MTEC SmartZone Announces AMMP Accelerator 2025 Cohort
HOUGHTON, MI - April 14, 2025 – MTEC SmartZone is pleased to announce the six selected cohort companies for the 2025 Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Program (AMMP) Accelerator. The six selected cohort companies are BRCĒ, RecyKol Technologies, Sequestro Inc., Solidwave Solutions, Superior Sustainable Solutions, and TrailEagle Packs.
BRCĒ is a material-tech startup revolutionizing athletic gear and safety accessories with patented composites. Collaborating with materials scientists and PhDs in kinesiology, BRCĒ developed a patented microscopic interlock technology to ensure laces stay securely tied.
RecyKol Technologies is developing proprietary technology to recycle hard-to-recycle #3-7 plastics and mixed paper fibers. Their processes turned these plastics into alternative fuel pellets and durable plastic alloys for industrial applications.
Sequestro Inc. is in the process of commercializing a filtration device for removing PFAS from drinking water. The core technology was developed and patented at the University of Michigan.
Solidwave Solutions is improving the construction industry with its non-invasive, non-destructive, real-time monitoring device to accurately determine concrete set times. Their technology will improve the construction industry with easy-to-use solutions to drive more efficient work.
Superior Sustainable Solutions is in the process of providing U.S. hardwood lumber solutions for structural and engineering applications. The technology was developed by a wood scientist to enhance the durability of structural hardwood lumber.
TrailEagle Packs designs innovative, patent-pending backpacks that solve key challenges for outdoor enthusiasts. Founded by Eagle Scouts with real-world outdoor experience, they develop proprietary technology to enhance organization, accessibility, and comfort.
In addition to the six selected cohort companies, there will also be two observing companies. As. observers, these companies will learn and grow from the program but will not present at the program’s Demo Days. The two observer companies are Nudena and Pharma Blue.
Nudena is a female-founded creative studio specializing in industrial design, product development, branding, and web design.
PharmaBlue Labs is developing innovative, high-tech products to address the needs of individuals with neglected dermatological disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis.
Program Director, Grace Hsia Haberl, Ms.E., is excited about the second year of this program and the potential in this cohort. “It begins with the founders. We are inspired by the founding teams and their technology, expertise, and early business traction. We are eager to accelerate their journeys with the right executive coaching, curriculum, hands-on simulations, and connections to Michigan’s entrepreneurial network.”
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About AMMP Accelerator
The Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Program (AMMP) Accelerator is designed to support around five cohort companies every three years, fostering a sustainable model for startup acceleration. Through targeted training and mentorship, the initiative aims to catalyze economic growth, with a projected creation of 40 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs in the Upper Midwest region. Additionally, the program will provide guidance and mentorship to approximately 120 companies in the community, driving forward the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Program funding comes from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) Build to Scale Program, Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), and MTEC SmartZone.
About MTEC
Michigan Tech Enterprise Corporation (MTEC) is one of 21 SmartZones in the State of Michigan. MTEC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), its mission is to facilitate the creation and ongoing success of high-tech value propositions in conjunction with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Since 2003, the MTEC SmartZone has provided mentoring, technical support, and other services to local companies that have led to the creation of over 800 high-tech jobs in the Houghton and Hancock Michigan area.