These Featured Innovations are a curated set of promising technologies from regional research institutions selected by Founder Factory for startup exploration. Each offers strong technical foundations and early commercial potential. We’re bringing together interdisciplinary teams to explore viable paths to new venture creation.
Join us on May 28th at the Founder Factory Technology Pitch Event
to Help Build the Next Startup Around These Innovations.
AI & Data Science
Protecting real‑world AI before it’s exploited
Secure‑by‑Design AI for Edge Devices
As AI moves onto cameras, robots, and sensors, security must be built in—not bolted on. By embedding protection directly into edge operation, this on‑device software helps defend against malicious attacks, reducing risk and enabling broader, safer adoption of AI beyond controlled environments.
Building Trustworthy AI for High‑Stakes Decisions
Understanding AI Systems Before They Fail
As AI systems shape critical, real‑world decisions, knowing how they behave before problems arise becomes essential. This innovation points toward a future where teams can inspect and validate AI models in use—building confidence, catching issues earlier, and enabling safer deployment in high‑stakes environments.
Health and Bio
Front-Line Antiviral Protection Platform
Stopping Respiratory Infections Before They Take Hold
This intranasal platform reimagines antiviral protection by acting at the body’s front line—where respiratory viruses begin infection. By anchoring protection directly to airway cells, it enables longer‑lasting defense and a flexible approach that can be rapidly adapted to new and emerging viral threats.
Lipid‑Lowering Peptide for Cardiovascular Disease
Addressing the heart‑disease risk that today’s drugs leave behind
Even with medication, millions remain at risk for cardiovascular events. This innovation points toward a new class of therapies that address the full range of harmful blood lipoproteins—opening more complete and durable protection for patients underserved by today’s standard treatments.
Next‑Generation Lyme Disease Vaccine
Longer‑term protection for people and pets at risk
As Lyme risk continues to expand, this innovation points toward a new generation of vaccines designed for durability—not short‑lived immunity. The approach aims to provide broader, longer‑term protection for both people and pets in regions where Lyme disease is becoming a persistent and growing threat.
Ultra‑Rapid On‑Site Detection of Foodborne Pathogens
Real‑time insight for safer food production
This Today’s food safety systems often catch problems too late. This innovation points toward a future where pathogens are detected on‑site in near real time—helping producers prevent contamination, reduce recalls, and gain clearer visibility into food safety across the supply chain.
Industrial Technologies
Low‑Cost Surface Alloying for Copper & Brass Castings
Improving corrosion resistance and safety in critical metal components
This technology enables foundries to produce safer, more durable copper and brass components by selectively upgrading surface performance. It improves corrosion resistance and reduces lead leaching using existing foundry processes—delivering higher‑quality products without changing bulk alloys or investing in new equipment.
Medical Device and Imaging
Augmented Reality‑Guided MRI Procedures
Making MRI‑guided care clearer, faster, and safer
By giving clinicians GPS‑like visual cues inside the MRI, this technology points toward a new standard for image‑guided care—where procedures are more precise, take less time, and place less burden on both patients and clinical teams.
Adaptive Dose‑Tracking Software for Radiation Therapy
A truer picture of radiation dose for individualized cancer care
Help evaluate a software innovation that accurately tracks radiation dose as patient anatomy changes—offering safer, more precise treatment assessment than static dose‑summation methods. Perfect for participants with experience in radiation oncology, medical imaging, clinical software, or digital health to examine market fit and startup potential.
Interested in a Technology? Reach out to us to learn more!