Announcement: WPI I-CORPS Fall 2024 Cohort

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the WPI I-CORPS Fall 2024 Cohort! This fall, the program brings together an impressive group of teams tackling today’s critical challenges across sustainability, advanced technology, and market-driven innovation.

Key Themes in the Fall 2024 Cohort:

• Sustainability & Clean Energy: Numerous projects address urgent environmental issues with cutting-edge clean energy solutions. Highlights include the Direct Carbon Fuel Cell, Magnesium-Air Battery, and innovative approaches to Magnesium Production and Recycling. These projects are aligned with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and shift to sustainable energy sources.
• AI & Automation: The cohort demonstrates a strong focus on AI and automation to enhance healthcare and streamline operations. Notable projects include the AI-Driven Facial Skin Cancer Screening Device and SAMIS AI, each aiming to improve health outcomes and operational efficiency through artificial intelligence.
• Advanced Materials & Manufacturing: Innovation in materials science is front and center with projects like Safeblock and HydroFlex, which explore new methods in battery lifecycle management and precision polishing for manufacturing.

Cohort Highlights:

• Market Validation & Customer Discovery: Many teams, such as Safeblock and the AI-Driven Facial Skin Cancer Screening Device, are working on customer discovery to ensure their solutions address real-world needs. This aligns with our mission to validate market potential and foster commercially viable solutions.
• Funding & Support: The cohort represents diverse stages of development, with projects like Magnesium-Air Battery already securing funding from Mass Clean Energy Center, while others, such as SAMIS AI, explore non-dilutive funding opportunities.
• Collaboration & Mentorship: Many of these teams have established their technical and entrepreneurial leads but express a strong need for mentorship. Our program is ready to provide guidance and connect them with experienced mentors to support their growth and innovation journey.

In Their Words:

• Safeblock: "The system aims to enhance safety, transparency, and collaboration among stakeholders."
• AI-Driven Facial Skin Cancer Screening Device: "This device aims to address limitations in current screening methods, making early detection more accessible."
• Direct Carbon Fuel Cell: "Our technology offers a cleaner and more readily available energy source."
• Magnesium-Air Battery: "This development aligns with the International Maritime Organization's 2050 goals for reduced emissions in the shipping industry."
• SAMIS AI: "Our platform aims to reduce labor, time, and financial costs while enhancing safety in aircraft maintenance."

Observations & Program Goals: The Fall 2024 cohort exemplifies impactful, industry-spanning innovation. With a focus on sustainability, AI, and advanced technology, these projects are poised to make a substantial impact. As the program unfolds, our focus on mentorship, collaboration, and market validation will support these teams in turning their ideas into real-world solutions that shape a brighter future.

The WPI I-CORPS team is excited to work with these innovators to bring their projects to life and drive positive change in their respective industries.