University Startups
We have launched more than 115 startups since the Venture Center formed in 2006.
See a list of these startups below or view the University Startup Pipeline to learn about new technologies en route to commercialization.
Startup Categories
OVPR
See our startups in:
- Biology and Pharmacy
- Energy and Environment
- Engineering and Physical Science
- Food and Agriculture
- Medical Devices
- Software and Information Technology
Biology & Pharmacy
OX2 Therapeutics
License executed: January 2017
University researchers: Michael Olin
Technology that is a highly efficacious treatment against solid tumor cancers.
General Probiotic
License executed: January 2017
University researchers: Yiannis Kaznessis, K. Volzing, J. Del Pino, G. Dunny, B. Forcus, and K. Geldart
Producer of probiotics that fight gastrointestinal infections such as E. coli and Salmonella.
Antibiotic Alternatives
License executed: March 2017
University inventor: Mark Herzberg
Novel antimicrobial agents that thwart infection by augmenting the production of naturally occurring antimicrobial proteins in mucosal epithelial cells.
Discovery Genomics
License executed: March 2016
University inventor: Perry Hackett
Therapeutic gene(s) using Sleeping Beauty technology for patients that lack a functioning copy of the gene.
B-MoGen Biotechnologies
License executed: February 2016
University inventor: David Largaespada, Brandon Moriarity, Robert Klink and Perry Hackett
Tools and proprietary methods that enable the discovery of novel treatments by creating engineered cells for research and therapeutic applications.
Photonic Pharma
License executed: December 2015
University inventor: Dave Thomas and Razvan Cornea
Compound screening for potential drug development that enables visualization of cell activity for various targets of small molecule compounds.
ThermChem
License executed: October 2015
University inventor: Steven Heilmann and Kenneth Valentas
Energy efficient method for reducing wastewater sludge from municipal and agricultural sewage wastes and recovering lipids, phosphorus and nitrogen.
Blue Therapeutics
License executed: October 2015
University inventor: Phil Portoghese and Ajay Yekkirala
Novel small molecule with greater painkilling potency than morphine and no abuse potential.
Tmunity Therapeutics
License executed: August 2015
University inventor: Bruce Blazer
Next generation immunotherapies from novel T Cell Receptor engineered T cells, regulatory T cells and universal engineered T cell platforms for cancer, infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases therapeutics.
Flora Therapeutics
License executed: June 2015
University inventor: Dan Knights
Targeting gastrointestinal and metabolic diseases using bacteria as therapeutics.
Tychon Biosciences
License executed: February 2015
University inventor: Carston Wagoner
Platform therapeutic focused on cancer treatment using chemical synthesis, custom nanomaterials and complex protein structures.
ApoGen BioTech
License executed: October 2014
University inventors: Reuben Harris and Dan Harki
New class of therapeutics focused on APOBECs, targeting drivers of cancer genomic mutation.
Kuality Herbceutics
License executed: September 2014
University inventor: Chengguo Xing
Cancer therapy developed from Kava plant compound extracts.
Bioactive Regenerative Therapeutics
License executed: August 2014
University inventor: Timothy O'Brien
Biomimetic 3D cell culture matrix designed to support and enhance cell culture assays.
ADC BioMed Corporation
License executed: May 2014
University inventor: Wei Chen
Novel diagnostics and therapeutics to prevent and treat cancer, autoimmune diseases and infectious diseases.
CURx Pharmaceuticals
License executed: August 2013
University inventor: James Cloyd
Intravenous and intramuscular injection treatments for seizures in hospitalized epilepsy patients that can replace oral medications.
ID Genomics
License executed: June 2013
University inventor: James Johnson
Rapid assessment of virulent bacteria for potential organ failure in urgent care settings.
GY Biomedical
License executed: July 2012
University inventor: Glenn Gourley
Non-invasive, cost-effective diagnostic and monitoring test for an inflammatory disease of the esophagus.
Epitopoietic Research Corporation (ERC)
License executed: April 2012
University inventors: John Ohlfest and Walter Low
Vaccine that engages the immune system to treat glioblastoma brain cancers.
CIPAC (Crestovo LLC)
License executed: March 2012
University inventors: Mike Sadowsky and Alexander Khoruts
Treatment using live bacterial preparation bringing good bacteria from one person’s gut to another.
Vytacera Pharma
License executed: December 2011
University inventor: Bob Vince, Steve Patterson, and Herb Nagasawa
Technology for the prevention and treatment of cyanide poisoning.
Ariel Pharmaceuticals
License executed: October 2011
University inventors: Matt Andrews, Les Drewes and Greg Beilman
Treatment that reduces death due to blood loss from trauma.
Minneamrita Therapeutics
License executed: February 2011
University inventors: Gunda Georg and Ashok Saluja
Drug for cancerous pancreatic tumors.
Kingsbury Animal Health
License executed: October 2010
University inventor: Pat Schlievert
Improves animal health and food safety by reducing harmful bacteria using glycerol monolaurate (GML).
NeurEndo Pharma
License executed: March 2010
University inventor: Phil Portoghese
Evaluation and development of compounds for the treatment of obesity and pre-diabetes management.
Hennepin Life Sciences
License executed: October 2009
University inventor: Pat Schlievert
Antimicrobial technology to treat and prevent microbial infections.
Celladon
License executed: May 2009
University inventor: Razvan Cornea
Molecular therapies for cardiovascular diseases.
VitalMedix
License executed: May 2008
University inventor: Matt Andrews
Hemorrhagic shock drug that could keep patients temporarily alive even if they have suffered catastrophic blood loss.
Macular Regeneration
License executed: July 2006
University inventor: Timothy Olsen
Technologies to help with macular regeneration.
Calyxt
License executed: January 2011
University inventor: Dan Voytas
Genome editing that can add and modify plant genes to create valuable organisms.
Energy & Environment
enVerde LLC
License executed: April 2017
University inventor: Lanny Schmid and Paul Dauenhauer
Converts various solid biomass components to syngas, used to make synthetic natural gas, ammonia, methanol, and other chemicals.
Sironix Renewables
License executed: February 2017
University inventor: Paul Dauenhauer and Christoph Krumm
Combines plant-based ingredients into functional chemicals for use in creating safer products.
Resynergi
License executed: February 2017
University inventor: Roger Ruan
Converts plastic to oil using microwave pyrolysis technology.
Cleanair-CARE LLP
License executed: September 2016
University inventor: Charles Lo, David Pui, Tom Kuehn, and Sheng-Chieh Che
Renewable, energy efficient method to clean large amounts of outside air specifically targeting urban air in Chinese cities such as Beijing.
Valerian Materials
License executed: February 2016
University inventor: Marc Hillmyer, Frank Bates and Kechun Zhang
Monomer and polymer components for high performance, bio-degradable plastics from renewable, green feedstocks.
Minnepura (3F)
License executed: October 2013
University inventors: Al Aksan, Larry Wackett and Michael Sadowsky
Encapsulation of biomaterial that provides an effective, low cost treatment solution for removal of hydrocarbons and chemicals from water.
Nstrong Strategies
License executed: October 2013
University inventor: Roger Ruan
Process for producing ammonia fertilizer with water and air that can be implemented close to farmers.
Ascenix Biotechnologies
License executed: January 2013
University inventor: Kechun Zhang
Process to take sugar-based feedstocks and produce synthetic chemicals for multiple uses including production of high value plastics.
TerraCOH (Heat Mining Company)
License executed: March 2012
University inventor: Martin Saar
Uses sequestered carbon dioxide to extract geothermal energy from the earth that is used to generate electricity.
Argilex Technologies
License executed: March 2012
University inventor: Michael Tsapatsis
Membrane technology for separation processes such as those in the petroleum refining, chemicals and biofuels industries.
cycleWood Solutions
License executed: September 2011
University inventor: Simo Sarkanen
Low-cost biodegradable and compostable bags.
Renovo Water (NewWater)
License executed: June 2010
University inventors: Larry Wackett and Michael Sadowsky
New type of drinking water filter.
BioCee
License executed: May 2009
University inventor: Marc von Keitz
Cost-effective and environmentally sound production of clean fuels, chemicals and water treatment by harnessing the full biocatalytic potential of microorganisms.
Engineering & Physical Science
MerTron
License executed: June 2017
University inventor: Sandra Myers
A technology that captures mercury when a human body is cremated, thus eliminating any mercury escaping into the atmosphere.
Carponentry
License executed: April 2017
University inventor: Patrick Donahue
Unique residential housing product for the single family detached market.
Aerem
License executed: April 2017
University inventor: David Pui
Advanced gas particulate filter system for vehicles to address stringent emissions requirements in China.
Ensor Inc.
License executed: July 2016
University inventor: Uwe Kortshagen
Battery chemistry and manufacturing process for a silicon dominant based anode that will triple the anode energy density and provide minimal loss in capacity retention.
Advanced Road Patch
License executed: March 2016
University inventor: Lawrence Zanko
Application of magnetite (taconite) for use in material for road repair.
Bolder Flight Systems
License executed: March 2016
University inventor: Brian Taylor and Chris Regan
Software and hardware for a variety of drone navigation products and systems.
Innotronics
License executed: October 2015
University inventor: Rajesh Rajamani
Engineered sensing solutions for non-contacting position measurement.
Adama Materials
License executed: January 2015
University inventor: Chris Macosko and Andreas Stein
Improved properties of resin and fiber composites, such as epoxy/carbon fiber and polyester/fiberglass, at very low cost.
Niron Magnetics
License executed: June 2014
University inventor: Jian-Ping Wang
New material and process to fabricate permanent magnets, eliminating the need for rare earth elements.
Bennett Autogas Systems
License executed: June 2014
University inventor: David Bennett
Fuel tank that is lower cost and has reduced maintenance for liquid petroleum fueled vehicles.
SMART Signal Technologies
License executed: October 2011
University inventor: Henry Liu
Hardware and software solutions that can be used to reduce traffic congestion on major signalized arterial highways.
Upstream Technologies
License executed: February 2011
University inventor: John Gulliver
Sediment control in storm water systems.
United Science
License executed: November 2010
University inventor: Phil Buhlmann
High accuracy measurement for chemical ions that reduces pollution.
Ascir
License executed: February 2009
University inventor: Joey Talghader
Revolutionary solid state semiconductor-based gas detector capable of monitoring the presence of hazardous gases at a safe distance.
Rushford Hypersonic (Hypersonix)
License executed: March 2008
University inventor: Steve Girshick
Coating technologies which are harder, denser and more fracture resistant than standard carbide coatings, used in the industrial tooling industry.
Recon Robotics
License executed: November 2006
University inventor: Nikolaos Papanikolopoulos
Devices used by the US military, federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to protect their personnel, minimize collateral damage and gain immediate reconnaissance within dangerous and hostile environments.
Food & Agriculture
Good Libations
License executed: May 2016
University inventor: Devin Peterson
Food additive that addresses problems with harsh taste for various consumable liquids. Initial focus on dark alcohols.
Carp Solutions
License executed: February 2015
University inventor: Pzemyslaw Bajer
Field sampling with analytics to develop sustainable management strategies for invasive fish such as carp.
Veterinary Diagnostics and Therapeutics
License executed: May 2013
University inventor: Michael Conzemius
Genetic test that assesses risk for rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament in dogs.
Novamela
License executed: April 2013
University inventor: James Luby and David Bedford
Umbrella entity for leading apple companies in Italy that cultivate and sell promising new apple varieties including SweeTango.
The Actives Factory (Betula Extractives)
License executed: October 2012
University inventor: Pavel Krasutsky
Natural anti-inflammatory compound for the cosmetics, dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals industries.
Medical Devices
Cell Therapy Solutions
License executed: January 2017
University inventor: Allison Hubel
Device that reduces cell loss, processing time, and labor costs for multiple types of preserved cells.
Soundly
License executed: December 2016
University inventor: Brian Krohn, Adam Black and Medical Devices Center fellows
Simple, non-invasive way to reduce snoring using a smartphone app.
Digital Design Studios
License executed: April 2016
University inventor: Patricia Lutfy
Orthotic targeted at people who suffer from bunions, aiding in comfort and facilitating an active lifestyle.
EmboMedics Gel Therapies
License executed: December 2015
University inventor: Jafar Golzarian
Natural resorbable gel product that is used to deliver therapeutic drugs into the body for various treatments, including pain.
Andarta Medical
License executed: April 2015
University inventor: James Krocak, Jesus Cabrera, and John Ballard
Non-invasive lung pacing device that reduces the time a patient uses a ventilator and saves significant costs.
Blossom Medical
License executed: July 2014
University inventor: Medical Device Fellows 2012
Neonatal medical device that cradles and supports infants during early stage of life.
MesoFlow
License executed: May 2014
University inventor: Allison Hubel
Device that reduces cell loss, processing time and labor costs for multiple types of cryopreserved cells (e.g., stem cells and blood cells).
MinnScan
License executed: May 2014
University inventor: Michael Garwood and Donald Nixdorf
Advanced imaging system for using MRI in dental applications.
Vigilant Diagnostics
License executed: April 2014
University inventor: John Bischof
Lateral flow assay system (diagnostic) that improves sensitivity of standard lateral flow assays by 10 to 100 times.
Zepto Life Technology
License executed: March 2014
University inventor: Jian-Ping Wang
Animal and human diagnostic solution that is accurate and highly sensitive for central lab, clinic, and point-of-care applications.
ReMinD Technologies
License executed: June 2013
University inventor: 2012 Medical Device Fellows
Consumer technologies to help patients and caregivers ensure medication adherence.
EmboMedics ResSpheres
License executed: April 2013
University inventor: Jafar Golzarian
Natural, resorbable polymer bead used to cut off blood supply to tumor/cancer cells in the body.
Universal Magnetic Systems
License executed: March 2013
University inventor: Jian-Ping Wang
Superior, high moment magnetic nanoparticles for disease detection and diagnostic target separation.
FocusStart
License executed: February 2013
University inventor: Rajesh Rajamani
Handheld probe that measures tension in soft tissues, such as tendons and ligaments, during invasive orthopedic surgery.
Andas
License executed: December 2012
University inventor: Steven Koester
Technology that conveniently communicates accurate level of intoxication via breath analysis through smart phones.
Aria CV
License executed: May 2011
University inventors: Second-year Medical Device Fellows
Medical device to treat pulmonary hypertension.
International Cardio Corp
License executed: December 2010
University inventor: Emad Ebbini
Ablating vascular plaque utilizing high intensity focused ultrasound.
XO-Thermix Medical
License executed: June 2010
University inventor: Erik Cressman
Airway thermoplasty device to improve airway function for patients with severe, persistent asthma.
Miromatrix Medical
License executed: February 2010
University inventor: Doris Taylor
Human organs for transplantation, manufactured using decellularization/recellularization technology.
R8Scan
License executed: August 2009
University inventor: Fredrich Srienc
Cytometry instruments that track and measure individual cells, providing detail into the dynamics of cellular growth.
Orasi Medical
License executed: September 2007
University inventor: Apostolos Georgopoulos
Diagnostic tests that detect the unique disruptions in the electrical activity of the brain caused by Alzheimer’s disease to aid a physician in the early diagnosis and initiation of treatment of patients.
Steady State Imaging
License executed: December 2006
University inventor: Michael Garwood
Novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology.
Software & Information Technology
Farmvision
License executed: June 2017
University Inventor: Volkan Isler, Patrick Plonski
Imaging software that works with existing drones and their imaging technology to provide farmers a view on crops. Aids on prep and plans for harvesting.
Turing Tumble, LLC
License executed: May 2017
University inventor: Paul Boswell
Educational gaming company teaching kids first principles of how to code using a mechanical computer.
VirtusAero
License executed: April 2017
University inventor: Graham Candler, Heath Johnson, Pramod Subbareddy, Loannis Nompelis, and Travis Drayna
Support for corporate, government, and academic users of US3D, software that models heat flows at supersonic flight speeds for research, military, and commercial applications.
R5VR
License executed: December 2016
University inventor: Lee Anderson
Software interfaces and service that take architectural drawings and create a VR experience.
Sustainalytics
License executed: November 2016
University inventor: Rylie Pelton, Andrew Fang, and Mark Reiner
Assists cities and communities in the assessment of environmental and social impact of infrastructure projects.
BSTM LLC
License executed: June 2016
University inventor: Lockwood Carlson
Delivers "Technology Foresight" — a product for enterprise companies that enables forecasting, strategic planning, R&D strategy, and decision-making of their technology roadmaps.
ProValens
License executed: January 2016
University inventor: Joe Gaugler
Shared database of resources for caregivers to share with patients that provides relevant information curated by the caregiver.
UpTern
License executed: August 2015
University inventor: Brian Taylor
B2B aerial inspections and data analytics of large infrastructure (pipelines, transmission lines, rivers, roads, and railways).
Andamio Games
License executed: June 2015
University inventor: Janet Dubinsky
Interactive game-like approach to teaching neuroscience and mental health concepts.
Target Genomics
License executed: April 2015
University inventor: Brian Van Ness
Resource database, decision support system, and services for healthcare providers and patients on use of genomics.
FastBridge Learning
License executed: March 2015
University inventor: Ted Christ
Automated K-12 assessment tools for student screening, progress monitoring, and program evaluation.
Vidku
License executed: February 2015
University inventor: Charlie Miller
Delivers Flipgrid, a platform allowing individuals to engage in rich, video-based dialogues with others organized around topics and questions.
Early Movement Monitoring Assessment
License executed: September 2014
University inventor: Carol Leitschuh
Individual Growth Development Indicators (IGDIs) for infants monitoring early movement.
Reflection Sciences
License executed: August 2014
University inventor: Stephanie Carlson and Phil Zelazo
Method to test a child's ability to concentrate on a task.
STA
License executed: August 2014
University inventors: Shyam Boriah, Vipin Kumar, and Karsten Steinhaeuser
Satellite image analysis algorithm to detect changes in resources (forest, crops, water, urbanization).
Efficient Windows Collaborative
License executed: May 2014
University inventor: Kerry Haglund and John Carmody
Website providing unbiased information on the benefits of energy-efficient windows, descriptions of how they work, and recommendations for their selection and use.
Treatment Global
License executed: May 2014
Kevin Peterson
Multi-disciplinary telehealth approach that provides chronic disease and health and wellness management without the need for a clinic visit.
CVC Heartsavers (Cardiology Prevention, LLC)
License executed: October 2013
University inventor: Jay Cohn
Diagnostic that provides earlier intervention and treatment for cardiovascular disease.
InformeDesign
License executed: October 2013
University inventor: Caren Martin and Denise Guerin
Searchable database that facilitates designers’ use of current, research-based information as a decision-making tool.
Surgical Information Sciences
License executed: September 2013
University inventor: Noam Harel and Guillermo Sapiro
Brain maps for accurate location and targeting for deep brain stimulation used with patients who have Parkinson’s disease.
MEDules (Medjules)
License executed: June 2013
University inventor: 2013 Mechanical Design Class
Surgical training platforms that provide quantifiable feedback for medical students and practicing physicians.
Applied Informatic Solutions
License executed: June 2013
University inventor: Jason Nikas and Walter Low
Informatics tools to assist with the identification of high-value biomarkers.
Evidentia Health
License executed: April 2013
University inventor: Dan Steinberger
Evidence-based clinical decision support tools for radiologists at the point of care.
Omicron Health Systems
License executed: June 2012
University inventor: Kevin Peterson
Technology that helps clinicians facilitate randomized controlled trials and translates research into clinical practice.
Early Learning Labs
License executed: March 2012
University inventor: Scott McConnell
Assessments and services to help parents and early child-care providers develop “kindergarten-ready” children.
VitalSims
License executed: December 2011
University inventor: Paul Johnson, George Biltz
Enables the observation, analysis, and improvement of physician decision making in a simulated practice setting.
Drive Power
License executed: December 2011
University inventor: Max Donath, Craig Shankwitz, and Alec Gorjestani
Products that leverage emerging measurement technologies and predictive analytics to enable people to make more informed driving decisions.
Ninja Metrics
License executed: June 2011
University inventor: Jaideep Srivastava
Online social networking and gaming analytics, predicting user behavior.
Clinical Innovation Labs
License executed: September 2010
University inventor: Kevin Peterson
Healthcare IT solution for clinical trial recruitment and physician quality reporting.
Early Learning Labs (IBU)
License executed: May 2010
University inventor: Scott McConnell
Assessments and services to help parents and early child-care providers develop “kindergarten-ready” children.
Nouvant (CaSTT)
License executed: February 2010
University inventor: Rick Huebsch
Web-hosted, subscription-based, search engine optimization tool for intellectual property marketing, licensing and tech transfer.
Medication Management
License executed: April 2006
University inventor: Bob Cipolle
Comprehensive, patient-centered medication therapy management services that identify and resolve drug therapy