Introducing... Micropure Genomics

Welcome to the second edition of #TheStartupSequence and thank you for reading! Join me here on a bi-weekly basis, as I discover and discuss the Startup organisations creating the future of Genomics, Proteomics and Spatial Biology.

This week, I discuss MicroPure Genomics Inc. 's ambitious plans to enable genetic analysis anywhere and by anyone. Their primary mission is to revolutionize the genomics field by developing state-of-the-art technologies that streamline the process of sample preparation for DNA and RNA sequencing.

The company takes pride in introducing the μPrep, a cutting-edge instrument designed to handle samples of varying lengths, ranging from ultra-long to short reads, for genomic sequencing. Through the μPrep, they have automated the entire genomic sample preparation process, resulting in significant reductions in preparation time and lowering associated costs.

At the heart of MicroPure's innovation lies their core technology, Electro-Hydrodynamic (EH) Trapping. This technique selectively purifies and concentrates genomic material within a simple microfluidic channel. Leveraging this technology, MicroPure has devised a bead-less and microfluidic-based approach to sample preparation, enhancing speed and reliability.

Their team is as lean as can be, consisting of just two co-founders, Ryan Montes, Ph.D. and Jason Butler , and a small advisory board. Earlier this year, the duo was awarded a phase I SBIR grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) , setting them in good stead to further their research efforts. They are actively seeking further funding and pilot projects to contribute to their mission.

In a discussion with CEO, Ryan, he shared his challenges so far in the startup space:

"One of the biggest struggles for MicroPure and myself specifically was growing my network. Networking is critical in this role for startup founders, and I have only worked as a R&D scientist previously. However, over the last year, MicroPure's network has dramatically increased, which has helped MicroPure in all facets including fundraising, technical, etc. This was accomplished by hard work, putting myself out there and being vulnerable to people."

Given these challenges and the areas in which you’ve found success, what piece of advice would you offer to other entrepreneurs?

 "Stay financially lean and go after non-dilutive funding. We have always had success with non-dilutive funding. Winning the NSF SBIR grant has provided MicroPure with more runway and significantly more validation from key opinion leaders"

Join me here on a bi-weekly basis, as I discover and discuss the Startup organisations creating the future of Genomics, Proteomics and Spatial Biology. A special thanks to the MicroPure Genomics Inc. team for their participation.

Be sure to follow #TheStartupSequence and subscribe. If you’re championing the next best thing in omics, and want to shout about it, I want to hear from you. Drop into my inbox any time – Courtney.Smith@CharltonMorris.com