RAMP Welcomes Five Companies into On RAMP Pre-Accelerator Program
RAMP is proud to announce the acceptance of five regional companies into the inaugural cohort of our pre-accelerator program, On RAMP. We strive to nurture entrepreneurs throughout the startup lifecycle through innovative programming and access to regional resources. As a pre-accelerator program, On RAMP is the first step for entrepreneurs looking to develop their early-stage companies in the technology and life science industries.
“We work really hard to reduce barriers to entry for entrepreneurs in the idea stage of starting their businesses. On RAMP is the perfect starting place to develop a solid business foundation and grow relationships in the innovation ecosystem,” said RAMP Director John Hagy.
The companies that make up the inaugural pre-accelerator cohort for Fall 2024 include ideas in the edtech, biotech, and agritech spaces. The entrepreneurs are:
Rufus Pasley (Roanoke, VA) is focused on establishing a company that will recommission wind turbine blades with recycling solutions to be the most cost and energy effective within the United States.
Edward Gaines II (Stafford, VA) will develop Eudaemonia.ai, an innovative biotech, digital healthtech, and pharmaceutical company on the path to creating drug discovery and innovation within the neurodegenerative disease space and wearable technology. Their mission is to develop industry-changing products & treatments by using a combination of biological and synthetic sources. Their vision is to create a sports wearable that measures hormones such as dopamine and serotonin related to athletes’ performance before, during, and after a game.
Amethyst Edmond (Roanoke, VA) is focused on repurposing infection within the human body into something that can be beneficial to the host. By identifying the life processes of microorganisms and comparing them to cellular processes in humans, we can determine a way to manipulate the microorganisms’ regular function into something that is beneficial rather than detrimental.
Douglas Pitzer (Roanoke, VA) is developing Stroke of Genius LLC. His company seeks to reshape educational environments through technological devices in 3 areas: computer hardware devices, coding and gamification, and information technology fundamentals.
Toni Sperry (Pulaski, VA) is developing Pod Farms LLC. Her company patented a vertical hydroponic system that allows for automation integration, vertical growing and is uniquely suited to support new growers and improve profit margins for industrial growers. Their systems can be used inside a greenhouse, significantly reducing input and equipment costs for growers. Currently, many growers are relying on European equipment and costly support because these solutions do not exist in the US. Pod Farms LLC designs and manufactures their own automated equipment that integrates with their system, providing in-house solutions for growers in the United States.
Since its founding in 2017, RAMP – the Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program serving western and central Virginia – has accelerated 52 companies that have collectively created 800+ new jobs and sell products and services to all U.S. states and internationally.
RAMP is an affiliate of Verge, a collaborative strategic alliance that includes the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council established to grow the region’s innovation economy. Have a high-growth potential idea? Learn more about RAMP and how we can help.
This cohort is made possible thanks to a GO Virginia Strengthening Entrepreneurs’ Impact Grant.
RAMP is supported by a community of RAMP sponsors and grants like a GO Virginia Strengthening Entrepreneurs’ Impact Grant, VIPC Regional Innovation Fund (RIF), and EDA Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant, that makes it possible to offer On RAMP, the RAMP In Residence Program, and Exit RAMP.