AMMP Accelerator 2025 Cohort Showcases Innovation at Detroit Demo Day
DETROIT & HOUGHTON, MI – September 5, 2025 – As the Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Program (AMMP) Accelerator wraps up its second summer of programming, we celebrate the accomplishments of our 2025 cohort and look forward to what lies ahead for our graduates. These Michigan-based founders have commitments for approximately $1.15M in funding and have landed new customers designing technologies to serve customers hungry for materials innovations in athletic performance, construction, environmental monitoring, engineering, and more.
This year’s Demo Day, hosted at NewLab Detroit at Michigan Central, marked the culmination of a 13-week accelerator program. The event gave each of the eight participating companies the opportunity to showcase their startup and highlight their fundraising potential before a panel of judges. Awards were presented in three categories: People’s Choice, Runners-Up Most Investable Company, and Most Investable Company.
The judging panel included: Alison Todak, VP of Entrepreneurship & Innovation at MEDC; David Rowe, CEO of MTEC SmartZone; Patti Glaza, EVP & Managing Director at Invest Detroit; Jim Tenzillo of 1885 Capital Fund and Michigan Innovation Fund; and Roger Van Duinen, Investment Committee Member at Cove Fund.
AMMP Accelerator 2025 cohort included 6 full-time and 2 observing companies as described below.
BRCĒ developed a patented microscopic interlock technology to ensure laces stay securely tied. This company has made the news as the Youngest Company ever accepted in Techstars history, the North America Champions for the 2025 GSEA Awards hosted by the Entrepreneurs’ Organization, and First Place in the 2025 SXSW Pitch Competition. They have signed a commercial contract with Africa’s largest running brand, Enda; kicked off pilot engagements with 3 new professional sports teams and landed pre-seed investments in an oversubscribed round.
NuKol is developing proprietary technology to recycle hard-to-recycle #3-7 plastics and mixed paper fibers. Their processes turned these plastics into alternative fuel pellets and durable plastic alloys for industrial applications.
Sequestro Inc. is in the process of commercializing a filtration device for removing PFAS from drinking water. The core technology was developed and patented at the University of Michigan.
Solidwave Solutions is improving the construction industry with its non-invasive, non-destructive, real-time monitoring device to accurately determine concrete set times. Their technology will improve the construction industry with easy-to-use solutions to drive more efficient work.
Superior Sustainable Solutions is in the process of providing U.S. hardwood lumber solutions for structural and engineering applications. The technology was developed by a wood scientist to enhance the durability of structural hardwood lumber.
TrailEagle Packs designs innovative, patent-pending backpacks that solve key challenges for outdoor enthusiasts. Founded by Eagle Scouts with real-world outdoor experience, they develop proprietary technology to enhance organization, accessibility, and comfort.
Observing Companies were:
Nudena is a female-founded creative studio specializing in industrial design, product development, branding, and web design.
PharmaBlue Labs is developing innovative, high-tech products to address the needs of individuals with neglected dermatological disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis.
Following an engaging and competitive round of pitches, Superior Sustainable Solutions earned the People’s Choice Award and $2,000. Sequestro was recognized as Runner-Up Most Investable Company, receiving $2,000. Taking home the top honor of Most Investable Company and a $4,000 award was BRCĒ. In addition to these awards, all companies in the cohort benefited from in-kind services throughout the program, in addition to support for travel to both the Local Demo Day in Houghton, as well as the Demo Day in Detroit.
The evening concluded with a VIP Mixer, sponsored by Femology, where cohort companies connected with investors, sponsors, and community partners. The AMMP Accelerator extends its gratitude to the sponsors who made this year’s program possible, including MTEC SmartZone, EDA, MEDC, Michigan Tech University’s Office of Innovation and Commercialization, Varnum, and our valued silver and bronze sponsors.
As we end the 2025 AMMP Accelerator program we are excited for the future for our founders as they continue down the path of innovation. Do you know of a company who might be interested in joining next year’s AMMP cohort? If so CLICK HERE! Our application portal is already open and will be accepting applications until February 27, 2026.
The AMMP program relies on both internal and external content providers. “I gained a lot from external presenters that participated in the AMMP teaching”, said Juergen Koller, of Sequestro. “They not only provided credibility to the program but also expanded my network significantly!” For more information, please visit: www.AMMPaccelerator.com
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About AMMP Accelerator
The Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Program (AMMP) Accelerator is designed to support around five cohort companies every three years, fostering a sustainable model for startup acceleration. Through targeted training and mentorship, the initiative aims to catalyze economic growth, with a projected creation of 40 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs in the Upper Midwest region. Additionally, the program will provide guidance and mentorship to approximately 120 companies in the community, driving forward the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Program funding comes from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) Build to Scale Program, Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), and MTEC SmartZone.
About MTEC
Michigan Tech Enterprise Corporation (MTEC) is one of 21 SmartZones in the State of Michigan. MTEC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), its mission is to facilitate the creation and ongoing success of high-tech value propositions in conjunction with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Since 2003, the MTEC SmartZone has provided mentoring, technical support, and other services to local companies that have led to the creation of over 800 high-tech jobs in the Houghton and Hancock Michigan area.
About MEDC
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, in collaboration with more than 100 economic development partners, markets Michigan as the place to do business, assists businesses in their growth strategies, and fosters the growth of vibrant communities across the state. MEDC’s Entrepreneurship & Innovation initiative establishes Michigan as the place to create and grow a business by providing high-tech start-up companies with access to a variety of critical resources, such as funding and expert counsel, from ideation to maturation. For more on MEDC Entrepreneurship & Innovation, visit: michiganbusiness.org/entrepreneurship