Four innovative start-ups receive funding from the BRAG Foundation to further develop USF technologies

The University of South Florida Foundation and the University of South Florida Research Foundation are proud to announce the newest recipients of the Foundation Bull Ring Accelerator Grants (BRAG). Designed to support early-stage startups affiliated with the Tampa Bay Technology Incubator (TBTI), this program provides critical funding to meet the challenging
“Valley of Death” that many young technology companies face on their path to commercialization.

The following four companies were selected after a rigorous and competitive process and will each receive up to $25,000 in BRAG funding:

Updating the AI
Founder: John Licato
Innovation: A cutting-edge tool to analyze chatbots’ vulnerability to security risks. This technology is critical in today’s digital age, as the security of automated communication systems is of paramount importance.

Rubicon Concrete
Founder: John Cotter
Innovation: A revolutionary concrete mix that is not only waterproof but can also be nailed and assembled with screws. This material allows a significant reduction in construction costs while offering better performance than conventional
materials.

MUSB Research
Founders: Shalini Jain, Harion Yadov
Innovation: A novel probiotic supplement to treat leaky gut syndrome, a condition that affects millions of people. This innovative approach promises to improve gut health and overall well-being.

TheraSINE
Founder: Hana Totary-Jain
Innovation: A process that shows how microRNA targeting sequences can be added to direct RNA for targeted gene editing. This groundbreaking science could revolutionize RNA therapies.

The Foundation BRAG program is a joint initiative to support companies founded on technologies licensed by the University of South Florida. Eligible companies must be TBTI members, have an active license or option to USF.
technology and a good reputation at USF.

“These competitive grants and the critical application process go a long way in reducing the risks associated with early-stage technology development,” said Chip Newton, USF Foundation Board Member and Chair of the BRAG Committee. “With this funding, we hope to help these young companies reach a stage where they can attract additional, larger grants, private capital and/or further partnerships to support the successful commercialization of important technologies and
“Fostering the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem at USF.”

“This year’s BRAG award winners illustrate the groundbreaking potential of the USF ecosystem,” said Sylvia Wilson Thomas, PhD, Vice President of USF Research & Innovation and President/CEO of the USF Research Foundation, Inc. “By supporting these
With innovative startups, we are fostering a path from research to practical implementation. These grants not only accelerate the commercialization process but also strengthen the entrepreneurial spirit that drives USF’s commitment to advancing technology and improving lives.”