The MSU Research Foundation announced 23 startup investments made through its Red Cedar Ventures and Michigan Rise investment funds between April and June 2026.
The investments span healthcare, artificial intelligence, fintech, energy, advanced manufacturing, enterprise software, mobility and other technology sectors, reflecting the Foundation’s strategy of supporting early-stage companies from pre-seed financing through follow-on investment.
Based in East Lansing, Michigan, the MSU Research Foundation operates Red Cedar Ventures and Michigan Rise as part of a coordinated venture investment platform designed to provide startups with capital and additional support as they launch and scale.
The latest group includes businesses developing technologies ranging from AI-powered building code reviews and payment infrastructure to medical devices, healthcare diagnostics, commercial energy management and educational AI.
The 23 investments announced for the April through June period include:
- Akadeum Life Sciences develops buoyant microbubble technology for separating cells and molecules, with applications in sample preparation for research and clinical use.
- Adrenaline Interactive integrates real-world brands directly into video games as part of gameplay, creating advertising experiences intended to feel more natural within gaming environments.
- Ankra Health combines information from laboratory tests, wearables and medical records to identify potential health risks earlier and provide guidance intended to improve health outcomes.
- AutoSitu uses AI to review development plans for potential zoning and building code issues, helping developers and municipalities identify problems before projects move further through the approval process.
- Bit-Farms provides subscription-based micro-farms that allow schools, restaurants and other organizations to grow produce on-site while reducing transportation requirements and food waste.
- Bloom connects electric mobility and hard-tech companies with services and resources intended to help bring new products to market.
- Clicki Referrals provides software that enables service businesses to create and manage referral programs designed to generate additional customer growth.
- Crebit provides a stablecoin-powered payment platform intended to make tuition and remittance payments faster and less expensive.
- Culturewell tests surfaces in healthcare facilities for potentially harmful microorganisms, evaluates contamination risks and provides information that can help guide cleaning and infection-prevention programs.
- Essata Technologies develops software for managing energy consumption and infrastructure across commercial buildings.
- FinGoal provides analytics tools that help banks and other financial institutions better understand customer spending behavior and deliver more personalized financial services.
- Jupid embeds business formation, accounting, tax and compliance capabilities into digital banking platforms serving entrepreneurs.
- Luminur develops clinical decision-support tools intended to help emergency physicians reduce unnecessary CT scans when evaluating patients for pulmonary embolism.
- PhotoniCare develops imaging technology designed to improve the diagnosis of ear infections and potentially reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.
- Promethient manufactures heated and cooled seating systems for industrial, commercial and specialty applications.
- Sail provides an HSA and FSA reimbursement platform that enables consumers to make eligible payments upfront and receive reimbursement automatically.
- Side Door provides an online platform that allows home buyers and sellers to manage transactions themselves while accessing vetted professionals when additional assistance is needed.
- ScopeMed is developing a nasal cannula system designed to improve oxygen delivery for patients undergoing endoscopy procedures.
- SPARE provides embedded financial services infrastructure intended to expand access to banking capabilities without requiring traditional physical branches.
- Sit Sense develops automated medical recliners capable of repositioning patients in an effort to prevent pressure injuries and reduce physical strain on caregivers.
- VERN AI develops real-time emotion recognition technology for applications including customer service, mental health and other industries.
- VETR Health combines in-home veterinary care, telehealth services and wellness plans to make veterinary services more convenient and accessible.
- Wimee AI provides an interactive learning platform that helps children develop vocabulary and reading skills through stories, creative activities and guided exploration.
The portfolio illustrates the range of companies supported through the MSU Research Foundation’s venture ecosystem, with healthcare representing a particularly prominent area alongside AI-enabled software and financial technology.
Several of the companies are applying AI to specific industry workflows rather than developing general-purpose technology. AutoSitu is applying AI to building and zoning reviews, VERN AI is focused on emotion recognition, Wimee AI targets children’s literacy and Ankra Health uses health data to identify potential risks.
Healthcare investments also span diagnostic technologies, clinical decision support, medical devices and care-delivery models. Companies in the group include PhotoniCare, ScopeMed, Sit Sense, Culturewell, Luminur and VETR Health.
The MSU Research Foundation said its Red Cedar Ventures and Michigan Rise funds work together to provide financing and support across different stages of company development, helping founders build companies in Michigan while also supporting innovation originating beyond the state.
“This quarter’s investments reflect the diversity of innovation happening across Michigan and beyond. From healthcare technologies and AI-powered software to advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and financial services, we’re continuing to support founders tackling meaningful challenges and building scalable businesses. These investments demonstrate our commitment to helping entrepreneurs access the capital and support they need to launch, grow, and create lasting impact.”
Jeff Wesley, Executive Director of Michigan Rise
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