Houston Technology Center

INNOVATION / More high-tech entrepreneurs in the sector are looking to Houston rather than Austin or Silicoln Valley/ Local startups energized

noemail@houstontech.org — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 17:00:00 GMT

By BRAD HEM Staff A common complaint among people in Houston technology circles is that startup companies in the area often leave town for Austin, Silicon Valley or other places with more extensive tech histories. Just the opposite is true when it comes to innovative startups in the energy sector, which is responsible for luring dozens of entrepreneurs here. More have been coming because high oil prices have sparked interest in finding more efficient ways to extract and refine it, or find alternate energy forms, said Walter Ulrich, president of the Houston Technology Center, a business accelerator for startups. Most of the centers client companies are in the energy field, he said. It is truly advantageous that so many of the big oil companies are located here, Ulrich said. Theres been a distinct increase in innovation in energy. Steve Catha said he moved his Smart Pipe Co. here from New Orleans a few years ago because this is where the activity is. Houston is home not only to the...

ThromboVision's New Director of Engineering

noemail@houstontech.org — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:00:00 GMT

ThromboVision’s New Director of Engineering Brings Biotech and Design Background HOUSTON, April 2008 ----- ThromboVision, Inc., a Houston-based biomedical diagnostics company, has appointed Alberto (Albert) Rodriguez to be director of engineering. Rodriguez will manage final design of ThromboVision’s ThromboGuide® (T-Guide®) Platelet Function Monitor, continue building the engineering/manufacturing team, and oversee the ramp-up of manufacturing when clinical trials are complete. Rodriguez comes to ThromboVision from Cyberonics, where he served most recently as senior manager of design engineering. He brings experience with product and technology development, regulatory audits, software development, and strategic planning to support the research and clinical phases prior to market release. ThromboVision sought an engineering director who could both motivate our manufacturing team and prepare the T-Guide for the critical come-to-market phase, and Albert brings that combination...

CHR Solutions Creates New Role to Accelerate Growth

noemail@houstontech.org — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 21:00:00 GMT

CHR Solutions Creates New Role to Accelerate Growth HOUSTON (March 7, 2008) CHR Solutions, Inc., a leading provider of technology infrastructure and business consulting services to the telecom, financial and energy markets, today announced organizational changes to accelerate its organic and acquisition growth strategies. The company’s vision is to grow within the next five years into a $100 million IT/telecom infrastructure services company providing infrastructure managed services, business process outsourcing, and consulting and engineering services. Heading CHR’s new position of chief development officer is Executive Vice President Rick Overman reporting to CHR’s Chairman and CEO James Taylor. Rick is a recognized industry expert who has been with CHR for more than 24 years, and he truly understands the business and technology challenges faced today by rural telecommunications and commercial companies, said Mr. Taylor. In his new role, Rick’s focus will be on ways to meet our...

Alert Logic Closes $8.25 Million in Series C Financing

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 21:00:00 GMT

Alert Logic Closes $8.25 Million in Series C Financing Funding will Accelerate Growth of SaaS Security Front Runner HOUSTON – March 4, 2008 – Alert Logic, an award-winning provider of on-demand IT compliance and security solutions and a client company of the Houston Technology Center, today announced that it has raised $8.25 million in Series C financing. The round was led by Updata Partners and includes existing investors Hunt Ventures, OCA Ventures, DFJ Mercury and Access Venture Partners. Concurrent with the funding, Carter Griffin, partner of Updata Partners, has been appointed to Alert Logic’s board of directors. Alert Logic will use the new round of financing to fund its rapid growth and provide innovative IT compliance and security solutions to mid-sized organizations. Fueled by the rise of industry and government regulations such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), organizations are increasingly faced with...

HTC and Gulf Coast RCIC Announce a $750,000 Award to OrthoAccel Technologies, Inc. by Texas Emerging Technology Fund

noemail@houstontech.org — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 17:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 28, 2008 Houston Technology Center (HTC) and Gulf Coast Regional Center of Innovation and Commercialization (Gulf Coast RCIC) for the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (ETF) announced today that OrthoAccel Technologies, Inc. was awarded a Commercialization Award by the ETF. The award for the Gulf Coast region company was officially announced by Governor Rick Perry. Houston-based OrthoAccel Technologies, Inc.was awarded $750,000 to further develop and commercialize itsorthodontic device, the Celerect. We are very excited about this technology which has the potential to favorably disrupt the current practice of treating malocclusion and straightening teeth. As a management team, we are especially proud to have this opportunity based in Texas, and the ETF Commercialization Award has been a critical enabler for our effort. This funding is being used to attract further management talent to Texas, complete device prototyping, and launch the first human...

HOUSTON TECHNOLOGY CENTER PRESENTS THE ENERGY TECHNOLOGY VENTURE CAPITAL CONFERENCE

noemail@houstontech.org — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Shell Oil Company President John Hofmeister to deliver keynote address HOUSTON (February XX, 2008) –Houston Technology Center (HTC), the largest technology business accelerator in Texas, is pleased to present its 4th annual Energy Technology Venture Capital Conference (ETVCC), taking place March 6 – 7, 2008 at the Marriott Houston Westchase. This yearly event brings together cutting edge energy technology startups and investors in an interactive celebration of innovation. With a rapidly growing worldwide demand for energy, the current resources are no longer sufficient to ensure the required supply. The need for technological innovation within the industry has become a top priority. Not only does the world need more efficient ways to utilize conventional energy sources but it is also necessary to find new resources that will help generate additional energy while reducing the carbon footprint and long term environmental negative effects. As the world’s energy capital, Houston...

ENERMETRIX TO PRESENT AT TECHNOLOGY V.C. CONFERENCE

noemail@houstontech.org — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 16:00:00 GMT

Conference highlights most innovative technology solutions in energy sector Houston, TX, Feb 11, 2008. Enermetrix, the operator of the Enermetrix Exchange, an online marketplace that brings together buyers and sellers of retail energy, announced today that it has been selected to present at the Houston Technology Center’s Energy Technology Venture Capital Conference in Houston on March 6th & 7th. The Conference is showcasing 30 of the most promising energy technology companies with an investor audience of venture capitalists, private equity and corporate investors, high net worth individuals and related financial professionals. About Enermetrix: Enermetrix revolutionizes the way energy is bought and sold in competitive retail markets by utilizing the internet to conduct business online. The Enermetrix Exchange brings together buyers and sellers of electricity, natural gas, and green energy products. Enermetrix applications allow professional energy buyers, energy suppliers and...

Houston Technology Center Names New Chairman of Advisory Board

noemail@houstontech.org — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON (February 6, 2008) - Houston Technology Center (HTC), Greater Houston’s business accelerator and the largest technology business incubator in Texas, announced today that Gregory S. Price was named Chairman of HTC’s Advisory Board. Serving as Chairman of HTC’s Advisory Board, Price will steer the team of 54 senior executives actively advising and supporting HTC in its efforts to assist emerging technology companies to commercialize their products and services, raising capital and creating thousands of jobs in Houston. Gregory Price, CPA is the Director of Consulting Solutions and Information Technology at Pannell Kerr Forster of Texas, P.C. (PKF Texas) where he is responsible for the Business Systems Consulting function which includes software selection and implementation, process improvement, information technology effectiveness, and startup consulting. Prior to PKF Texas, Price has spent 19 years at Ernst & Young LLP. A Certified Accountant and holding numerous additional...

SIMAGIS 3D Application Selected as Solution of the Year by Advanced Imaging Magazine

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 23:00:00 GMT

Houston, TX, January 30, 2008: The 3D analysis solution developed by Smart Imaging Technologies for NASA using SIMAGIS® 3D software workbench was selected by Advanced Imaging Magazine as 2008 Solution of Year in the software category. Advanced Imaging Magazine is a leading industry publication that selects and publishes lists of the most innovative and far-thinking imaging technologies in several key areas including military, medical and commercial applications. The SIMAGIS® 3D solution developed for NASA Space Shuttle Safety Program delivers the next generation of Nondestructive Testing capabilities. It can look inside an object and provide automated objective and comprehensive analysis of internal material structures in 3-dimensional space. We are very excited about this award which has followed a number of other important industry awards and recognitions that our software has received in 2007, said Vitali Khvatkov, the Founder and CEO of Smart Imaging Technologies. This is an...

CHR Announces New Business and Infrastructure Technology Leaders

noemail@houstontech.org — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 19:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON(January 16, 2008) – CHR Solutions, Inc., a leading provider of infrastructure managed services and business consulting, today announced that two new business and infrastructure technology leaders have joined the company. To stay competitive, our clients need advanced infrastructure services available to them in multiple ways—from client-owned to managed services to hosted services. Ray Webb and Vince Tyson each bring incredible credentials and hands-on infrastructure knowledge to CHR’s energy, financial services, and telecommunications clients, said Arun Pasrija, president and chief operating officer. Ray Webb is senior vice president, infrastructure managed services, reporting to Mr. Pasrija. Ray will be located in Houston and is responsible for CHR’s IT managed services business (including CHR’s Houston data center) as well as CHR’s hosted applications services business. Ray’s 30-plus year career includes the recent revamping of Aegis Mortgage Corporation’s IT...

Regenetech signs cellXpansion license with Korea Stem Cell Bank

noemail@houstontech.org — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 18:00:00 GMT

Regenetech®, Inc., the tissue regeneration adult stem cell company which has built upon NASA licensed technology, is pleased to announce that it has signed alicense covering the Republic of Korea for its proprietary stem cell expansion technology, cellXpansion™, with Korea Stem Cell Bank Co., Ltd. (KSCB). Financial terms for the agreement were not disclosed. Developing a significant and reliable technology for adult stem cell growth and multiplication represents one of the most significant barriers to widespread adult stem cell therapeutic use. Regenetech believes its cellXpansion™ technology can help to achieve this. Regenetech announced in October last year that it had achieved an average 60-fold increase of CD34+38- peripheral blood progenitor cells (adult stem cells) in as few as 6 days using its Intrifuge™ cellXpansion™ system and the Company continues to research ways to further expedite the process. Regenetech also announced late last year the signing of a country-exclusive...

ThromboVision's T-Guide Clinical Trials Under Way

noemail@houstontech.org — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 21:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Company partners with four key research institutes to garner patient data HOUSTON, January 9, 2008 – ThromboVision, Inc., a Houston-based biomedical diagnostics company, has initiated clinical trials of its ThromboGuide® (T-Guide®) Platelet Function Monitor. Enrollment and data collection are under way at four key research institutes. The facilities and principal investigators are: The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston – Neil S. Kleiman, MD, medical director, Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories, The Methodist DeBakey Heart Center, The Methodist Hospital and The Methodist Hospital Research Institute; professor of medicine, Weill Medical College, Cornell University University of Arizona, Tucson – Marvin J. Slepian, MD, clinical professor of medicine; director of interventional cardiology, The University of Arizona College of Medicine LDS Hospital (Intermountain Health Services), Salt Lake City – Jeffery L. Anderson, MD, associate chief of...

HTC and Gulf Coast RCIC Announce $750,000 ETF Award for StarVision Technologies, Inc.

noemail@houstontech.org — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 9, 2008 Houston Technology Center (HTC) and Gulf Coast Regional Center of Innovation and Commercialization (Gulf Coast RCIC) for the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (ETF) announced today that StarVision Technologies, Inc. has been awarded a Commercialization Award by the ETF. The award for the Gulf Coast region company was officially announced by Governor Rick Perry. StarVision Technologies, Inc., a Research Valley-based aerospace research and development company, was awarded $750,000 to help complete itsSpeedStarTM product, a revolutionary new altitude determination sensor system that improves the performance and reduces costs for satellites. This investment from the Emerging Technology Fund accelerates the growth of StarVision Technologies and leverages our capacity to attract and create new, high-value jobs in the aerospace industry which will form the future technology backbone of the Texas economy. said Michael Jacox, President & CEO of...

Frank Gerome Appointed Chief Executive Officer of Endothelix, Inc.

noemail@houstontech.org — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 22:00:00 GMT

Houston, TX, Jan 4th – Endothelix, Inc. announces that effective January 1, 2008 its Board of Directors has named Frank Gerome to serve as interim Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Gerome will succeed company founder, Dr. Morteza Naghavi, who will continue to serve as Chairman of the Board. This is an exciting time for Endothelix. The Company has received FDA approval for its first product and will be entering the market during the first quarter of 2008. In support of the product launch we will be expanding our sales and marketing team. In addition, we will be closing on our Series A financing this month and we have begun development of our next major product focused on the clinical market. Endothelix is bringing important screening and monitoring technology to the cardiovascular health arena and I am pleased to be part of this effort. I also look forward to becoming an active participant in the Houston life sciences community, stated Mr. Gerome. Were delighted to have Frank Gerome...

Houston Technology Center welcomes The Planet as a new Gold sponsor

noemail@houstontech.org — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 17:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON, December 12, 2007 – Houston Technology Center (HTC), Houston’s business accelerator and the largest technology business incubator in Texas is pleased to announce that The Planet is the new Gold Sponsor of its Web-based Business Startup School educational series. HTC’s Web-Based Business Startup School is a series of educational seminars focused on topics relevant for startup companies that run web-based businesses. The second season of this highly successful series will host guest speakers discussing various topics including legal, technical, marketing and design issues, as well as relevant industry trends, all from a perspective of internet-based ventures. With this sponsorship, The Planet pledged to donate $25,000 to HTC to sponsor the educational series for the entire year. The Planet has been a long-time supporter of Houston Technology Center and its Chairman and CEO, Douglas J. Erwin is a Member of its HTC Board. The Planet’s donation to HTC comes as the company opens...

Houston Technology Center Names New Associate Director - Energy

noemail@houstontech.org — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 17:00:00 GMT

Houston Technology Center Names New Associate Director - Energy HOUSTON (December 11, 2007) - Houston Technology Center (HTC), Greater Houston’s business accelerator and the largest technology business incubator in Texas, announced today that Maryanne Barker joined HTC as Associate Director - Energy. HTC’s Energy Acceleration Program provides strategic and tactical management, as well as investment-related advice to Houston-area early stage companies developing innovative technologies applied in the energy industry. In her new role, Barker will assist in recruiting and screening new energy clients, further growing the renewable energy/clean tech area and direct special energy-related projects at HTC. Barker joins HTC after presiding as Head of trade and investment and Head of the International Energy Team for UK Trade and Investment, based in Houston. Prior to that, she served as Trade Commissioner for the Canadian Consulate-Houston, following several positions with oil and gas...

Houston Technology Center Names New Associate Director - Energy

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 17:00:00 GMT

Houston Technology Center Names New Senior Vice President for Development

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 20:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON (December 3, 2007) - Houston Technology Center (HTC), Greater Houston’s business accelerator and the largest technology business incubator in Texas, announced today that Linda Toyota was named HTC’s Senior Vice President for Development. Serving in this newly created position, Linda Toyota will be responsible for planning, implementation, management and oversight of all fundraising activities for HTC, working collaboratively with the Board of Directors, Advisory Board, consultants, Board committees, volunteers and Houston’s business community. Linda Toyota joins HTC after serving as Vice President of DePelchin Childrens Center. Prior to that, she was Development Officer of the Holocaust Museum Houston. We are delighted to have someone with Linda Toyota’s knowledge and commitment to the Houston area join HTC, said Walter Ulrich, HTC’s President and CEO. Linda’s experience as Development officer for some of Houston’s leading non-profit organizations will be invaluable to...

CHR Solutions Ranks #4 in FastTech50 Ranking in Houston

noemail@houstontech.org — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 21:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON(November 16, 2007) CHR Solutions, Inc., a leading provider of business consulting and technology services, was recognized today as the 4th fastest-growing technology company headquartered in Houston by the Houston Business Journal (HBJ) in its 2007 FastTech50 list. The company ranked number 17 in the HBJ FastTech50 list the prior year. Many thanks to our clients for allowing us to be trusted business partners, and congratulations to our employees for all their excellent work, said James Taylor, chairman and chief executive officer. We’re delighted to once again be recognized for our rapid growth. Mr. Taylor added: We also appreciate the tremendous support of the Houston Technology Center. Arun Pasrija, CHR’s president and chief operating officer, and I met at an HTC networking event in 2003 and crafted our business strategy. We’re grateful and proud to be an HTC client. CHR Solutions also is ranked No. 19 by the HBJ in its list of the largest Houston-area computer...

NanoComposites Inc. CEO Barry Drayson To Speak at NanoCon 2007 on Nanomaterials Manufacturing

noemail@houstontech.org — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON, TX. – November 13, 2007 – NanoComposites Inc. (NCI) Chief Executive Officer Barry Drayson will speak at the Small Times NanoCon International conference and trade show (NanoCon 2007) on Wednesday, November 14, in Santa Clara, California. Drayson will participate in a keynote panel session entitled Nanomaterials Manufacturing – Scaling, Cost & Quality from 9:55 – 11:15 a.m. His remarks will address the challenges companies face in producing nanotechnology materials and ensuring product quality, cost containment and manufacturing efficiency while meeting customer requirements and development deadlines. I appreciate the opportunity to speak at NanoCon 2007 conference, said Drayson. I am looking forward to sharing real-life perspectives on how companies can improve their production times, obtain and retain scientific and corporate partners, develop and implement a growth strategy, manage risks associated with finance and liquidity and adapt to changing customer requirements. ...

CareFlash uses Blogs to Connect Childhood Cancer Specialists with Community

noemail@houstontech.org — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 21:00:00 GMT

Collaborative Web 2.0 Effort with Children’s Cancer Hospital at M. D. Anderson Launched to Deliver Peer-to-Peer Support Involving Childhood Cancer HOUSTON -- November 14, 2007 -- CareFlash, a social media company for people involved in healthcare circumstances, and the Childrens Cancer Hospital at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson have collaborated to develop several childhood cancer-specific online communities. Each will provide members with access to original content and interaction with physicians from the Children’s Cancer Hospital at M. D. Anderson, along with peer-to-peer input and support. This cutting edge alliance empowers patients and their families and friends to benefit from online discussions conducted in the comfort of their homes, with the most credible specialists in the sector The first of a series of childhood cancer-specific online communities launched today on CareFlash is focused on leukemia in adolescents and adults...

OrthoAccel Receives 2007 DeBakey Life Science Award and plans move to HTC to Accelerate Growth

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 19:15:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Houston, November 2007---- OrthoAccel, Inc., a Houston-based orthodontics device company, has won the 2007 Michael E. DeBakey Life Science Award, presented to a Houston-area company with leading-edge commercial potential. OrthoAccel was chosen for the award from a field of more than 50 companies and technologies that presented at the conference, which carries a $25,000 cash prize to assist in propelling the company’s technology toward commercial success. The award was presented to OrthoAccel’s president and CEO, Michael K. Lowe, MBA, by Dr. DeBakey and Peter G. Traber, M.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Baylor College of Medicine at BioHouston’s 2007 Texas Life Science Conference. OrthoAccel’s initial product, currently in development, is a mouthguard type device that will provide a small vibratory force to the teeth; placed in the mouth for 20-minutes a day it will reduce by half the time that braces need to be worn. Selected as HTC Client...

Regenetech to Present Adult Stem Cell Update at 2007 Texas Life Science Conference

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 17:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regenetech®, Inc., a leading tissue regeneration company, is to present at the 2007 Texas Life Science Conference held in Houston, Texas on November 1-2, 2007. David Bonner, CEO, will update the scientific and investment community on the recent progress of Regenetech’s stem cell expansion platform and the use of its TVEMF device in orthopedic applications. Dr. Bonner is also expected to provide an important update on the progress the Company has made towards achieving its licensing objectives, providing further confidence in its cellXpansion™ technology. David Bonner, CEO, stated, Regenetech believes its technology enables tissue regeneration, and we look forward to updating the community on our recent developments at the Texas Life Science Conference. Regenetech is a Houston Technology Center Client Company that has built upon NASA-invented technology to allow adult stem cells separated from peripheral blood or umbilical cord blood samples to be expanded to...

Regenetech Achieves a 60-Fold Increase of Adult Stem Cells Through Its cellXpansion Process

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 17:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regenetech, Inc., the adult stem cell company which has built upon NASA licensed technology, announced that the Company has significantly augmented its cell multiplication capabilities for CD34+38- peripheral blood progenitor cells (adult stem cells). These new results were achieved through the continued development of cell culture conditions for Regenetech’s proprietary and patented Intrifuge™ cellXpansion™ technology. Developing a significant and reliable technology for adult stem cell growth and multiplication currently represents one of the most significant barriers preventing more widespread autologous adult stem cell therapeutic use. Under the new, improved growth conditions, the number of adult stem cells increased by 50-200 times the original number, an achievement accomplished in as few as 6 days. Compared to other serum-free media, the optimized Regenetech formulation yields considerably higher cell numbers than were previously achievable,...

Regenetech Completes $2.5 Million Equity Financing

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 17:00:00 GMT

Regenetech, Inc., the tissue regeneration adult stem cell company which has built upon NASA licensed technology, today announced that it has raised approximately $2.5 million via a significant round of equity financing. The financing was completed with Royal Securities Co., a brokerage firm acting in conjunction with Outrider Investors. David Bonner, CEO of Regenetech, commented, This financing will help facilitate near-term revenue generation opportunities, including the launch of market focused subsidiaries, such as orthopedics. In addition, it will facilitate continued development of our strong cellXpansion™ technology, which we believe will enable widespread use of adult stem cells for multiple therapies. The Company has a dual track revenue strategy to maintain a balance between short and medium term earnings. Near term, Regenetech is targeting two major areas of regenerative therapy that will generate significant early cash flow: veterinary orthopedic applications of its...

Custom Catalytic Solutions, Inc. Announces First Production Run

noemail@houstontech.org — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 14:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Pasadena, TX (17 Oct 07) – Custom Catalytic Solutions, Inc., a new manufacturer of high-quality catalysts for the chemical process industry, announced today their first production run. An open house and reception will be held October 25th to celebrate this important milestone. The initial catalyst run is a standard product, S-01A, used for selective hydrogenation and olefin saturation in LPG and light hydrocarbons in refineries and petrochemical plants. While the initial production run was a limited quantity, it demonstrates the capability of our manufacturing process and the effectiveness of our business model, which will shorten lead-time for catalysts orders, said Carole Riekert, President and co-founder of Custom Catalytic Solutions. Gary Gildert, Executive Vice President and co-founder of Custom Catalytic Solutions added, We are now able to respond rapidly to customers with replacement-in-kind catalyst, optimized catalyst formulations engineered to...

Houston Technology Center (HTC) Presents Graduating Class of 2007 at Houston Technology Showcase

noemail@houstontech.org — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 01:00:00 GMT

Seven Houston-based technology startup companies join 40 2001-2006 HTC graduates FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HOUSTON – October 11, 2007 – Houston Technology Center announced seven early stage technology companies that graduated from its acceleration program in 2007. AGENTS.NET, CHR Solutions, EnviroFuels LLC, Opexa Therapeutics, Inc., Trans Ionics Corporation and Zilkha Biomass Energy have all completed the milestones required to successfully complete the program and achieve the graduate status. AGENTS.NET web site allows interested buyers and sellers to rapidly screen a wide range of real estate professionals based on their qualifications and company profile, leveraging its interactive yellow pages platform. CHR Solutions helps companies grow revenue, control costs, manage risk, and align technology by offering business, technology and engineering consulting services; IT infrastructure and IT managed services; and business application services for Fortune 2000 companies. EnviroFuels...

Houston Technology Center (HTC), Gulf Coast Regional Center of Innovation and Commercialization announce $3,860,000 in new awards for Gulf Coast companies by the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (ETF)

noemail@houstontech.org — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 20:00:00 GMT

Awards for Bellicum Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Laser Tissue Welding, Inc., ThromboVision, Inc. and Visualase, Inc. officially announced Tuesday by Phil Wilson, Texas Secretary of State at the Houston Technology Showcase. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 10, 2007 – HOUSTON, TX HTC and Gulf Coast RCIC honored the nine Gulf Coast region companies that received awards from the ETF to date and welcomed keynote speaker Secretary Wilson as he announced four additional awards to area companies, all of which are HTC clients. Total ETF funding thus far to Gulf Coast region companies is over $13 million. Bellicum Inc., a pharmaceutical company, was awarded $1,450,000 to help develop its next generation therapeutic vaccines for the treatment of cancer, based on technology developed at Baylor College of Medicine. Bellicums BP-GMAX-CD1 lead product candidate incorporates a pharmacologically regulated switch designed to generate a substantially more potent and durable immune response against the...

NanoRidge Announces NIST-ATP Award

noemail@houstontech.org — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 18:00:00 GMT

NanoRidge Materials, Inc. of Houston, TX is proud to announce that our joint development project (NanoCable) with The Boeing Co. of Huntington Beach, CA has been selected for funding by the National Institute of Standards and Technology - Advanced Technology Program (NIST-ATP). Total NIST-ATP funding is $2.8M with a total project cost of $5.8M. The NanoCable Project will develop a lightweight electrical wire-and-cable system that can reduce fuel costs and improve energy efficiency in numerous applications. This lightweight, highly conductive electrical wire will bring significant gains in operating costs to the airline industry, satellite manufacturers, and eventually industrial and consumer users. The technology is based on the use of carbon nanotubes, which conduct greater amounts of electrical current than copper at one-sixth the weight. The cable would be composed of electrically conductive carbon nanotubes embedded in a polymer. The overall cable will be just half the weight...

HOUSTON TECHNOLOGY CENTER HOSTS ITS ANNUAL TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 19:00:00 GMT

Houston Technology Showcase Adds Special Breakfast Honoring Gulf Coast Region Companies Features Phil Wilson, Texas’ 106th Secretary of State HOUSTON - October 9, 2007 -Houston Technology Center (HTC), a business accelerator that assists Houston-based emerging technology companies, will host today more than 40 Client and Graduate Companies presenting the latest emerging technologies in Houston, during its 4th annual Houston Technology Showcase. This year’s Technology Showcase will focus on the current technology landscape, trends, opportunities and impact. The daylong event will include a luncheon program with four keynote speakers. In addition to the luncheon program and showcase, the event will present a first-ever special breakfast honoring Gulf Coast companies who have received awards from the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (ETF) featuring a keynote address from Secretary of State, Phil Wilson. Created in 2005, the ETF has given to date nearly $10 million dollars to Gulf Coast...

ThromboVision Closes $4 Million Series A Financing

noemail@houstontech.org — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 18:00:00 GMT

Company secures $750,000 credit facility with SVB Silicon Valley Bank HOUSTON, September 13, 2007 ----- ThromboVision, Inc., a Houston-based biomedical diagnostics company, has completed a $4 million Series A convertible preferred stock financing, led by private equity firm National Healthcare Services and a group of private investors. The offering was oversubscribed. The company will use the investment to fund clinical trials, build its infrastructure, advance the FDA approval process for its ThromboGuide® (T-Guide®) and launch its first product. The T-Guide® consists of a disposable test kit and a point-of-care base unit. The system will help physicians individualize antiplatelet therapy that they use to prevent heart attacks, strokes and stent occlusions. Our goal is to help physicians improve their cardiac patients’ lives through better assessment of their antiplatelet therapy with the ThromboGuide® Platelet Function Monitor. The Series A funding should allow us to advance...

Houston-Based Endothelix Receives FDA Approval for New Cardiovascular Test

noemail@houstontech.org — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 16:00:00 GMT

VENDYS® Technology Uses Fingertip Temperature to Measure Vascular Function Houston, Texas (September 6th, 2007) – Endothelix has announced that its non-invasive VENDYS® technology, which utilizes a simple blood pressure cuff and fingertip probes to monitor vascular reactivity, has been approved for commercial use by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Developed by Dr. Morteza Naghavi and researchers at the Texas Heart Institute and the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, the proprietary VENDYS® technology measures vascular function by monitoring changes in fingertip temperature in response to an arm-cuff occlusion, which serves as a vascular stress test. The company’s FDA approval follows multiple clinical trials conducted in major cities and supported by a $1 million award from the Texas Emerging Technology Fund, an initiative from Governor Rick Perry’s economic reform committee. This benchmark represents proven success by Endothelix and a rewarding...

Walker County, Texas Welcomes Compiled Logic's C:VISTA To Automate Its Towing Regulations And Assist Its Residents In Finding Their Towed Vehicle

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 17:45:00 GMT

For Immediate Release: Tuesday August 21st, 12:50 pm ET Participation In The Southeast Texas Initiative Seen As A Preventative Step To Better Prepare Authorities In The Aftermath Of The Troubles Caused By Hurricanes Katrina And Rita HOUSTON, TX (Business Wire) – Compiled Logic Corporation, a leading provider of cross-jurisdictional information-sharing solutions that bridge public and private enterprise, announces today its C:VISTA™ product suite has been selected by Walker County, TX as part of the Southeast Texas Regional Towed Vehicle Locator Initiative. C:VISTA™ delivers a web-based information administration solution for law enforcement and private enterprise that aggregates data from disparate sources, presenting it real time to those who need to know. When the hurricane evacuations of 2005 caused over 3 million motorists to take to the highways, one of the first places that those who headed north began to run out of gas was right here in Walker County , states Sheriff...

HOUSTON TECHNOLOGY CENTER (HTC) LAUNCHES HTC-AMERICAS

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 14:00:00 GMT

New Initiative Will Link Houston, Mexico / Latin America HOUSTON (August 21, 2007) – Houston Technology Center (HTC) announced the launch of its new HTC-Americas initiative to position Houston as the gateway to the US for Mexican and Latin American technology companies. The new program offers foreign companies access to HTC’s acceleration program, including business guidance, entrepreneurial education and the vast HTC community of technology and business leaders, service providers and investors. In addition, HTC will offer these companies office space in its midtown facility. Our objective is for Houston to be the US market access point of choice for technology companies across Mexico and Latin America. As part of our effort to build Houston to be a leading global center of technology innovation and commercialization, HTC-Americas will help companies on both sides improve and expand their businesses and network of contacts, focusing on five key sectors: energy, information...

Houston Technology Center (HTC) Launches Emerging Technology Council

noemail@houstontech.org — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 16:00:00 GMT

New Group Will Help Entrepreneurial Companies Tap Into Houston’s Resources HOUSTON (August 3, 2007) – Houston Technology Center (HTC) announced today the launch of its new Emerging Technology Council. HTC’s Emerging Technology Council will help Houston’s innovative technology companies tap into the city’s range of business-development and professional resources, while also integrating its efforts with those of HTC and its partner organizations. The Emerging Technology Council will focus on achieving four goals: Provide emerging-technology companies with access to helpful organizations, associations and institutions located in Houston. Strengthen the ties between Houston’s technology-oriented organizations. Match Houston’s major corporations with qualified emerging-technology companies. Recruit fast-growth technology companies from other parts of the nation to Houston. To accomplish these goals, the Emerging...

Bernalillo County Sheriff's Department Selects Compiled Logic's C:VISTA To Increase Cross-jurisdictional Collaboration And To Help Its Citizens Answer WHERE IS MY TOWED CAR?

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release: Tuesday July 24, 6:50 am ET HOUSTON, TX (BUSINESS WIRE) – Compiled Logic Corporation, a leading provider of cross-jurisdictional, information-sharing solutions that bridge public and private enterprise, announces today its C:VISTA™ product suite has been selected by the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Department as part of the Albuquerque / Bernalillo County Regional Automated Towed Vehicle Reporting Initiative. C:VISTA™ delivers a SaaS-based information administration solution for law enforcement and private enterprise that aggregates data from disparate sources, presenting it real time to those who need to know. Bernalillo County is located in central New Mexico, stretches from the East Mountain area to the Volcano Cliffs on the west mesa, encompassing an area of over 1200 square miles. The progressive insight of the county’s leadership has been recognized numerous times in areas such as providing its residents timely and...

Houston Technology Center Names New Director of Development, Information Technology

noemail@houstontech.org — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 20:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON (July 23, 2007) - Houston Technology Center (HTC), Greater Houston’s business accelerator and the largest technology business incubator in Texas, announced today that Marc Nathan has joined HTC as Director of Development, Information Technology. Marc Nathan is a native Houstonian and founder of Bulldog Financial, a boutique investment and venture management group focused on seed and early stage companies. An experienced Angel investor himself, Marc has helped guide businesses involved with fund raising, marketing and promotion and project management. “We are delighted to have someone with Marc Nathan’s experience become part of the Acceleration Program at HTC”, said Walter Ulrich, President and CEO. “Marc’s involvement with the local IT community and experience as an investor will be invaluable to our Client companies who are seeking funding and business guidance in their quest to commercialize their technologies”. HTC’s...

COMPILED LOGIC HIRES 20-YEAR SALES VETERAN TO EXPAND ITS SALES & MARKETING EFFORTS

noemail@houstontech.org — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 14:00:00 GMT

Monday July 18, 12:45 pm ET BELLAIRE, TX (BUSINESS WIRE) – Compiled Logic Corporation, a leading provider of cross-jurisdictional, information-sharing solutions that bridge public and private enterprise, announces today that it has hired DaWane Wanek as its executive vice president and director of sales. Mr. Wanek is a twenty-year technology industry sales veteran and has served in executive sales leadership roles in start-ups as well as large, high growth companies such as Dell and BMC Software. At Dell, Mr. Wanek was a Director of Sales in the Advanced Systems Group where his teams were responsible for driving over $500 million in enterprise revenue for Dell’s Federal organization. Prior to that, Mr. Wanek held executive positions with RLX Technologies (acquired by Hewlett-Packard) and Scalable Software, as well as various sales and sales management roles with BMC Software and Data General Corporation. “I am delighted to join the Compiled Logic team”,...

HOUSTON TECHNOLOGY CENTER (HTC) STRENGTHENS COMMITMENT TO RENEWABLE ENERGY

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 14:00:00 GMT

HTC enthusiastically supports Governor Perry’s new bio-energy initiative Houston, TX (July 9, 2007) “To maintain our status as the global energy capital, Houston must leverage its leadership in conventional energy to promote renewable energy development, ensuring a steady energy supply while preserving a healthy environment”, said Walter Ulrich, HTC’s President and CEO. “Governor Perry’s new bio-energy initiative is of great significance, considering the rich agricultural community of Texas and the extensive research of renewable energy technology being done in our state”, he added. Governor Perry’s initiative is consistent with HTC’s recent increased emphasis on fostering the growth of emerging companies developing technologies that support development of renewable energy, including bio-fuels, wind energy and hydro energy, as well as more efficient and environmentally conscious methods for exploration and production of...

SIMAGIS 3D by Smart Imaging Technologies received R&D 100 Award by the R&D Magazine

noemail@houstontech.org — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Houston, TX, June 30, 2007 -- SIMAGIS® 3D, the flagship software product by Smart Imaging Technologies, has been selected as one of the top 100 innovative products of the year by the R&D Magazine. Called “The Oscars of Innovation”, R&D100 awards are selected each year by the independent reviewers and editors of R&D Magazine and recognize the top 100 most outstanding technologies with commercial potential. The winning of an R&D 100 Award provides a mark of excellence known to industry, government, and academia as proof that the product is one of the most innovative ideas of the year. SIMAGIS® 3D software, developed with input from NASA and used in Space Shuttle safety program for heat shield tiles evaluation, opens the pathway to automated and objective analysis of 3D images with far-reaching potential in areas like Medical Imaging Diagnostics or Nondestructive Testing that use 3D imaging technologies such as CT, MRI or Ultrasound. “This award is a very...

Thrombovision Named to Most Promising Life Science Technology Companies List

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 22:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HOUSTON, June 19, 2007 ----- ThromboVision, Inc., a Houston-based biomedical diagnostics company, has been named one of the 10 Most Promising Life Science Technology Companies. The companies were selected at the 6th Annual Life Science Technology Venture Forum, held on June 6 and sponsored by the Rice Alliance for Technology & Entrepreneurship of Rice University. According to an announcement from the Rice Alliance, 34 emerging life science companies presented their elevator pitches to a hand-selected panel of investors and business leaders. The announcement characterized ThromboVision thus: “ThromboVision, Inc. provides easy-to-use, rapid-response, cost-effective and versatile point-of-care clinical diagnostic discoveries that advance medical diagnosis.” More than 425 investors, venture capitalists, business leaders, and entrepreneurs attended the forum. ThromboVision is developing the groundbreaking ThromboGuide® Platelet Function...

Synthecon Issued Patent For A Dual Cell Culture Chamber Rotary Bioreactor System Needed for Development Of Stem Cell Therapeutic Applications

noemail@houstontech.org — Mon, 28 May 2007 17:00:00 GMT

Synthecon’s Rotary Cell Culture System (“RCCS™”) With Dual Cell Culture Chamber Enables Exchange Of Growth Factors From Feeder Cells Without Contaminating Cultured Stem Cells HOUSTON, TX; May 18, 2007: Synthecon Inc. announced today that it was recently issued a patent for a new perfused Rotary Cell Culture System (RCCS™). The new patent covers a dual cell culture chamber. The two chambers are connected by a specialized membrane, which allows two different cell types to exchange soluble factors with each other without mixing the cells. In addition to the dual cell culture chamber patent, Synthecon owns a broad portfolio of patents covering rotary culture system technology. Synthecon expects that this technology will become particularly useful in stem cell cultures that require growth factors from other cells, specifically “feeder cells”, in order to proliferate. By separating feeder cells from the stem cells, it will become possible to...

Smart Imaging Technologies received Top 100 award by the Red Herring Magazine

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 22 May 2007 18:00:00 GMT

Smart Imaging Technologies was selected by the Red Herring Magazine as one of the “The 100 Most Promising Companies Driving the Future of Technology”. The selection was made by the Red Herring editorial board that “has diligently surveyed the entrepreneurial scene throughout North America, and selected out of a pool of over 900 companies the 100 companies that are most innovative and have the most potential to disrupt or create a new market, ” stated the Red Herrings’ press release.

“This award is a tribute to the efforts of our team, the trust of our customers and the commitment of our investors providing the funding, all of which has made our success possible,” said Vitali Khvatkov, the Founder and CEO of Smart Imaging Technologies. “It is also an important validation of business potential as we prepare for a series A investment round this year,” he added.

About Smart Imaging Technologies

Smart Imaging Technologies Co. (www.smartimtech.com) is a Houston-based HTC client software company that provides automation technology for 2D and 3D image analysis. The company’s product SIMAGIS is a software platform for automated analysis of 2D and 3D images that features Natural Automation™ and enables users without programming skills to automate extraction of information from digital images. Main application markets include Medical Imaging Diagnostics, Nondestructive Testing, Semiconductors and Nanomaterial Research areas. Contact Information 713-589-3500.

About Houston Technology Center

Houston Technology Center (HTC) is a business accelerator that assists Houston-based emerging technology companies in key sectors such as: Energy, Information Technology, Life Sciences, Nanotechnology and NASA-originated technologies. See www.houstontech.org for more information.

Endothelix, Inc Completes its Move to New Facility

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 15 May 2007 14:00:00 GMT

May 14th 2007 --- Endothelix, Inc announces its move into a new facility. The 3,000 plus square foot space houses research & development, administrative and corporate offices. The building incorporates state of the art A/V conferencing and advanced computer networking technologies. The office is conveniently located in the south side of the Texas Medical Center in the growing area of Genesis Biotechnology Park. The Park, an initiative supported by Western General and BioHouston organization, is home to a number of local emerging biotechnology companies. “The move is an important step in the progression of Endothelix from a start-up company to a leader in the field of cardiovascular function monitoring and risk assessment” said President and CEO, Morteza Naghavi, M.D. The new facility places Endothelix in the heart of Houston’s Biotechnology community where Endothelix foresees future expansion. “We are delighted to see Endothelix growing fast. It is...

HTC announces $600,000 award to Lynntech, Inc. by the Texas Emerging Technology Fund

noemail@houstontech.org — Wed, 09 May 2007 20:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 9, 2007 Houston Technology Center (HTC) and Gulf Coast Regional Center of Innovation and Commercialization (Gulf Coast RCIC) for the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (ETF) announced today that Lynntech Inc. has been awarded a Commercialization Grant by the ETF. The award for the Gulf Coast region company was officially announced by Governor Rick Perry. The company will be supported by the Houston Technology Center Client program. Lynntech, Inc., a research and development company, was awarded $600,000 to help develop its high power, hydrogen/air fuel cell technology. “Lynntech appreciates the support of Governor Perry and the ETF. With this award, Lynntech will be able to attract new scientific and engineering talent to Texas as we improve our technology in weight, volume and power density and demonstrate the performance in a heavy vehicle.” said John Clanton, CEO of Lynntech, Inc. For more information visit http://www.lynntech.com. ...

ThromboVision Completes Management Team With Finance Officer and Regulatory Affairs Director

noemail@houstontech.org — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 13:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release HOUSTON, April 27, 2007 ----- ThromboVision, Inc., a Houston-based biomedical diagnostics company, has appointed Clarice Motter, CPA to be interim CFO/controller and LeAnn Latham to be director of regulatory affairs. Motter will manage ThromboVision’s accounting, finance, treasury, tax and information technology functions as the company begins manufacturing and clinical trials. She served previously in the same capacity for MicroMed Technology. Latham will develop the company’s regulatory strategies and compliance procedures and manage the FDA application process. Her experience in regulatory affairs, quality assurance, microbiology and sterilization will ensure the company’s products comply with US and international regulatory requirements. “Clarice’s strategic financial background and LeAnn’s compliance expertise will help ThromboVision remain fiscally conservative and good stewards of our investors’ funds as we...

SimplexityMD Head Named to HTC Advisory Board

noemail@houstontech.org — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 20:00:00 GMT

Chris Wasden Tapped for Leadership April 27, 2007: Christopher Wasden, SimplexityMD CEO and Founder, has joined the Houston Technology Center Advisory Board. SimplexityMD’s vision is to lead the state of Texas in commercializing early stage medical device innovations and to launch at least two successful ventures each year from its Houston base, by applying its Fail Safe Growth Methodology to create and to develop new, venture capital friendly medical device ventures that lengthen and improve the quality of human life. Prior to founding SimplexityMD, Wasden was President, CEO, and co-founder of Tympany, a revolutionary diagnostic medical device company that designed, developed, marketed, sold, and supported proprietary, automated diagnostic hearing testing equipment to physicians and hearing health professionals. The company was recently successfully acquired. Wasden also spent eight years on Wall Street as an investment banker with JP Morgan & Co., where he was...

HTC announces $2 million award to PLx Pharma Inc., $794,520 award to Molecular LogiX Inc. by the Texas Emerging Technology Fund

noemail@houstontech.org — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Houston Technology Center 410 Pierce, Houston TX 77002 (713) 658-1750 www.houstontech.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 16, 2007 Houston Technology Center (HTC) and Gulf Coast Regional Center of Innovation and Commercialization (Gulf Coast RCIC) for the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (ETF) announced today that PLx Pharma Inc. and Molecular LogiX Inc. have been awarded Commercialization Grants by the ETF. Awards for the two Gulf Coast region companies were officially announced by Governor Rick Perry, along with four other ETF awards, totaling $13 million. Both companies will be supported by the Houston Technology Center Client program. PLx Pharma, a pharmaceutical company, was awarded $2 million to help develop new formulations for safer and more effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) currently on the market, such as Aspirin and Ibuprofen. PLx will use a platform technology...

NASA and Houston Technology Center Sign Space Act Agreement, Continue Successful Partnership

noemail@houstontech.org — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HOUSTON – MARCH 20, 2007 --NASA and Houston Technology Center (HTC) today announced the signing of a Space Act Agreement from the Johnson Space Center in Houston. The agreement provides the framework for expanding a multi-year partnership between the two organizations. NASA and HTC will work together to advance their respective missions by pursuing activities in the areas of technical, educational and human resource disciplines. Both organizations have an extensive history of collaborating to advance the awareness of new technologies developed for use in space and for the benefit of emerging commercial enterprises in the greater Houston area. “We are looking forward to developing this partnership even further, expanding our resources, and connecting with even more businesses through HTC – companies that ultimately could evolve into more NASA partners,” said Michelle Brekke, director of the JSC Technology Transfer Office. NASA...

Deadline to submit applications for the 7th round of funding by the Emerging Technology Fund is fast approaching

noemail@houstontech.org — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 16:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 15, 2007 Houston Technology Center (HTC) issued a reminder that the Gulf Coast Regional Center of Innovation and Commercialization (Gulf Coast RCIC) is now accepting applications for the seventh round of funding for the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (ETF) – including Life Science applications. To date, six companies from the Gulf Coast region have been awarded grants by the ETF and several more are expected to be announced soon. The ETF has awarded a total of 14 grants to companies in Texas so far. The final application deadline is Tuesday, March 20, 2007, 10:00 a.m. CST. The Gulf Coast RCIC also announced that the deadline to submit applications for the next round of funding is Tuesday, May 8, 2007, 10:00 AM CST. A workshop for companies interested in applying for funding by the Texas Emerging Technology Fund will be held on Thursday, April 12, 2007. To register or learn more visit www.gulfcoastrcic.org. The Gulf Coast RCIC will be...