2026 Finalists

ArcMod Therapeutics develops therapies that selectively degrade disease-associated post-translationally modified (PTM) protein states while sparing healthy proteins. Its platform engineers intracellular binders into gene- or mRNA-delivered degraders, initially targeting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Banyan Biotech is developing nano-regenerative therapies and advanced drug-delivery technologies, targeting knee osteoarthritis by promoting tissue regeneration beyond pain relief. Its lead compound LAISA® is delivered through the proprietary nanocarrier platform, enabling controlled local release, molecule stability and bioavailabilty, reducing systemic exposure.

Cyclometis Therapeutics is a preclinical biotech developing first-in-class oral TRPA1 modulators for neurometabolic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and MASLD. Its lead candidate has shown promising preclinical metabolic, antifibrotic, and neuroprotective effects, aiming to provide an oral alternative that addresses both metabolic dysfunction and neuroinflammation.

DermIA develops AI-powered dermatology and teledermatology solutions that integrate medical images, clinical data, and diagnostic information to support skin health management. Serving both consumers and healthcare providers, its platform aims to improve diagnostic accessibility, streamline clinical workflows, and enhance dermatological care.

Ichnovia is developing a novel and very simple blood-based test for the early detection of pancreatic cancer. Its patented technology combines nanoparticle-enabled proteomic fingerprinting and artificial intelligence to identify disease-specific signatures, analyzes complex systemic protein patterns generated by the interaction between nanoparticles and blood proteins, enabling earlier and more accurate detection.

HEARTEST is a biotech project developing a human-relevant cardiotoxicity testing platform using 3D hiPSC-derived cardiac tissues, electrical conditioning, and AI-driven analysis. Its Research Use Only service provides early cardiac risk assessment and decision-support reports to help pharma and biotech companies reduce late-stage drug development failures.

Lumnora is developing an AI-powered flow cytometer platform for standardized, single-particle extracellular vesicle (EV) analysis, combining advanced imaging, optofluidics, and real-time analytics. Its technology aims to accelerate EV adoption in clinical applications, enabling reproducible and accurate liquid biopsy, precision diagnostics, and next-generation therapeutics.

LysaBreak develops first-in-class, brain-penetrant small molecules targeting autophagy–lysosomal dysfunction in rare neurodegenerative diseases such as Batten disease. Its lead compoud has shown preclinical efficacy and aims to become a disease-modifying, clinical-stage therapy addressing significant unmet needs in pediatric neurodegeneration.

NanoTherma develops proprietary injectable magnetite-based nanomaterials generating controlled localized heat under externally applied RF magnetic fields. First application targets superficial accessible tumors such as advanced or recurrent Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), enabling minimally invasive and outpatient-compatible treatment procedures.

NextToYou.ai is a human-in-the-loop AI platform that enables psychotherapists to provide continuous, personalized support between therapy sessions. By combining therapist-configured AI companions with tools such as session transcription, mood tracking, and safety alerts, it enhances patient engagement while ensuring clinician oversight and safety.

Renaissance is developing first-in-class small molecule therapies for glioblastoma and pancreatic cancer, targeting novel oncogenic pathways to overcome chemoresistance and treatment limitations. Its patent-protected compounds showed superior preclinical efficacy, low toxicity, and effective tissue penetration, with the goal of advancing licensing-ready assets for pharma partners.

SINDREL MedTech is developing a patented graphene-based drug delivery platform that enables wireless-controlled administration of drugs for precision therapies. Its first application targets the emergency treatment of epileptic seizure clusters, aiming to provide patients with faster, user-friendly, transmucosal drug administration providing rapid absorption and personalized treatment