National Science Foundation

Great Lakes ReNew, established in 2016 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a unique partnership comprising over 50 institutions. These include universities, technology firms, and government and nonprofit organizations. The company, a foundation, is dedicated to managing its assets through its executive team.

Founded in 1890 as the Armour Institute, the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) is a private, independent, nonprofit research university located in Chicago. IIT offers a wide range of programs, including engineering, science, architecture, business, law, design, human sciences, and applied technology, granting degrees up to the Ph.D. level. The university's Chicago location enhances its global recruitment efforts and provides extensive opportunities that inform its educational and research initiatives. Through its innovative research and collaborations, IIT aims to contribute positively to the city of Chicago, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that supports both the institution's growth and the community's development.

The University of Chicago is a private, coeducational research university known for its commitment to rigorous scholarship and interdisciplinary learning. It empowers scholars and students to explore complex questions and challenge conventional thinking across various fields, including sciences, medicine, economics, law, and business. The university offers more than 50 specialized undergraduate and graduate programs, including innovative interdisciplinary initiatives such as Big Problems, which addresses significant global challenges. In addition to its academic offerings, the university enhances community engagement by sponsoring numerous art and cultural events that are free to the public, held at venues like the Court Theatre, the Oriental Institute, and the Smart Museum. Its experiential programs, including "Chicago Careers In," provide students with valuable research opportunities and internships in diverse professional fields, contributing to both individual growth and the economic vitality of the surrounding city.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, founded in 1867 and located in Champaign, Illinois, is a prominent institution known for its commitment to excellence in education, research, and public engagement. With over 3,000 faculty members, the university fosters innovation and discovery, contributing significantly to the state's economy and garnering numerous prestigious awards. The campus offers outstanding academic programs and resources that attract high-achieving students who engage in various research initiatives, study abroad, and participate in numerous student organizations. With a network of more than 425,000 alumni, the university has cultivated leaders across diverse fields globally, reflecting its influence and legacy in higher education.

Northwestern University, established in 1851, is a comprehensive research university offering over 120 undergraduate programs and more than 140 graduate and professional degrees across its 12 schools and colleges. It provides educational services, including internship opportunities, career guidance, financial aid options such as loans, grants, and scholarships, and exam certification resources to its approximately 8,500 undergraduate students and 9,000 graduate/professional students. The university is renowned for its law school, founded in 1859, which offers Juris Doctor (J.D.) degrees and various master's programs, along with executive education and clinical legal education opportunities. Northwestern University is headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, with additional campuses in Chicago and Doha, Qatar.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, founded in 1867 and located in Champaign, Illinois, is a prominent institution known for its commitment to excellence in education, research, and public engagement. With over 3,000 faculty members, the university fosters innovation and discovery, contributing significantly to the state's economy and garnering numerous prestigious awards. The campus offers outstanding academic programs and resources that attract high-achieving students who engage in various research initiatives, study abroad, and participate in numerous student organizations. With a network of more than 425,000 alumni, the university has cultivated leaders across diverse fields globally, reflecting its influence and legacy in higher education.

Dynamac Microwave is a manufacturer based in Addison, Illinois, specializing in electronic components. The company offers a range of products, including electronic countermeasures, reaction capability equipment, filters and networks, switches, semiconductor devices, and amplifiers. With a focus on developing advanced technology, Dynamac Microwave supports various industries by providing essential hardware that enhances electronic functionality and performance.

Psyonic, Inc. specializes in developing advanced bionic limbs aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with amputations. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Champaign, Illinois, the company focuses on creating accessible, affordable solutions for its users. Its flagship product, an advanced bionic hand, is notable for its speed, ease of control, and ability to provide sensory feedback. The hand utilizes muscle pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms, allowing for customization based on the user's specific needs and preferences. Designed to withstand impacts, the bionic hand is intended to enable users to perform daily tasks with greater ease. Psyonic's goal is to ensure that the costs associated with its products are fully covered by insurance, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for consumers.

FrostDefense, founded in 2018 and based in Champaign, Illinois, specializes in developing innovative frost protection solutions. The company focuses on creating environmentally friendly biofertilizers and patented sprayable compounds designed to combat early spring frost, particularly in vineyards and specialty fruit crops. By offering these frost protection products, FrostDefense aims to help vineyard owners prevent frost damage, thereby enhancing crop yield and improving labor management and mechanized farming operations.

Volexion Inc. is a manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries based in Chicago, Illinois, established in 2018. The company specializes in innovative graphene coating technology designed for commercial lithium-ion cathode materials. This advanced technology significantly enhances battery performance, offering improvements such as longer battery life, better power output, and a broader voltage range. Volexion's approach provides clients with a stable and efficient solution that optimizes the electrochemical performance of conventional lithium-ion batteries.

NanoPattern Technologies, established in 2019 and based in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in the development of photopatternable quantum dot formulations aimed at advancing display technologies. The company focuses on creating nanoparticle inks specifically designed for Quantum Dot-MicroLED and quantum dot-organic light-emitting diode display systems. Their patented resin-free nanoparticle lithography technology facilitates the high-resolution patterning of quantum dot downconverter layers. This innovation is intended to enhance the performance of display systems used in a variety of applications, including televisions, smartphones, wearables, and augmented and virtual reality devices.

Amber Agriculture, Inc. specializes in developing Internet of Things (IoT) sensor and analytics solutions aimed at automating grain storage monitoring and management for farmers. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the company focuses on enhancing agricultural practices through technology. Its flagship product is an IoT self-install kit that allows farmers to automate the monitoring of crop quality and grain management processes. By utilizing wireless sensors and cloud analytics, Amber Agriculture enables farmers to effectively monitor and manage the condition of stored crops, minimize waste, and respond to market prices, all through a smartphone-connected system.

Epivara, founded in 2016 and based in Champaign, Illinois, is developing a single-injection alternative to traditional spaying and neutering surgeries. This innovative approach aims to provide a safer and less invasive method for sterilizing pets, eliminating the pain and risks associated with conventional surgical procedures. By utilizing a small capsule, Epivara's solution offers the benefits of neutering, such as preventing overpopulation and reducing reproduction-related diseases, while also sparing pet owners from the costs and lengthy recovery times of surgery. The company's mission centers on enhancing the well-being of animals and their owners through compassionate care and cutting-edge scientific advancements.

Natural Fiber Welding, Inc., founded in 2015 and based in Peoria, Illinois, specializes in the manufacturing and supply of sustainable fabrics and materials derived from plants. The company has developed a circularity platform that produces high-performance, plastic-free materials suitable for various industries, including fashion, footwear, automotive, and upholstery. By integrating its innovative technology into existing supply chains, Natural Fiber Welding enables brands to design and scale eco-friendly products effectively.

O2M Technologies develops oxygen imaging devices for effective cancer and regenerative medicine treatments. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

BiomeSense, Inc. is a company that specializes in developing an integrated platform combining hardware, software, and data analytics to enhance the collection and analysis of microbiome data in clinical research. Founded in 2018 and based in Chicago, Illinois, BiomeSense has created the GutLab, an innovative "smart bathroom" system designed for continuous, at-home monitoring of the human gut microbiome. This technology, along with the MetaBiome time-series analytics platform, provides a comprehensive solution that enables researchers, patients, and consumers to track microbiome changes in real time and understand their impact on health outcomes. By generating and analyzing large-scale, longitudinal microbiome datasets, BiomeSense aims to discover and commercialize novel microbiome biomarkers, ultimately improving precision medicine and the development of microbiome-based therapeutics and products.

NUMiX MATERIALS is a water treatment company that specializes in manufacturing and supplying sorbents to remove dissolved heavy metals from contaminated water. It focuses on RCRA, Water, Sorbents, Pretreatment, and Metals. It was founded in 2018 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

FruitVaccine is a company based in Champaign, Illinois, that specializes in the manufacture of fruit-based vaccines aimed at providing immunity against various infectious diseases that pose global health challenges. Founded in 2017, the company offers innovative, noninvasive vaccine solutions that can be administered orally. Its products come in various forms, including gummy-like pills, oral drops, and fruit purees. These vaccines are designed to be natural, vegan-friendly, and free from egg-based components, making them an environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional injectable vaccines. By focusing on accessibility and ease of use, FruitVaccine seeks to enhance public health and vaccination rates worldwide.

Cloud services have become ubiquitous to all major 21st century economic activities. However, cloud services and technologies can be significantly more powerful than they are now. A persistent barrier to further advancement has been the lack of a large-scale and open cloud research platforms. With funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Chameleon project will provide such a large-scale platform to the open research community allowing them explore transformative concepts in deeply programmable cloud services, design, and core technologies. Chameleon will allow users to explore problems ranging from the creation of Software as a Service to kernel support for virtualization. This broad range of supported research includes many other areas such as developing Platforms as a Service, creating new and optimizing existing Infrastructure as a Service components, investigating software-defined networking, and optimizing virtualization technologies. The Chameleon testbed, will be deployed at the University of Chicago and the Texas Advanced Computing Center and will consist of 650 multi-core cloud nodes, 5PB of total disk space, and leverage 100 Gbps connection between the sites. While a large part of the testbed will consist of homogenous hardware to support large-scale experiments, a portion of it will support heterogeneous units allowing experimentation with high-memory, large-disk, low-power, GPU, and co-processor units. The project will also leverage existing FutureGrid hardware at the University of Chicago and the Texas Advanced Computing Center in its first year to provide a transition period for the existing FutureGrid community of experimental users. To support the broad range of experiments experiments described above, the project will support a graduated configuration system allowing full user configurability of the software stack, from provisioning of bare metal and network interconnects to delivery of fully functioning cloud environments. A special feature of Chameleon is that it provides for an exceptionally close integration of clouds and networks, which substantially enhances the capabilities of both. In addition, to facilitate experiments, Chameleon will support a set of services designed to meet researchers needs, including support for experimental management, reproducibility, and repositories of trace and workload data of production cloud workloads. The project is led by the Computation Institute at the University of Chicago and partners from the Texas Advanced Computing Center at the University of Texas at Austin, the International Center for Advanced Internet Research at Northwestern University, the Ohio State University, and University of Texas at San Antonio, comprising a highly qualified and experienced team. The team includes members from the NSF supported FutureGrid project and from the GENI community, both forerunners of the NSFCloud solicitation under which this project is funded. Chameleon will also form a set of partnerships with commercial and academic clouds, such as Rackspace, CERN and Open Science Data Cloud (OSDC), and will partner with other testbeds, notably GENI and INRIA's Grid'5000 testbed.

Confluency is an engineering company established in 2019 and based in Chicago, Illinois, that focuses on water resource management. The company has developed an AI-based platform aimed at assisting water utilities in managing intricate water and wastewater systems. This platform integrates data with advanced algorithms to enhance the productivity of engineers by reducing the complexity associated with data management. By allowing engineers and planners to concentrate on solving complex issues that necessitate their specialized knowledge and technical skills, Confluency enables them to harness simulation, automation, and data analytics effectively. This approach allows for scalable analyses tailored to the specific challenges faced in water resource management.

EarthSense, Inc. is a company based in Champaign, Illinois, specializing in agricultural robotics and artificial intelligence. The company develops innovative robots, such as the TerraSentia, an autonomous and compact device equipped with various sensors for plant phenotyping and data collection. EarthSense addresses the challenges faced by modern agriculture, including labor shortages, environmental impact, and food security concerns exacerbated by unpredictable weather. Its platform focuses on three key areas: enhancing crop productivity and sustainability, providing actionable insights for growers, and managing issues such as herbicide-resistant weeds. The modular design of the EarthSense platform allows for easy integration and innovation, promoting the development of a climate-smart agricultural system that aims to improve plant and soil health while reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals and costly inputs.

Hubly Surgical Inc. is a medical technology company focused on enhancing patient outcomes and improving the quality of care in neurosurgery. Founded in 2018 and based in San Francisco, California, with an additional office in Chicago, the company has developed an integrated electric drill system that replaces traditional free-hand techniques. This innovative device aims to reduce the rate of lethal complications associated with surgical drilling and is designed to facilitate bedside intracranial access, decreasing the reliance on operating rooms. Hubly's mission is to make its safety technology the standard of care for medical drilling, ensuring that both standard and underserved settings can benefit from improved surgical procedures.

Celadyne Technologies, founded in 2018 and based in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in the development of advanced nanocomposite membranes for use in electrolyzers and fuel cells. These membranes are designed to facilitate efficient heat and water management, offering several advantages over traditional ceramic separators, such as reduced hydrogen crossover. The technology allows for operation under low humidity and elevated temperature conditions, promoting better catalyst durability and contributing to a more cost-effective hydrogen economy. Celadyne Technologies aims to enhance the performance and efficiency of energy systems through its innovative membrane solutions.

EarthSense, Inc. is a company based in Champaign, Illinois, specializing in agricultural robotics and artificial intelligence. The company develops innovative robots, such as the TerraSentia, an autonomous and compact device equipped with various sensors for plant phenotyping and data collection. EarthSense addresses the challenges faced by modern agriculture, including labor shortages, environmental impact, and food security concerns exacerbated by unpredictable weather. Its platform focuses on three key areas: enhancing crop productivity and sustainability, providing actionable insights for growers, and managing issues such as herbicide-resistant weeds. The modular design of the EarthSense platform allows for easy integration and innovation, promoting the development of a climate-smart agricultural system that aims to improve plant and soil health while reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals and costly inputs.

Psyonic, Inc. specializes in developing advanced bionic limbs aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with amputations. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Champaign, Illinois, the company focuses on creating accessible, affordable solutions for its users. Its flagship product, an advanced bionic hand, is notable for its speed, ease of control, and ability to provide sensory feedback. The hand utilizes muscle pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms, allowing for customization based on the user's specific needs and preferences. Designed to withstand impacts, the bionic hand is intended to enable users to perform daily tasks with greater ease. Psyonic's goal is to ensure that the costs associated with its products are fully covered by insurance, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for consumers.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is a comprehensive public university located in Edwardsville, Illinois. Initially established as a satellite campus of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, SIUE has evolved into a significant educational institution, offering over 85 programs of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. The university is particularly noted for its School of Pharmacy, which features modern facilities and is designed to accommodate the growing demand in the field. The School of Nursing also plays a vital role in the university's academic landscape, with nearly 900 students enrolled in various nursing programs. SIUE emphasizes student engagement through various initiatives, including the Kimmel Leadership Center and the Student Leadership Development Program, which aim to enhance leadership skills and community involvement. Additionally, the university provides extensive financial aid options, including scholarships based on need and merit, to support its diverse student body.

Respondic is a manufacturer of smart adhesive products, founded in 2019 and located in Champaign, Illinois. The company specializes in producing robust, reusable adhesives designed to meet diverse fastening needs. Respondic's adhesives utilize a unique polymer formulation that enables them to achieve a strong and permanent hold on various surfaces. This versatility allows users to employ these adhesives for a wide range of applications, making them suitable for both industrial and consumer use.

FrostDefense, founded in 2018 and based in Champaign, Illinois, specializes in developing innovative frost protection solutions. The company focuses on creating environmentally friendly biofertilizers and patented sprayable compounds designed to combat early spring frost, particularly in vineyards and specialty fruit crops. By offering these frost protection products, FrostDefense aims to help vineyard owners prevent frost damage, thereby enhancing crop yield and improving labor management and mechanized farming operations.

NanoPattern Technologies, established in 2019 and based in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in the development of photopatternable quantum dot formulations aimed at advancing display technologies. The company focuses on creating nanoparticle inks specifically designed for Quantum Dot-MicroLED and quantum dot-organic light-emitting diode display systems. Their patented resin-free nanoparticle lithography technology facilitates the high-resolution patterning of quantum dot downconverter layers. This innovation is intended to enhance the performance of display systems used in a variety of applications, including televisions, smartphones, wearables, and augmented and virtual reality devices.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, founded in 1867 and located in Champaign, Illinois, is a prominent institution known for its commitment to excellence in education, research, and public engagement. With over 3,000 faculty members, the university fosters innovation and discovery, contributing significantly to the state's economy and garnering numerous prestigious awards. The campus offers outstanding academic programs and resources that attract high-achieving students who engage in various research initiatives, study abroad, and participate in numerous student organizations. With a network of more than 425,000 alumni, the university has cultivated leaders across diverse fields globally, reflecting its influence and legacy in higher education.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is a comprehensive public university located in Edwardsville, Illinois. Initially established as a satellite campus of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, SIUE has evolved into a significant educational institution, offering over 85 programs of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. The university is particularly noted for its School of Pharmacy, which features modern facilities and is designed to accommodate the growing demand in the field. The School of Nursing also plays a vital role in the university's academic landscape, with nearly 900 students enrolled in various nursing programs. SIUE emphasizes student engagement through various initiatives, including the Kimmel Leadership Center and the Student Leadership Development Program, which aim to enhance leadership skills and community involvement. Additionally, the university provides extensive financial aid options, including scholarships based on need and merit, to support its diverse student body.

Elmhurst College, founded in 1871 and located in Elmhurst, Illinois, is a non-profit educational institution affiliated with the United Church of Christ. The college offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs, including liberal arts degrees and professional fields such as accounting, journalism, and healthcare. Elmhurst emphasizes a close-knit learning environment that encourages inquiry and individuality, with students required to take a religion course to foster an understanding of various spiritual ideologies. The college also provides pre-professional programs in areas like law and medicine, along with opportunities for adult education. In addition to its academic offerings, Elmhurst supports a vibrant campus life through cultural organizations, performing arts groups, and numerous clubs. The Elmhurst College Endowment, established in 1989, manages $35 million in assets with a focus on alternative investments, primarily venture capital, aiming for a net internal rate of return of 15% to 20%.

BassInSight develops fishing visual detection technology to estimate the visibility of objects to fish in complex aquatic environments. The company's headquarters are in Champaign, Illinois.

Embedor Technologies specializes in developing wireless sensor systems that monitor the structural health of civil infrastructure. Headquartered in Urbana, Illinois, the company offers a smart sensor platform and software framework that operates at multiple scales, enabling reliable, real-time assessments of structural conditions during extreme events and over long periods of deterioration. By integrating data processing and interpretation directly into edge devices, Embedor effectively addresses the common challenges associated with data overload in Internet of Things applications. This innovative approach allows clients to enhance safety, estimate the remaining service life of structures, and reduce maintenance costs.

Volexion Inc. is a manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries based in Chicago, Illinois, established in 2018. The company specializes in innovative graphene coating technology designed for commercial lithium-ion cathode materials. This advanced technology significantly enhances battery performance, offering improvements such as longer battery life, better power output, and a broader voltage range. Volexion's approach provides clients with a stable and efficient solution that optimizes the electrochemical performance of conventional lithium-ion batteries.

ClearFlame Engines, Inc. is a company that develops and manufactures engines specifically designed for heavy-duty applications, including markets such as marine, agriculture, transportation, power generation, rail, and construction. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Woodridge, Illinois, ClearFlame has created a patented system that replaces traditional diesel engines, aiming to decarbonize heavy-duty engines while reducing operating costs. This innovative technology allows heavy-duty engine manufacturers to produce engines that offer higher performance and fuel cost savings, addressing the challenges posed by reliance on diesel fuel.

Psyonic, Inc. specializes in developing advanced bionic limbs aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with amputations. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Champaign, Illinois, the company focuses on creating accessible, affordable solutions for its users. Its flagship product, an advanced bionic hand, is notable for its speed, ease of control, and ability to provide sensory feedback. The hand utilizes muscle pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms, allowing for customization based on the user's specific needs and preferences. Designed to withstand impacts, the bionic hand is intended to enable users to perform daily tasks with greater ease. Psyonic's goal is to ensure that the costs associated with its products are fully covered by insurance, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for consumers.

Unanimous A.I., Inc. specializes in swarm artificial intelligence software solutions that harness collective human intelligence to enhance decision-making and predictions. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in San Francisco, the company offers two primary products: Swarm Insight and Swarm IQ. Swarm Insight enables organizations to gather and analyze consumer insights more accurately than traditional methods, while Swarm IQ enhances the predictive capabilities of business teams, improving forecasts and evaluations. By merging real-time human input with AI algorithms, Unanimous A.I. creates dynamic systems that keep people involved in the decision-making process, rather than replacing them with automated solutions. This innovative approach has garnered recognition, including awards at the SXSW Interactive Innovation Awards. With additional offices in locations such as Arlington, San Luis Obispo, Chicago, and Washington, the company aims to transform how organizations harness collective intelligence for various applications, from marketing to finance.

AreteLabs is a Chicago-based company that has developed an online platform designed to facilitate intra-district math competitions. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on creating educational software that motivates students to achieve academic excellence. Its platform allows for team-based events where students are organized into virtual teams, promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing among participants and educators. Through this innovative approach, AreteLabs aims to enhance the learning experience in mathematics and foster a competitive yet supportive environment for students.

ForgeWorks, founded in 2015 and based in Evanston, Illinois, specializes in a digital platform aimed at assisting civic innovators in addressing real-world challenges. The company's platform integrates human-centered design, educational design research, and agile software development, allowing users to rapidly develop innovative solutions. By leveraging advanced academic insights and user research, ForgeWorks empowers civic innovators to create effective systems tailored to community needs.

A major research university in the heart of one of the world's greatest cities, UIC provides a world-class education for its students. We are committed to creating and disseminating new knowledge as a university of growing national and international stature. The largest university in the Chicago area, UIC has 27,580 students, 15 colleges-including the nation's largest medical school-and annual research expenditures exceeding $335 million. UIC operates the state's major public medical center and serves as the principal educator of Illinois' physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses and other health-care professionals. A truly global institution, more than a third of UIC students speak English as a second language. UIC's student body-approximately 61 percent undergraduate and 39 percent graduate and professional-is recognized as one of the nation's most diverse. We consider this one of our greatest strengths.

Inspirit IoT is a software company established in 2016 and based in Champaign, Illinois, specializing in machine learning solutions for IoT hardware. The company aims to lead in sensor intelligence by providing advanced analytics that enhance the performance of IoT devices. Its offerings include the Xcelo Compiler, SoundGuardian, and DNN Architect, which deliver tools for deep neural network analysis, optimization, and hardware acceleration. By utilizing chip-agnostic high-level synthesis and custom platforms, Inspirit IoT enables clients to improve their hardware deployment efficiency and enhance customer experiences across various markets.

Petronics is a company that specializes in creating robotic pets for cats, with a focus on interactive play and exercise. Founded in 2014 and based in Champaign, Illinois, the company offers Mousr, a robotic toy designed to engage indoor cats in hunting-like activities. Mousr features advanced technology, including 360-degree vision, environmental sensing, and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows it to mimic the movements of prey. This innovative approach not only provides entertainment for cats but also helps address issues like obesity by encouraging active play.

ALcorix is a consulting company that specializes in micro-optics prototyping. The company was founded by Nicolaie Moldovan in 2014 and is based in Plainfield, Illinois.

EarthSense, Inc. is a company based in Champaign, Illinois, specializing in agricultural robotics and artificial intelligence. The company develops innovative robots, such as the TerraSentia, an autonomous and compact device equipped with various sensors for plant phenotyping and data collection. EarthSense addresses the challenges faced by modern agriculture, including labor shortages, environmental impact, and food security concerns exacerbated by unpredictable weather. Its platform focuses on three key areas: enhancing crop productivity and sustainability, providing actionable insights for growers, and managing issues such as herbicide-resistant weeds. The modular design of the EarthSense platform allows for easy integration and innovation, promoting the development of a climate-smart agricultural system that aims to improve plant and soil health while reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals and costly inputs.

Reconstruct, Inc. specializes in predictive computer vision data analytics software tailored for construction projects. Its visual production management platform facilitates data collection through drones, fixed cameras, or mobile devices, enabling effective progress analysis and documentation. By visualizing images and 3D points aligned with Building Information Modeling (BIM), the platform enhances coordination and transparency among project stakeholders. It identifies locations at risk of delays, allowing for proactive weekly work planning, and integrates schedules with BIM animations to illustrate any changes in plans. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Menlo Park, California, with an additional office in Champaign, Illinois, Reconstruct aims to improve construction management by fostering better communication and visibility, thereby mitigating risks and ensuring project returns on investment.

Amber Agriculture, Inc. specializes in developing Internet of Things (IoT) sensor and analytics solutions aimed at automating grain storage monitoring and management for farmers. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the company focuses on enhancing agricultural practices through technology. Its flagship product is an IoT self-install kit that allows farmers to automate the monitoring of crop quality and grain management processes. By utilizing wireless sensors and cloud analytics, Amber Agriculture enables farmers to effectively monitor and manage the condition of stored crops, minimize waste, and respond to market prices, all through a smartphone-connected system.

O2M Technologies develops oxygen imaging devices for effective cancer and regenerative medicine treatments. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

Iria Pharma develops cancer targeting and drug delivery technology to provide a platform for targeted cancer therapeutics. The company was founded in 2016 and is based in Champaign, Illinois.

Psyonic, Inc. specializes in developing advanced bionic limbs aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with amputations. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Champaign, Illinois, the company focuses on creating accessible, affordable solutions for its users. Its flagship product, an advanced bionic hand, is notable for its speed, ease of control, and ability to provide sensory feedback. The hand utilizes muscle pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms, allowing for customization based on the user's specific needs and preferences. Designed to withstand impacts, the bionic hand is intended to enable users to perform daily tasks with greater ease. Psyonic's goal is to ensure that the costs associated with its products are fully covered by insurance, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for consumers.

ClearFlame Engines, Inc. is a company that develops and manufactures engines specifically designed for heavy-duty applications, including markets such as marine, agriculture, transportation, power generation, rail, and construction. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Woodridge, Illinois, ClearFlame has created a patented system that replaces traditional diesel engines, aiming to decarbonize heavy-duty engines while reducing operating costs. This innovative technology allows heavy-duty engine manufacturers to produce engines that offer higher performance and fuel cost savings, addressing the challenges posed by reliance on diesel fuel.

Runtime Vеrification is a dynamic software analysis technique to automatically detect bugs and errors in a software system. Founded in 2010, Runtime Vеrification is headquartered in Urbana, Illinois, United States.

Inspirit IoT is a software company established in 2016 and based in Champaign, Illinois, specializing in machine learning solutions for IoT hardware. The company aims to lead in sensor intelligence by providing advanced analytics that enhance the performance of IoT devices. Its offerings include the Xcelo Compiler, SoundGuardian, and DNN Architect, which deliver tools for deep neural network analysis, optimization, and hardware acceleration. By utilizing chip-agnostic high-level synthesis and custom platforms, Inspirit IoT enables clients to improve their hardware deployment efficiency and enhance customer experiences across various markets.

Navipoint Genomics is a bioinformatics analysis software company based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2015. The company specializes in developing software that enables the rapid analysis of entire human genomes, facilitating large-scale genomic studies. Its technology streamlines the transfer and examination of genomic data, significantly reducing analysis time while enhancing the ability to detect gene expression changes and fusion transcripts at the whole-transcriptome level. This advanced capability allows clients to achieve higher reporting quality with increased confidence and fewer false negatives in their genomic analyses.

ALcorix is a consulting company that specializes in micro-optics prototyping. The company was founded by Nicolaie Moldovan in 2014 and is based in Plainfield, Illinois.

Petronics is a company that specializes in creating robotic pets for cats, with a focus on interactive play and exercise. Founded in 2014 and based in Champaign, Illinois, the company offers Mousr, a robotic toy designed to engage indoor cats in hunting-like activities. Mousr features advanced technology, including 360-degree vision, environmental sensing, and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows it to mimic the movements of prey. This innovative approach not only provides entertainment for cats but also helps address issues like obesity by encouraging active play.

OceanComm, Inc. is an Illinois-based company that specializes in developing wireless underwater modems. Founded in 2014 and located in Champaign, the company focuses on enabling wireless communication and video streaming underwater. Its modems utilize advanced signal processing algorithms to optimize the use of available acoustic bandwidth, ensuring reliable and uninterrupted video links even as the modems move through water. This technology serves the subsea industries by providing innovative solutions for wireless remote control of underwater vehicles and facilitating efficient video transmission underwater.

PhotoniCare, Inc. is a medical device company based in Champaign, Illinois, founded in 2013. The company specializes in developing innovative diagnostic tools for middle ear infections, notably the TOMi Scope. This handheld device employs advanced light-based technology, specifically near-infrared light waves, to create 3D images of the middle ear by seeing through the eardrum. This capability allows physicians to visualize the middle ear directly and safely, enabling them to assess its condition quickly and accurately. By determining the contents of the middle ear, clinicians can make informed decisions regarding the need for antibiotics or surgical interventions. PhotoniCare's technology not only addresses otology but also presents potential for growth in other medical fields.

Autonomic Materials, Inc. specializes in the design, manufacture, and marketing of self-healing solutions for the coatings industry. The company produces microencapsulated additives that include both dual and single capsule systems, which utilize various chemical processes to repair coating damage at the micron level. These products provide corrosion protection and are applicable to a wide range of substrates, including metals, wood, concrete, plastics, and composites. Autonomic Materials' solutions are utilized in diverse sectors such as alternative energy, industrial maintenance, military equipment, infrastructure, and consumer paints. Founded in 2005 and based in Champaign, Illinois, the company focuses on enhancing the performance and longevity of materials by enabling them to respond to damage autonomously, thus reducing the need for manual detection and intervention.

Rithmio, Inc. specializes in gesture recognition technology, offering a platform that enables the development of gesture-based products. The company's software integrates with motion-sensing devices, including wearables, smartphones, and connected sports equipment, to learn, track, and analyze user movements in real time. Rithmio's flagship product, Constellation, is designed for next-generation wearables and connected clothing, allowing brands to seamlessly incorporate gesture recognition into their devices. The company has established strategic partnerships with prominent semiconductor and consumer electronics manufacturers, supporting the integration of its technology at various levels, including system on chip and reference design. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Rithmio was originally known as Neurogito, Inc. before rebranding in 2014.

Soil Diagnostics develops a scalable soil nitrogen measurement system to aid in nitrogen fertilizer management. The company's headquarters are in Champaign, Illinois.

AreteLabs is a Chicago-based company that has developed an online platform designed to facilitate intra-district math competitions. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on creating educational software that motivates students to achieve academic excellence. Its platform allows for team-based events where students are organized into virtual teams, promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing among participants and educators. Through this innovative approach, AreteLabs aims to enhance the learning experience in mathematics and foster a competitive yet supportive environment for students.

Network Perception, Inc. specializes in network device configuration analysis software designed to help organizations visualize and manage their network effectively. Established in 2013 and based in Chicago, Illinois, the company offers solutions that simplify firewall auditing and provide continuous monitoring capabilities. Its platform conducts automated, comprehensive analyses of network device configuration files, enabling organizations to assess firewalls and identify cyber vulnerabilities. By doing so, Network Perception assists corporate compliance and cybersecurity managers in ensuring that network configurations align with best practices and regulatory standards. The company initially launched in 2014 at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Research Park.

Electroninks Incorporated, founded in 2013 as a university spinout from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, specializes in developing advanced materials for consumer electronics. The company is composed of materials scientists and formulation specialists focused on creating innovative inks based on small-molecule chemistries. Their unique formulations are particle-free and devoid of binders, allowing for high-resolution printing through digital and roll-to-roll methods. Electroninks' products include metal complex conductive inks, dielectric inks, and resistor inks, which are utilized in semiconductor applications, advanced packaging, displays, and passive electronics. By emphasizing the use of pure metallic films, Electroninks aims to enhance performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness for their clients, thereby improving the overall manufacturing and ownership experience.

Runtime Vеrification is a dynamic software analysis technique to automatically detect bugs and errors in a software system. Founded in 2010, Runtime Vеrification is headquartered in Urbana, Illinois, United States.

ExplORer Surgical Corp. develops an interactive surgical playbook that enhances teamwork and communication in the operating room. Founded in 2013 and based in Chicago, Illinois, the company offers a software solution that allows healthcare providers to compare performance, track case progression in real time, and forecast various operational metrics, such as staffing and equipment use. The platform provides customizable surgical workflows tailored to patient needs and surgeon preferences, minimizing disruptions and reducing waste. By facilitating coordination among surgical teams and offering real-time performance data, the software improves efficiency and quality of care, enabling medical professionals to focus on successful procedures. Additionally, ExplORer Surgical aids medical device companies in the rollout of new devices, contributing to improved medical education and operational cost savings.

BallotReady, Inc. is a non-partisan online and mobile voter guide that focuses on local elections. Founded in 2015 and based in Chicago, Illinois, the company aggregates information from various sources, including candidates' websites, League of Women Voters questionnaires, news articles, campaign finance records, and legislative roll calls. This allows users to access comprehensive background information on all candidates and referendums on their ballots. BallotReady enables voters to compare candidates, understand their positions on relevant issues, and save selected candidates for easy reference, either on mobile devices or during the voting process. The platform aims to promote informed voting and civic engagement by providing accessible, easy-to-understand information about the electoral choices available to voters.

ANDalyze, Inc. specializes in developing products for testing water contamination through innovative catalytic DNA technologies. The company provides a range of devices, including the AND1100 Fluorimeter, which is a handheld platform designed for the testing of heavy metals in water supplies. ANDalyze's sensors and kits facilitate the rapid and reliable detection of trace metals and other hazardous chemicals, significantly reducing the time and cost associated with traditional testing methods. The company markets its products through various distributors both in the United States and internationally. Established in 2005 and based in Champaign, Illinois, ANDalyze was formerly known as Dzyme Tech before rebranding in October 2009.

OceanComm, Inc. is an Illinois-based company that specializes in developing wireless underwater modems. Founded in 2014 and located in Champaign, the company focuses on enabling wireless communication and video streaming underwater. Its modems utilize advanced signal processing algorithms to optimize the use of available acoustic bandwidth, ensuring reliable and uninterrupted video links even as the modems move through water. This technology serves the subsea industries by providing innovative solutions for wireless remote control of underwater vehicles and facilitating efficient video transmission underwater.

Nature's Fynd is a Chicago-based food company that specializes in producing a unique protein derived from a microbe found in geothermal springs. Founded in 2012 and originally known as Sustainable Bioproducts, Inc., the company focuses on creating sustainable food options that benefit both consumers and the environment. Utilizing innovative fermentation technology, Nature's Fynd is able to cultivate protein using significantly less land and water compared to conventional agricultural methods. The company also operates an additional office in Bozeman, Montana, and aims to contribute to a more sustainable food system through its revolutionary approach to protein production.

Sunstrand designs and manufactures technology-based components for its clients. It was founded in 1926 and is based in Illinois.

Network Perception, Inc. specializes in network device configuration analysis software designed to help organizations visualize and manage their network effectively. Established in 2013 and based in Chicago, Illinois, the company offers solutions that simplify firewall auditing and provide continuous monitoring capabilities. Its platform conducts automated, comprehensive analyses of network device configuration files, enabling organizations to assess firewalls and identify cyber vulnerabilities. By doing so, Network Perception assists corporate compliance and cybersecurity managers in ensuring that network configurations align with best practices and regulatory standards. The company initially launched in 2014 at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Research Park.

Electroninks Incorporated, founded in 2013 as a university spinout from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, specializes in developing advanced materials for consumer electronics. The company is composed of materials scientists and formulation specialists focused on creating innovative inks based on small-molecule chemistries. Their unique formulations are particle-free and devoid of binders, allowing for high-resolution printing through digital and roll-to-roll methods. Electroninks' products include metal complex conductive inks, dielectric inks, and resistor inks, which are utilized in semiconductor applications, advanced packaging, displays, and passive electronics. By emphasizing the use of pure metallic films, Electroninks aims to enhance performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness for their clients, thereby improving the overall manufacturing and ownership experience.

Phi Optics Inc. develops optical imaging systems for life sciences, medical diagnostics, nanotechnology, and semiconductor testing applications. It offers Quantitative Phase Imaging, a label-free, non-contact, and non-invasive imaging method for measuring nanoscale structures and dynamics via interferometry. The company was founded in 2009 and is based in Champaign, Illinois.

Inprentus, Inc. is a nanotechnology company based in Champaign, Illinois, that specializes in the design and manufacture of ultra-high precision diffraction gratings. Founded in 2012, the company produces X-ray and extreme ultraviolet diffraction gratings used primarily at synchrotron radiation facilities for applications in chemical analysis, imaging, and material characterization across various fields such as photovoltaics, catalysis, and environmental science. Inprentus has developed innovative manufacturing methods for mechanically ruled blazed diffraction gratings, which provide high resolving power with minimal blaze angles. Their products are integral to electron lasers, optical data communication, laser manufacturing, and semiconductor processes, enhancing capabilities in both industrial and research settings.

GlucoSentient, Inc. is a company based in Champaign, Illinois, that specializes in developing personal glucose meters for diabetes patients worldwide. Founded in 2011, the company produces devices that facilitate the monitoring of blood glucose levels and are also applicable for therapeutic drug and heart health assessments. In addition to glucose meters, GlucoSentient offers test strips designed to detect trace amounts of contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, and chemical residues in food. The company's products enable healthcare providers to make timely medical decisions by allowing for convenient and quantitative monitoring of various health indicators.

Tanvas, Inc. is a technology company based in Chicago, Illinois, focused on developing Surface Haptics products that enhance touch interactions on screens. Founded in 2011, Tanvas creates innovative touchscreen technology that utilizes electrostatic fields to generate variable friction on glass surfaces. This allows users to feel textures and sensations that correspond to visual content, transforming the way people interact with digital displays. By integrating their TanvasTouch technology into various touch-enabled products, the company caters to diverse industries, including automotive, retail, consumer electronics, and applications for the visually impaired. Tanvas aims to redefine the tactile experience, providing a richer and more immersive interaction with digital environments.

Arphion creates non-invasive diagnostics for oral cancers and other benign diseases. They utilize miRNA markers from cheek swabs to diagnose oral squamous cell carcinomas. Arphion provides its clients with tests as a Laboratory Developed Test (LDT) through a CLIA-certified laboratory to market their products without submission to the FDA for approval or clearance. Arphion was founded by Dr. Guy Adami, Ph.D. in Illinois, United States.

Serionix, Inc. is a company that specializes in the development of air and water purification solutions. Founded in 2011 and based in Champaign, Illinois, Serionix creates innovative filters for air purifiers and furnace units. The company utilizes fibrous activated carbon and ion-exchange materials to effectively remove toxic chemicals and odors from the air, as well as to eliminate viruses, bacteria, and mold. One of its notable products features a proprietary adsorptive coating technology called Colorfil™, which changes color as it absorbs pollutants, providing users with a clear visual indication of filter effectiveness and the need for replacement.

Nature's Fynd is a Chicago-based food company that specializes in producing a unique protein derived from a microbe found in geothermal springs. Founded in 2012 and originally known as Sustainable Bioproducts, Inc., the company focuses on creating sustainable food options that benefit both consumers and the environment. Utilizing innovative fermentation technology, Nature's Fynd is able to cultivate protein using significantly less land and water compared to conventional agricultural methods. The company also operates an additional office in Bozeman, Montana, and aims to contribute to a more sustainable food system through its revolutionary approach to protein production.

Inprentus, Inc. is a nanotechnology company based in Champaign, Illinois, that specializes in the design and manufacture of ultra-high precision diffraction gratings. Founded in 2012, the company produces X-ray and extreme ultraviolet diffraction gratings used primarily at synchrotron radiation facilities for applications in chemical analysis, imaging, and material characterization across various fields such as photovoltaics, catalysis, and environmental science. Inprentus has developed innovative manufacturing methods for mechanically ruled blazed diffraction gratings, which provide high resolving power with minimal blaze angles. Their products are integral to electron lasers, optical data communication, laser manufacturing, and semiconductor processes, enhancing capabilities in both industrial and research settings.

Phi Optics Inc. develops optical imaging systems for life sciences, medical diagnostics, nanotechnology, and semiconductor testing applications. It offers Quantitative Phase Imaging, a label-free, non-contact, and non-invasive imaging method for measuring nanoscale structures and dynamics via interferometry. The company was founded in 2009 and is based in Champaign, Illinois.

Tanvas, Inc. is a technology company based in Chicago, Illinois, focused on developing Surface Haptics products that enhance touch interactions on screens. Founded in 2011, Tanvas creates innovative touchscreen technology that utilizes electrostatic fields to generate variable friction on glass surfaces. This allows users to feel textures and sensations that correspond to visual content, transforming the way people interact with digital displays. By integrating their TanvasTouch technology into various touch-enabled products, the company caters to diverse industries, including automotive, retail, consumer electronics, and applications for the visually impaired. Tanvas aims to redefine the tactile experience, providing a richer and more immersive interaction with digital environments.

GlucoSentient, Inc. is a company based in Champaign, Illinois, that specializes in developing personal glucose meters for diabetes patients worldwide. Founded in 2011, the company produces devices that facilitate the monitoring of blood glucose levels and are also applicable for therapeutic drug and heart health assessments. In addition to glucose meters, GlucoSentient offers test strips designed to detect trace amounts of contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, and chemical residues in food. The company's products enable healthcare providers to make timely medical decisions by allowing for convenient and quantitative monitoring of various health indicators.