NC IDEA picks six startups for $183,200 in grants

Research Triangle Park, N.C. — A variety of six early-stage startups will divide $183,200 in grants in the latest round of awards from NC IDEA.

NC IDEA, which is focused on economic development across North Carolina, screens firms twice a year for grants. The group has awarded nearly $1 million to 27 firms since the program was launched in 2006.

Grants are worth as much as $50,000.

The grant winners and amounts:

iCustom: $15,000

MBright: $10,000

Jute Networks: $30,000

NextRay: $50,000

Physcient: $48,200

Valencell: $30,000

Company descriptions as provided by NC IDEA:

• iCustom – Provides an online customization platform that connects clothing designers, consumers and manufacturers. Designers can quickly and cost-effectively offer their creative designs to consumers, consumers can order cut-to-fit clothing, and manufacturers are directly connected to customers (consumers and designers). iCustom will initially target the plus size, big and tall and little people markets.

• Jute Networks – Asheville based company offers a network relationship management software application. Designed for professionals, the software brings together web based collaboration, social network analysis and data visualization and is offered as a web based on-demand solution.

• MBright – Provides a pocket projector product based on the MBright next generation liquid crystal on silicon microdisplay. MBright will offer pocket size projectors and embedded projectors in portable electronic devices.

• Next Ray –Offer next generation x-ray machines that provide a detailed diagnostic image with low radiation exposure. Next Ray will initially offer a 2D infant imaging machine and a 3D pediatric CT [computed tomography] machine.

• Physcient – A surgical instrument company offers a smart surgical retractor for use in thoracic and cardio-thoracic surgery. The iOpener decreases patient pain experienced as a result of open-chest surgery.

• Valencell – Offers the Healthset, a Bluetooth [wireless] headset that measures vital signs and physical activity while also performing as a standard hands free audio headset. Personalized assessments of overall health, fitness, and calories burned can be viewed on a smart phone, mp3 player or computer.

Companies interested in applying for grants can submit applications online at NC IDEA’s Web site. The next deadline for submissions is mid-August.

NC IDEA also makes loans and venture capital investments. Executives of NC IDEA also operate a for-profit venture fund.