landscape of mobility equipment management through innovative, simple to use technology. Healthcare and airport transport teams will no longer struggle with accountability or waste time locating wheelchairs on campus. The Railmo system will allow organizations staff to store, check-out, locate, and clean mobile equipment all from designated locations.

Quitchet

Grant in 2020
Developer of a home trading application intended to organize home selling process. The company's product Quitchet is a portal and application that creates robust searches, organizes the entire process of home selling and buying from browsing for the buyer, scheduling and communicating between all parties all the way through the closing process, enabling consumers to conduct home buying and selling process easily.

Cycle Clarity

Grant in 2020
Cycle Clarity is a team of physicians, computer engineers, and biostatisticians dedicated to improving the world of fertility treatment through the application of cognitive computing in healthcare. Through the use of the latest generation of machine learning, Cycle Clarity has developed a better understanding of the multifactorial causes of infertility allowing for a more individualized approach to infertility testing and treatment.

UASidekick

Grant in 2020
The UASidekick app was originally developed due to the struggles the UAV pilot faced to maintain compliance with FAA requirements – it quickly grew to encompass much more. The development of this app was centered around the Safe Sky’s initiative promoted by the FAA. We have continued to steer the development of the app towards the support of airspace de-confliction and the improvement of communications between pilots, federal entities, and the general public. To that end, we provide a membership into the Coalition of UAS Professionals (www.UASCoalition.org) for all those that download our app. The collaboration between UASidekick and the grassroots efforts of the Coalition of UAS Professionals provides a stronger platform to facilitate the successful growth of unmanned aerial robotics in technology, educational programs, and public outreach. We are pilots, and we have invested in the idea that there is a better way to do things. We also believe that the workload associated with many of the necessary tasks of flying can be eased through technology and enhanced communication. Our commitment to you is to continue improving the app based on your feedback and ideas, iteratively releasing new features that will help both the UAS sector and the public it serves. Thank you for your support as we endeavor to help grow this amazing industry.

GoBeep

Grant in 2020
We build blockchain-based mobile marketing and commerce software without compromising consumer trust or business capability. Our software enables businesses to directly market and sell to their customers through a mobile interface, while responsibly collecting valuable data to better serve each customer.

Tide Stop LLC

Grant in 2020
TideStop’s design provides a lighter product for easier installation. The addition of Clemson technology will inhibit barnacle growth for lower maintenance costs and extended lifespans of the valve.

yoJanus, Inc.

Grant in 2020
yoJanus, Inc., is a user-generated database of tenant experiences. The company strives to improve the rental experience by allowing tenants to learn from peers before committing their time, money and quality of life to a lease agreement. For landlords and property managers, yoJanus provides invaluable third-party feedback from the network of former, current and future renters.

Viatec

Grant in 2019
Viatec is a research and development company focused on providing innovative solutions for vocational trucks by eliminating the need for idling. The company specializes in fully electric, universal auxiliary power units that deliver accessible exporting power in multiple forms. This technology allows clients to reduce engine operating times, resulting in significant fuel savings and lower overall ownership costs. Viatec aims to enhance operational efficiency while promoting environmentally friendly practices within the trucking industry.

Neurona Therapeutics

Grant in 2019
Neurona Therapeutics Inc. develops cell-based therapies for the treatment of neurological disorders. The company develop therapeutic compositions of specific nerve cells for targeted delivery into the injured nervous system. The company was incorporated in 2008 and is based in South San Francisco, California.

Recovr

Grant in 2019
Recovr LLC is a company based in Seneca, South Carolina, that specializes in the research, development, and distribution of virtual therapy games aimed at enhancing the rehabilitation process for individuals recovering from strokes and other impairments. The company's games are designed to be visually engaging and customizable to meet individual therapy needs, providing an enjoyable and effective therapy experience. Patients can access these interactive games through systems like Xbox, allowing them to participate in their rehabilitation both in clinical settings and at home. Recovr's platform also includes features that track patient progress and compliance with rehabilitation programs, offering therapists access to analytical data through a web-based portal that includes setup and usage guides. The games motivate patients to adhere to their exercise assignments, thereby improving their recovery outcomes.

MitoChem Therapeutics

Grant in 2019
MitoChem Therapeutics develops treatments to address the effects of mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative disease. It was founded by Craig Beeson and Bärbel Rohrer in Charleston, South Carolina.

Vigilix

Grant in 2008
Vigilix LLC develops monitoring and alerting software, and remote support tools for the point-of-sale (POS) industry. It offers Vigilix Application Support Tool that provides real-time POS monitoring, alerting, and remote control through a single Web based user console. The company has a strategic partnership with Retail Pro International, LLC. Vigilix LLC was founded in 2003 and is based in Greenville, South Carolina.