UM Ventures

Protaryx Medical is a medical device company specializing in the development of transseptal access devices. Founded in 2019, it aims to improve access to the left atrium for minimally invasive cardiac procedures, benefiting both physicians and patients. Headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, with engineering operations in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

NeoProgen, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Baltimore, Maryland, that specializes in the development of cell therapies for heart attack patients. Founded in 2018, the company focuses on advancing neonatal cardiac progenitor cells, aiming to innovate treatment options within the biotechnology and cardiac therapy sectors. NeoProgen is dedicated to addressing the needs of individuals affected by heart conditions through its research and therapeutic advancements.

NextStep Robotics Inc. develops a portable ankle rehabilitation device that treats foot drop by providing real‑time, graded assistance during gait training. The system combines advanced robotics with adaptive software that tailors assistance to each patient’s needs and, as more data accumulate, transitions to an AI‑driven platform that optimizes training protocols. Designed for use in outpatient clinics, the device can be operated by lower‑skilled staff, freeing therapists to focus on other modalities. It is classified as a Class 1 exercise device, allowing immediate market entry without FDA approval. The company generates revenue through direct sales or leasing of the hardware, subscription fees for the software, and service contracts, while enabling clinics to bill for gait training under existing CPT codes.

CoapTech is an early-stage medical device company based in Baltimore, Maryland, founded in 2016 by Dr. Tropello. The company specializes in researching and manufacturing ultrasound-based solutions for feeding tube placement. Its flagship product, the Point-of-care Ultrasound Magnet Aligned (PUMA-G) System, utilizes a patent-pending technology called Coaptive Ultrasound to enhance safety and reduce healthcare costs. This system employs strong rare-earth magnets for device guidance and real-time, low-cost ultrasound for visual feedback, enabling non-surgical providers to perform procedures such as Percutaneous Ultrasound Gastrostomy (PUG). By eliminating risks associated with traditional methods like organ damage, infections, or cancer from fluoroscopy, CoapTech aims to improve medical care delivery globally.

Medcura develops advanced wound care platforms designed for use across diverse clinical and non-clinical settings. Incorporated in 2007, it specializes in versatile hemostatic products marketed under brands like R3, Medcura Flex, LifeFoam, and Surgicura.