SUMMIT + CELEBRATION

PITCH

This conference is built for high potential, scaling companies in Tech and Biotech making it the best in the biz for sourcing quality deal flow in the Southeast.

POWERED BY CED

THE COMPANIES

Welcome to the 2025 Company Showcase! We are gearing up for another record-breaking year of innovation in the Southeast at Venture Connect. We’re calling on innovative companies to have the chance to pitch live, sharing your company goals for increased visibility and potential funding—all in under five minutes.

We are excited to announce the 2025 roster of Pitching Companies.  Please explore our interactive directory below and learn more about the innovation that will be featured onstage.

Please start by typing a Company Name OR select a Session and/or Company Founder from the drop down filters.

OR
Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Acomhal
Founder: Samy Lamouille
Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Ad Astra Diagnostics
Founder: Joy Parr Drach
Biotech & Pharma
Aer Therapeutics
Founder: John Fahy
Sports, Gaming, & Education
Aithlete
Founder: Michael Vardzel
Future of Work & Productivity
Aktiga (Agenda Keeper)
Founder: Shane Parreco
AgTech & Food Innovation
Alpha Green
Founder: Brian Ingram
Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Altaecore Corporation
Founder: Alexander Kinev
Sustainability & Cleantech
Anuma Aerospace Corporation
Founder: Jamie Little
AI & Machine Learning
The Artificially Intelligent Enterprise
Founder: Mark Hinkle
AgTech & Food Innovation
Atlantic Fish Co
Founder: Doug Grant
AI & Machine Learning
Auditrol, Inc.
Founder: Ashwin Nayak
Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Bacchus Therapeutics
Founder: Arvin Gouw
Med Device & Biomaterials
BioAesthetics
Founder: William Heim
Growth Software
BlueRecruit
Founder: Rich Camacho
Future of Work & Productivity
Breva
Founder: Charles Inokon
AI & Machine Learning
Bristles AI
Founder: Tina Tang
Future of Work & Productivity
Builderpad
Founder: Hill Dickerson
AI & Machine Learning
Capwave
Founder: Charlotte Ketelaar
Deep Tech
Celestic
Founder: Aaron Huslage
Future of Work & Productivity
Churn Assassin
Founder: Brian Polackoff
Health Tech
Citrus Oncology Inc
Founder: Afreen Shariff
AI & Machine Learning
CivicReach
Founder: Chip Kennedy
Med Device & Biomaterials
Couplet Care, Inc.
Founder: Stacie McEntyre
Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Crown Biome
Founder: Bryan Toton
Med Device & Biomaterials
CytexOrtho
Founder: Brad Estes
Med Device & Biomaterials
Deep Blue Medical Advances, Inc.
Founder: Howard Levinson
AgTech & Food Innovation
Druid Agriculture
Founder: Julian Walker
Future of Work & Productivity
Elroi
Founder: Rachel Cash
Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Epic Hire, Inc
Founder: Watt Williams
Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
EQUULUS Therapeutics, Inc.
Founder: Bob Discordia
Med Device & Biomaterials
ExcelENT, Inc.
Founder: Kashif Mazhar
Sustainability & Cleantech
Flux Hybrids, Inc
Founder: Micah Ulrich
Health Tech
Focus Cubes
Founder: Charith Wickrema
Health Tech
Helian
Founder: John Buxton
Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Helixomer, Inc
Founder: Thomas LaBean
Biotech & Pharma
InceptorBio
Founder: Kevin Carbajal
AgTech & Food Innovation
Innatrix
Founder: Jiarui Li
Future of Work & Productivity
InviteJet
Founder: Brian Watson
Med Device & Biomaterials
iOB
Founder: Daniel Delubac
Sports, Gaming, & Education
IX Studio LLC
Founder: Jahmir Hamilton
Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Jobvious
Founder: Tim Jones
Med Device & Biomaterials
Jurata Thin Film
Founder: Sheila Mikhail
Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Light Activated Therapeutics
Sustainability & Cleantech
Lytegro Limited
Founder: Andrew Lee
Sports, Gaming, & Education
Mapt
Founder: Henry Woodbridge
Sports, Gaming, & Education
Meridian
Founder: Josh Kohn
Growth Software
MuukLabs INC
Founder: Ivan Barajas Vargas
Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Nearby Nearby
Founder: Rhonda Jean
Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Neuradaptive
Founder: Aaron Shank
Future of Work & Productivity
No Show Hero
Founder: Anna Young
AgTech & Food Innovation
Norfolk Healthy Produce
Founder: Dr. Eric Ward
Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Nuream, Inc.
Founder: Robert Cooley
Deep Tech
Ocufii, Inc.
Founder: William Sandoval
Deep Tech
Ooga Technologies
Founder: Ajay Pasupuleti
Biotech & Pharma
Osmol
Founder: Barbara Ehrlich
Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
OsteoCure Therapeutics, Inc
Founder: Hunter Newman
Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Our Day Inc.
Founder: Bryn Khoury
Sports, Gaming, & Education
Payton Place, LLC
Founder: LaToya Abram-Payton
Sustainability & Cleantech
Phaxtec, Inc.
Founder: Anindya Mukherjee
AgTech & Food Innovation
Phinite
Founder: Jordan Phasey
Biotech & Pharma
Plakous Therapeutics, Inc.
Founder: Scott Washburn
Biotech & Pharma
Polaris Quantum Biotech
Founder: Shahar Keinan
Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Qatch Technologies
Founder: Zehra Parlak
AgTech & Food Innovation
Raleigh Biosciences
Founder: Rosangela (Ross) Sozzani
Growth Software
Remoov
Founder: Luis Perez
Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Resonantia Diagnostics, Inc
Founder: Matt Jones
Growth Software
Reveal Mobile
Founder: Brian Handly
Health Tech
Salus CM Inc
Founder: J. Bradford (Brad) Kain
AI & Machine Learning
Scale Social AI
Founder: Runbin Dong
Biotech & Pharma
SelSym Biotech
Founder: Seema Nandi
Health Tech
SenterME Wellness LLC
Founder: Charlotte Louis
Growth Software
Sharely.ai, Inc
Founder: Juan Perez
Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Sirrona Therapeutics
Founder: Li Lan
AI & Machine Learning
Skillmaker.AI
Founder: Robin Cowie
Sustainability & Cleantech
Smart Material Solutions, LLC
Founder: Stephen Furst
AI & Machine Learning
SneakPeek Technologies Inc.
Founder: Michael Truesdale
Health Tech
Social Cascade
Founder: Scott McQuiggan
Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
SonoVoice, Inc.
Founder: Sandeep Bhatt
Growth Software
Streann Media
Founder: Giovanni Punzo
Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
StreetFair
Founder: Teddy Fitzgibbons
Growth Software
Tarka
Founder: Dan Moore
Sports, Gaming, & Education
TEDU Inc
Founder: Nicolo Bates
Sustainability & Cleantech
Terra Trust
Founder: Mike DiPetrillo
Sustainability & Cleantech
TerraSafe Materials
Founder: Scott Bolin
Health Tech
Theralinq
Founder: Bethany Darragh
Deep Tech
Translational Imaging Innovations
Founder: Eric Buckland
Future of Work & Productivity
Trayecto
Founder: Russell Kroeger
Future of Work & Productivity
Twocents.ai Ltd
Founder: Kanags Surendran
Health Tech
Truentity Health
Founder: Mike Desai
Biotech & Pharma
UbiquiTx
Founder: Mathew Barnett
AgTech & Food Innovation
Upstream Biotechnology Inc
Founder: George Greene
Deep Tech
Uviquity
Founder: Scott Burroughs
Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Valuable App, Inc.
Founder: Bill Goodwin
Sports, Gaming, & Education
Ver Coaching
Founder: Michael Halpert
AI & Machine Learning
Virnika
Founder: Charles Douthitt
Sustainability & Cleantech
Voltest
Founder: Davide Giacobbe
Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
WheelPrice
Founder: Kyle Mayers
Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Wrote By Me
Founder: Django De Gree
Growth Software
Zinnia
Founder: Lauren Goodell
Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Zymeron
Founder: Jason Zhou
Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Acomhal
Founder: Samy Lamouille

Acomhal Research is a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing targeted therapies for treatment-resistant cancers.

Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Ad Astra Diagnostics
Founder: Joy Parr Drach

Ad Astra Diagnostics (AAD) revolutionizes point-of-care testing with QScout RLD, the world’s fastest imaging-based dry hematology analyzer. Delivering key CBC components, including a 6-part differential, in just 2 minutes, it uniquely quantifies immature infection-fighting cells—critical for sepsis detection. Backed by expertise from Advanced Animal Diagnostics, AAD ensures rapid, mobile-ready health diagnostics.

Biotech & Pharma
Aer Therapeutics
Founder: John Fahy

Aer Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharma company developing AER-01, a novel inhaled treatment for lung diseases with excess mucus and plugs, including COPD, cystic fibrosis, and asthma. Spun out of UCSF, our research consortium secured $18M in NIH funding, advancing AER-01 toward clinical trials with promising safety and efficacy data.

Sports, Gaming, & Education
Aithlete
Founder: Michael Vardzel

Cutting-Edge Team Management built by coaches for coaches. Our innovative, proprietary platform is an all-inclusive platform that streamlines team management.

Future of Work & Productivity
Aktiga (Agenda Keeper)
Founder: Shane Parreco

Aktiga, an Asheville-based software company, builds scalable tools to enhance productivity. Its flagship product, Agenda Keeper, transforms recurring meeting management by filling a key gap in the market. With a user-friendly, collaborative approach, Agenda Keeper streamlines agenda organization, making meetings more efficient and effective.

AgTech & Food Innovation
Alpha Green
Founder: Brian Ingram

Alpha Green is at the forefront of innovation, acting as the bridge between emerging AgTech and Food sector technologies and the everyday realities of farmers, retailers, and consumers. Our dedication lies in enhancing agricultural processes, optimizing resource use, and fostering sustainability. Our commitment to creating a healthier planet is evident in our expanding range of products designed to bolster efficiency, reduce costs, and promote a greener, more resilient future.

Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Altaecore Corporation
Founder: Alexander Kinev

Altaecore Corporation, founded in 2024 in North Carolina by biotechnology veterans Alexander Kinev and Vadim Beilinson, aims to reduce bioburden across various sectors. Utilizing its patented technology, the company develops innovative antimicrobial products designed to meet the growing market demand for natural and sustainable solutions. Altaecore’s products are tailored for applications in both the consumer market and biotechnology.

Sustainability & Cleantech
Anuma Aerospace Corporation
Founder: Jamie Little

Anuma Aerospace is a green tech company decarbonizing long-haul, heavy-lift freight with solar-electric/liquified-air hybrid, partial-vacuum lift (PVL) airships. Our patented PVL lift cell replaces costly helium, making airship transport net-negative carbon. Backed by NOAA and DoD interest, we’re also developing PVL cells for communications, aerial cranes, weather data, and ISR applications.

AI & Machine Learning
The Artificially Intelligent Enterprise
Founder: Mark Hinkle

The Artificially Intelligent Enterprise (The AIE) is more than a tech blog—it’s a community for business leaders, marketers, and AI enthusiasts. Get actionable AI insights, exclusive resources, and expert interviews to stay ahead. Subscribe for real-world AI solutions, vetted reviews, and the latest trends—simplified and ready to use.

AgTech & Food Innovation
Atlantic Fish Co
Founder: Doug Grant

Atlantic Fish Co is using cellular agriculture to develop sustainable, cultivated seafood. This technology grows fish cell lines in bioreactors to produce authentic seafood, not plant-based replicas. We’re focused on premium wild-caught species that are greenhouse gas intensive due to the trawling techniques required to catch them and can’t be raised easily via aquaculture.

AI & Machine Learning
Auditrol, Inc.
Founder: Ashwin Nayak

Auditrol SaaS platform revolutionizes risk management with AI, proactively mitigating regulatory and data risks for financial institutions.

Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Bacchus Therapeutics
Founder: Arvin Gouw

Bacchus Therapeutics targets cancer’s hypermetabolic state by disrupting fat metabolism in MYC-driven tumors, including liver, kidney, brain, blood, breast, prostate, and lung cancers. Our proprietary small molecules induce tumor regression in preclinical models, while our metabolomic platform enables rapid screening and real-time biomarker-based monitoring of treatment response.

Med Device & Biomaterials
BioAesthetics
Founder: William Heim

BioAesthetics Corporation is transforming plastic and reconstructive surgeries through regenerative medicine. BioAesthetics’ first product is a biologically-derived nipple-areolar complex (NAC) graft for breast cancer/mastectomy patients. Once engrafted directly onto the patient’s reconstruction breast, BioAesthetics NAC graft would allow the patient’s own cells to migrate into and repopulate the graft resulting in a regenerated NAC.

Growth Software
BlueRecruit
Founder: Rich Camacho

BlueRecruit streamlines hiring by eliminating costly job postings and irrelevant applications. Hiring managers set exact criteria—skills, experience, certifications, salary, and more—and get matched with qualified candidates in an easy-to-use dashboard. Simply request to connect, and once accepted, receive their contact info. Fast, effective, and cost-friendly.

Future of Work & Productivity
Breva
Founder: Charles Inokon

Breva leverages AI and financial expertise to connect small businesses and lenders. Our platform, Ask Bre™, provides personalized coaching, real-time credit monitoring, and gamified financial literacy. Features like the Breva Score assess loan readiness, while our portfolio management system helps lenders reduce risk. Through initiatives like the Thrive Grant, we drive financial growth and resilience for all.

AI & Machine Learning
Bristles AI
Founder: Tina Tang

Bristles uses AI and computer vision in a mobile app to help DIYers plan and design home projects with ease. From refinishing furniture to updating kitchens, our proprietary tech enables realistic paint visualization, fixture removal, and material layering—all without costly 3D models, making home design more accessible and intuitive.

Future of Work & Productivity
Builderpad
Founder: Hill Dickerson

BuilderPad is a construction management software for home builders and residential contractors, providing intuitive scheduling, selection and communication tools as well as real-time job site documentation to ensure projects are completed on-time and on-budget.

AI & Machine Learning
Capwave
Founder: Charlotte Ketelaar

Capwave AI is the go-to platform for early stage founders pitching for capital. Raise capital 3x faster with AI-powered pitch optimization and investor matching.

Deep Tech
Celestic
Founder: Aaron Huslage

Celestic provides secure, global mobile connectivity for NGOs and media companies in complex environments. Our LTE networks with satellite backhaul ensure reliable access, even in remote areas. With seamless roaming, built-in encrypted VPN, and a simple annual bill, we keep operations running smoothly, anytime, anywhere.

Future of Work & Productivity
Churn Assassin
Founder: Brian Polackoff

Churn Assassin leverages sophisticated behavioral analysis through powerful machine learning and AI to deliver an industry’s unparalleled early detection and warning signals for SaaS companies, identifying clients who are showing signs of churn, very often, even before the client is thinking about cancelling.

Health Tech
Citrus Oncology Inc
Founder: Afreen Shariff

Citrus Oncology is a virtual value-based speciality care platform that allows cancer patients to manage their side effects from cancer therapies. Managing side-effects through specialist care have shown to reduce significant hospitalizations arising from radiation therapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

AI & Machine Learning
CivicReach
Founder: Chip Kennedy

CivicReach is building generative AI tools for radically easier, more equitable, and affordable government communications and services. We believe safe and trustworthy AI innovation holds immense potential to help government officials and empower their residents. And it’s time we raised the bar for government customer experience.

Med Device & Biomaterials
Couplet Care, Inc.
Founder: Stacie McEntyre

Couplet Care, a UNC Gillings spin-out, revolutionizes hospital bassinets by ensuring 100% independent maternal access without assistance, reducing risks like infant drops, suffocation, and maternal pain. Clinically proven to enhance safety and nursing efficiency, it secured a $2M NIH SBIR Phase II grant for a Johns Hopkins study.

Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Crown Biome
Founder: Bryan Toton

Crown Biome is transforming oral healthcare by harnessing the power of microbiome science to bridge the gap between dentistry and overall wellness. Using advanced next-generation sequencing and AI-driven diagnostics, Crown Biome identifies microbial biomarkers linked to chronic diseases, enabling early detection and personalized treatment plans.

Med Device & Biomaterials
CytexOrtho
Founder: Brad Estes

CytexOrtho is developing ReNew Hip, a bioabsorbable implant for active patients with early hip disease, delaying or eliminating the need for total hip replacement. FDA-designated as a Breakthrough Device, it restores joint function and prevents deterioration. Clinical trials are set to begin in 2024, pending FDA IDE submission.

Med Device & Biomaterials
Deep Blue Medical Advances, Inc.
Founder: Howard Levinson

Deep Blue Medical Advances, a Duke spin-out, developed T-Line Hernia Mesh to reduce hernia recurrence by enhancing fixation strength. Its suture-like extensions prevent mesh failure, improving surgical outcomes. With additional products in development, Deep Blue aims to transform the $1.1B hernia device market with simpler, stronger solutions.

AgTech & Food Innovation
Druid Agriculture
Founder: Julian Walker

The Druid SERRA System is a revolutionary AI-enabled camera system that allows farmers to monitor their crops from anywhere. The SERRA system can detect changes in plant health and alert farmers when their crops are in need of attention, providing a hassle-free and cost-effective way to keep tabs on their investments.

Future of Work & Productivity
Elroi
Founder: Rachel Cash

Elroi provides ethically sourced, high-quality data, meticulously verified for compliance and accuracy. Through partnerships with leading providers, we ensure top-tier datasets that drive innovation and growth. Harness data responsibly and ethically with Elroi to unlock new business opportunities.

Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Epic Hire, Inc
Founder: Watt Williams

Epic Hire redefines early career hiring by letting students showcase more than a resume. Through social media, networking, and storytelling, students share passions, photos, and job preferences, enabling hiring based on personality, not just credentials. Employers gain direct access to students and clubs through a subscription-based model.

Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
EQUULUS Therapeutics, Inc.
Founder: Bob Discordia

Equulus Therapeutics pioneers CNS disorder treatments, focusing on addiction therapies using psychedelic science. Our pipeline includes EQL-101, a first-in-class treatment for opioid, alcohol, and nicotine addiction, and a proprietary NCE platform for addiction, seizures, and anxiety. Backed by IP, partnerships, and industry expertise, we deliver safe, effective therapies.

Med Device & Biomaterials
ExcelENT, Inc.
Founder: Kashif Mazhar

excelENT Medical is a med-tech company committed to partner with Ear, Nose and Throat surgeons by providing superior technologies to educate and treat patients with rhinosinusitis in a minimally invasive manner.

Sustainability & Cleantech
Flux Hybrids, Inc
Founder: Micah Ulrich

Founded in 2019, Flux Hybrids develops plug-in hybrid powertrains that seamlessly integrate into existing vehicles, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Partnering with auto dealerships and public transit, the company is scaling its impact in sustainable mobility.

Health Tech
Focus Cubes
Founder: Charith Wickrema

Focus Cubes helps organizations combat burnout, boost engagement, and drive peak performance using mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and AI-driven solutions. Founded by Charith Wickrema, the company offers structured wellness programs, leadership coaching, and personalized well-being tools to enhance resilience and productivity. Seeking investment to scale its impact in workplace transformation.

Health Tech
Helian
Founder: John Buxton

Helian is an advanced AI tool revolutionizing life sciences research by providing precise, trusted answers directly from reputable research papers. Helian enables researchers to ask natural language questions and receive accurate, citation-backed responses.

Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Helixomer, Inc
Founder: Thomas LaBean

Helixomer is revolutionizing medicine with RNA-origami technology, using aptamer-functionalized RNA structures for innovative therapeutic applications. Unlike traditional RNA approaches, we harness its structural properties rather than encoding genetic information. Our self-assembling, scalable platform opens new frontiers in precision medicine.

Biotech & Pharma
InceptorBio
Founder: Kevin Carbajal

Inceptor Bio is pioneering breakthrough cell therapies to cure solid tumors. With a singular focus on advancing oncology treatments, the company is developing an innovative approach designed to enhance T-cell persistence and resist exhaustion in the tumor microenvironment. Committed to tackling one of humanity’s most complex challenges, Inceptor Bio is shaping the future of cancer treatment.

AgTech & Food Innovation
Innatrix
Founder: Jiarui Li

Innatrix develops eco-friendly biological solutions to combat untreatable crop pests and pathogens, boosting yields by 10%+ with ROI u0026gt;3. With 150+ years of expertise, patented protein evolution and RNAi technologies, and $3M+ in funding, we’ve validated two lead products in lab and field trials, driving sustainable agricultural innovation.

Future of Work & Productivity
InviteJet
Founder: Brian Watson

InviteJet transforms marketing by replacing crowded inboxes with high-converting calendar invitations. With 5-15x better conversion rates than email, businesses can send bulk invites, build sign-up campaigns, and integrate seamlessly with Mailchimp and Klaviyo. Real-time analytics, custom domain sending, and automation tools make campaign management effortless. Trusted by eCommerce brands like Mosi Tea, InviteJet drives engagement and sales by securing a spot on your customers’ calendars.

Med Device & Biomaterials
iOB
Founder: Daniel Delubac

iOB is pioneering stem cell control in regenerative medicine with a deep-tech platform designed to overcome previous limitations. Leveraging rich transcriptomics data and adaptive AI, the platform personalizes differentiation protocols for each patient sample, ensuring high-quality manufacturing. Proprietary innovations include a scRNAseq assay (40x cheaper, 3x faster) and bespoke automation. Co-founded by experts from Weill Cornell and MD Anderson, alongside an executive with experience at Counsyl, Guardant Health, and Chemify.

Sports, Gaming, & Education
IX Studio LLC
Founder: Jahmir Hamilton

IX Studio is a rapidly growing video game development company founded in 2023, specializing in creating and managing high-engagement games on the Roblox platform with a team of 170+ developers and 100+ QA testers. In addition to developing in-house projects with over 60 million monthly active users, IX Studio manages live game operations for clients and offers contract-based game production services through its Versa.

Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Jobvious
Founder: Tim Jones

Jobvious connects independent auto specialists with car dealerships through an intuitive platform designed to streamline operations, increase business growth, and eliminate administrative burdens. Specialists gain access to dealership work, automated payments, and market insights, while dealers can assign, track, and manage jobs seamlessly. With mobile and web-based solutions, Jobvious enables perfectly prepared cars through a more efficient, connected marketplace.

Med Device & Biomaterials
Jurata Thin Film
Founder: Sheila Mikhail

Jurata Thin Film transforms vaccine and biologic stabilization by eliminating cold-chain dependence and expensive lyophilization. Its innovative thin-film technology enhances efficiency, reducing costs, space, and energy use in the fill-finish process. Demonstrated in influenza and Ebola models, Jurata also stabilizes mRNA LNPs at room temperature for over a month, enabling broader global distribution and accessibility.

Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Light Activated Therapeutics
Sustainability & Cleantech
Lytegro Limited
Founder: Andrew Lee

LyteGro develops a groundbreaking microbial growth enhancer derived from waste bananas, optimizing fermentation, biofuel production, and pharmaceutical processes. By increasing yield, reducing costs, and improving efficiency, BacLyte drives sustainability across multiple industries. Recognized as one of the UK’s most sustainable startups, LyteGro is scaling its impact globally while supporting circular economy initiatives in banana-producing regions.

Sports, Gaming, & Education
Mapt
Founder: Henry Woodbridge

Mapt is a mobile app suite that uses generative AI, expert curated content, and modern product design to offer affordable college admissions advising to high school students and their families.

Sports, Gaming, & Education
Meridian
Founder: Josh Kohn

Meridian is a computer vision-powered mobile app designed for coaches, committed golfers, and aspiring youth, addressing the gap in accessible, high-quality training insights. Developed alongside top PGA pros, our patent-pending solution delivers real-time, data-driven putting feedback in a gamified, engaging format—making elite training accessible to athletes at every level.

Growth Software
MuukLabs INC
Founder: Ivan Barajas Vargas

MuukTest is a no-code, AI-powered test automation platform that accelerates testing by 20x. By removing the need for coding, MuukTest enhances developer productivity, streamlining test design, execution, and maintenance. With its intelligent automation capabilities, teams can optimize workflows, reduce testing bottlenecks, and focus on building innovative, high-impact products.

Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Nearby Nearby
Founder: Rhonda Jean

Nearby Nearby is the world’s first platform purpose-built for rural America, designed to strengthen the rural ecosystem by connecting residents, visitors, and businesses. With its innovative One Search feature, the platform simplifies local discovery, drives economic growth, and empowers rural communities through improved visibility and collaboration.

Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Neuradaptive
Founder: Aaron Shank

Neuradaptive is a nascent neurotechnology company with a mission to improve the lives of people impacted by strokes, brain injuries, memory disorders, and severe neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Future of Work & Productivity
No Show Hero
Founder: Anna Young

No Show Hero is a community-driven marketplace designed to help service providers fill last-minute cancellations and open slots, turning missed appointments into new opportunities. For clients, it offers a seamless way to access last-minute availability, providing flexibility for busy schedules. By connecting businesses with ready-to-book clients, No Show Hero maximizes efficiency, reduces lost revenue, and ensures that services are utilized exactly when they’re needed.

AgTech & Food Innovation
Norfolk Healthy Produce
Founder: Dr. Eric Ward

Norfolk Healthy Produce (NHP) is the US-based specialty seed company, dedicated to developing and marketing products that meet consumer and partner needs, using the cutting-edge and safe innovations developed by Norfolk Plant Sciences.

NHP’s first product line is The Purple Tomato, loaded with anthocyanins, the class of antioxidants in blueberries. Seeds and seedlings are sold to home gardeners under the name “The Purple Tomato”. Licensed market grower partners also sell Purple Tomato fruit at select farmers markets. Together with Red Sun Farms, we sell Empress Purple Tomatoes in retail grocery stores.

Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Nuream, Inc.
Founder: Robert Cooley

Nuream, a Wilmington-based sleep innovation company, is redefining the mattress industry with cutting-edge sleep science and sustainable materials. Founded by Rob Cooley and Nathan & Lauren Munton, Nuream prioritizes comfort, health, and sustainability while giving back through a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Deep Tech
Ocufii, Inc.
Founder: William Sandoval

Ocufii provides smart firearm tracking solutions, enabling owners to monitor their weapons anytime, anywhere. With patent-pending hardware, software, and cloud services, Ocufii detects movement and sends instant alerts in case of unauthorized access. Designed to enhance firearm safety, the platform helps protect families and communities through innovative, real-time security solutions.

Deep Tech
Ooga Technologies
Founder: Ajay Pasupuleti

The Ooga NDT collaboration platform is an internet-based platform connecting NDT professionals to clients and technology all over the world. It connects you to help solve problems, provide training, experience simulation, virtual inspection, remote imaging and much more.

Biotech & Pharma
Osmol
Founder: Barbara Ehrlich

Osmol Therapeutics is a clinical stage company advancing a first-in-class preventative treatment for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment (CICI), debilitating conditions that can significantly impact both quality of life and survival.

Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
OsteoCure Therapeutics, Inc
Founder: Hunter Newman

OsteoCure Therapeutics is a Duke University spinout dedicated to accelerating bone repair while reducing pain. Its multifunctional, injectable system offers a cost-effective, surgeon-friendly solution designed for seamless integration into clinical practice. With a working prototype demonstrating enhanced bone healing and pain reduction in preclinical models, OsteoCure aims to address a broad range of orthopedic applications within a $25 billion market.

Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Our Day Inc.
Founder: Bryn Khoury

Our Day simplifies event planning by seamlessly matching consumers with vendors, saving 50% of search time through a streamlined RFP process. Vendors cut marketing costs by 30% and save 80% of time with targeted leads, allowing them to focus on growth while planners enjoy a stress-free experience.

Sports, Gaming, & Education
Payton Place, LLC
Founder: LaToya Abram-Payton

Payton Place LLC is an innovative company specializing in augmented reality children’s books and educational tools designed to foster emotional intelligence and engagement. With a growing product line that includes AR books, stress-relief tools, and baby care essentials, Payton Place LLC combines creativity with technology to inspire and support children, parents, and educators worldwide.

Sustainability & Cleantech
Phaxtec, Inc.
Founder: Anindya Mukherjee

PHAXTEC solves the single-use packaging crisis with a cost-effective, 100% biodegradable plastic made from biogas. Unlike pricey biomaterial alternatives, our patented technology matches fossil plastic costs while meeting consumer demands for recyclability, compostability, and carbon neutrality—delivering sustainability without the premium price.

AgTech & Food Innovation
Phinite
Founder: Jordan Phasey

Phinite is an Ag Robotics company revolutionizing waste management by transforming hog waste into sustainable fertilizer. With patent-pending robotic fertilizer mining, Phinite optimizes efficiency and maximizes production margins while addressing a critical environmental challenge. Backed by a $25M ARR offtake agreement, the company is poised for expansion and seeks growth capital to scale operations and enter new markets.

Biotech & Pharma
Plakous Therapeutics, Inc.
Founder: Scott Washburn

Plakous Therapeutics has developed a patented biotherapeutic platform designed to address critical unmet medical needs. Its lead candidate focuses on preventing Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), a rare and life-threatening pediatric disease, with a follow-on indication for Osteoarthritis. Backed by compelling preclinical data, Plakous prioritizes NEC development due to its urgent medical need and regulatory efficiencies, positioning the company for impactful advancements in pediatric and regenerative medicine.

Biotech & Pharma
Polaris Quantum Biotech
Founder: Shahar Keinan

PolarisQB leverages quantum computing, AI, and personalized medicine to design novel molecular drug leads, transforming the drug discovery process. Focused on developing treatments for all diseases, PolarisQB creates a portfolio of drug assets for licensing and sale to pharmaceutical companies, establishing a recurring revenue model. With its cutting-edge approach, the company is revolutionizing precision medicine and is currently raising a seed round to accelerate its mission.

Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Qatch Technologies
Founder: Zehra Parlak

QATCH, a Duke spin-out biotech, accelerates drug development by identifying injectable and manufacturable formulations 2-3 years earlier using 100x less material. Its proprietary nanovisQ sensor de-risks drug discovery, saving millions. Backed by NIH, NIST, and NSF, QATCH is beta-testing and seeking $2M in seed funding.

AgTech & Food Innovation
Raleigh Biosciences
Founder: Rosangela (Ross) Sozzani

Founded in 2023, Raleigh Biosciences is advancing single-cell resolution in plant gene discovery and editing. Its genomic feature identification and precision editing technologies enable targeted gene expression analysis and manipulation, driving breakthroughs in plant science and agricultural innovation. By unlocking new possibilities in crop improvement and sustainability, Raleigh Biosciences is shaping the future of agriculture through cutting-edge genomic advancements.

Growth Software
Remoov
Founder: Luis Perez

Remoov simplifies decluttering by collecting all items for resale, donation, or recycling in a single pickup. Items accepted for resale are appraised, professionally photographed, and sold on consignment, with customers receiving 50% of the proceeds. Items not suitable for resale are donated, with tax receipts provided, while the rest are responsibly recycled or disposed of. With a transparent pickup fee based on volume, Remoov offers an efficient, eco-friendly solution to reclaim space with ease.

Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
Resonantia Diagnostics, Inc
Founder: Matt Jones

Resonantia Diagnostics is a seed-stage startup transforming point-of-care infection diagnostics with technology from Sandia National Laboratories. Its platform enables rapid identification and susceptibility testing, improving patient outcomes and streamlining healthcare efficiency. By leveraging cutting-edge innovation, Resonantia Diagnostics aims to revolutionize infectious disease management with faster, more accurate diagnostic solutions.

Growth Software
Reveal Mobile
Founder: Brian Handly

Reveal Mobile’s audience platform provides app publishers everywhere with rich mobile audience data to improve product and advertising performance. App publishers using Reveal’s mobile audience segments, covering demographics, interests, and political affiliation see increases of 175-477% in advertising performance, with 50-200% increases in advertising revenue.

Health Tech
Salus CM Inc
Founder: J. Bradford (Brad) Kain

Salus provides cloud-based case management that enables organizations delivering social services to better track, act, and report on their mission-driven work.

AI & Machine Learning
Scale Social AI
Founder: Runbin Dong

Scale Social empowers small businesses by turning their customers into their best marketers. Its AI-powered platform automates the collection and curation of authentic, customer-generated content, making it easy to create engaging social media campaigns. By streamlining content creation, Scale Social helps businesses drive growth, boost loyalty, and enhance their online presence—effortlessly.

Biotech & Pharma
SelSym Biotech
Founder: Seema Nandi

SelSym Biotech, a Durham-based preclinical biotech, is transforming hemorrhage control and wound healing with platelet-mimetic technologies. Its lead product, SymClot, an injectable synthetic platelet, has shown strong efficacy in preclinical trauma and surgical models. Backed by $3M in NIH and DoD grants, SelSym is now raising a $5M Seed round for IND-enabling studies.

Health Tech
SenterME Wellness LLC
Founder: Charlotte Louis

SenterME is an immersive wellness platform designed to empower women professionals in prioritizing their well-being. By offering accessible pathways to emotional wellness and stress relief, SenterME provides curated resources, personalized tools, and a supportive community. Built for the modern professional, the platform helps women save time while creating a customized approach to wellness and self-care.

Growth Software
Sharely.ai, Inc
Founder: Juan Perez

Sharely.ai is transforming how businesses manage knowledge and relationships in the AI era. Its platform enables organizations to scale personalized interactions with customers and employees while addressing the challenge of fragmented knowledge systems. By streamlining access to critical information, Sharely.ai enhances efficiency, collaboration, and engagement across the enterprise.

Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Sirrona Therapeutics
Founder: Li Lan

Pioneer in discovering the mRNA-dependent DNA repair pathway, developing next-gen treatment for cancer treatment.

AI & Machine Learning
Skillmaker.AI
Founder: Robin Cowie

Skillmaker.AI revolutionizes workforce training with XR and AI-powered solutions, compressing multi-month programs into immersive learning experiences in days. By integrating virtual, mixed reality, and smart glasses, the platform provides scalable, hands-on training to address talent shortages. With key partnerships like NAPA Auto Parts, Skillmaker.AI is redefining upskilling for operational excellence in industries that demand precision and efficiency.

Sustainability & Cleantech
Smart Material Solutions, LLC
Founder: Stephen Furst

Smart Material Solutions is revolutionizing nanomanufacturing with a patented, high-throughput, low-cost fabrication process. Focused on commercializing breakthrough technologies in solar, displays, stealth, and decorative films, the company has secured $7M in non-dilutive funding. Now raising equity, Smart Material Solutions is poised to scale business development and launch luxury decorative films and advanced display components.

AI & Machine Learning
SneakPeek Technologies Inc.
Founder: Michael Truesdale

SneakPeek is the AI sneaker authentication platform that provides instantaneous results to identify counterfeits, track authenticity, and pair physical assets to digital spaces.

Health Tech
Social Cascade
Founder: Scott McQuiggan

Social Cascade is the only AI-powered health literacy solution for healthcare. Our solution enables healthcare providers to effortlessly engage in timely, proactive communication keeping patients aware of what’s going on–and going around–in their community.

Diagnostics, Tools, & Platforms
SonoVoice, Inc.
Founder: Sandeep Bhatt

SonoVoice empowers vocal athletes—the 45M Americans who rely on their voices—by bringing science-based voice evaluation and training beyond medical centers. Like Fitbit for voice assessment and Tonal for guided training, SonoVoice makes voice optimization accessible, enhancing performance and vocal health for professionals and everyday users.

Growth Software
Streann Media
Founder: Giovanni Punzo

Streann Media is the leading AI and AR-powered social interactive video platform, empowering creators and content providers to innovate, engage, and monetize across all screens. Its patented technology enables companies to build their own next-gen media platforms—whether a Netflix-style streaming service or a TikTok-like experience. With a proven per-user monetization strategy, Streann is shaping the future of the Creator Economy.

Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
StreetFair
Founder: Teddy Fitzgibbons

StreetFair makes it easy for homeowners to hire the top service pros their neighbors already use and trust, while driving route density for local pros. Hiring the pros that already do great work in the neighborhood means higher trust, better prices, and a lower carbon footprint for the neighborhood.

Growth Software
Tarka
Founder: Dan Moore

Tarka is the next generation Customer Discovery platform and copilot for builders to validate ideas with potential customers and close first sales.

Sports, Gaming, & Education
TEDU Inc
Founder: Nicolo Bates

TEDU, a Miami-based edtech company, combats higher education’s $11B learning loss with a unified, data-driven platform. Using real-time analytics, TEDU delivers personalized academic support, improving student outcomes, retention, and operational efficiency while reducing university costs.

Sustainability & Cleantech
Terra Trust
Founder: Mike DiPetrillo

Terra Trust AI is the world’s first tech-focused sustainability intelligence platform, designed to help IT teams reduce their environmental impact. With IT being the second-largest corporate expense and responsible for 46% of a company’s carbon footprint, most organizations lack the staff, tools, and data to drive meaningful change. Terra Trust AI seamlessly integrates sustainable actions into the daily tasks, projects, and goals of IT professionals.

Sustainability & Cleantech
TerraSafe Materials
Founder: Scott Bolin

TerraSafe Materials acquires and commercializes patented innovations to accelerate the global shift to plastic-free packaging. By uniting disruptive technologies under one roof, the company drives market adoption and scalability. With an agile development approach and a focus on regenerative materials, TerraSafe Materials is replacing petroleum-based plastics—faster and smarter.

Health Tech
Theralinq
Founder: Bethany Darragh

Theralinq enhances caregiver-therapist collaboration with a secure platform for custom home exercise plans, progress monitoring, and data reporting. By bringing therapy home, Theralinq empowers families, making them active partners in care and improving patient outcomes through seamless support and engagement.

Deep Tech
Translational Imaging Innovations
Founder: Eric Buckland

Translational Imaging Innovations (TII) revolutionizes ophthalmic imaging with an advanced software platform for biomarker discovery and clinical endpoint validation. Designed for ophthalmology and beyond, it ensures data security, enables advanced image processing and machine learning, and streamlines workflows to enhance precision medicine and clinical trials.

Future of Work & Productivity
Trayecto
Founder: Russell Kroeger

Trayecto is an intuitive financial planning platform that helps users navigate life transitions with confidence. From tax planning to what-if scenario analysis, Trayecto simplifies wealth creation, job changes, relocations, and liquidity events, empowering users to explore their future before committing for smarter financial decisions.

Future of Work & Productivity
Twocents.ai Ltd
Founder: Kanags Surendran

Twocents.ai empowers financial advisors to scale their services and revenue, by providing an AI-powered platform that automates routine tasks, improves client relationships through hyper-personalized engagement and streamlines the advisory process via tailored and actionable financial guidance.

Health Tech
Truentity Health
Founder: Mike Desai

Truentity Health empowers community pharmacies to become healthcare hubs, enabling them to deliver high-value clinical services for Medicare patients. Its cloud-based platform streamlines medical oversight, enhances patient care, and simplifies billing—boosting efficiency and profitability. By strengthening collaboration between pharmacies and physicians, Truentity Health is redefining the role of pharmacies in the healthcare ecosystem.

Biotech & Pharma
UbiquiTx
Founder: Mathew Barnett

UbiquiTx integrates machine learning and protein engineering to develop programmable protein-modulating therapies. Its AI/ML-powered peptide guide design platform delivers CRISPR-like precision, enabling the targeting of previously intractable proteins. This versatile technology expands the possibilities for programmable protein modulation, harnessing nature’s post-translational modifications (PTMs) to drive breakthrough therapeutic innovations.

AgTech & Food Innovation
Upstream Biotechnology Inc
Founder: George Greene

Upstream Biotechnology develops genetic traits that enhance crop resilience by precisely controlling gene activation in response to environmental stress. Its trait delivery platform enables disease resistance and drought tolerance without unintended defects, offering farmers a cost-efficient and sustainable solution to increase yields and improve agricultural sustainability.

Deep Tech
Uviquity
Founder: Scott Burroughs

Uviquity is a deep tech, venture-backed startup working at the leading edge of wide bandgap semiconductors and integrated photonics to deliver safe, healthy and disease-free environments by revolutionizing the way we protect our food, our water and ourselves from pathogens.

Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Valuable App, Inc.
Founder: Bill Goodwin

The Valuable App helps users discover, track, and preserve the financial, historical, and sentimental value of their belongings. By connecting people with their valuables, the platform enables informed financial decisions and ensures that rich histories are documented and passed down across generations.

Sports, Gaming, & Education
Ver Coaching
Founder: Michael Halpert

Ver Coaching helps athletes sharpen their mental game through cutting-edge vision training in virtual reality. Focusing on building confidence, enhancing focus, and improving performance both on and off the field, Ver Coaching provides tools for athletes to train smarter and play better, whether individually or as part of a team.

AI & Machine Learning
Virnika
Founder: Charles Douthitt

Virnika uses AI-driven Multi-Modal Agentic Software to streamline restaurant operations through their existing phone systems. Our agents handle reservations, orders, and customer inquiries via voice, touch, or both, enhancing efficiency, boosting revenue, and ensuring a seamless dining experience.

Sustainability & Cleantech
Voltest
Founder: Davide Giacobbe

Voltest delivers accurate battery health insights for electric vehicles in minutes, empowering dealers, wholesalers, and service shops to save time, reduce risk, and maximize sales margins.

Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
WheelPrice
Founder: Kyle Mayers

WheelPrice is a marketplace connecting automotive enthusiasts to buy and sell wheels. It offers a wide selection, secure transactions, and a Purchase Protection Plan ensuring items are as described or money back. Sellers pay a 7% fee, buyers 3%. Launched in 2017, it aims to simplify wheel trading.

Marketplaces & Platform Innovation
Wrote By Me
Founder: Django De Gree

Wrote By Me is revolutionizing the book industry with a specialized website builder for authors and publishers. This innovation empowers authors and publishers with unprecedented control and understanding of their market.

Growth Software
Zinnia
Founder: Lauren Goodell

Zinnia provides an AI-powered sales productivity platform that optimizes customer research, account planning, and deal closing for B2B revenue teams. Using behavioral analytics on historical data and activity, Zinnia’s machine learning algorithms deliver actionable recommendations that strengthen human connections between sales representatives and prospects.

Pre-Clinical & Biotech Platforms
Zymeron
Founder: Jason Zhou

Zymeron is a research-based biotechnology company, discovering and developing innovations to enable step-change performance in new technologies and products.

Selected companies to pitch will receive one complimentary ticket given to their presenter who will be given the spotlight on one of two stages, spanning two days of pitching. We also encourage startup teams to join us. Your participation is a fantastic way to network with peers and dive deep into the heart of the Southeast’s innovation space.

For those selected, attendees will have the chance to learn more about you and connect directly via our partnering app before the conference begins. It’s more than a pitch—it’s a stepping stone to your company’s next big leap.

Investors That Have Previously Attended Venture Connect

  • 10Edison Capital
  • 11 Tribes
  • 2ndF
  • ACCELR8
  • Accomplice
  • Activate Venture Partners
  • Alerion Ventures
  • Alexandria Venture Investments
  • Amex Ventures
  • Arbour Way Investors
  • Ardent Venture Partners
  • ARTIS Ventures
  • Atomic VC
  • Avenue Growth Partners
  • Baird Capital
  • Ballast Point Ventures
  • Because Ventures
  • Bioventure Partners
  • Blu Ventures
  • Blue Heron Capital
  • Bonaventure Equity
  • BroadOak Capital Partners
  • Bull City Venture Partners
  • Camford Capital
  • Celesta
  • CFV Ventures
  • CGC Ventures
  • Circadian Ventures
  • Clovis Point
  • Cofounders Capital
  • Cone Health Ventures
  • Cowboy Ventures
  • CreativeCo
  • Cypress Growth Capital
  • DCVC Bio
  • Decathalon Capital Partners
  • Deepwork Capital
  • Delta-v Capital
  • Eastside Partners
  • Edison Venture Fund
  • Excelerate Health Ventures
  • FCA Venture Partners
  • FINTOP Capital
  • First Launch Capital Fund
  • Flagstaff Ventures
  • Flyover Capital
  • FMC Ventures
  • Foundation Fighting Blindness
  • Frazier Life Sciences
  • Freestyle Capital
  • Front Porch Venture Partners
  • Fulcrum Equity Partners
  • Fulcrum Financial Partners
  • Goldman, Sachs and Co.
  • Good Growth Capital
  • Gray Ventures
  • Grotech Ventures
  • Harbert Growth Partners, LLC
  • Harbright Venture
  • Hatteras Venture Partners
  • HG Ventures
  • Hockey Stick Investments
  • IDEA Fund Partners
  • Inclusive Capital Partners
  • Insight Venture Partners
  • Intel Capital
  • JMI Equity
  • Johnson & Johnson Innovation
  • Jurassic Capital
  • FMC Ventures
  • KdT Ventures
  • LabCorp
  • Lakeland Capital Partners
  • Landmark Capital
  • Level Equity
  • Lighter Capital
  • LNC Partners
  • Material Ventures
  • MED1 Ventures, LLC
  • Mercato Partners
  • New Day Venture Capital
  • Noro-Moseley Partners
  • Osage Venture Partners
  • Oval Park Capital
  • Panoramic Ventures
  • Pappas Capital
  • Perceptive Advisors
  • Prevail Partners
  • Primordial Tech Ventures
  • RA Capital
  • Radian Capital
  • Relevance Ventures
  • Revolution Ventures
  • RevUp Capital
  • Rex Health Ventures
  • River Cities Capital Funds
  • Salem Partners
  • Sanofi Ventures
  • Signature Bank
  • SJF Ventures
  • Solas BioVentures
  • Sopris Capital
  • Sovereign’s Capital
  • Spectrum Equity
  • Spring Mountain Capital LP
  • SSM Partners
  • Staley Capital
  • Stanley Ventures
  • Susquehanna Growth Equity
  • Sustainable Food Ventures
  • Syngenta Ventures
  • TDF Ventures
  • Tech Square Ventures
  • TechOperators
  • The Venture Collective
  • Tiger Management
  • Tiverton Advisors, LLC
  • Topmark Partners
  • Triangle Tweener Fund
  • Updata Partners
  • Vocap Investment Partners
  • Volvo Group Venture Capital
  • VTC Ventures
  • Xontogeny

ATTEND

Buy your tickets early and save. CED offers two ticket types: Startup and General Admission.

AGENDA

Explore our agenda including 103 company pitches, multiple investor panels and high-profile fireside discussions you won’t want to miss.

SPONSOR

This investment will deliver immediate value in front of an audience that suits you while fueling the entrepreneurial spirit of North Carolina.

March 25 – 27
Raleigh, NC
“Very excited for the event. Got a chance to meet and network with lot of cool new and interesting people, that were supportive of our work at CareYaya and interested in collaborating with us. CED team did a great job organizing and running the event smoothly. The startups were cool and collaborative, and lot of new investor relationships were formed. I especially liked the opportunity to set up 1×1 meetings with people through the app. Overall, the best event I have been to since I started CareYaya!”

Neal Shah CEO of CareYaya Health Technologies Inc.

“Thank you for organizing such a fantastic event! I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to pitch to the amazing venture capitalists in attendance and found their reverse pitches to be incredibly insightful.”

Ania Rodriguez CEO of JourneyTrack