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Tag: Technology

  • Muscle Up Mommy: Making Breastfeeding Accessible

    Navigating motherhood can feel like a whirlwind, especially when you’re trying to juggle it all. For Mykel B. Davis, a journalist and native Detroiter now living in Houston, the birth of her twin daughters in 2015 was a wake-up call. Thrown into the deep end without a guide, she found herself spiraling into postpartum depression while trying to be a “superwoman.”

    From Postpartum Depression to Community Building

    Davis realized she needed support, prompting her to turn to social media. What she found was a flood of other mothers experiencing similar struggles, feeling isolated and unable to talk openly outside their immediate circles. This shared experience became the catalyst for creating Muscle Up Mommy in February 2016. Initially a self-funded lifestyle brand, it blossomed into a safe space for mothers to connect, share, and debrief.

    Today, Muscle Up Mommy has evolved into a comprehensive brand offering activewear, waist trainers, postpartum essentials, wellness products, and even a wellness festival called MUMFEST, set to return in 2026. Davis emphasizes that despite being a decade in, the brand is constantly evolving to provide the best solutions for its audience.

    The Birth of the J35 Wearable Breast Pump

    The journey took a technological turn after Davis welcomed her third daughter. Breastfeeding one baby felt vastly different from nursing twins, and she noticed a significant issue: milk leakage. “There was no device on the market at the time that could help me collect that milk so it wouldn’t just be going to waste,” she explained. This personal challenge sparked an idea.

    Rewatching a vlog of her experience, Davis had an epiphany. This led her to collaborate with manufacturers and engineers to develop a solution: the J35 wearable breast pump. Davis proudly states it’s the first Black-owned wearable breast pump brand. The device boasts an LCD digital display, four modes, 12 suction levels, anti-backflow protection, and noise reduction, designed for mothers to pump discreetly and hands-free, whether at work, home, or traveling.

    Growth and Future Funding

    The J35 pump gained significant traction, even being featured at the AFROTECH™ Conference in 2024. Davis described the experience as “mind-blowing,” connecting with VCs, the U.S. Black Chambers, and local politicians. Muscle Up Mommy has seen demand grow across all 50 states and ships to Puerto Rico, prompting Davis to consider raising capital to meet this demand.

    Currently priced at $229, the J35 pump has experienced demand that sometimes outpaces projections. “We had experienced at first where we can fund the product, we have it in stock consistently… Now we can go on the news and have a complete demand overshadow what I projected,” Davis noted. She is now looking for ways to bridge the gap and ensure consistent availability for mothers relying on her innovative product.

    What do you think of Mykel B. Davis’s journey and the J35 wearable breast pump? Share your thoughts on how this innovation is making motherhood more accessible in the comments below!

  • Hair Braiding Robot Wins Harvard Contest

    Innovation is taking the beauty industry by storm! A groundbreaking hair-braiding robot, aptly named Halo Braid, has just been crowned the winner of Harvard Innovation Labs’ 2025 President’s Innovation Challenge. This invention is set to revolutionize a styling process that has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years.

    Solving a Painful Problem

    The Halo Braid team, comprised of Harvard Business School alumni Yinka Ogunbiyi and David Afolabi, recognized a significant pain point in the hair-braiding industry. Ogunbiyi shared her personal experience: “What if every time you got your hair cut, it took six hours, cost $200 to $300, and gave your hair stylist arthritis at age 2? This is what it’s like to get your hair braided.” She highlighted that despite braids being a popular protective style for millions, the process is often lengthy, expensive, and physically taxing for stylists.

    With the introduction of their patent-pending robot, Halo Braid aims to cut braiding time by as much as half. The technology assists stylists by completing braids that they start, making the entire process more efficient and less physically demanding. This innovation promises to save both stylists and clients valuable time and money.

    A Growing Market and Future Potential

    The global hair braiding market is substantial and projected to grow, with Custom Market Insights estimating it will reach over $625 million by 2032. Halo Braid is poised to tap into this expanding market by offering a solution that enhances efficiency without compromising quality. Ogunbiyi mentioned that their devices have successfully completed thousands of braids, using machine learning to achieve professional results five times faster.

    The pitch emphasized that Halo Braid aims to make braiding “joyful, not painful,” enabling stylists to grow their businesses without suffering physical strain. The company currently has a waitlist for professionals and aspiring braiders eager to enhance their services with this innovative technology.

    Funding the Future of Hair Styling

    Winning the President’s Innovation Challenge provides Halo Braid with crucial funding and recognition to bring their vision to life. This award signifies a major step forward in transforming the diverse hairstyling landscape and addressing long-standing challenges within the industry. The future of hair braiding looks significantly faster and more accessible thanks to this remarkable invention.

    What do you think about the Halo Braid robot? Could this technology change the hair styling industry forever? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Crystal Brown: Biotech CEO Without a Biology Degree

    Ever thought you needed a specific degree to conquer a new industry? Crystal Brown is here to prove you wrong! She’s not only become a powerhouse CEO in the fast-paced world of biotechnology but did it all without ever studying biology or tech. Talk about a game-changer!

    From Automotive to AI-Driven Therapeutics

    Crystal Brown, the brilliant mind behind the biotech company CircNova, is making waves. Co-founding CircNova in May 2023, she’s leading the charge in developing groundbreaking treatments. What’s even more remarkable? Her journey started in the automotive manufacturing industry, and she holds degrees in political science and women’s studies!

    Her transition into biotech wasn’t exactly planned. It all started when she took a part-time gig as a business manager for a life science startup. Initially hesitant to leave her familiar automotive world, friends encouraged her to explore this new, exciting field. She worried about not being taken seriously without a science background, but her talent and drive spoke for themselves.

    The Power of Circular RNA

    CircNova is at the forefront of a revolutionary approach to medicine, focusing on circular RNA (ribonucleic acid). This isn’t your average RNA; it’s a molecule within our cells that plays a crucial role in regulating biological processes. CircNova is the first company globally to leverage AI to generate, analyze, and identify these circular RNAs for therapeutic development.

    Why is circular RNA so special? Unlike linear RNA, which can degrade easily and has a shorter lifespan, circular RNA is a stable, continuous loop. This unique structure allows for more precise targeting of diseases, making treatments potentially more effective and comprehensive. Brown explains, “We are focused on RNA therapeutics, more specifically circular RNA, which gives us access to treat more undruggable diseases.”

    AI Engine for Novel Treatments

    Thanks to a $3.3 million seed round, CircNova has developed a proprietary AI engine. This powerful tool helps them identify, design, and produce novel, non-coding circular RNAs. This innovative technology opens doors to treating diseases that were previously considered too difficult to tackle.

    The company has ambitious goals, aiming to develop treatments for conditions like ovarian cancer, triple-negative breast cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and rare genetic disorders. It’s inspiring to see leaders like Brown, who didn’t initially plan a career in biotech, driving such significant advancements.

    A New Era of Biotech Leaders

    Crystal Brown’s story is a testament to the fact that passion, innovation, and a willingness to learn can overcome traditional barriers. Her success highlights a growing trend of leaders entering the therapeutic and pharmaceutical space from diverse backgrounds, bringing fresh perspectives and groundbreaking ideas.

    What do you think about Crystal Brown’s inspiring journey into biotech? Share your thoughts on non-traditional paths to success in the comments below!

  • Illinois STEM Campus Soars with Aviation & Horticulture

    Imagine walking into high school and not just learning about potential careers, but actually getting hands-on experience in fields like aviation or horticulture! That’s exactly what’s happening for students at Rich Township High School District 227 in Illinois, thanks to a major expansion of their STEM campus. Their goal? To help every student find a path to thrive.

    New Horizons in STEM Learning

    Located in Olympia Fields and Richton Park, IL, this district is rolling out the red carpet for future innovators. Freshmen get to explore various career paths before diving deep into a chosen academy in their sophomore year. This flexible approach ensures students discover passions they might not have known they had.

    The expanded STEM campus is a game-changer, especially for those dreaming of the skies or the soil. Aspiring pilots can get a feel for flight with state-of-the-art simulation pods, while budding botanists can get their hands dirty growing vegetables and herbs in dedicated horticulture spaces.

    Real-World Skills for Future Success

    It’s not just about aviation and horticulture; the expansion also bolsters programs in construction and automotive technology. Antoinette Rayburn, a leader at the STEM campus’ health and human services academy, shared with the Chicago Tribune, “We have students who are very interested in these types of programs, and we thought if we could bring it to them, we could make them more ready when they leave us for the work they’d like to do.”

    Take Jennifer Hymon, a junior who’s already creating essential oils in the botany lab. She told the outlet, “We plan on selling these in the future. The more you let them marinate, the better they smell.” Jennifer’s experience extends to raising animals and learning from industry professionals, solidifying her passion for agriculture and preparing her for college.

    A $16 Million Investment in Students

    The impressive 32,000-square-foot expansion celebrated its grand opening on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. This significant development represents a $16 million investment in the students’ futures. Board President Andrea Bonds emphasized the dedication behind the project, calling it “a fight every day for our students, but it’s all worth it.”

    This expansion is more than just new buildings; it’s about creating tangible opportunities and equipping students with the skills and confidence to pursue their dreams in high-demand fields. It’s a fantastic example of how forward-thinking educational institutions are preparing the next generation for success.

    What do you think about this innovative approach to STEM education? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Travis Scott Fuels STEM Dreams with Space Center Houston

    Ever wondered what happens when music meets the stars? Well, Travis Scott is making sure the next generation has a front-row seat to the wonders of science and engineering! His Cactus Jack Foundation, established in November 2020, is all about nurturing creativity and education, and their latest initiative is truly out of this world.

    A Foundation Built on Education

    From its inception, the Cactus Jack Foundation has been dedicated to providing opportunities. One of its very first acts was a scholarship program for HBCU students, a touching tribute to Travis Scott’s late grandfather, Dr. Waymon Webster. He was a respected dean at Prairie View A&M University, and his passion for education clearly inspired Travis.

    As Travis himself shared, “My grandfather wanted me to take it all the way through college. I feel there is a power in education so to be able to give someone the opportunity to fulfill that dream as my papa thought for me is amazing.” It’s a powerful reminder of how family legacies can fuel future success.

    Houston Students Blast Off with New STEM Program

    Fast forward a year from the foundation’s launch, and we saw the opening of the 60,000-square-foot Cact.us Design Center at TXRX Labs. This incredible space is designed to support at-risk middle and high school students. Now, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership with Space Center Houston, this center will become a hub for students in the Houston Independent School District (HISD) to dive deep into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

    Imagine students not just learning about space, but actively working on solutions for real-world challenges like water scarcity and power generation! The program will offer both virtual and in-person workshops, giving students a chance to collaborate with NASA engineers. They’ll be grouped into teams focusing on everything from design sketching and modeling to systems thinking and fabrication.

    Bridging the Gap to Future Careers

    The core mission here is clear: to boost career exposure in fields like engineering, design, and space exploration. It’s about opening doors and showing students the incredible possibilities that await them.

    As Scott put it, “Opportunities like this are being offered to help enrich our students’ lives and inspire them to pursue careers in fields where they cannot only thrive but also bring back solutions to their communities.” This initiative is more than just education; it’s about empowering the next generation of problem-solvers.

    A Grand Finale of Innovation

    The program culminates on December 19th with an exciting event where students will present their projects. And guess who might be there to cheer them on? Travis Scott himself, alongside industry professionals! It’s a fantastic opportunity for these young minds to showcase their hard work and get recognized.

    What do you think about Travis Scott’s commitment to STEM education? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • AWS Outage Impacts Amazon, Disney+, Reddit & More

    Did your favorite apps or websites suddenly stop working on Monday, October 20th? You’re not alone! A significant outage from Amazon Web Services (AWS), the cloud computing giant, brought down a huge number of services used by millions worldwide, including major players like Amazon itself, Disney+, and Reddit.

    What Exactly is AWS and What Caused the Disruption?

    So, what exactly is AWS? Think of it as the massive, behind-the-scenes engine powering much of the internet. AWS provides essential on-demand services like data storage, computing power, and database management to businesses, governments, and developers globally. It’s the backbone for countless online operations.

    The outage began early Monday morning in AWS’s primary U.S. East-1 region. Initially, the issue was reported as DNS problems affecting DynamoDB, a crucial database service. DNS, or Domain Name System, is like the internet’s phonebook, translating website names into IP addresses. While AWS reported mitigating this issue, disruptions resurfaced later in the day, this time linked to its EC2 internal network, which provides virtual server capacity.

    Who Was Affected by the AWS Outage?

    The impact was widespread. Websites and apps like Disney+, Lyft, McDonald’s, The New York Times, Reddit, Snapchat, and Venmo all experienced downtime. Even government services in the UK, including Gov.uk and HM Revenue and Customs, were affected, highlighting the deep integration of AWS into essential infrastructure.

    Internally, Amazon wasn’t spared. Employees and drivers reported issues accessing critical tools like the Anytime Pay app, and Seller Central, the platform for third-party sellers, went offline. Other tech platforms, including online learning site Canvas and generative AI search engine Perplexity, also cited AWS as the reason for their service disruptions.

    Expert Insights: The Fragility of Centralization

    Experts point out that incidents like this underscore the immense importance of major cloud providers. While the data itself appears to be safe, the issue stemmed from problems with the systems that direct traffic. As Mike Chapple, an IT professor, noted, “something went wrong with the records that tell other systems where to find their data.”

    AWS holds a significant portion of the cloud market share, making its technical glitches have a ripple effect across numerous industries and countries. Cybersecurity experts suggest that while not typically cyberattacks, these outages reveal the inherent fragility of highly centralized cloud systems and our global reliance on just a few dominant providers.

    How did the AWS outage affect your day? What are your thoughts on our reliance on major cloud providers? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!

  • OpenAI Blocks MLK Deepfakes After Family Complaint

    It’s a big step forward in the world of AI ethics: OpenAI has announced it will allow estates and authorized representatives to request the removal of public figures’ likenesses from its Sora tool. This decision comes after significant backlash, particularly concerning the creation of inappropriate deepfakes of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

    The King Family’s Plea

    The controversy erupted when users began generating disrespectful and unauthorized videos of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. using OpenAI’s Sora 2 tool. Bernice King, daughter of the late civil rights leader, publicly urged people to stop, emphasizing that her father would not have consented to such misuse of his image. She joined Zelda Williams, daughter of Robin Williams, in advocating for greater control over digital likenesses.

    Following these protests and extensive discussions with Bernice King, representing King, Inc., and John Hope Bryant of the AI Ethics Council, OpenAI released a statement on October 16th. They acknowledged the strong free speech interests in depicting historical figures but ultimately agreed that public figures and their families should have control over how their likenesses are used.

    Broader Concerns About AI and Ethics

    While this is a positive development, critics point out that OpenAI’s statement glosses over deeper ethical discussions. The company noted dialogue with the AI Ethics Council, but the decision to launch Sora 2 without robust guardrails for deceased public figures reflects a broader trend in the tech industry. This includes concerns about data training on intellectual property without consent and the environmental impact of large data centers.

    Experts also caution that Sora’s realistic content poses a significant threat for media manipulation on an unprecedented scale. As noted by Lance Ulanoff, this situation exemplifies OpenAI’s pattern of releasing features first and addressing issues later – a “ask for forgiveness, not permission” approach. Even with watermarks, the potential for misinformation to spread among a public with varying levels of media literacy remains a serious concern.

    A Step Towards Responsible AI?

    It’s a relief that OpenAI has, for now, paused the most unethical uses of Sora 2, especially concerning the legacy of Dr. King. However, the fundamental business model of such AI technologies, often built on vast datasets and operating outside clear digital ethics, raises questions about whether they can truly be made to comply with an ethical framework. This move is a start, but the conversation about responsible AI development is far from over.

    What are your thoughts on OpenAI’s decision? Do you think AI companies are doing enough to address ethical concerns? Share your views in the comments below!

  • Houston Solar Program Empowers Black Communities

    Imagine a program that not only installs clean energy but also rebuilds lives and revitalizes historic Black neighborhoods. That’s exactly what’s happening in Houston, Texas, with a groundbreaking solar installation training initiative. This program is offering a second chance to formerly incarcerated individuals and residents from communities historically burdened by poverty and pollution.

    A Path to Purpose and Clean Energy

    Leon Dillard, a Houston native who spent two years in prison, found a renewed sense of purpose after joining a 22-week solar training program. Released in September 2024, he was among about 50 individuals who participated in this life-changing initiative. The program, a collaboration between the Black United Fund of Texas, the City of Houston, and Green Thumb Academy, offered more than just job skills.

    Participants received $18 an hour in wages, earned industry-recognized certifications from the National Center for Construction Education and Research, and gained a pathway to rebuild their lives. This initiative is particularly impactful as it brings clean energy solutions directly to communities that have suffered from environmental neglect.

    Addressing Environmental Injustice in Houston

    For generations, neighborhoods like Houston’s Fifth Ward have been disproportionately affected by hazardous waste. Coal tar from a nearby rail yard seeped into the soil and air, leading to health crises, including cancer clusters and a life expectancy up to 20 years shorter than in more affluent areas. Dillard sees the solar program as a way to actively combat this damage.

    He shared, “Being a part of [the program] felt like creating history.” Learning a trade alongside peers from similar backgrounds not only offered them a chance to contribute positively to society but also to themselves. The training involved classroom instruction on electrical basics, OSHA safety, and solar mechanics, alongside practical rooftop installations and wiring mock homes.

    Funding Challenges and Community Resilience

    The program received a significant boost from a $20 million EPA grant, part of President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, aimed at climate infrastructure and environmental justice. However, this funding faced threats when President Donald Trump took office in January 2025, pushing to eliminate federal spending on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and rescinding directives prioritizing environmental enforcement in underserved communities.

    In May 2025, the EPA grants were targeted for cancellation, and by August, billions in solar funding for Black and low-income neighborhoods were slated for elimination. These cuts led about a quarter of the students to withdraw from the Houston program. Despite the reduced annual budget of $250,000, the Black United Fund of Texas persevered by combining other grants and resources to continue paying trainees’ wages.

    • The Houston solar program offers job training and certifications to formerly incarcerated individuals and low-income residents.
    • It aims to address environmental injustices in historic Black neighborhoods.
    • Participants receive wages, industry-recognized credentials, and a path to rebuilding their lives.
    • The program faced funding threats due to federal policy changes prioritizing elimination of DEI initiatives.
    • Despite cuts, the Black United Fund of Texas continues the program with community support and alternative grants.

    Advocates emphasize that community support, through donations and grassroots funding, is crucial for sustaining such vital climate programs when federal backing falters. The Black United Fund of Texas saw its donations and grants nearly quadruple between 2021 and 2023, demonstrating strong community backing. For CFO Velika Thomas, the loss of federal funding highlighted the urgent need for investment in her community, stating, “As a Black person, I have not felt that America has ever put us at the forefront. We are not a waste; the community is not a waste.”

    What do you think about the importance of local initiatives like this Houston solar program? How can communities continue to support clean energy projects when federal funding is uncertain? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Meta’s Dr. Setor Zilevu: Championing the Underdog in AI

    In a world rapidly advancing with artificial intelligence, it’s crucial that these powerful tools serve everyone, not just a select few. Dr. Setor Zilevu, a Senior Researcher at Meta, is on a mission to ensure just that. Hailing from Ghana and raised in Virginia, Zilevu’s journey is a testament to overcoming challenges and championing the underdog.

    From Neuroscience Dreams to AI Innovation

    Zilevu’s path wasn’t always set on technology. Initially drawn to neuroscience, a pivotal moment came during a medical dissection in his first year at Virginia Tech. Realizing medicine wasn’t the right fit, he pivoted, encouraged by his brothers who remembered his childhood knack for building electronics – like a custom PlayStation to play ‘Dragon Ball Z’.

    He pursued computer engineering and later computer science at Virginia Tech, a decision influenced partly by his father’s stroke. This personal experience profoundly shaped his academic and professional focus. During an internship at Intel, he gained valuable insights into the tech industry, which further fueled his interest in how AI could intersect with computer science.

    Developing AI for Stroke Survivors

    Connecting with an advisor focused on stroke rehabilitation, Zilevu found a way to honor his father and family while making a tangible difference. He began working on creating interactive apps designed to help stroke survivors regain function from the comfort of their homes. This project, supported by the National Science Foundation with $1.1 million, led to the development of two apps through the VTC Smart Rehab Lab.

    For two years, Zilevu immersed himself in the project, acting as a researcher, engineer, and designer. He collaborated with stroke survivors at Emory University and with clinical and occupational therapists. The resulting apps, part of the Semi-Automated Rehabilitation At Home (SARAH) initiative, aimed to provide accessible, at-home rehabilitation solutions for the 795,000 stroke survivors in the U.S.

    From Master’s to MIT Innovator

    His master’s thesis, centered on these rehabilitation efforts, earned him the William Preston Outstanding Thesis of the Year Award at Virginia Tech. Encouraged to pursue further studies, Zilevu completed his Ph.D. with a focus on human-computer interaction for complex machine learning systems. This advanced work led to recognition as one of MIT Technology Review’s Innovators Under 35.

    Championing Inclusivity in AI at Meta

    Today, Dr. Zilevu applies his expertise as a Senior Researcher at Meta, working within its super intelligence labs. His research focuses on the intersection of AI and user experience, exploring how to create effective AI experiences across Meta’s diverse product suite. He’s particularly passionate about ensuring that as AI continues its rapid acceleration, no one is left behind.

    Zilevu sees himself as a champion for the underdog, a role shaped by his own experiences. He has dedicated time to teaching, developing courses like ‘Applied UX Research’ and ‘UX for AI’ at NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering. He plans to share these insights further as a speaker at the upcoming 2025 AFROTECH™ Conference, emphasizing the need to provide resources and build products that make AI accessible to everyone.

    What are your thoughts on ensuring AI benefits all communities? How can we champion the underdog in the age of advanced technology? Share your ideas in the comments below!

  • Crystal Brown: AI Drug Discovery Pioneer

    Who says you need a specific degree to change the world? Crystal Brown, a University of Michigan grad who studied political science and women’s studies, is proving everyone wrong. She didn’t dive into biology, but she’s now a powerhouse co-founder of an AI drug discovery biotech company that’s already secured over $3 million in funding!

    From Automotive to Biotech

    Crystal’s journey into tech wasn’t exactly planned. It started when a friend introduced her to the CEO of a life science startup. At the time, she was focused on the automotive manufacturing industry, with dreams of reaching the C-suite. The CEO needed a business manager, and Crystal took on a part-time role, eventually moving up to director of operations.

    After that startup went public and she received a significant payout, Crystal decided to launch her own biotech venture. While she admits to making some early mistakes, like hiring too quickly, and the company eventually closed due to funding issues, she built a solid reputation in Michigan’s startup scene. This experience fueled her drive for her next big idea.

    Introducing CircNova and AI NovaEngine

    In May 2023, Crystal teamed up with scientist Joe Deangelo to co-found CircNova. This innovative biotechnology company is pioneering the use of its AI NovaEngine. What does it do? It generates, analyzes, and identifies circular RNA (ribonucleic acid) for therapeutic development. CircNova proudly claims to be the first in the world to focus on this groundbreaking area.

    So, why is circular RNA so important? It’s a key molecule in our cells that regulates critical biological processes. Unlike linear RNA, which can degrade and has a shorter lifespan, circular RNA forms a continuous loop. This unique structure allows for more effective and precise binding to disease targets, offering a more comprehensive approach to treatment.

    Targeting Undruggable Diseases

    Crystal explained that CircNova is focused on RNA therapeutics, specifically circular RNA, because it provides access to treat diseases that were previously considered “undruggable.” The company’s current focus areas include neurological diseases like neurofibromatosis, and certain cancers such as ovarian cancer and triple-negative breast cancer.

    We are on our way to becoming the premier AI drug discovery agent for RNA therapeutic development. Whether you are a major biopharma or if you’re a small startup, if you are developing an RNA therapeutic, you should be coming to CircNova. — Crystal Brown

    Crystal’s vision is clear: to bring groundbreaking new treatments to market and become a leader in RNA therapeutic development. They aim to be one of the first companies in the U.S. to co-develop an RNA therapeutic, a truly game-changing goal.

    Securing Significant Funding

    The potential of CircNova hasn’t gone unnoticed. In February, the company announced it had raised an impressive $3.3 million in a seed round. This funding was led by VC South Loop Ventures, with participation from other notable investors like Dug Song, Union Heritage, Michigan Rise, Invest Detroit, Kalamazoo Forward Ventures, and SPARK Capital. They also received an additional $50,000 from the Detroit Startup Fund.

    What do you think about Crystal Brown’s inspiring journey and CircNova’s innovative approach to drug discovery? Share your thoughts in the comments below!