Twelve North Carolina State University–affiliated research-based startups were selected to pitch at CED (Center for Entrepreneurial Development) Venture Connect 2026, one of the Southeast’s top gatherings for high-growth companies, investors, and industry leaders. Held March 24–25 at DPAC in Durham, NC, the event provided startups with the chance to showcase emerging technologies, connect with industry experts, and explore opportunities for funding and strategic partnerships.

The participating NC State startups represent the breadth and strength of the university’s innovation ecosystem, with applications spanning health care, artificial intelligence, clean energy, agtech, and beyond.

Rooted-in-Tech, Selsym Biotech, and Sonovoice each won the audience choice award for their sector-specific pitch sessions, beating out some of the Southeast’s best companies for the best pitch. 

Learn more about these companies and the other NC State startups that were showcased at the event.

Startups Featured at Venture Connect:

Cervu Health is building the first comprehensive pelvic health system designed specifically for female cancer survivors experiencing chronic pelvic pain and dyspareunia.

Galaxy Diagnostics provides advanced molecular and serology testing for hard-to-detect flea- and tick-borne infections, improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

mithrilAI is pioneering secure AI hardware with silicon-proven circuits designed to protect models from hardware-based attacks, strengthening trust in AI systems.

Oncurie is developing next-generation radiopharmaceuticals to enable new diagnostics and therapies for challenging cancer indications.

Onda Vision Technologies is creating IoT-enabled hydration monitoring sensors to support performance and safety in sports and healthcare.

PolyPV is developing lightweight, flexible organic solar modules that provide reliable energy in remote and off-grid environments.

Rooted-in-Tech leverages advanced plant science research to deliver high-quality seedlings and optimized indoor growing solutions for farmers and growers.

SelSym Biotech is advancing trauma care with SymClot, a platelet-mimetic therapy designed to rapidly stop bleeding in emergency and surgical settings.

SonoVoice is building a first-of-its-kind handheld device to monitor and optimize vocal health.

Soteria Formulations is creating biodegradable, microplastic-free delivery platforms to improve the performance and shelf life of agrobiologicals and agrochemicals.

TNT Eco Materials is developing sustainable construction materials and processes, including innovations in 3D concrete printing.

Verdia Diagnostics is enabling real-time crop monitoring and precision diagnostics to detect plant diseases before they spread.

Driving Innovation Forward

From human health to global sustainability, these startups represent the power of translating research into real-world impact. Their presence at Venture Connect underscores the strength of NC State’s innovation ecosystem, where ideas move from lab to market, and where founders are equipped to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

As these ventures continue to grow, they reflect a broader mission: advancing innovation that improves lives, strengthens industries, and shapes the future. At NC State, that work is happening every day, and Venture Connect is just one stage where it comes to life.

If you are interested in learning more about the startups or getting involved please reach out to commercialization@ncsu.edu.