The StartUp Texas Innovation Competition has announced the startups in the biotech, marine technology, and education sectors that will compete for a $40,000 prize.

The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC), in collaboration with the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES) and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Center, is pleased to announce the list of participating companies for the StartUp Texas SBIR/STTR Innovation Competition, scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 5:00 PM at the eBridge Center in Downtown Brownsville, Texas. The event will showcase the entrepreneurial abilities of local innovators who will compete for funding of up to $40,000 for their innovative business concepts.

The competition represents the culmination of an intensive 10-week StartUp Texas Accelerator Program, during which participants have refined their business models, market strategies, and financial projections under the guidance of seasoned mentors and the UTRGV ECC team. The program furnishes resources and networking opportunities, thereby facilitating the success of startups in the SBIR/STTR grant application process.

The entrepreneurs and their respective companies who will be participating in the event are as follows:

Ethan Atlan, representing AccuCell Biotechnology, AccuCell Biotechnology employs NASA technology to develop in vitro devices that biomimic human tissues, thereby revolutionizing drug discovery and reducing the necessity for animal testing. These customizable micro-organ devices enhance the precision of research outcomes and diminish the necessity for animal trials.

Javier Becerril, representing Sensapath, Sensapath is an innovative assistive technology for individuals with visual impairments. It employs artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision to enhance users’ independence and situational awareness through a hands-free, user-friendly system.

Stephanie Pazos, representing Heroica Technologies, Heroica Technologies is at the vanguard of the next generation of photonics, with research and development efforts focused on the advancement of photonic integrated circuits, chemical sensors, infrared imaging systems, and optical communication systems.

Arnie Tyler, of the MerLion Advisory Group, The MerLion Advisory Group specializes in marine technology, utilizing unmanned systems to facilitate the delivery of sensors that enhance maritime safety and security.

Douglas Best, The Partnership Institute The Partnership Institute is dedicated to the advancement of educational content development, the creation of engaging and high-quality distance learning experiences, the fulfillment of bilingual education needs, and the repurposing of movie-quality animation assets.

Eloy Garza, of Career Bridge, Career Bridge facilitates connections between students, educators, and businesses, enabling the creation of authentic learning experiences that bridge the gap between education and careers. This is achieved by integrating experiential learning and career development opportunities.

The success of the StartUp Texas program has contributed to the growing momentum of the entrepreneurial spirit not only in Brownsville but throughout the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), according to Nathan Burkhart, Vice President of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at BCIC. The distinguishing feature of the program is that it extends beyond the scope of conventional accelerator initiatives. It provides local innovators with the dual support of guidance and funding, while simultaneously fostering economic growth through job creation and business expansion. “We are immensely gratified by the success of these entrepreneurs and eagerly anticipate the extent to which their ingenious concepts will flourish.”

Since its inception, the StartUp Texas program has distributed over $500,000 in funding to 23 businesses, thereby facilitating the growth of entrepreneurship and innovation in the Rio Grande Valley. The program has been recognized at the national level, having been awarded the Gold Rank Award in the Entrepreneurship category at the 2021 International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Annual Conference.

“The StartUp Texas Innovation Competition serves as a testament to the entrepreneurial talent and drive present in our region,” stated Cori Peña, President and CEO of BCIC. “By providing a platform for these innovative startups, we are facilitating their growth and establishing the foundation for a more dynamic and resilient local economy. This event underscores the significance of cultivating homegrown talent and the potential they possess to influence industries at the local and global levels.

The StartUp Texas SBIR/STTR Innovation Competition is scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 12, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the eBridge Center, located at 1304 E. Adams St., Brownsville, Texas. This event is free and open to the public, offering a unique opportunity to network with innovative entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community members. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to observe the future of the RGV’s startup ecosystem and the most innovative ideas shaping the region.