Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention, Treatment, and rehabilitation

SIMETRI is a woman-and-minority owned small business based in Winter Park, Florida, specializing in modeling, simulation, and training technologies. Founded in 2009, the company focuses on delivering innovative products and services that enhance the human experience and improve client outcomes through advanced training and program management analysis.

The Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute (ARMI) is a member-based, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the bioeconomy of the United States. Its mission encompasses enhancing manufacturing, healthcare, and education and workforce development, aiming to create a scalable and effective manufacturing ecosystem for engineered cells, tissues, and organs.

Georgia Southern University is a vibrant institution with over 26,100 students across three campuses in Statesboro, Savannah, and Hinesville. The university offers 132 degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate levels, emphasizing student success, community impact, and research excellence. With a commitment to inclusivity and engagement, Georgia Southern fosters a supportive environment for diverse learners, including military-affiliated and adult students. The university is dedicated to transforming lives through education and community engagement, aligning its programs with regional needs. Additionally, Georgia Southern provides accelerated pathways for students to fast-track their master's degrees, enhancing educational opportunities. The university also emphasizes career readiness and public impact research, preparing students for successful careers and contributing to community development.

NervGen Pharma Corp is a clinical-stage biotech company focused on developing innovative treatments to enable nervous system repair in cases of traumatic injury and disease. Their lead drug candidate, NVG-291, is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1b/2a clinical trial for spinal cord injury, with additional preclinical evaluations for conditions such as ischemic stroke and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The company is also advancing a new development candidate, NVG-300, in preclinical studies.

MediCarbone is an Arizona-based orthopedic medical device startup founded in 2019, focused on revolutionizing bone fracture repair through minimally invasive, customized intramedullary nailing technology. The company utilizes patented carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer applications and AI technology to enhance patient outcomes in orthopedic treatments.

Maverick Labs is a U.S.-based biotechnology and materials science company specializing in advanced protein design, synthetic biology, and microbial engineering. The company operates through three tightly integrated subsidiaries—Maverick Metals, Maverick Energy, and the Maverick Bio-Gene Therapy Translational Unit—each of which applies a shared technological foundation to tackle critical challenges across national defense, energy independence, and strategic material access. Together, they develop scalable, field-ready solutions that reinforce the United States’ industrial resilience and military readiness through biotechnology-driven innovation.

GreenLifeTech has developed a safe, non-chemical means of removing oxygen from within a closed container operated at atmospheric pressure (no vacuum). This inert environment allows for the extending the shelf life of perishable material. Initially, the focus was on fresh produce which can have its shelf life extended by up to 3 - 5x, thereby reducing food waste and promoting healthier living. An EPA SBIR phase II contract has already been awarded for implementation of the technology in consumer refrigerators. In addition, the technology is applicable to preserving transfusion blood. NIH and US Army studies have already shown that storing blood in an anaerobic environment improves the quality and extends the shelf life of blood. The GreenLifeTech now makes this cost effective and applicable in the field.

The American Burn Association (ABA) is a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by burn injury. With over 3,000 members worldwide, ABA focuses on promoting and supporting burn-related care, prevention, education, and research. The association brings together professionals from various disciplines to advance quality care, advocate for prevention, provide educational resources, and foster research in the field of burn injuries. ABA is also recognized for its leadership in advocacy, professional development, and the establishment of best practices and guidelines for burn care. The ABA regularly hosts conferences, develops clinical guidelines, and partners with organizations to raise awareness and improve outcomes for burn survivors.

Auburn University Research & Economic Development is dedicated to advancing research and economic growth through a collaborative effort among its various colleges and departments. The organization focuses on fostering innovation, supporting faculty and student research, and facilitating partnerships with industry and government to address societal challenges and enhance the quality of life. Recent initiatives include the launch of the Team Science Series to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of the Gulf Coast Engineering Research Station to address coastal environmental challenges.

SERDA Therapeutics is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative solutions for wound care, particularly in the treatment of burn injuries and chronic ulcers. The company aims to provide fast and effective therapeutic debridement through its proprietary enzymatic product, SN514, which is designed to enhance healing by selectively removing necrotic tissue.

Sonogen Medical Inc. is dedicated to researching, developing, and commercializing next-generation ultrasonic bone fracture healing technology. The company combines expertise in fluid mechanics, biophysics, sonar, and medical ultrasound to create safe and effective devices for bone healing.

The Institute for Integrative & Innovative Research (I3R) at the University of Arkansas is dedicated to pioneering solutions to complex societal challenges through convergence research. With a mission to advance research excellence and stimulate economic development, I3R focuses on deploying innovations at scale through collaboration across various sectors, including academia, industry, and government.

Neuraptive Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing novel therapies to improve outcomes in peripheral nerve injuries (PNI). Their mission is to enhance the quality and speed of recovery for patients suffering from traumatic injuries or undergoing reconstructive surgeries, utilizing innovative technologies such as NTX-001, a nerve fusion system, and specialized microsurgical instruments.

Spartan Medical is a medical solutions company serving VA medical centers, Department of Defense (DoD) facilities, civilian hospitals, and ambulatory surgery centers across the United States and internationally. The company specializes in advanced medical devices, surgical solutions, and support services, with a history of adapting to emergent healthcare challenges and logistical demands. Spartan Medical has provided solutions in public health crises, such as COVID-19 mitigation, and delivers comprehensive procurement, logistical, and operational support for healthcare organizations. It operates as a certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and is recognized for its significant presence in federal healthcare contracting.

The University of Chicago is a prestigious urban research university committed to rigorous inquiry and intellectual freedom. Founded in 1890, it has produced numerous Nobel laureates and is known for its transformative education and groundbreaking research across various fields. The university fosters an inclusive and diverse learning environment, encouraging participation from all community members.

Boston University is a major research institution committed to leading breakthroughs across various disciplines. The Office of Research supports and advances research excellence, fostering collaboration among researchers, industry partners, and government leaders to address significant societal challenges.