UM Ventures

Protaryx Medical Inc. is a medical device company focused on developing advanced transseptal access devices for minimally invasive cardiac procedures. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, with engineering operations in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the company aims to enhance access to the left atrium during transcatheter interventions. Its innovative device facilitates precise and rapid septal crossing, providing surgeons with reliable access for catheter-based therapies. By prioritizing meaningful improvements, Protaryx Medical seeks to benefit both healthcare professionals and patients in the realm of cardiac care.

NeoProgen, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Baltimore, Maryland, founded in 2018. The company specializes in developing cell therapies targeting heart attack patients, with a focus on advancing neonatal cardiac progenitor cells. Through its innovative approach, NeoProgen aims to enhance treatment options in the field of cardiac therapy, contributing to the biotechnology sector.

NextStep Robotics Inc. is focused on developing innovative solutions for treating foot drop through a robotic device that enhances walking function. Incorporated in 2017 and based in Baltimore, Maryland, the company enables clinics to offer personalized robotic therapy using adaptive software that provides assistance tailored to each patient's needs. This system allows lower-skilled clinic staff to operate the device, thereby freeing up therapists to concentrate on other treatment modalities. As the company collects more data, the software will evolve into an AI-based system that optimizes training protocols for individual patients. The device is classified as a Class 1 Exercise Device, which allows for immediate revenue generation through direct sales, leasing, software subscriptions, and service contracts. This clinically proven approach not only improves patient outcomes but also enables clinics to provide reimbursable therapy for conditions that previously lacked effective treatment options.

CoapTech, Inc. is a medical device company based in Baltimore, Maryland, specializing in ultrasound-based solutions for the placement of feeding tubes. Founded in 2016, CoapTech has developed the Point-of-care Ultrasound Magnet Aligned (PUMA-G) System, which mitigates risks associated with traditional methods such as PEG blind sticks, endoscope reprocessing, and fluoroscopy by allowing for ultrasound visualization from the stomach wall to the surface. The company also offers a procedure known as Percutaneous Ultrasound Gastrostomy (PUG), designed for critical care physicians and non-surgical providers to simplify the insertion of gastrostomy tubes. Utilizing a proprietary technology called Coaptive Ultrasound, CoapTech combines magnetic device guidance with real-time ultrasound feedback, aiming to improve safety, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance patient care experiences. Their focus on the PUG procedure highlights a commitment to innovation, safety, and accessibility in medical care delivery across various patient populations.

Medcura, Inc. specializes in developing advanced hemostatic and wound care products applicable in surgical, military, medical, and consumer settings. The company markets its offerings under various brand names, including R3, Medcura Flex, LifeFoam, and Surgicura. Founded in 2007 and based in Riverdale, Maryland, Medcura transforms abundant natural materials into innovative solutions for effectively managing high-impact surgical bleeds. Its product range not only focuses on controlling bleeding but also includes antibacterial barriers that enhance healing environments. Medcura's versatile platform is designed to meet the needs of a wide array of clinical and non-clinical scenarios, enabling healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes.