MSU Research Foundation’s Captive Venture Funds Close 27 Startup Investments
July-September 2024 Update: The Michigan State University Research Foundation backs a diverse range of startups through its Red Cedar Ventures and Michigan Rise Pre-Seed III investment funds, supporting companies in healthcare, energy, AgTech, and more.
EAST LANSING, Mich. (Oct. 15, 2024) — The Michigan State University Research Foundation announces 29 new investment and purchase order financing transactions in startup companies through its Red Cedar Ventures and Michigan Rise Pre-Seed Fund III investment subsidiaries between July and September of 2024. The investments span a range of industries.
Receiving investments from the Red Cedar Ventures Pre-Seed Fund are:
AIRS improves the lives of oxygen-dependent patients by providing reliable O2 therapy solutions, supporting healthcare providers and caregivers with better tools for respiratory care.
Akeila Bio is developing medicines that target the Retinoid X Receptor (RXR) to regulate immune and metabolic functions, addressing major health challenges like autoimmune diseases and metabolic disorders.
BRCE is a material-technology company that makes lightweight sports gear using strong, flexible materials to create products like shoelaces and athletic accessories.
Earth Metrics Innovations provides low-cost sensor systems that optimize irrigation and improve crop quality, helping farmers increase yields.
Earthly After offers a unique way to honor loved ones by placing their memories in stunning locations, creating lasting tributes in nature's most beautiful settings.
Lifeknight, Inc. improves emergency response by enabling real-time communication with first responders, reducing delays and increasing accuracy in critical situations.
Motmot provides cost-effective inspection services for water infrastructure using autonomous underwater robots, enhancing water security for communities.
Protein Pints creates high-protein, low-sugar ice cream with 45 grams of whey protein, offering a healthier dessert option developed by student entrepreneurs.
Shoptelligence increases retailer revenue with an AI-powered platform that offers personalized shopping experiences, enhancing customer satisfaction and sales.
Total Analysis LLC develops portable pathogen screening tools that improve global health security and assist in clinical decision-making with easy-to-use technology.
Vetr Health provides comprehensive pet wellness services, including in-home care, vaccinations, testing, and unlimited telehealth support for pet owners.
Receiving investments from Red Cedar Ventures Opportunity Fund are:
Great Lakes Crystal Technologies produces crystalline diamond materials for high-power electronics, quantum technologies, and advanced laser optics, supporting next-gen tech applications.
Indapta Therapeutics develops immune cell therapies designed to boost the effectiveness of antibody treatments in cancer care, advancing new options for patients.
RedoxBlox develops thermochemical energy storage technology to reduce emissions in high-temperature industrial processes, driving cleaner energy use.
Retia Medical designs patient monitoring technology that tracks cardiac output in ICUs and operating rooms, helping healthcare providers make better decisions.
Receiving investments from Michigan Rise Pre-Seed Fund III are:
Arborsense creates wearable bio-monitors using nanosensor technology for continuous, non-invasive health tracking, offering a new way to monitor wellness.
Bloom operates a marketplace connecting electric mobility and hard tech brands with the services needed to streamline operations and bring products to market.
Breadless offers healthy, low-carb, gluten-free meals, creating a safe dining experience for those with severe gluten allergies.
Carvis provides an AI-powered platform for automotive diagnostics, repair guides, and part recommendations, helping mechanics improve accuracy and efficiency.
Electric Outdoors offers solar-powered EV charging canopies for off-grid camping, creating unique, customizable camping experiences through an Airbnb-style model.
FreightRoll streamlines freight management by connecting shippers and carriers for real-time tracking, automated scheduling, and cost-efficient delivery solutions.
Hummus Goodness produces premium hummus made with 100% olive oil and lemon juice, available at major retailers and specialty markets across the U.S.
Sniffer Robotics provides drone-based environmental monitoring solutions to detect methane and identify leaks, supporting sustainability and regulatory compliance.
Syncurrent partners with governments across North America to implement technology-driven solutions that improve public services and streamline operations.
Tuebor Energy invests in Michigan-based businesses annually, fostering local growth and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs.
The Foundation also supported the following companies with access to working capital through the Michigan Rise Purchase Order (PO) Financing program:
Grounded RVs builds reliable, fully electric recreational vehicles designed for self-sustainability on the road.
Orbion develops highly efficient plasma propulsion systems for small satellites, helping spacecraft operators save on operating costs while improving satellite data value.
"These investments highlight our commitment to helping startups grow and tackle real-world challenges in key industries," said Jeff Wesley, Executive Director of Ventures at the MSU Research Foundation. "We’re excited to support these companies as they expand their operations and bring valuable solutions to market, strengthening Michigan’s entrepreneurial community."
The Red Cedar Ventures and Michigan Rise Pre-Seed Fund III investment funds provide critical support to tech startups at various stages of development. Red Cedar Ventures' Pre-Seed Fund offers early-stage funding to help startups launch and secure additional investment, while the Opportunity Funds I and II provide follow-on funding as portfolio companies grow. The MSU Research Foundation established the Michigan Rise Pre-Seed Fund III in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), offering funding, coaching, and grant assistance to Michigan-based tech startups. Together, these funds deliver comprehensive financial support and resources to startups throughout their journey in the technology sector.
For more information about the MSU Research Foundation, its investment funds and portfolio companies, visit msufoundation.org.
###
About the Michigan State University Research Foundation
The MSU Research Foundation supports the Michigan State University ecosystem with resources that increase the impact of research and innovation. The Foundation achieves its mission through grant programs that contribute over $15 million annually to the University, entrepreneurial programming and early-stage investments that accelerate technology transfer and startup growth throughout Michigan, and environments where startup businesses and collaborators can thrive. The Foundation's work is made possible through its stewardship of a flexible and sustainable endowment, nourished by over 50 years of licensing revenues and investment returns. Learn more about the MSU Research Foundation and its impact at msufoundation.org.