This Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW), we shine a spotlight on the visionary entrepreneurs in the regenerative medicine sector, showcasing their groundbreaking work in transforming healthcare. These entrepreneurs, dreamers, and innovators never give up on their vision, and here in North Carolina, they are surrounded by a thriving ecosystem that accelerates their success.
The NSF-PTRM Engine is proud to support these visionary businesses with access to a fully equipped lab, regulatory advice, clinical trial networks, GMP manufacturing facilities, and collaboration opportunities with over 140 ecosystem partners. It’s a place where innovation thrives, and businesses grow faster, driving transformative change in regenerative medicine.
Let’s celebrate these entrepreneurs and the incredible work they are doing to create a healthier tomorrow. Here’s a look at some of the inspiring companies making waves in the regenerative medicine field.
Ronawk: Pushing Boundaries in Tissue Engineering
Ronawk, a key partner in the NSF-PTRM Engine, is revolutionizing tissue engineering with its BioBlocks™ technology. Founded in 2019, Ronawk has developed a system that enables continuous cell growth in body-like environments, allowing scientists to conduct experiments that were previously difficult or impossible. This groundbreaking innovation is accelerating research and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in regenerative medicine.
Dr. A.J. Mellott, CEO and Co-Founder of Ronawk, shares how collaboration within the NSF-PTRM ecosystem fosters synergy and accelerates impactful solutions. The company’s innovative approach is helping to reshape the future of regenerative medicine, and Ronawk continues to make significant strides in advancing the field.
FetTech: Empowering Entrepreneurs, Accelerating Regenerative Treatments
FetTech, a dynamic NSF-PTRM Engine partner, was founded by husband-and-wife duo Clay and Danielle Fette. FetTech is dedicated to accelerating access to regenerative treatments, tackling industry delays, and delivering life-changing products faster.
The Fettes chose to build their business in the NSF-PTRM Engine ecosystem because of its collaborative environment, where researchers, businesses, and community leaders unite to drive real impact. FetTech not only advances cutting-edge regenerative solutions but also strengthens the region’s leadership in medical innovation. The couple’s shared vision of creating lasting change in healthcare continues to fuel their work, and they are poised for continued growth and success.
BMI OrganBank: Transforming Organ Transplants
BMI OrganBank is at the forefront of solving one of the most critical challenges—organ shortages. Their proprietary technology improves organ viability testing and preserves donated organs for extended periods, ensuring more lives are saved and transplant outcomes are improved.
As part of the NSF-PTRM Engine ecosystem, BMI OrganBank’s entrepreneurial spirit exemplifies the power of collaboration to overcome complex challenges. Their innovative approach is transforming the organ transplant process and reducing costs, ensuring that no one has to wait for a lifesaving organ. BMI OrganBank’s work is a perfect example of how innovation and collaboration can drive real-world solutions.
MasKidney: Revolutionizing Kidney Care with Gene Therapy
MasKidney, founded in 2024, is another NSF-PTRM Engine partner on a mission to transform kidney care. The company is pioneering gene therapy for Autosomal Dominant Tubulointerstitial Kidney Disease (ADTKD), a rare genetic condition that progresses to end-stage renal disease without current treatment options.
CEO and Co-Founder Ashley Johns shares how MasKidney’s collaborative approach to entrepreneurship is helping to develop bold ideas and deliver life-changing solutions for patients with kidney disease. MasKidney’s groundbreaking work in gene therapy promises to make a significant impact in kidney health and regenerative medicine, offering hope to those who previously had few options.