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TEDCO Archives - BioHealth Innovation

Aug 19 2025
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TEDCO Invests in AGED Diagnostics

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Biotechnology company developing early liver diseases detection technology

COLUMBIA, Md., (August 19, 2025) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced a recent $250,000 Pre-Seed Builder Fund investment in AGED Diagnostics. Housed under TEDCO’s Social Impact Funds, the Pre-Seed Builder Funds provide investment and support to Maryland-based technology companies led by founders from economically underserved backgrounds.

“TEDCO’s funding continues to support us in furthering our research and development for early liver disease detection,” said Rachel Zayas, CEO of AGED Diagnostics. “With this follow-on investment, we hope to move closer to our mission of providing access to early detection and intervention care for those with liver disease.”

AGED Diagnostics, based in Rockville, Md., is a biotechnology company developing an early detection and intervention solution for liver disease. Using genomic innovation, the company is working to create a more accurate blood test that could keep patients in a monitoring program, helping to reduce financial burdens and improve patient outcomes.

“AGED Diagnostics seeks to tackle both the health and financial aspects of liver disease through their detection technology,” said Jean-Luc Park, deputy chief investment officer & senior director of TEDCO’s Social Impact Funds. “At TEDCO, we work to support innovative companies like this who are working towards impactful solutions; through the Pre-Seed Builder Fund, we are honored to offer more than just funding in support for our portfolio companies.”

TEDCO’s Social Impact Funds are just one of the many investment opportunities available to qualifying technology-focused startups and small businesses across Maryland.

“As technologies continue to evolve, it is always promising to see innovation in biotechnology seek to support more efficient and affordable healthcare,” said TEDCO CEO, Troy LeMaile-Stovall. “Being ranked as a top state for health care, Maryland has a fertile ecosystem for entrepreneurs and companies looking to advance in the medical landscape.”

For more information, visit our page at www.tedcomd.com/funding.

About TEDCO

TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com.

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Media Contact

Tammi Thomas, Chief Development & Marketing Officer, TEDCO, tthomas@tedcomd.com

Rachael Kalinyak, Associate Director, Marketing & Communications, TEDCO, rkalinyak@tedcomd.com

Aug 18 2025
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TEDCO’s Maryland Innovation Initiative Announces First Round of Baltimore Innovation Initiative Awardees

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The Baltimore Innovation Initiative awards a total of more than $645,000 to 14 awardees

COLUMBIA, Md., (August 18, 2025) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced the first round of the Baltimore Innovation Initiative (BII) Pilot Program awardees, marking an important milestone for the organization. The BII Pilot Program falls under the Maryland Innovation Initiative (MII), fueling innovation and economic impact in the Baltimore region.

“The first round of BII awardees exemplify the innovation present throughout the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson Metropolitan Statistical Area,” said Abi Kulshreshtha, executive director, MII. “These awards will advance innovative technologies from seven colleges and universities, contributing to Maryland’s growing innovation ecosystem.”

The BII was created to support an equitable innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem within higher education institutions in the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). As part of Maryland’s matching contribution toward the Baltimore Tech Hub, the BII seeks to advance technology toward commercialization of a product or service and bolster support for entrepreneurs developing technology-based ventures.

“We received a number of excellent candidates – choosing the 14 awardees was a difficult process, but we feel these awardees are best positioned to utilize the funding provided to progress towards commercialization,” said Jalaycia Lewis, BII program manager.

The Technology Advancement Grant offers applicants support to commercialize a new or existing technology at an eligible institution while the Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Programming and Infrastructure Grant supports the creation or enhancement of entrepreneurship programs and commercialization infrastructure for technology-based ventures.

The eight Technology Advancement awardees include:

  1. Selena Shirkin,Fetal Therapy Technologies: Designing a novel port system for microsurgery; Johns Hopkins University
  2. Rebecca Greene,Semiautonomous Humanistic Algorithm for Reduced Effort and Enhanced Dexterity (SHARE2D) Control; Johns Hopkins University
  3. Anika Mistry,DevMinds: adaptive social-emotional learning to support neurodiverse kids beyond therapy sessions; Johns Hopkins University
  4. Oriol Cuxart,A breakthrough neuromodulation solution for Chronic Rhinosinusitis patients; Johns Hopkins University
  5. Michael Tangrea, advancing precision medicine through commercialization of the micropurification technology; Loyola University Maryland
  6. Kevin Tu, developing a secure and integrated fume hood management platform to reduce energy waste in research laboratories; University of Maryland, Baltimore
  7. Andres Londoño,DegreeMap: A smart degree planning platform for Maryland higher education; Towson University
  8. Debbie Sahlin, ACCESS-DP Advancing Coordinated Care and Emerging Smart Solutions for Disabled Populations; University of Maryland, Baltimore

The six Entrepreneurship Commercialization, Programming and Infrastructure Awardees include:

  1. Ian Ryu,AI Venture Studio Pilot; Johns Hopkins University
  2. Wendy Bolger, Support for the Baltipreneurs Accelerator; Loyola University Maryland
  3. Ryan Hoover, Launching the MICA Biodesign Program to Support and Diversify the Regional Bioeconomy; Maryland Institute College of Art
  4. Henry Mortimer,UBalt AI-Enabled Business Incubator; University of Baltimore
  5. Kenneth Wong,Center for Climate and Health Entrepreneurship; University of Maryland, Baltimore
  6. Jamie Gurganus,Embedding Entrepreneurial Mindset in Academia: Launching the Entrepreneurial Learning Lab at UMBC; University of Maryland, Baltimore County

“Innovative entrepreneurs thrive in Maryland with the support of programs like BII,” said TEDCO CEO, Troy LeMaile-Stovall. “As the number one state for minority-owned businesses, Maryland is moving the needle forward. By embracing diversity, we continue to see growth in a merit-based ecosystem that will not only bring the state to the forefront of innovation but will allow for sustainability.”

The MII was established as a collaboration between the State of Maryland and five academic research institutions, and leverages each institution’s strengths while promoting the commercialization of research conducted there. Since its inception, the program has invested more than $59 million in promising research commercialization, supported nearly 200 companies and generated almost 400 jobs. The success of the MII led to several pilot programs that expanded MII’s reach to two more comprehensive universities in addition to the creation of BII.

To learn more about the MII and BII programs, eligibility and application details, visit tedcomd.com/funding/maryland-innovation-initiative.

About TEDCO

TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com.

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Media Contact

Tammi Thomas, Chief Development & Marketing Officer, TEDCO, tthomas@tedcomd.com

Rachael Kalinyak, Associate Director, Marketing & Communications, TEDCO, rkalinyak@tedcomd.com

Aug 13 2025
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Technical.ly: Maryland’s stem cell research fund is filling the gap

By News

by: Karuga Koinange – Brian Jamieson founded Diagnostics Biochips to unlock the inner workings of the brain.

Based in Glen Burnie, the medical equipment manufacturing company develops tiny sensors that can be implanted to study electrical brain activity. The goal? To help find cures for neurological diseases like Parkinson’s, epilepsy and others.

Diagnostic Biochips also offers a data analysis platform called DBCloud that tracks and organizes the vast neural activity captured by its sensors. Together, these tools give researchers a window into what Jamieson describes as the brain’s “matrix.”

“If you’re probing a network or a computer and you want to see the 1s and 0s that make up the basic operation of a microprocessor, it’s the same thing with your brain,” Jamieson said. “What is the basic underlying machine-level code of your brain? It’s not a perfect metaphor, but it has some of the same characteristics in that you have all these basic elements that are connected.”

A loan that led to a new line of business

The State of Maryland’s venture capital arm, TEDCO, was one of the first to bet on Diagnostic Biochips, providing a seed investment that helped bring the company to life in 2013.

When the company first launched, it focused on building tools for in vivo applications, i.e., research with live animals. After a decade in this line of business, Jamieson had aspirations to scale up.

In 2023, he turned his attention to advanced stem cell models such as pluripotent stem cells (known as iPSCs) and 3D cultures called organoids. Brain organoid models are miniature, lab-grown versions of the human brain small enough to fit in a petri dish that replicate key properties of a developing, normal or diseased brain. Using these models, researchers can drastically boost the volume and efficiency of their data collection.

“Instead of doing individual surgeries on animals, now we’re scanning 96 brains at a time,” Jamieson said.

To support this pivot, Diagnostic Biochips started seeking funding for stem cell research. That search led Jamieson to apply for the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) in December 2024.

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Aug 07 2025
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TEDCO Invests in Natáur

By News

COLUMBIA, Md., (August 7, 2025) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced a recent $250,000 Pre-Seed Builder Fund investment in Natáur. The Pre-Seed Builder Fund is housed under the Social Impact Funds, an umbrella of investment opportunities that seek to provide eligible entrepreneurs with access to support and capital.

“Natáur is redefining the future of essential nutrients—leveraging proprietary fermentation technology and engineered microbes to replace traditional petroleum-based taurine with a sustainably produced, bio-based alternative that’s safer for people, pets, and the planet,” said Kathleen Turano, president and chief operating officer of Natáur. “Thanks to TEDCO’s recent investment, we can continue our commitment and work to offer more sustainable options for taurine production.”

Natáur, located in Baltimore, Md., is a company working to provide bio-based solutions for nutrient production. Taurine is used extensively in the nutrition, food, feed and personal care sectors. Currently, the market is primarily filled with synthetic taurine made from petrochemicals, posing risks to humans, animals and the environment.

“Technological innovation comes in many forms,” said Jean-Luc Park, senior director, Social Impact Funds. “This is one reason why TEDCO’s Funds are industry agnostic. With an inclusive umbrella, we are able to promote continued business growth across Maryland and allow for continued entrepreneurial development.”

TEDCO’s Pre-Seed Builder Fund finances companies through investments via convertible notes. Besides financial support, those chosen to receive a Builder Fund investment are given administrative assistance, mentorship and networking resources.

“Maryland is where innovation meets opportunity—home to a thriving ecosystem of research institutions, tech startups, and forward-thinking leaders driving the future of science, health and entrepreneurship,” said TEDCO CEO, Troy LeMaile-Stovall. “For life sciences entrepreneurs, there is nowhere else more supportive with an abundance of unique, world-class resources than Maryland.”

TEDCO provides funding, resources and connections that early-stage technology and life sciences companies need to thrive in Maryland. For entrepreneurs interested in applying for TEDCO funding opportunities, visit our page here.

About TEDCO

TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com.

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Media Contact

Tammi Thomas, Chief Development & Marketing Officer, TEDCO, tthomas@tedcomd.com

Rachael Kalinyak, Associate Director, Marketing & Communications, TEDCO, rkalinyak@tedcomd.com

Aug 06 2025
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TEDCO Awards $785,000 to the 2025 Maryland Makerspace Initiative Program Awardees

By News

COLUMBIA, Md., Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced the 2025 Maryland Makerspace Initiative Program (“Makerspace Program“) awardees. A total of nearly $785,000 in awards will span across 14 entities located in 9 counties across the state.

“Since inception, the Makerspace Program has now provided $2.4 million across 52 awards to entities across the state, supporting the continued growth of Maryland’s innovation ecosystem,” said Terry Rauh, chief finance and operations officer at TEDCO. “We are hopeful that these 14 awardees will continue to advance the innovation capabilities within their communities.”

What is the Makerspace Program?
Created through legislation passed by the Maryland General Assembly, the Makerspace Program provides grants of up to $100,000 and technical assistance for qualified entities looking to establish a new Makerspace, expand an existing Makerspace, or develop Makerspace programming. The goal is to grow a state-wide community of Makerspaces that provides entrepreneurs with access to tools, technologies and knowledge to support their growth and development as well as expand workforce training.

“Out of 25 highly competitive applications, we are pleased to announce the support for the 2025 Makerspace Program awardees,” said Justin Ferguson, innovation manager for the Venture Development department. “We are excited to see the continued interest in Makerspace growth and development across the state.”

The 14 awardees for the 2025 Makerspace Program include:

  1. Allegany College of Maryland, located in Allegany County
  2. Chesapeake Arts Center, located in Anne Arundel County
  3. City Life Community Builders, located in Baltimore City
  4. Digital Harbor Foundation, Tech Lab, located in Baltimore City
  5. Inncuvate Community Development Partners, located in Prince George’s County
  6. Frederick Makerspace, located in Frederick County
  7. Makerspace of Annapolis, located in Anne Arundel County
  8. Maryland Assistive Technology Program, located in Baltimore City
  9. Players Philanthropy Fund (Code Super Powers), located in Prince George’s County
  10. Rockville Science Center, located in Montgomery County
  11. Salisbury University, Richard Bernstein Makerspace, located in Wicomico County
  12. St. Mary’s County Library, Lexington Park Branch, located in St. Mary’s County
  13. The SPACE: Free Art for All (E2Lab), located in Prince George’s County
  14. Washington College, The Innovation Plant, located in Kent County

For more information about TEDCO’s Makerspace Program, visit www.tedcomd.com/makerspace.

About TEDCO
TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com.

Media Contact
Tammi Thomas, Chief Development & Marketing Officer, TEDCO, tthomas@tedcomd.com
Rachael Kalinyak, Associate Director, Marketing & Communications, TEDCO, rkalinyak@tedcomd.com

Nov 12 2024
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tedconextsteptest

TEDCO Invests in NextStep Robotics

By Uncategorized
tedconextsteptest

COLUMBIA, Md., (November 12, 2024) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced a recent $200,000 Seed Funds investment in NextStep Robotics. TEDCO’s Seed Funds aim to reach prospective businesses showing potential of being venture fundable or other forms of corporate venture, such as follow-on funding.

“Foot drop is a disability that results from underlying neurological or muscular injuries and affects millions of Americans each year,” said Bradley Hennessie, CEO of NextStep Robotics. “With traditional treatments, patients were left with uncomfortable orthotics or assistive devices. However, with this latest investment from TEDCO, we are excited to continue moving forward to provide more appealing solutions and support patients and physical therapists alike.”

NextStep Robotics, located in Baltimore, Md., seeks to combine robotics and information technology to provide movement-based therapy that will help alleviate foot drop. Through their signature device, AMBLE, users are provided with a semi-autonomous trainer that works to help restore the patient’s natural gait.

“NextStep’s commitment to supporting patients and physical therapists is admirable, and their innovative solution is an excellent example of the kind companies we look to invest in through our Seed Funding,” said Teddy Gresser, director of Seed Funds at TEDCO.

NextStep Robotics previously received funding from TEDCO’s Maryland Innovation Initiative (MII)’s Company Formation Award and Seed Funds.

Seed Funds through TEDCO are essential for businesses with the potential to grow their sustainability through customer revenue or other corporate ventures. For further information regarding TEDCO Seed Funds, please visit https://www.tedcomd.com/funding/seed-funds.

About TEDCO

TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com.

Media Contact
Tammi Thomas, Chief Development & Marketing Officer, TEDCO, tthomas@tedcomd.com

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