New Cohort of Technology Companies Join Innovation Center to Launch Big Ideas
The Arizona Center for Innovation (AzCI) has announced that seven new technology startup and emerging companies – some of which have been started by innovative teams of University of Arizona students – are participating in its programs.
Companies that have participated in AzCI programs have attracted grant funding, investments and employees. They have established new products in the marketplace contributing to the local economy.
“AzCI programs and facilities have created a dynamic environment that inspires, encourages, and empowers new entrepreneurs, leading to new business growth here in Tucson,” said Tech Launch Arizona Vice President David Allen, Ph.D. “We are focused on providing the best support possible for each individual company we support,” said Anita Bell, Acting Director for the Arizona Center for Innovation.
“The weekly one-on-one mentor meetings and the group sessions have been a huge benefit for our group. Looking ahead, we see our services going to market faster with a better prepared team because of our participation with the Arizona Center for Innovation,” said Sandra Childress, Chief Operating Officer, Agent Sage LLC.
The cohort of companies includes:
AgentSage LLC., started by a UA student team, is developing a tool that connects real estate agents with their clients utilizing preselected preferences. It has the potential to change the way real estate agents and their clients find one another and do business, impacting roughly one million real estate agents worldwide and the clients they serve.
Edible Optics, also started by UA students, develops “science kits” that will expose children to an entire field of engineering and science that they would otherwise barely touch in school. The product has the potential to increase researchers’ ability to design and perform experiments for a fraction of the current cost enabling more students to tackle important problems.
EIOTech is developing instruments for materials analysis with an initial focus on the detection of fake diamonds.
EpiSci is pursuing the development of highly synergistic system-oriented solutions for future military and commercial applications. Currently, EpiSci is focusing on autonomous multi-UAV control and software-defined radio technologies and products.
Lightsense Technology is developing a family of optical sensors, spectrometers and related services with application to a wide range of commercial needs. Products are built on best-in-class infrared technology and incorporate advanced security for tomorrow's internet
My Social Sitter is a web and mobile platform that filters social media messages for inappropriate content before the message goes public. The patented, real-time technology also provides a variety of levels of customization and education.
EPV Sensors is developing sensing technology for intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement. The novel technique is non-invasive, measures the IOP through the eyelid, and is operated by the patient. Home screening of glaucoma provides more frequent IOP measurements, thus reduces health care osts and also the number of undiagnosed cases. EPV’s technology was invented by a faculty member at the University of Arizona College of Engineering, and Tech Launch Arizona helped to protect the intellectual property.
AzCI is working closely with the founders of these startup and emerging companies to move their companies and technologies through the commercialization process to successfully launch their businesses. AzCI provides a structured business development program called Mentored Launch. This program assists technology companies through a series of workshops, seminars and networking events. The companies also receive individual coaching from mentors experienced in technology innovation, product development and business management. Additionally, AzCI provides access to facilities such as wet and dry labs and specialized equipment such as a 3D printer which allows companies to work concurrently on their prototypes and business strategies.
For details on how to apply, please visit www.azinnovation.com.
Arizona Center for Innovation is located at the UA Tech Park and is a component of Tech Parks Arizona which is part of Tech Launch Arizona, the University of Arizona office creating an ecosystem of invention, commercialization and impact.
