Thank you to all those who applied to our Fall 2023 Texas Venture Labs Investment Competition! Below are the 25 companies that were chosen to compete at our Semi-Finals happening on Friday, December 8 starting at 9 AM. The times and room numbers where each team will be presenting are included below.

Division I – RRH 5.402

Early Bird: 9:00 – 9:30 AM
Infused with DHM, a plant extract, Early Bird is a hard lemonade with the same percentage of alcohol as a beer or seltzer. Early Bird prevents hangovers without you having to remember to take a pill or add something to your drink. Marion Krueger, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2025

Bromigo: 9:35 – 10:05 AM
Bromigo is an innovative social platform addressing the growing loneliness epidemic among males aged 25-45. Distinguished by its focus on in-person, interest-based interactions, Bromigo facilitates genuine camaraderie in local communities. Our AI-enhanced platform encourages active participation, ensures safety with strict identity verification, and fosters authentic male friendships. Targeting a substantial market in the largest U.S. cities, Bromigo combines technology and community spirit to revolutionize male bonding, projecting significant revenue growth with a subscription-based model. Michael Madigan, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2025

Tano Pharmaceuticals: 10:10 – 10:40 AM
Tano Pharmaceuticals is a life sciences company bringing to market the first commercial skincare and medical products based on a revolutionary new ingredient: sap from banana trees. This ingredient has been proven to stop bleeding, accelerate wound healing, and is anti-microbial. Tano’s mission is to bring this ingredient to the natural skincare market with follow-on goals of FDA approval and being used by clinicians and first responders worldwide. Sean Finney, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2024; Branson Berger, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2024

Shadow Dynamics: 10:45 – 11:15 AM
Shadow Dynamics is dedicated to accelerating the adoption of autonomous machinery and making its benefits universally accessible. Iris, our flagship product, is an omnidirectional LED matrix halo light for autonomous construction machines. Iris translates an autonomous machine’s decisions into universally understandable light and sound signals to improve safety and efficiency on the construction site. Mike Lynn, MSTC, McCombs School of Business, 2024; Barrett Pearce, MSTC, McCombs School of Business, 2024

LenguaBridge: 11:20 – 11:50 AM
For educators and schools grappling with the challenges of bilingual education, LenguaBridge offers transformative solutions that enhance teaching efficiency and student engagement. We achieve this by harnessing advanced AI technology to create customized, culturally relevant educational materials, bridging language gaps and simplifying lesson planning. Our differentiation lies in our innovative approach to making bilingual education accessible and effective for all. Josh Rynearson, MSTC, McCombs School of Business, 2024; Jorge Ngimbi, MSTC, McCombs School of Business, 2024; Chris LaCava, MSTC, McCombs School of Business, 2024

Division II – RRH 5.408

LoanBuyer LLC: 9:00 – 9:30 AM
LoanBuyer is an online brokerage for identifying and facilitating off-market transactions of real estate properties, disrupting the way homes are traditionally bought and sold by making use of techniques like loan assumptions and mortgage wraps to pass the existing loan from seller to buyer along with the property. Robert Allen, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2025

Toxic Sludge: 9:35 – 10:05 AM
The sunscreen market is stagnant and ripe for a disruptive brand. Toxic Sludge will change that with an in-your-face marketing scheme that is rebellious, extreme, and entertaining. We also provide the healthiest sun care products available, without the complacent recycling of dubious medical claims. We are taking an omnichannel approach, with 50-70% gross margins that will increase as we scale. Chris Roos, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2024; Kevin Kulda, JD, School of Law, 2024

Rahm Sensor Development, Inc.: 10:10 – 10:40 AM
Rahm Sensor Development, Inc. specializes in revolutionizing healthcare with our advanced sensor technology that monitors key vitals such as heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, & respiratory patterns in real time. Using patented Doppler Radar technology, we provide accurate, non-invasive solutions for individuals seeking detailed health insights. Our innovative approach to health monitoring positions Rahm Sensor Development as a leader in delivering proactive and precise healthcare management tools. Arjun Babuji, MS Business Analytics, McCombs School of Business, 2025

RALLI: 10:45 – 11:15 AM
For runners, cyclists, and triathletes looking to get more connected to their local fitness community or find training and accountability buddies, Ralli’s matchmaking algorithm connects users with compatible training partners based on similar experience level, pace, training schedule, and location. Allison Morrison, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2025

MODAI: 11:20 – 11:50 AM
For business professionals seeking conveniently available couture, MODAI provides customization in the design and creation of such clothes via an online platform complemented with offline showrooms located in office buildings where customers can view samples and get sized for a perfect fit. MODAI accomplishes this using rotating 3D body scan technology from UT Lab and connections to fashion designers in this industry. Ji Chen, MSTC, McCombs School of Business, 2024

Division III – RRH 5.420

Brrrista Cold Brew: 9:00 – 9:30 AM
Cold brew coffee takes up a lot of volume in limited refrigerator space in cafes. Shop owners often must balance brewing the minimal acceptable amount for the day with the maximum potential ordered that day, which can be a difficult and costly problem. Our patented machine reduces uncertainty with a 90% faster brew time, 20% higher extraction, and an easier cleaning experience – all while maintaining the taste of traditional cold brew. Samuel Stein, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2025

AlphaEdge: 9:35 – 10:05 AM
In the complex landscape of acquiring and analyzing resource-intensive alternative data, including satellite imagery, geolocation data, and social media sentiments, AlphaEdge stands as the optimal solution. Our mission is to serve as the premier platform for all alternative data needs, initially targeting the hedge fund segment. We excel in the seamless collection, cleaning, and modeling of sector-specific data, offering intuitive visualizations via a user-friendly web application. By tackling the challenge of obtaining timely insights, we provide a unique advantage with regulatory risk-free sector data, trends analysis, and statistical projections. Rajat Narang, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2024; Thomas Schmidt, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2024

Terra Technology Innovations LLC: 10:10 – 10:40 AM
Terra Technology Innovations LLC is at the vanguard of agricultural advancement with its proprietary and patented Super Moisture-Absorbent Gel (SMAG) technology. SMAG is an industry-first innovation that extracts water directly from the air, providing an unlimited water source for plants in arid regions. Our product offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution to water scarcity, dramatically increasing agricultural opportunity and productivity. With its unparalleled approach to water conservation and soil health, SMAG is poised to transform global agriculture, presenting a lucrative and impactful investment opportunity. Darian Jones, MSTC, McCombs School of Business, 2024

MACH Transit Inc: 10:45 – 11:15 AM
MACH Transit is an Austin startup founded to address the US’ lack of adoption of magnetic levitation technology despite its potential in markets beyond public transportation. MACH’s pilot product is a levitating camera vehicle utilizing maglev to actively maintain zero contact with its guideway, enabling the capture of ultra-stable footage at over 200 mph. With a beachhead of motorsports broadcasting, MACH is integrating into racetracks to capture novel footage of the world’s fastest vehicles. Jason Ikonomopoulos, Masters Mechanical Engineering, Cockrell School of Engineering, 2024

cacao.tax: 11:20 – 11:50 AM
cacao.tax allows international travelers to shop online and conveniently purchase the best brands in the US through a shopping experience that includes premium pickup spots and the seamless inclusion of Tax and International trade regulations to offer actual Duty-Free prices. Jose Maria Yrigoyen, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2024

Division IV: RRH 5.382

AirMax: 9:00 – 9:30 AM
AirMax is an HVAC hardware retrofit technology that will increase efficiency of existing commercial AC units. It’s an additive product that is designed to complement existing equipment. AirMax’s efficiency gain will decrease ongoing utility costs and thereby substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Target end-users are big box retailers such as Walmart, Target, The Home Depot, etc. We plan to have long-term lease contracts with the end-user and partner with existing HVAC companies as “boots on the ground” infrastructure. Max Meeks, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2024

IntroFit.AI: 9:35 – 10:05 AM
For working professionals who struggle to integrate fitness into their busy lives, IntroFit.AI provides innovative, technology-driven solutions that simplify and personalize the fitness experience. We accomplish this by leveraging advanced GPT and IoT technologies to create adaptive, AI-curated fitness programs and smart fitness equipment. Our ‘secret sauce’ lies in our unique combination of cutting-edge AI for tailored workout plans, IoT for precise health tracking, and a strong community focus through local and virtual workshops, fostering a supportive and inclusive fitness journey. Christian Enciso, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2025; Javier Angel, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2025

The Network: 10:10 – 10:40 AM
The Network is the next advancement in building and strengthening an elite professional network. We’ve created a platform that connects diverse individuals with aligned objectives to facilitate development and growth. Following the successful roadmap of disruptors to Facebook, The Network will solve pain points by operating as the Bumble for LinkedIn. This is not a dating service for co-workers, but a platform to connect professionals for the purpose of networking, mentorship, and career development. Brendan Norton, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2024

TeachBack: 10:45 – 11:15 AM
TeachBack is revolutionizing patient education in healthcare. Our web-based platform uses AI to create personalized point-of-care quizzes based on each patient’s Electronic Health Record, seamlessly integrated into clinical visits for real-time understanding assessments. This bridges the communication gap between medical professionals and patients, fostering collaboration. Beyond health literacy, TeachBack introduces a unique Google Review feature, prompting patients to leave reviews post-appointment. This not only provides valuable feedback but also boosts online reputation, helping practices gain visibility and trust in the digital healthcare landscape. TeachBack is the key to informed patients, improved healthcare outcomes, and enhanced online recognition for medical professionals. Christopher Abad-Jacobi, MD, Dell Medical, 2025; Coleman White, MSTC, McCombs School of Business, 2024; Zane Cooke, MD, Dell Medical, 2025

ARnovation: 11:20 – 11:50 AM
Home remodeling can be a nightmare. First-time homeowners without remodeling experience or large budgets are the ones who most suffer. 25% of them lower expectations between envisioning the design and realizing it. ARnovation is a ready-to-go kitchen remodeling service. By linking design to standardized project tasks, ARnovation eliminates the mismatch of expectations. ARnovation uses AR not only as an inspiration tool but as a data source. Justo Echazarreta, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2024

Division V – RRH 3.414

Move N Dine: 9:00 – 9:30 AM
Move N Dine aims to increase physical activity in the population since 20% of the US population is obese. We will integrate physical activity tracking with financial incentives. The plan involves an app linking exercise to discounts at partnered restaurants and sports shops. Companies pay annual fees to be included in the app. Users, on a free or paid subscription, earn discounts based on activity levels. The business model aims for profitability through annual fees and user subscriptions, promoting a holistic approach to health and commerce. Christos Kyrillou, Exercise Physiology, 2024

The Kit Girl: 9:35 – 10:05 AM
For travelers who are experiencing vacation rentals that don’t have the essentials for a pleasant stay, The Kit Girl solves that problem by delivering kits of small quantities of items to rentals, ensuring convenience and reduced waste. The Kit Girl accomplishes this by offering customizable kits as a subscription service for kitchen, hospitality, health, holidays, and hangovers. Caitlin McHugh, MBA, McCombs School of Business, 2025

ABA: 10:10 – 10:40 AM
For professional athletes and coaches who face the challenge of optimizing training and performance in high endurance sports, Advanced Breathing Analytics (ABA) offers a revolutionary solution that transcends traditional training methodologies. ABA achieves this by integrating state-of-the-art wearable technology with scientific insights to provide real-time, lab-quality data analysis. Our secret sauce lies in our proprietary intelligent breathing masks and advanced chest belts, which measure vital performance metrics like VO2max, tidal volume, and CO2 rates directly in the field. This innovation allows athletes and coaches to make data-driven decisions, enhancing training effectiveness and pushing the boundaries of athletic performance. Jay Pena, MSTC, McCombs School of Business, 2024; Bhari Cowlagi, MSTC, McCombs School of Business, 2024

STEM Muse: 10:45 – 11:15 AM
STEM Muse patches the leaky pipeline for women in STEM higher education to the workforce by providing individualized support and a direct route to careers through our network and individualized mentorship program. We connect women with professionals more advanced in their careers to enhance the recruitment, retention, and ultimately, the success of women in STEM. We provide universities with a comprehensive support-and-launch system for their students and companies with direct access to underrepresented talent. Sophie Sanchez, PhD, Neuroscience, 2024

OmniSense Surgical: 11:20 – 11:50 AM
OmniSense Surgical is a patient-driven medical device start-up that provides real-time, valuable information to surgeons. For patients undergoing mastectomy, there is a significant risk of skin flap necrosis, a devastating complication that incurs health, aesthetic, and financial burdens. We mitigate these risks by delivering smart, intraoperative guidance solutions. Our mission is to integrate innovative sensor technology to existing surgical workflows to improve patient outcomes. Alexis Dimanche, PhD, Biomedical Engineering, 2024