NextWave Ventures

VNN, Inc. operates a prominent high school sports marketing and networking platform that serves as a digital hub for athletes, coaches, and fans. The platform enables athletes to upload videos, photos, stories, and scores, while allowing coaches to report game results to various media outlets. VNN is dedicated to enhancing the experience of high school sports by aggregating the fragmented market and providing advertising and promotional services. The company has established a significant presence, serving schools across multiple states, including Alabama, California, and Texas, and has gained a rapidly growing user base, with over 7 million fans engaging with the platform daily. Founded in 2010 and based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, VNN aims to transform the consumer experience in high school sports by leveraging technology and connectivity.

Geospiza, Inc. is a technology company based in Denver, Colorado, specializing in climate risk assessment platforms aimed at the emergency management industry. Founded in 2017, Geospiza develops software solutions that integrate real-time Internet of Things (IoT) data, big data, and advanced analytics to help risk managers, sustainability teams, and asset managers assess and mitigate climate-related risks. Its flagship products include Geospiza PATH, which allows users to quantify and address risks associated with climate and natural hazards, and Geospiza SWIFT, a web-based workflow and decision support tool that consolidates diverse datasets and models to provide actionable insights. Through these platforms, Geospiza enhances decision-making processes, ultimately aiming to save lives and protect the environment in the face of climate disasters.

Apical Technology is a systematic investment manager that focuses on developing an artificial intelligence-based software platform specifically for equities trading. Utilizing advanced machine learning techniques, the company aims to generate superior risk-adjusted returns that are non-correlated with major asset classes and other hedge fund strategies. As of early 2024, Apical is operating in stealth mode, having completed a full year of live trading in the U.S. equities market. The company's innovative approach positions it at the intersection of technology and finance, emphasizing the use of AI to enhance trading strategies.

SmartFoam is a technology company that specializes in transforming conventional foam into advanced, connected sensors. Utilizing a proprietary platform, SmartFoam develops cost-effective and precise foam sensors that convert everyday products into smart devices, including activity trackers and smart home systems. The company’s innovative foam incorporates piezoelectric nanoparticles and a silicon-based organic polymer, allowing it to generate electric signals when compressed. This technology is not only applicable in consumer products but also extends to biomedical and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, enhancing capabilities in measuring pressure points and magnitudes. Through its advancements, SmartFoam provides clients with improved accuracy in various applications, including those related to neurological disease detection.

Traq is a company that specializes in the development of a saliva-based diagnostic sensor designed for real-time monitoring of health metrics. Its patented technology allows for the non-invasive collection of saliva samples, enabling the accurate measurement of various biomarkers such as lactate, cortisol, and uric acid. This innovative device can be worn in the mouth and provides insights into critical health areas, including energy levels, nutrition, hydration, fat burn, and recovery. By facilitating continuous health monitoring, Traq empowers users to take control of their wellness and performance.

Quad Geometrics, Inc. specializes in precision earth-measuring sensors and services, focusing on various sectors including geodesy, energy, undersea mining, surveillance, basic research, and defense. Founded in 2011 and based in San Diego, California, the company provides a range of products such as pressure measurement sensors, joint seismic and tilt sensors, and infrasound detection solutions. These tools are designed for applications like monitoring micro seismic events, detecting gravitational changes, and conducting microgravity surveys. Quad Geometrics aims to enhance the quality of data in areas such as oil and gas production, CO2 sequestration, geothermal energy extraction, and hydrology, thereby assisting clients in improving operational efficiencies and strategic planning. The company was sold in 2018 through a private transaction.

Minus9 Labs, LLC specializes in the development of silica nanoparticles designed for the authentication, tracking, and tracing of various products, including pharmaceuticals, luxury items, consumer goods, food products, and industrial applications. The company offers innovative microscopic, edible tags known as "mints" (Micro Item Number Tags), which are physically encoded with silica, a safe and natural mineral. These tags function as "smart silica," allowing for electronic reading and real-time authentication. By integrating these tags directly into products or onto their surfaces, Minus9 Labs addresses critical issues such as counterfeit goods and food safety, providing consumers and producers with essential information regarding product source and quality. The technology enables effective supply chain tracking and enhances quality assurance, ultimately contributing to the prevention of counterfeit products and foodborne illnesses. Based in San Diego, California, Minus9 Labs offers a solution to significant global challenges in product integrity and consumer safety.

Quad Geometrics, Inc. specializes in precision earth-measuring sensors and services, focusing on various sectors including geodesy, energy, undersea mining, surveillance, basic research, and defense. Founded in 2011 and based in San Diego, California, the company provides a range of products such as pressure measurement sensors, joint seismic and tilt sensors, and infrasound detection solutions. These tools are designed for applications like monitoring micro seismic events, detecting gravitational changes, and conducting microgravity surveys. Quad Geometrics aims to enhance the quality of data in areas such as oil and gas production, CO2 sequestration, geothermal energy extraction, and hydrology, thereby assisting clients in improving operational efficiencies and strategic planning. The company was sold in 2018 through a private transaction.