Incubator Brochure
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Incubator Brochure
Transcript of Incubator Brochure
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The USC / Columbia Technology Incubator focuses on helping start fast-growth companies here in the Midlands. We are successful in Economic Development because we focus on small highly technical companies, and then we actively incubate those companies towards fast growth to create high paying jobs.
� 5 minute ride from the University of South Carolina, located in the center of Midlands.
� 40,000 sq ft. building provided for $1 a year by the city of Columbia.
� 49 companies enrolled; 38 housed in the incubator.
� 31 companies graduated, with an average Employee’s salaries average $ 63,450
� 754 high-salary jobs created.
The Incubator
USC / Columbia Technology Incubator1225 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC 29201
803-240-4003
How do we do it?
We nurture Midlands Entrepreneurs and their new Companies by:
� Providing private offices with desks, internet and telephone; meeting rooms, a video conferencing room and a wide range of support from experience mentors and advisors.
� Providing administrative support and advice quickly so that entrepreneurs can concentrate on growing their businesses.
� Helping them to focus on Cash Management concepts.
� Offering information sessions and consulting services about government ordinances, regulations and business licensing.
� Supporting entrepreneurs to help them get ready to access capital and find angel investors to help them along the way.
� Studying and critically examining business plans of our incubating companies.
� Requiring companies to present their progress and development initiatives to the Incubator Advisory Committee on a regular basis.
Color Printers
Fax/Copy
High-Speed Internet
Business Consulting
Technical Consulting
Grant Writing help
Master Agreements
Educational Lunches
Incubator Advisory Committee Advice
Midlands Tech Staff and Professors
USC Professors / Interns
Administrative Assistance
Mentoring
Access to Service Provider Network
Mail Room
Reception
Offices
Parking
Some of our Companies:
What Services do we provide our incubating Companies?
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Where do our Start-Up Companies come from? � Landing Parties: We are
working to attract companies located in the United States or Internationally that wish to move or open a subsidy in the Midlands. These companies, known as Landing Parties, are housed in the City of Columbia’s International Business Center located in the incubator.
Why is Incubation critical? � Incubation dramatically increases the chances of survival for newly formed companies, which
generally have a very low success rate. Mentoring and nurturing in an incubator is often critical.
� Incubation helps channel the already constrained resources of newly formed companies.
� Incubation saves valuable time, money and resources allowing companies to grow faster.
� Incubation provides an opportunity to Commercialize new technologies developed by professors by linking a researcher’s idea with an entrepreneurial mind.
� Incubation provides the opportunity for important peer to peer networking.
� Incubation provides straight and focused advice from highly experienced mentors on a range of topics including- choosing lawyers, financial analysts, and accountants.
� Incubation helps companies find “best-fit” interns, as well as short and long-term employees.
Results: � The Midland’s most efficient and cost effective economic development activity:
> 754 new jobs created > 224 Jobs (29 percent of total jobs) held by minorities > 31 companies graduated from the program (27 of them are still in the Midlands) > Cost per job to the State of South Carolina is only $941 per job*
� The Survival Rate (at 5 years) of companies nurtured in the incubator is 89% after graduation as compared with a national average of about 50% (U.S Dept. of Commerce).
� The Landing Party program works! 16 landing parties, including 3 international companies, have moved into the USC / Columbia Technology Incubator.
Awards and Recognition: � USC / Columbia Technology Incubator was nominated for the National Business Incubation
Association’s Incubator of the Year award (2008 and 2009).
� USC / Columbia Technology Incubator and the City of Columbia’s Office of Economic Development received an award for “Excellence in Economic Development” from the Municipal Association of South Carolina.
� USC / Columbia Technology Incubator received a National Award for Excellence from the International Economic Development Council.
� USC / Columbia Technology Incubator’s model is being used by the SC Department of Commerce as a model for other cities, counties and municipalities that want to start an incubator program.
USC & Midlands Technical College:Professors, Researchers, Students
Entrepreneurs from countiesin the Midlands
US based companiescoming to the Midlands
InternationalCompanies
More of our Companies:
The Incubator has the potential of significantly changing the
economic profile of Columbia;in fact it already has“ “
- Jim Gambrell,Director of Economic Development, City of Columbia
Joel Stevenson, Executive Director,Email: [email protected]
803-545-4379
Agata Chydzinski, Director of Operations,803-545-4423
*Cost per job for the state of South Carolina is calculated by dividing the total number of funding received from the state by total number of jobs created by the incubator.
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Our Incubating Companies:
Come help them grow!Donors of Money, Services and Mentors are needed. These donations can be very rewarding for you and the Midlands.
Incubation Benefits
Each USC / Columbia Technology Incubator Company receives:
� Mentoring and Business Consulting: The incubator offers mentoring services by its staff, members and by entrepreneurs in residence. All incubator companies are required to meet the director for monthly company progress reviews
> mentoring services are provided in several areas including Strategic planning, assessment in Marketing, PR, and a host of other areas
� Performance management: Employee assessment, team building, coaching.
� Performance review and elevator pitch preparation under supervision of potential Investors (Angels or VC)
� Education, networking and advisory services: Business knowledge and experience through the Moore School of Business faculty and Staff
� Marketing and management studies through management professors from USC’s Moore School of Business.
� PR and Promotion teams through USC’s School of journalism and mass communication: The school of journalism and mass communication provides free Public Relations, advertising solutions to incubator companies (logo design, Brochures, Website).
� Service provider access (Attorneys, Accountants, Consultants etc.)
� Incubator companies network to share ideas and help exchange best practices
� Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce membership: FREE for incubator companies, reduced rate for incubator graduates
� Contacts and Mentors with city of Columbia, Richland County and Lexington County
� Grant writing workshops:
� Access to the following internal services:
> Network Management and administration > Panels for reviewing fund-raising initiatives > Translation services > Part-time management, marketing, accounting and human resource help > Letter writing > Facility maintenance > Help with city licensing > Graduate student consultants to tenants > Mentoring and business leader access > Tenent services; office equipment, services and supplies > Equipped conference rooms
USC / Columbia Technology Incubator:The USC / Columbia Technology Incubator represents a best-in-class environment in the Southeast that provides nurturing and support for the development of homegrown, Midlands area companies that are based on knowledge, technology, research or intellectual property. We are viewed as an enabler of success and a source of inspiration for start-up companies during their critical early stages. Success of these companies means real and affordable economic development in our region and our state.
Our Companies
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� Access to Midlands Technical College’s:
> Faculty, students and staff > Employment services > Enterprise campus facilities > Other campus facilities
� Access to USC’s:
> Faculty, students and staff > Moore School of Business: Companies can request the help of professors and students or participate in class workshops. > International MBA students who provide assistance with business plans, strategic marketing and financial plans, investor packets and HR Support. > College of Journalism and Mass Communications: Provides public relations and advertising solutions. > College of Engineering: Provides technical help. > College of Arts and Sciences: Provides technical help. > Libraries are available for in-depth research > Colleges and other University Buildings for utilizing computer labs, conference rooms, lounges etc. > Dining halls, book stores and general infrastructure
Why Should I invest in The Incubator? � Develops high paying jobs in an extremely cost efficient way. Cost per job for funds
received from the State of South Carolina is only $941 per job.
> Incubator has created 754 high salary jobs to date. Average employee salary for graduates is $63,450.
� Assists in decreasing unemployment rate of the Midlands.
� Fosters the participation of the Midlands region in the global market place by promoting innovation and creation of high-wage jobs.
� Supports technology flow from universities and colleges to business and thereby boosting economy.
� Increases per capita income in the Midlands.
� Helps build the skill level of the workforce in the Midlands.
� Expands market awareness of donor companies among students, professors and alumni of USC and Midlands Technical College and Incubating companies in an economically cost effective way.
� Enhances corporate social citizenship of the donor companies by cost effectively boosting Economic Development in the Midlands.
Current Donors: Thanks for critical financial support
� Allows sponsors to develop long-term relationships with future business leaders and incubated companies.
� Encourages entrepreneurship by assisting professors and students from colleges and universities to start businesses.
� Enhances tax base of the state of South Carolina.
� Reduces brain drain by retaining talent that might go to more technologically advanced areas like Silicon Valley.
� Increases Career Opportunities for graduates from USC and Midlands Technical College.
� Helps diversify the local economy.
The City of Columbia
Tomlin & Company
Midlands Technical College
Richland County
SCANA Corporation
Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP
USC College of Engineering & Computing
USC College of Arts and Sciences
USC Moore School of Business
EngenuitySC
BB&T
Wachovia/ Wells Fargo
National Bank of South Carolina
Navigating from Good to Great Foundation
Lexington Medical Center
Bridge to Life, LLC
Nexsen Pruet
Advanced Automation Consulting
Bauknight Pietras & Stormer
Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A.
AT&T
Comfort Services, Inc.
John Lumpkin
Norton Audits
Wilson Kibler
Lexington County
The South Carolina Research Foundation
Bang! Technologies, Inc.
CarterTodd & Associates, Inc.
PPC, Inc.
The State of South Carolina
Edens and Avant
McEntire Produce
USC Norman J. Arnold School of Public Health
McNair Law firm
Center of Manufacturing and Technology
Greenville Technical College
Interactive Data Visualization
Hunterstone
South Carolina MedicalEndoscopy, Inc.
Donors of In-Kind Support
Former Donors
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USC / Columbia Technology Incubator is a non-profit organization which is a joint venture between the University of South Carolina, the City of Columbia and Supporting Donors.The incubator provides infrastructure support and operational guidance to fast-growth entrepreneurial ventures. Cash custody and disbursements are provided by the South Carolina Research Foundation.
The USC / Columbia Technology Incubator is managed by its Managing Directors group:
Incubator Advisory Council is responsible for company admissions and six month review of the admitted companies
Dr. Harris PastidesPresidentUniversity of South Carolina
DesigneeDon HerriottDirector of USC Innovista PartnershipAndDr. Richard RobinsonDirector,Faber Entrepreneurship CenterUniversity of South Carolina
Starnell BatesVice President,Midlands Technical CollegeChair IACVice President for Advancement
Joel StevensonExecutive Director
James ClarkFormer Chairman,South Carolina Research Foundation Board
Agata ChydzinskiDirector of Operations
Jeff McElroyPartner,Bang! Technologies Inc.
Ted CreechDirector - External Affairs,AT&T South Carolina Region
Tommy BillasSales DirectorRelational Technology Solutions LLC
Jeffrey G. (Jeff) RubleCED, Director of Business RecruitmentSouth Carolina Power Team
Al QuickFormer Vice President - Retail Systems,NCR Corporation
Thomas E. Persons, Sr.President and CEOSouth Carolina Technology Alliance
John CadenaManagerCommunity/Economic Development and Local GovernmentSCANA Corporation
Dean KressDirector, Faber Entrepreneurship CenterMoore School of Business
Robert M. Hitt IIISecretary of CommerceSouth Carolina Department of Commerce
DesigneeCharles A. (Chuck) Bundy, Jr.Manager of Business ServicesSouth Carolina Department of Commerce
Donald R. Tomlin, Jr.PresidentTomlin & Company, Inc.
Stephen K. BenjaminMayorCity of Columbia, SC
Jim GambrellDirector of Economic DevelopmentCity of Columbia, SC
John DenisePresident and Chief Executive OfficerAdvanced Automation Consulting, Inc.
The USC / Columbia Technology Incubator is managed by two full-time employees:
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Profiles of the Companies currently in the USC / Columbia Technology Incubator
1) ACCELERATIONS EDUCATIONAL SOFTWAREChanging the world for autistic children through software
Accelerations Educational Software (AES) was founded in 2000 to create effective and affordable software especially designed for children with autism and other learning disabilities. The software is designed for individuals who need virtual one-on-one instruction. By incorporating methods from behavioral psychology, the software enables these individuals to learn to use the product independently and AES’ use of universal design principles also allows a wide range of students to benefit from the products. The company is currently offering two products – a virtual teaching assistant and an activity trainer – which are used in about 1,000 school systems nationwide as well as numerous households. Karl Smith, the Founder and Owner, would like to further grow AES by hiring a sales team, implementing enhancements to its current products, and adding more products to its product line. He estimates that this effort will require approximately $250,000 of additional capital and would have a substantial impact to the company’s revenue (approx. $600,000 in the past year).
Karl [email protected]
2) AIR FORCE EXCAVATING, LLCFastest, safest, and most economical excavation solutions using the latest in nondestructive air/vacuum technology
Air Force Excavating, LLC offers its customers the safest, fastest, and most economical underground “drilling” or excavation services using the latest non-destructive air/vacuum technology. Founded in 2010, the company is already marketing and selling its services and is the only company in South Carolina and the surrounding region to offer these specialized services. The company’s unique equipment allows faster and safer project completion, replaces manual digging and beneficially eliminates the need to use water in excavation. The company has a diverse target market that includes contractors, municipalities, universities, military bases, and utility companies. Air Force Excavating has been reaching potential customers by cold-calling and offering free demonstrations and is now readying an e-mail marketing campaign and will attend several tradeshows. The company currently has two full-time employees and would like to add a sales team in the near future to attract and retain new business. AFX plans to expand its services nationwide through franchising. Mr. Trey Millender is the President and Founder.
Trey [email protected]
3) ADVANCE CARE MANAGEMENT, LLCGuides families through long-term care options
Advance Care Management (ACM) is a community based, case management company that came from Richland County. The company is currently focusing on community care for individuals who are eligible for nursing homes but do not want to be admitted, individuals that are released from hospitals and require short-term or long-term care and seniors and children of seniors who need in home assistance. ACM is still in its growth stage and is currently covering just 75% of the state of South Carolina. The company has also received invitations from the states of North Carolina and Georgia to start providing care management services in these states.
Tim Davis, the CEO of the company, is cautious about expanding too quickly and wants to make sure that the company maintains a sustainable growth strategy. There are 15 employees - one full time and fourteen as independent contractors working as case managers. Although ACM was profitable during the past 12 months, it still needs funding to enable contracting more case managers. Mr. Davis plans to continue growing and expanding the company to its full potential and add at least one additional full-time employee in the near term to handle administrative duties.
4) ALALA, LLCProviding support for women and men who are cancer survivors
Alala, LLC’s mission is to become a one-stop shop for women facing various health conditions in the Midlands and surrounding areas. The company focuses on women suffering from breast cancer surgery or other female challenges in a way that will offer them privacy, confidence and dignity. It empowers each client to build her self-confidence after initial diagnosis by offering educational resources, support and supplies for all women’s cancer and health issues. In addition to its bras, compression garments and their patented SLEEV-ON, the company recently added a diabetic shoe to its product line and is currently working on patenting its diabetic sock product. Alala would also like to add a compression sleeve to its offerings and estimates that it would need approximately $50,000 to do so. In order to further assist its clients, the company also started a support group for their clients and prospective clients that meets on-site. Mrs. Kim Neel and Mrs. Sherri Norris, the partners of the business, would like to continue expanding and growing the company and product offering to meet their client’s needs.
5) ARD’S CONTAINER SERVICE, LLCOffers clean up and garbage disposal solutions
Founded in 2007 as a “Student Company”, Ard’s Container Service, LLC provides solid waste containers as well as removal and disposal services for Columbia, SC and surrounding areas. With the advantage of being locally owned and a pricing structure which has no extra fees and charges, coupled with the ability to respond quickly and offer emergency services, Ard’s stands out from its competition. The company’s target market is construction and remodeling companies, as well as new businesses that need a container on site and a service contract. The company’s future plans include expanding the area of service and adding recycling services to its offerings. Ard’s Container was started under the Midlands Technical College Student Program.
Stephen [email protected]
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BOROSCIENCE INTERNATIONAL, INC.Exploration of boron and its compounds to make significant advances in technology.
To serve the rapidly expanding hydrogen economy market, BoroScience International Inc. was founded in 2007 by Dr. Bernard F. Spielvogel. Dr. Spielvogel’s more than 40 years of research experience in synthetic boron chemistry in academic, business and government settings has resulted in over 135 publications and over 50 patents. BoroScience International introduces a new dimension of boron chemistry and assists a rapid adopting boron-based technology to its customer’s specific needs. The company delivers consulting services for the selection of optimally suited boron compounds and for the subsequent design of high-yield, low-cost synthesis pathways. BoroScience also offers custom synthesis of boron compounds in adequate quantities for small-scale pilot or proof-of-principle studies as well as for large-scale applications. By targeting large corporations conducting research and development, the company will generate technology licensing revenue.
Dr. Bernie Spielvogel
BRIDGE TO LIFE, LTD.Gold standard organ preservation company
Bridge to Life is in the business of supplying the organ transplant industry with the gold standard organ preservation solution. The Company’s Belzer UW® Cold Storage Solution is used for flushing and cold storage of kidney, liver and pancreas organs at the time of their removal from the organ donor in preparation for storage, transportation and eventual transplantation into a donor recipient. Bridge to Life is also offering FDA approved products that make the transplant process easier, such as tubing sets, kits, and connectors. The company is setting itself apart by being a one-stop shop for the best practices in organ transplant solution and devices currently on the market.Bridge to Life is also currently working on the development of ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) as an agent and additive. It estimates that the new product will be ready for commercialization in 24-36 months and will require additional capital of about $5 - $10 million to complete. Once developed, it will completely change the way organs are stored by increasing the preservation time. John Bruens is the Vice President and General Manager of the Columbia office.
John [email protected]
6) BIOMagine, LLCAn educational software company bringing science education into the 21st century
BIOMagine is an educational software company currently focusing on serving freshman level college students studying biology. This software program is designed to serve as a supplemental study aid for students taking Biology 101 as well as the associated laboratory classes. BIOMagine sets itself apart from its competition on three levels: First, the software is not textbook dependent, allowing a broad range of students to benefit from it. Second, the software is more meaningful and effective due to its interactive design i.e. students have to drag and drop items to get to the solution rather than just reading the question and clicking on the right answer. This allows students to explore biology and actually learn through trial and error exercises, rather than just memorization. Third, the software is web-based, so students can easily access it. Additionaly, with an internet access, BIOMagine also saves the cost of producing CDs. The software is currently in its development stage and has 1 of the final 10-15 modules ready. However, this 1 module is in the process of being launched with a trail client. BIOMagine will receive helpful feedback from students and professors, which will be used in developing the final product. The company plans to market its product to university biology department coordinators and chairs and persuade them to introduce BioMagine’s software into their curriculums. R.J. Sherman is the President.
CARBONIX, LLCProviding environmentally friendly indoor cleaning services
CarboNix is commercializing technology developed by Dr. Michael Matthews in the Department of Chemical Engineering at University of South Carolina. The technology is licensed from the South Carolina Research Foundation and it broadly pertains to cleaning and medical sterilization processes using non-toxic, environmentally friendly solvents. CarboNix is looking to offer two services: a dry-cleaning service to clean mattresses and beddings and a vacuum service to treat carpeting in an indoor environment. These services will provide a hygienic and safe method of cleaning and removing allergens and mites, thereby reducing asthma attacks. The company is still in the research phase of development and is currently working on executing human test trials with the Medical College of Georgia. Further, the company is finishing all the work on the active SBIR, completing the design and test of the carpet cleaning system, and working to submit another Phase 1 SBIR and a Phase 2 SBIR.
CAROLINA EE, INC.An electrochemical engineering company focusing on innovativetechnologies
Founded in 2009, Carolina EE, Inc. consults in the electrochemical engineering field and develops technologies includingelectroplating, electroless plating, materials synthesis for power source applications such as batteries, fuel cells and super capacitors, plus corrosion monitoring and protection. The company’s focus is exclusively on valueadded technologies that are not currently available in the market. The company has strong management and technical teams consisting of personnel with long term, professional experience in corrosion and corrosion protection, electroplating, electroless plating, materials synthesis for various power source applications including batteries, fuel cells and supercapacitors and mathematical modeling. The President and CEO of the Company is Dr. Branko N. Popov, CarolinaDistinguished Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering at University of South Carolina.
Branco [email protected]
CAROLINE GUITAR COMPANY, LLCAnalog design engineering firm producing distortion pedals for guitars
Founded in 2010, Caroline Guitar Company, LLC is an analog design firm producing guitar distortion pedals. The company is committed to providing its customers top notch quality audio. With its guitar distortion pedal now fully developed, Mr. Philippe Herdon, the President of the company, is currently working on developing its distribution network and brand awareness. He believes that Caroline Guitar’s main advantage on the market is the great sound quality of its product, its flexibility, and the company’s ability to quickly respond to client requests and needs. The company can easily customize distortion pedals to its customer’s specifications, quickly produce and deliver them. The mainchallenge currently faced by Caroline Guitar is its inability to keep up the production with the current demand of the distortion pedals. Mr. Herdon needs an estimated $50,000 to streamline the assembly of the product and subcontract some parts of the assembly in order to lower the cost. The company’s target market is the pedal board industry as well as large music conglomerates.
Philippe [email protected]
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CELLIZ, LLCA software company developing applications for mobile phones, handheld devices and image processing
Celliz, LLC was founded in 2008 with the purpose of developing and commercializing technologies related to mobile phones, handheld devices and image processing. With the help of a $1,000 grant and office space from the USC / Columbia Technology Incubator, Celliz was started as a student company by engineering PhD student Vikrant Tiwari, (President) and a business school professor from the University of South Carolina. Since its inception, Celliz has received financial grants from the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) twice (2008 and 2010). Celliz is known and respected for its innovations across the globe. As evident from the number of intellectual property applications with the USPTO office, its scientists and engineers are working to make tomorrow’s technology feasible today. It has mastered dynamic encryption, which is virtually impossible to crack, for the purpose of reliable communication between mobile phones and other hand held devices.
The technologies developed by Celliz allow secure financial transactions between two devices, distribution and validation of mobile coupons, tickets, and many other transactions. Recently, the company is focusing to develop image recognition applications to make secure digital ID on mobile phones a reality. Another product under development will ensure the availability of expert medical advice to remote or hostile locations through cell phones or other wireless devices. It is also working on an underwater robot that can operate standalone at a depth of 5,000 meters below sea level and can continuously collect data for up to 400 days without the need of any supervision.
VIKRANT [email protected]
DECISION DYNAMICS, INC.An I.T. company providing innovative products and consulting services to financial and healthcare industries
Founded in 1998, Decision Dynamics, Inc. (DDI) is a software technology company that specializes in providing innovative products and consulting services to the financial and healthcare marketplace. Its target market ranges from small businesses to large businesses as well as government agencies. DDI partnered with healthcare professionals and organizations and entered the software market with a flagship product called Disease Management Coordination Network (DMCN), a suite of healthcare products. DMCN provides a proactive system of notifications that enable case workers, primary care providers, and specialists to know the status of their patients and address their healthcare needs in a timely manner.
The second area that DDI specializes in is providing software to streamline vehicle titling and collateral management for financial institutions. DDI recently began offering title services that enable lenders to automate both paper and electronic titles through Premier eTitleLien™. To be successful in the highly competitive software business, DDI has differentiated itself by focusing on using better and more efficient technology to deliver products that solve real problems for their customers as well as providing excellent customer support to ensure long-term relationships. The company currently has seven full-time and seven contract-based employees. Ann Gunning is the Founder.
DPX LABS, LLCMaking chemical extraction processes more efficient by using company owned and patented extraction products
Founded in 2007, DPX Labs, LLC is focusing on manufacturing disposable pipette extraction products – a patented device that enables rapid and efficient chemical extraction processes. The major competitive advantage of the company lies in the unique properties of its products. These innovative products make the chemical processes quicker as compared with other products already present in the market. This enables the clients to save time and money setting the company ahead of its competitors.
The company owns the patents for this technology and has been selling and marketing its products for approximately 12 months. DPX Labs’ target market consists of drug testing labs (forensic and clinical) and food safety labs (government and private). The company is reaching its potential clientele by presenting at scientific conventions as well as offering in-lab demonstrations. DPX’s constantly increasing revenue stream is projected to reach the $1,000,000 mark in the next year. Dr. Bill Brewer (professor of Chemistry, USC), is the CEO of DPX Labs.
Dr. Bill [email protected]
DREAM DONEAssisting people to achieve their dreams with the help of social networking
Dream Done is focusing on assisting people in achieving their goals with the use of a social network self improvement program. The program targets its client’s motivation. The client enters his/her goals and starts off with an empty stadium and as (s)he gets closer to achieving the goals, (s)he earns points that can be used to add more exciting features to the stadium. Friends and family can also join the efforts of the client by following his/her progress, sending uplifting messages or videos and even purchasing motivational effects (crowd in stadium cheering, crowd making a wave, etc). Once the goal is achieved, the customer wins a gift sponsored by a company in the industry related to the client’s goal (a gym membership for a weight loss goal, a gift card or account credit for a financial goal, etc.).Dream Done’s target market is high school and college students, as well as individuals in their 40-60s - both groups have more free time and enjoy the virtual motivation offered by social networks. Upgradable purchasable actions and stadium features along with a targeted advertising feature will be the company’s revenue generating items and will be built into the program. The software is currently in the development phase.Dream Done is seeking the funds to hire the needed programming professionals that can bring the product to its commercialization phase. The total estimated cost to complete the development of the project is estimated to be $500,000 and will take approximately 6 months. Sam Pettee isthe President.
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EASY HR WEB, LLCAn I.T. company developing web based softwares in Human Resource Management
Founded in 2005, Easy HR Web, LLC is focusing on providing web based human resource and administration tools, using a “Software as a Service” (SaaS) distribution model. Targeting educational institutions (K-12, technical colleges) and commercial employers with 100 to 5,000 employees, the company currently has over 40 clients in the Southeastern US.
Easy HR Web is planning to add an inference engine to its applicant tracking system which will enable it to quickly select the best candidates from a large list of applicants. The implementation of the inference engine is estimated to cost around $150,000 - $200,000 and the company is seeking these funds to develop the software as well as to market the new service. With 6 current full-time employees in 2010, Easy HR Web generated approximately $700,000 in revenues in its lastfiscal year.
EMPOWERING TECHNOLOGIES USA, INC.Developing mobile health devices aimed at enhancing the qualityof life
Empowering Technologies USA, Inc is in the business of creating and commercializing wireless technology solutions for mobile health devices that are aimed to enhance the quality of life of its clients. Founded in 2008, the company has been working on the research and development of its products and is now in the final stage of development. Ronnie Wyche, the President of the company, plans on entering the marketing and selling phase in mid 2011.
Empowering Technologies USA’s product line consists of personal emergency response watches and pendants, wireless personal medical monitoring devices, wireless home monitoring systems, and downloadable applications for smartphones, netbooks and notebooks. The company’s competitive advantage is its use of proprietary software, which provides customization flexibility and allows for competitive prices. All of its products have pending patents. Some of the wireless medical monitoring devices are already FDA approved, while others are expected to receive an approval by the end of April 2011. The company’s target market is the broad caregiver market.
FABRISOURCE, LLCProviding a web based market place for sourcing textiles from responsible manufacturers
Founded in 2010, Fabrisource, LLC is a business-to-business market place dedicated to responsible sourcing in the textile industry. The buyers are able to post their projects online and suppliers are allowed to browse the projects for free, but are required to pay a fee in order to see the details. Fabrisource offers different plans with different levels of access and is just starting to introduce the fee based feature to their website. With a current portfolio of 400 suppliers and 135 buyers spanning over 42 countries, the company offers buyers a great advantage. They are able to receive quotes, at no cost to them, from local and foreign suppliers without having to leave their office. The company’s niche is its commitment to responsible business practices. It is currently working on allowing non-governmental organizations (“NGO’s”) to create an account and rate both buyers and suppliers, as well as report if any of them are not upholding the standards of responsibility. However, the company is seeking additional funds of approximately $25,000 to complete this rating project. Amit Rane isthe Founder.
Amit [email protected]
GANAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCI.T. staffing and consulting company focusing on quality, accuracy and cost effectiveness
Founded in 2009, Ganal Technologies, LLC provides IT staffing and consulting for application development, as well as operational and maintenance activities. Ganal also specializes in the implementation of CMMI, IEE, ISO and other standards used to ensure quality products and services. With its unique focus on quality, Ganal Technologies created its IT Concierge Service to provide effective feedback mechanics and identify gaps and opportunities to improve processes and practices. The company is currently focusing on organizations in SC, but plans to expand into the Southeastern US.
Lana [email protected]
GLOBAL CAROLINA COMMUNICATIONA communications and marketing firm promoting international trade in North and South Carolina
Founded in 2010, Global Carolina Communications (GCC) is a marketing and communications firm that promotes international trade and commerce in North and South Carolina through a variety of electronic and print publications. GCC’s Global Carolina Business Journal (GCBJ) (www.gcbusinessjournal.com) is the only publication solely dedicated to international business in the Carolinas. GCC and GCBJ provide their readership and clients with the latest in news, press releases, and custom collaterals related to international business.GCC is moving into phase two of its development by adding quarterly industry specific print publication. In the future, the company also plans to add monthly printed publications and then expand beyond the Carolinas. In order to continue this development, GCC would need approximately $100,000, which would be used to hire more full time writers as well as a sales team. With no direct competitors, GCC stands out among other local business journals (indirect competitors) by providing online web news that reaches a global audience. GCC’s target market consists of small to mid-size companies in the Carolinas that are international, internationally affiliated or looking to expand to the global market.
Scott [email protected]
GLOBAL TRUSTED PARTNERS, LLCA business consulting firm specializing in providing employee training programs for companies
Founded by Anthony R. James in 2002, Global Trusted Partners, LLC is a certified small, minority, veteran-owned firm. GTP is a consulting company engaged in the design and delivery of economically warranted service employee training as well as assisting people in obtaining a job. It is offering services through five different departments: Next Phase Service and Service Support Employee Training Academy (NPSETA), the Employee Recognition Resources Management Activity (ERRMA), the International Trade & Industry division, the Community Environmental Services Support division, and Executive Services & ID branch.
GTP came into the USC Columbia Technology Incubator from Pittsburgh, PA in 2008. The company’s goal is to develop partnerships to help make the business communities that it serves become more viable, first class business destinations - one workforce at a time.
Anthony [email protected]
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GREENE STREET DESIGNS, LLCSouth Carolina based professional web design company
Founded in 2009, Greene Street Designs, LLC focuses on using a variety of services and platforms to create the best suitable design layouts for its customer or clientele’s marketing needs. Its services include website design, graphics and print, and website management. Greene Street Designs strives to outshine its competition by providing unique and creative designs as well as prompt customer service. The company’s target market ranges from start-up businesses to existing small to mid-size businesses in need of monthly website maintenance services. Justin Gerwe, the CEO and Lead Designer, is the only current employee of the company but he works with a network of contract designers, programmers and photographers. We plan to grow this company further and create more website related business under the umbrella of GreeneStreet Designs.
Justin [email protected]
HYDROGEN HYBRID MOBILITY, LLCUtilizing hydrogen fuel cell to power mobility devices
Hydrogen Hybrid Mobility, LLC ((H2M) is working to integrate hydrogen fuel cell power into personal mobility devices. A hybrid solution would provide longer battery life and extended range and improved operational performance. The first product will be for the SegwayTM Personal Transporter and will be available as an OEM factory installed option or customer upgrade kit. Dr. John W. Weidner is the President. He is a CEC Campaign for Excellence Professor at department of Chemical Engineering, University of South Carolina.
Dr. John [email protected]
INTERACTIVE PET SOLUTIONSBuilding interactive devices that help owners away from home to interact with their pets
Recent studies have shown that pets that have no interaction with their owners for extended periods of time are prone to destructive behavior. Founded in April 2009, Interactive Pet Solutions aim to enable passionate owners, away from home, stay connected with their pets. Company’s product is a remote computer controlled device which has an integrated camera, microphone and speaker, as well as a treat dispensing device. The company will offer its customers a variety of moist treats, ingeniously packaged to retain moisture and available in cartridges which are easy to load into the dispensing unit.
The company is in the final stage of development and is in the process of filing for two patents. The production of the device will begin in the summer of 2011. Interactive Pet Solutions will sell the device online and market it by having the unit displayed at pet boutiques, groomers, and veterinary offices. It is estimated to take approximately $3 million to bring the company to a profitable stage. The COO of the company, John Wilkinson, plans to grow the business and bring the revenues above $100 million by continuing to add new peripherals to the company’s product.
John [email protected]
LOCCIONIProviding engineering services for measurement systems, quality control, automation, information and communication technology, and service
Founded in 1968 in Italy, Loccioni entered the North American market by joining the USC Columbia Technology Incubator as a “Landing Party” in 2008. This engineering firm develops custom solutions by transforming innovation and technology into quality, comfort and safety improvement at home, in the car, at work and outdoors.
Loccioni’s developments in measurement and testing offer an effective reply to the efficiency challenges faced by many companies. A range of integrated solutions from environmental monitoring to energy-saving processes have provided companies with sensible answers to quality control and environmental concerns.
Loccioni is also developing an injection delivery system to be used by injector-producing companies to optimize engine behavior in automobiles. The company’s target market in North America consists of the largest players in the automotive and home appliance markets.
Loccioni’s goal is to have a US based assembly team of approximately 10 members, which will cut down on the current delivery time. The company needs approximately $1 million in additional capital to achieve this goal. Ignazio Droghini is the General Manager of the Columbia Division.
Ignazio [email protected]
MIDLANDS BIOFUELS, LLCMakes biofuels from Waste Vegetable Oils for the state ofSouth Carolina
Founded in 2008, Midlands BioFuels, LLC is a locally owned and operated recycling company in Winnsboro, SC. Its mission is to increase the availability of alternative fuels in South Carolina and create sustainable jobs in the biofuels industry. Midlands BioFuels offers Waste Vegetable Oils (WVO) collection services free of charge from local schools, correctional facilities, restaurants and other commercial food producers. The company then converts that used oil into Biodiesel which is available for customers in the Columbia, SC market. The company’s efficiently operated plant in Winnsboro, SC allows for low operational costs which lead to higher profit margins.
The owners of Midlands BioFuels want their business to grow and are planning to expand their coverage area. In order to do so, ideally, the company will need to build a new plant, which would require approximately $500,000 in capital. The company is also working on developing an improved technology that will allow brown oil processing. Mr. Joe Renwick, is President and CEO.
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MEDZOOKA, LLCProviding a web-based platform for buying and selling durable medical equipment
Medzooka, LLC, through its website Medzooka.com, acts as a comprehensive Internet resource for buyers and sellers of durable medical equipment. Medzooka.com uses a two-prong approach to enhance connectivity within the DME (Durable Medical Equipment) and HME (Home Medical Equipment) industries: a buyer-focused online marketplace where equipment sales are completed and an industry focused discussion forum where issues such as reform, reimbursement and competitive bidding can be discussed and researched.Medzooka.com uses customized auction software in which businesses purchasing medical equipment can post their equipment need in an environment where wholesalers, distributors and manufacturers can bid a selling price for the equipment being requested. The quotes received can be viewed by the purchaser and the auction can be ended at the purchaser’s discretion or at a predetermined date and time. Medzooka.com’s discussion forum focuses on the durable medical equipment industry and home medical equipment industry. This allows stakeholders in the DME and HME marketplaces to discuss critical issues within the industry. From a purchaser’s perspective, the hours or days spent getting quotes for equipment or supplies will be eliminated. More importantly, the competition created by the online marketplace will significantly reduce the cost of all equipment purchases. From a seller’s perspective, Medzooka.com adds significant value by offering a tool that provides the client’s sales force with high lead generation at an extremely low price per lead with a high conversion rate. Companies incur no cost to post a need or bid a price on Medzooka.com. Medzooka.com charges the seller a transaction commission when equipment is purchased. Mr. Dan Nunn is President and CEO.
NEXTGENENDeveloping a “green” fuel flexible portable power supply system aimed to revolutionize portable electronics
NextGenEn is focusing on transforming the next generation of portable electronics. It is working on developing a “green” portable power system, as an alternative to batteries since batteries are widely recognized as the primary limiting factor in portable electronics. Its product would be the world’s only fuel-flexible portable power system that can be used indoors, and in highly controlled environments. This would increase peruse lifetime by at least 50% without associated downtime to recharge and offer opportunity for enhanced device functionality by offering at least 50% greater power density. The company is currently working on completing Qi Gen 1 system computer model & simulation, completing 3D Rapid Print Prototype and securing angel funding. NextGenEn estimates that it will need approximately $500,000 - $750,000 to create its prototype. Dr. Ken Reifsnider, National Academy of Engineering, Endowed Chair of USC’s Mechanical Engineering Department, and Director of USC’s Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Center is the company’s Chief Science Officer, and Mr. Chad Sands, a graduate of USC’s IMBA program is the President.
Chad [email protected]
NORTHEAST SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY, LLCHigh quality speech and language therapy using latest technology based interactive programs
Northeast Speech-Language Pathology, LLC (NESLP) provides professional and reliable services to children and adults with speech, language, and swallowing disorders. NESLP strives to deliver evidence-based practices via utilization of technological advances. The company seeks to employ students/staff from local colleges and universities to facilitate the implementation of a technology-based speech therapy program. Specifically, NESLP provides rehabilitative services using various types of technology inclusive of assistive/adaptive technology, web-based interactive programs, authentic interactive software programs, application software, and telespeech services.
Northeast Speech-Language Pathology consults, completes initial screenings, evaluates, diagnoses and treats individuals with speech, language and swallowing disorders. NESLP collaborates with schools, medical practices, and health-care facilities regarding client services. Skilled speech therapy services are provided in individual and small group settings and are rendered in the clinical setting or the natural environment of its clientele. NESLP also secures contract services with private and public schools and healthcare facilities. The company currently provides services in Richland County, SC and the surrounding areas. The company accommodates the needs of the pediatric and geriatric populations within these areas. While some speech therapy companies target only the pediatric population, NESLP is committed to reaching out to both children and adults with disorders of speech-language pathology regardless of their age. Mrs. Lashawn Bridges is the President.
Lashawn [email protected]
PALMETTO COMPUTER LABS, LLCA software firm aimed at providing I.T. solutions and training in open source technology
Founded in 2008, Palmetto Computer Labs, LLC is currently focusing on providing open source technology solutions as well as training and workshops for teaching open source technology. The company is also working on organizing a large software conference, POSSCON (Palmetto Open Source Software Conference). PCL’s revenue is driven by mainly two sources: customized software programming depending upon the need of the clients, and conducting training and workshops. To reach its full potential and offer a broader range of services, the company would need approximately $250,000. This capital would be used to hire additional experienced skilled employees. PCL’s target market is any company which is using software in its operations and is looking to save money while maintaining functionality. Mr. Todd Lewis is the President.
Todd [email protected]
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NUQOOLCommercializing pollutant-free and economical air conditioning technology
Founded in 2007, NuQool is focusing on utilizing its unique, pollutant-free airconditioning technology to create a cleaner, morelivable environment by developing and producing highly saleable, innovative products and systems that are eco-friendly, affordable and economical to operate. Its four inventions all have high sales appeal, and are patent-pending. The company has completed the proof of concept and first prototypes and is currently working on the second prototypes. The new prototypes will be full-size products resembling the final products. Once completed, the product will maintain an outdoor temperature comfort of about 80 F under worst conditions, without added humidity in the air. The products (QoolBreeze and QoolAide) also have the capacity to heat, enabling a year-round use.
NuQool’s development is currently on hold due to the lack of funding. The company estimates to need approximately $170,000 to build a high-end prototype and approximately $400,000 - $500,000 to bring it to the market. While producing and marketing these products independently is one option, NuQool also seeks to license and/or to partner with market leaders who are willing to invest and commercialize this technology. Mr. Lew Wayburn is the CEO.
PROPOWERLINKS, LLCAssisting students by providing resources over internet for their success in the competitive job market
ProPowerLINKS.com strives to provide a professionalism resource for the success of college students and young professionals faced with a competitive job market. With the current economic downturn leading to a heavy decrease in jobs, and the number of college graduates increasing each year, college students have never faced a tougher job market. In order for students to succeed, they must focus on differentiating themselves from their peers and create their own unique brand that distinguishes them from the rest. ProPowerLINKS’ ambition is to help college students and to quickly grow and become a one-stop-shop for all professional needs. ProPowerLINKS.com provides videos, articles, blogs, and comments from other users to learn from. In addition it offers discounted professional products, seminars and tools among other services. The company was founded in 2008 and launched its website in January 2011. The company will need approximately $20,000 - $30,000 to build to a profitable operation. Alan Brylawski, the CEO, envisions that the company will become the leading resource in professionalism training and job placement for recent graduates, focusing on entry level positions.
Alan [email protected]
SALUDA BAGS, LLCA web based interactive platform selling customizable handbags
Saluda Bags, LLC is a web-based company whose interactive web page allows its users to design and customize hand-bags. Founded in 2010, the company is in its final development stage and plans on entering the marketing and selling phase towards the end of 2011. The company is developing an improved website and Brennan Gerards, the CEO, is working to build its distribution channels to local boutiques. Saluda Bags plans on differentiating itself from its competitors by focusing on the uniqueness of its products - offering different shapes, color patterns, accessories, and exclusive pickpocket-proof features. The company’s target market is comprised of females between the ages of 18 and 26, as well as anyone else who appreciates a fashionable, functional handbag.
Brennen [email protected]
SPANISH VINESA US based Spanish Wine importing company
Spanish Vines is a wine import company specializing in Spanish wines. It strives to develop a house style for its proprietary wines and introduce them in the United States in a manner that is easily understandable and relatable in a non intimidating way. The company focuses on developing its own brand-based price points that enable consumers to identify with different comfort levels. It uses a price-quality ratio as the foundation for searching for wines and producing them.
Founded in 2008 as a student company, Spanish Vines is already very successful and is constantly growing. It plans to be in the national market within the next five years and has developed a very clear vision on how to achieve this by carefully selecting distribution partners to collaborate within each US region. Spanish Vines is also currently working internationally to enter the China market. It will develop wines specifically for the Chinese market and is presently concentrating on a set of brands that will be introduced in the Shanghai market. It plans to finalize the details with its Chinese importers by mid-Spring 2011.
The main target market for Spanish Vines are young working professionals (25-35 years old) who are genuinely interested in wine and are looking to learn more. The company recently launched its “Real People-Real Rating” campaign to open dialog with its consumers. This will allow the consumers to share their thoughts, wants, needs and opinions with Spanish Vines, something that no other wine producer or importer is doing. The company is open to discussing opportunities and interests with potential investors. Josh Hackler, the CEO, is viewing Spanish Vines as a long-term business established on a strong foundation and plans on continued growth.
Josh [email protected]
SOY PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL, INCManufacturer of SoyRoma lotion Candles made from all natural soy bean oil
Soy Products International, Inc. was founded in 2005. The company markets and sells its SoyRoma candle line through SoyRoma Candles Inc. The SoyRoma Lotion Candles brand is an aromatherapy candle product. It combines all natural soy bean oil and pure essential oil fragrance to produce a creation that delivers high quality room and body fragrance and unmatched skin and massage therapy products. Its specially formulated soy candles are naturally rich in Vitamin E, Amino Acids and Isoflavins making them unique in the market. The smooth, soft texture of the candles make them perfect for use in message therapy. It is the first candle in the market that is clinically tested for skin care application. Soybean oil is a natural fuel source that burns noticeably brighter, 30% longer than paraffin and is soot free. The construction and startup of Soy Products International’s own manufacturing facility was completed in August 2005 with initial capacity of 30 million candles and with available floor space to install a second manufacturing line of similar capacity. Mr. Daryl Hunter is the President.
Daryl [email protected]
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SEQUENTUS, LLCConsulting company dealing with Business operations and IntellectualProperty protection
Founded in 2005, Sequentus, LLC focuses on offering consulting services for various aspects of business operations in today’s global and diverse marketplace. Many companies nowadays face mutigenerational, multicultural, and multinational challenges. Sequentus seeks to teach its clients how to not only effectively deal with these challenges but turn them into strengths. The company has determined to bring information technology into the business process of engineering organizations and offer corporate development services for companies looking to protect their intellectual property. The company also trains staff on how to properly plan and deliver projects, insuring that customer expectations are met. Sequentus is currently working on obtaining funding that will allow it to bring in a more seasoned manager to take over the lead of its student staff. Operations are on hold until the required funding comes through. Mr. Tom Militello is President.
SWAMPFOX, INC.Software developing firm helping clients automate Voice interface business processes.
Founded in 2009, Swampfox, Inc. focuses on writing software to automate business processes for computers, telephony and other forms of electronic communication. The software leverages technologies such as Automatic Speech Recognition, Text to Speech, SMS and FAX to interface with people and Web Services, SIP and SQL to communicate with corporate communications systems.
Most of the company’s work has been centered on Avaya’s Voice Portal platform and the Avaya distribution channel. The major technological and marketing advantage of Swampfox over its competitors is that the company owns Intellectual Property rights to most of its technology. Additionally, the company has also been successful in securing leading distributors. Swampfox is now working towards offering upgraded products to its customer base.
Swampfox is currently selling both pre-packaged products and customer applications. It is also working on offering a collection of automated services in the healthcare and legal industries. With eight full-time and three part-time employees, Swampfox’s revenue in the year 2010 was approximately $1.1 million and the revenue is expected to surpass $1.5 million in 2011. Mr. Bob Cooper is Founder and CEO.
SYNAPSIN PHARMACEUTICALS, INCA Pharmaceutical company working towards treatment of neurodegenerative disorders
Synapsin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is developing therapeutic strategies for the treatment and prevention of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and spinal cord injury. In 2006, Dr. Denis Dorsey, the founder, discovered a compound that reverses Alzheimer’s disease in the animal population. Since then, he has been working to find strategic partners to license his discovery and bring it to market. The compound is currently in the preclinical phase and the paperwork for Phase I is underway. Dr. Dorsey estimates that it would cost approximately $3 - $4 million to bring this cure to the market and a conservative estimate of the annual revenue is $8 - $10 billion annually. Synapsin owns patents domestically and in 16 nations.
Denis [email protected]
SYSEDA, INC.Designing collaborative engineering tools through cloud-computing
Founded in September 2009, SysEDA Inc. is developing cloud-based collaborative engineering tools for power systems design and analysis. SysEDA’s flagship product, Virtual Test Bed (VTB), is focused on the simulation of power systems for electric ships but the concept can be applied to other types of electric vehicles in the future. SysEDA VTB is based on technology developed by Dr. Roger Dougal, professor of electrical engineering at USC, and is licensed by the USC Research Foundation. While there are other companies offering graphical and visual simulation software, SysEDA’s competitive advantage comes from its ability to perform mechanical, thermal and electrical simulations at the same time. The software is nearing its final development stage. It is currently usable but needs to complete final testing and the software needs to be moved to a cloud computing environment before it can be sold commercially. With 9 current employees, the company is working on fulfilling a grant project for the US Navy and plans on completing the commercialization process of its software in the next 12 to 18 months. It is estimating a capital need of approximately $5 million to reach a revenue generating phase. Once the development of its product is completed, it plans on marketing its software to large factories (e.g. BMW, Boeing), US Armed Forces, and power companies. The COO of the company is Mr. Kelly Truesdale.
Kelly [email protected]
TEC SUPPORT GROUPServing businesses present in the Midlands of South Carolina by providing reliable computer and networking services
Since 1995, Tec Support Group has been serving the technology needs of the Midlands of South Carolina. The company joined USC/Columbia Technology Incubator to “get to the next level” in terms of growth. Its mission is to provide reliable, convenient computer and networking service and repair. The company strives be a complete, end-to-end technology provider. Its goal is not just to sell a computer or a support contract – it wants to build a relationship with its client based on mutual trust and respect. Tec Support Group helps businesses in Columbia and Metro areas in South Carolina as well as remote business locations. Its service covers everything from spyware and virus removal to software installation, network and security setup, maintaining mobile devices, and increasing PC performance. The company’s target market is medical and businesses with ten or more computers. It strives to set itself apart from its competition by providing quality customer service and fast response to problems. It currently has seven full-time employees and its 2010 revenue was $450,000. Mr. Wayne Surett is the President.
Wayne [email protected]
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TEKK SOLUTIONS, LLCAn I.T. management and training company aimed at maintaining the technical infrastructure of companies
Founded in 2009, Tekk Solutions, LLC is an information management and training company focusing on offering its services to small to medium sized businesses. Tekk Solutions offers around the clock services to owners who want to focus their attention on developing their business and not on their company’s technical infrastructure.
Tekk Solutions also offers training through after-school programs, teaching students to understand and use technology. The two partners of Tekk Solutions, Mr. Ricky West and Mr. Chris Williams, were recently granted accreditation to issue training certificates for their computer training courses.Tekk Solutions’ future plans include the creation of a computer laboratory and developing their “College PC Geeks” service line. The computer lab would allow Tekk Solutions to offer its services to individuals desiring to take computer training courses but who don’t have the means to buy their own computer. “PC Geeks” is a service targeting college students needing technical support. Tekk Solutions has found this service to be in high demand.
Ricky [email protected]
TRANSFER POINT, INC.Biotechnology Company specializing in dietary supplements
Transfer Point, Inc. is a privately held, dietary supplement company offering best-in-their-class products. The company is focused on quality, not quantity. It is committed to offering only products that they can offer in a superior purity and potency to anyone else on the market.
The company started in 1998 and joined the USC Columbia Technology Incubator in 2010. The company is currently working on expanding its international sales and is seeking approximately $150, 000 - $250,000 to successfully do so.
The target market includes wholesale distributors, pharmacies, doctors, naturopaths, alternative healing professionals, and professionals working with cancer patients. With 3 full time and 2 part time employees, the company has gross revenue of approximately $2 million and a profit of approximately $110,000. Ms Marilyn Becker is the President.
Marilyn [email protected]
THE SUCCESS COMPANY, LLCHelping people find their passion through career assessment and counseling
The Success Company, LLC is a technology based career assessment and counseling company dedicated to fulfilling its mission of helping people of all ages find the niche in life that ignites their passions. The company believes that the “standard” assessment tools used in schools and the general career counseling world are based on antiquated models that match either one’s personality or one’s self-described areas of interest with a career.Not both.
The Success Company has researched and designed a very unique, patent-pending online assessment program that shows an individual his/her interests, personality, behavior traits and most importantly, passions. This assessment utilizes a form of artificial intelligence to tailor each assessment to the individual based on their responses, so no two people take the same test. This program then indexes these responses across a catalog of over 12,000 specific career titles and tells the individual in descending order which they are most able to excel in and would be the most passionate about. This assessment allows students to plan their high school and/or college academic life, plan for internships, research the careers and plan for a life path that gives them the best opportunities to excel in the field they choose. For those in the job market, this assessment would streamline job searches and ease transition time from one field to another.
The Success Company is working on improving the capabilities of its website to efficiently handle the logistics of an online fee based product. The company is seeking funds of $50,000 to $100,000 to complete product development and begin marketing and selling its product. Mr. Larry Lott is the President.
Larry [email protected]
THE WEATHERS GROUP, INC.A strategy consulting firm that helps its client companies todevelop leaders
Founded in 2007, The Weathers Group, Inc. (“TWG”) focuses on developing leaders, and strengthening organizations through relationship-based consulting. The company designs curriculum for its client-companies to train their employees become better leaders. The Weathers Group also provides and facilitates strategic planning workshops. The main target group of the company consists of government and non-profit organizations and agencies. Mr. Charles Weathers is the president.
Charles [email protected]
TRY RAILROAD ENGINEERING SERVICES, LLCDeveloping a methodology to take apart and rebuild trains in an environmentally friendly way
TRY Railroad Engineering Services, is a start-up business that is striving to introduce a new method for disassembling and rebuilding trains in a way that is safer, cleaner and more efficient than methods that have been in use for over 180 years.
The basic focus of the company is an invention, “patent pending”, that uses robotics to do the unsafe tasks formerly done by railroad workers. The invention also eliminates the need for diesel locomotives, and thus eliminates the diesel fume pollution that locomotives produce. Additionally, the invention reduces damages to railroad cars and their contents, and the tracks that rail cars ride on.
The company has found a large corporation, Lockheed Martin, which is interested in pursuing development of this concept by assisting TRES, LLC, in building or funding a prototype of the invention. The company believes that a working prototype of the invention will be an integral selling point to impel the railroad industry to adopt this new methodology for disassembling and rebuilding trains. Mr. Thomas Chase is the President.
Thomas [email protected]
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VARNA INTERNATIONAL, INC.International music event management company
Varna International, Inc. is focused on conducting large scale music festivals in Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as workshops for training musicians. Its target audience includes musicians and all lovers of music looking for a culture filled experience. The company is a full service festival organizer, handling everything from the music being played to the guided tours of the cities. In a climate where most festivals are a capella, Varna sets itself apart by assembling an orchestra for each of its festivals, guaranteeing an excellent musical production. The company’s future development will consist of exploring new markets, which they estimate to require approximately $50,000 per area (e.g. China), and further developing its Songs of Life festival. Songs of Life is a thematic festival with a humanitarian note. The company estimates that about $100,000 of capital would allow Songs of Life to become profitable. Mr. Kalin Tchonev isthe President.
Kalin [email protected]
VITASOL, LLCBiomedical company creating innovative products to combat shock and inflammation
Vitasol, LLC is a biomedical company created to improve resuscitative therapies and care. Its solution to the failure of current therapies is Resuscinex™. Resuscinex™ is neither a blood substitute nor an oxygen carrier. It is a hypertonic, hyperoncotic fluid with intermediate energy substrates and pharmacological substances that combats shock and inflammation. This disruptive product is fully developed and is being manufactured for clinical trials, seeking FDA and EU approval. Once approved, it will target hospital systems, ambulance companies, the military and anyone working in the Emergency Medical Care field. Vitasol is also working on several other conceptual products and is interested in entertaining discussions with investors. Dr. John Probst is the President.
John [email protected]
VOICE OF PROMISE, INCA non-profit organization helping deaf-and-hard-of-hearing people to secure higher salaried positions
VOICE of Promise, Inc. (VPI) is a non-profit organization focusing on empowering the deaf-and-hard-of-hearing with marketable job skills that will assist them in securing higher salaried positions. VPI employs comprehensive training and technological strategies, linking college-to-career preparation, employment training, and business enterprise to economic success. The company is currently directing its efforts to raising public awareness about the positive effects that hiring and advancing people who are deaf-and-hard-of-hearing can have on the community. VPI is working on achieving this by attending various public events and by using social media outlets. To continue increasing its positive impact, the company would also like to add early childhood learners to its future target market. VPI has no current employees, only full-time volunteers, contractors, and student interns. Valerie Smith, is the Founder.
Valerie [email protected]
WEBNET MEDIA GROUPProvider of interactive web-based services including web design, web development, hosting and maintenance
Webnet Media Group is a full service web development, web design, hosting and maintenance company determined to be a one-stop shop for businesses and organizations that are in need of web-based services. Initially targeting only small to midsize businesses, Webnet Media Group has grown to serve large business customers as well.
In an industry where companies generally have a short life spam, Webnet Media sets itself apart with a ten year long history. It has a strong reputation of providing stable and consistent services. The company is currently working on developing two new products. The first one is content management software that will be packaged to sell. It is currently in production and will be tested and repackaged. The second one consists of mobile applications and is still in the research and development phase. Ms Angel Ellis is the President.
Angel [email protected]
I believe the USC Columbia Technology Incubator is one of the most powerful and
cost effective economic development tools in South Carolina. They provided AAC with the infrastructure and support we needed as a young company, allowing us to focus
on taking care of our customers and building an outstanding team.
“ “
- John Denise,CEO, Advanced Automation Consulting (AAC)
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Be a Part of Our Success by Becoming:
Contact:Joel Stevenson
Executive Director803-545-4379
Agata ChydzinskiAssistant Director
1225 Laurel Street,Columbia, SC 29201
A DonorA Mentor
An Advisor
*This brochure was designed and printed at not cost to USC / Columbia Technology Incubator, courtesy Tomlin & Company, Inc.
