Avol

Origin: Brooklyn, NY | Grant Awarded: 2024 | Status: Active

What is Avol?

Avol enables medical institutions to deliver blood, kidneys, and lab samples up to 11x faster for the same cost by providing a medical drone delivery service using novel autonomous blended-wing Avol drones and a network of mini droneports (“AvolPorts”).

Company Leadership

nathan poon

CEO

Dr. Nathan Poon spent the past 10 years building medical logistics products used by Amazon, Tesla, DHL, Delta, and 50+ hospitals and clinics in the US. He built 2 startups (1 exit), received his PhD in mechanical engineering from UC Berkeley, and was awarded 3rd place at Amazon’s Global Startup Competition,1st place at the UC LAUNCH competition, 1st place National Occupational Research Agenda award, and others for his work.

Connect on LinkedIn →

Hire Henry

Origin: St. Louis, MO | Grant Awarded: 2024 | Status: Active

Visit Website →

What is Hire Henry?

Hire Henry is developing robotics and AI software for the future of work. Their first commercial product is an industrial robotic lawn mower named “Henry.”

Company Leadership

GEORGE Holmes, phd

CEO & CO-FOUNDER

George Holmes, PhD is a former GAANN Mechatronics/Robotics Fellow where his research focused on the intersection of Human-Robot Interaction, mechatronic design, and autonomous robotics – including the mathematical derivation, software simulation and hardware implementation of advanced sensing and control algorithms. Academically and commercially, he has developed and managed teams of engineers and executives building autonomous research robots in software and hardware including design of individual components, hardware selection, performance testing, and algorithm implementation. Early in his career, George developed manufacturing industrial automation processes while working at Rockwell Automation and Honda Automotive, major projects included Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Unilever, and Coca-Cola. As Co-Founder and CEO of Hire Henry, he leads the development of the company’s R&D plan, strategic milestones, intellectual property protection, company formation, fundraising, and network security. Additionally, he is involved in product design, fabrication, and software integration.

Connect on LinkedIn→

KEIRY MORENO BONNETT

COO & CO-FOUNDER

Keiry Moreno Bonnett received her BS in Mechanical Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. She has been leading Hire Henry since she joined in 2018. Her academic research focused on sensors, data acquisition, networking, and sensor algorithm implementation. She has led research projects designing masters and PhD experiments including data collection, hardware selection, protocol establishment, real-time data software monitoring, data processing, and high precision low latency camera tracking equipment setup and calibration. She has experience developing battery technology for custom applications including robotics. As Co-Founder and COO of Hire Henry, she leads the company in the implementation and testing of advance sensing and control algorithms, obstacle detection, software architecture, computer vision, power systems, and product design. Additionally, she leads compliance, financial reporting, documentation, and social communications.

Connect on LinkedIn→

Module Building Systems

Origin: Kelowna, BC | Grant Awarded: 2023 | Status: Active

Visit Website →

What is Module Building Systems?

Module Building Systems (MBS) is at the forefront of the construction evolution, harnessing innovative post-tensioning connection technology to reshape the way buildings are constructed. Our model revolves around a meticulously manufactured, cost-effective, and expedited installation process, much like an IKEA approach, but for buildings. Targeting sectors from high-density multi-residential and single-family homes to commercial and temporary structures, MBS aims to provide pivotal solutions to North America’s pressing housing challenges. This includes addressing affordability issues, homelessness, and disaster relief efforts. Our manufacturing-centric methodology, paired with the advantage of ready-to-assemble transportable buildings, enables the swift and efficient development of affordable, sustainable communities. Moreover, our collaborative endeavors span partnerships with industry frontrunners, educational entities, non-profits, and governmental bodies, ensuring impactful solutions to the housing crisis.

Company Leadership

MARK TURNBULL

Founder & CEO

Mark Turnbull is the Founder and driving force behind MBS and has expertly assembled a dynamic executive team, board of advisors, and industry partners. With 20 years of entrepreneurial experience under his belt, Mark’s diverse background spans real estate investment, construction, land development, property management, business development, and leadership roles as a marketing and creative director.

A dedicated humanitarian, Mark’s compassionate nature is at the heart of MBS’s mission. He has devoted time to volunteering at local homeless shelters, making multiple trips to Haiti to help build schools, homes, and orphanages. His vision and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact shape the way MBS operates and grows.

Connect on LinkedIn →