Indiana Emerges as Bioscience Hub with New Startup Cohort

Indianapolis is poised to become a significant player in the bioscience sector, with the launch of a new startup cohort by IU LAB and Plug and Play. This initiative aims to enhance bioscience investment in Indiana and globally. The inaugural cohort features 12 innovative startups focused on advancing health technology, marking a pivotal moment for the region’s biotech landscape.

Innovative Startups Drive Health Technology Forward

Among the selected companies is Intero Biosystems, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This startup specializes in creating miniature human organs for preclinical testing, offering a humane alternative to animal testing. Founder and CEO Charlie Childs explained, “We make miniature human organs for preclinical testing, so anything that you test on animals – like chemicals or drugs or food – you can test on our organs instead of using animals and get a more human-relevant response.” Childs recently pitched her business to IU LAB and Plug and Play, expressing optimism that this partnership will elevate her company.

Childs highlighted the importance of concentrating resources in the Midwest, stating, “They’re concentrating so hard in that area on getting the resources that we so desperately need in the Midwest. I think it’s really exciting, and it really bodes well for a booming biotech startup ecosystem in the Midwest.”

Another noteworthy participant is Modella AI, led by Jill Stefanelli. This startup utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze medical images, specifically in the field of pathology. Stefanelli noted, “We’re very focused in the field of pathology, and really helping to improve diagnostic accuracy, but also informing potential prognosis. This includes how aggressive a disease is and what type of drug a patient might respond to, all from images, which is pretty incredible.”

She emphasized that the support from IU LAB and Plug and Play will assist them in commercializing their product, ultimately enhancing patient care. “This has the opportunity to really shorten the turnaround time, making sure that nothing was missed. You know, really helping every single patient, no matter where they live,” Stefanelli added.

A Promising Future for Indiana’s Bioscience Sector

The emergence of this cohort reflects a broader trend towards establishing Indianapolis as a leading destination for bioscience innovation. The participating startups demonstrate a diverse range of technologies aimed at improving health outcomes. In addition to Intero Biosystems and Modella AI, the cohort includes the following companies:

– AGED Diagnostics
– Amplicore
– Amplified Sciences
– Door Pharma
– Grannus Therapeutics
– OmniSpirant Therapeutics
– OsseoLabs
– OsteoCure Therapeutics
– Scioto Biosciences
– Synch Neuro

With a commitment to fostering innovation, IU LAB and Plug and Play are setting the stage for a vibrant ecosystem that could have far-reaching impacts on healthcare and biotechnology. As these startups progress, they will likely contribute significantly to both local economies and global health advancements. The potential for growth in this sector positions Indiana as a crucial player in the future of biosciences.