Tech Startups to Watch

BizTUCSONOctober 21, 2025

3 minutes read

Anivive Lifesciences

Based on collaborative studies conducted by the University of Arizona, Colorado State University, and Anivive, the company is advancing a canine vaccine for Valley fever. The company worked with UA researchers to complete preclinical testing and later secured federal funding to adapt the vaccine for human use and support a Phase 1 human clinical trial. The project builds on work from the Valley Fever Center for Excellence and the College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences.

Aging Health Sciences

Aging Health Sciences is commercializing eye health supplements based on an innovation developed by Dr. Robert Snyder and Dr. Brian McKay of University of Arizona’s College of Medicine – Tucson. The company focuses on formulations targeting age-related macular degeneration, offering consumer-ready nutraceuticals based on findings grounded in decades of research.

CarbeniumTec

CarbeniumTec emerged from interdisciplinary research conducted by a team from the University of Arizona’s College of Science and College of Medicine – Tucson. The company is developing organic redox flow batteries that use a proprietary, metal-free electrolyte. This approach enables safe, long-duration energy storage without relying on lithium or other rare materials, offering a sustainable solution for grid-scale applications.

Codelucida

Codelucida originated from research at the University of Arizona’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, where its founders developed advanced error-correction algorithms for flash memory. These algorithms enhance data integrity and efficiency in devices like SSDs, smartphones, and data centers. By improving performance and reducing storage costs, the technology supports broader adoption of high-capacity memory solutions for multiple industries.

FreeFall Aerospace

FreeFall Aerospace began with research in radio astronomy at the University of Arizona and now develops inflatable, steerable antenna systems. These lightweight, energy-efficient designs support satellite communications, remote sensing, and mobile networks. The technology is applicable across commercial, defense, and space sectors.

iCRx

iCRx is combining expertise from the James C. Wyant College of Optical Sciences and the College of Medicine – Tucson. Its One-Minute Eye Exam device uses laser-based optics to quickly and objectively generate eyeglass prescriptions. The technology streamlines vision diagnostics, making eye care more efficient and accessible.

LifeSpan Digital Health

LifeSpan Digital Health was founded based on an innovation from the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine – Tucson to address healthcare professional burnout. Based on decades of research conducted by the head of emergency medicine Dr. Samuel Keim, the emPower+ platform integrates wearable data and predictive analytics to monitor stress and support wellness in clinical environments. The system provides real-time insights for both individuals and healthcare organizations.

Lunewave

Lunewave was founded to bring University of Arizona research in radar and lens technology to market. Its patented 3D-printed Luneburg lens enables full 360-degree detection for autonomous vehicles and mobility systems. The radar units are compact and cost-effective, offering an alternative to traditional sensor arrays.

NEUTherapeutics

NEUTherapeutics is advancing PhytoSERM, a plant-based supplement developed at the University of Arizona’s Center for Innovation in Brain Science. The product targets menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes, and is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials. Earlier studies showed the formulation to be safe and effective, and the company has received federal funding to support further research.

ProxyBio

ProxyBio is a biotech startup leveraging research from the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine – Tucson and the BIO5 Institute. Its platform uses patient-derived 3D cell cultures to test thousands of drug compounds, helping identify personalized cancer treatments. AI integration enhances predictive accuracy and speeds up the drug discovery process.

DeUVe Photonics

DeUVe Photonics was founded to commercialize deep-ultraviolet laser technology developed at the University of Arizona’s James C. Wyant College of Optical Sciences. The company’s compact, high-power lasers operate in the 230–400 nm range, serving applications in defense, semiconductor manufacturing, and advanced sensing. Their systems fill a critical gap in the UV laser market.

FreeFall 5G

FreeFall 5G is a collaboration between FreeFall Aerospace and ED2, both Tucson-based companies with ties to University of Arizona research. Their FreeStar5G antenna is designed for next-generation wireless networks, offering extended range, low power consumption, and high data rates at lower costs.

VerdiTx

VerdiTx was formed to commercialize green light therapy research conducted at the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine – Tucson. The therapy, developed by Dr. Mohab Ibrahim and Dr. Rajesh Khanna, offers a non-pharmaceutical approach to chronic pain management. It uses specific wavelengths of light to modulate pain responses, contributing to new methods in neuromodulation and patient care.