University labs generate remarkable software and digital health innovations. But the path from research to real-world impact can be unclear. ThursDeal, Summit Venture Studio’s monthly university startup pitch event, is designed to create a bridge – through structured feedback, introductions, and practical next steps.
On January 8, two university teams already in motion presented their work: LumenAstra from the University of Colorado Boulder and Chromint-AI from Auburn University. Each team demonstrated how deep domain expertise combined with software can unlock safer decisions in high-stakes environments.
A university startup pitch event is a structured forum where academic innovators present software or digital health projects to commercialization partners for feedback, introductions, and next steps, helping research teams move from lab progress to market impact.
What ThursDeal Is (and Isn’t)
ThursDeal is not a pitch competition or a demo day with prizes. It’s a working session:
- 7-minute founder pitch
- 5-7 minutes of Q&A
- optional breakout conversations
- introductions to operators, partners, and commercialization builders
The goal is simple: help promising academic software move faster by connecting the right people early.
January Presenters
LumenAstra — Real-Time Brain Temperature, Non-Invasive
LumenAstra, led by CEO Jim Pollock, is developing a wearable sensor that measures deep internal temperature, starting with brain temperature during high-risk procedures. Today, clinicians rely on surrogate measurements (often bladder temperature) that can lag the brain by 15–20 minutes.
The team highlighted:
- $3.3M in non-dilutive funding from NSF and the U.S. Army
- letters of support from Medtronic and major clinical partners
- a clear entry market in aortic arch surgery, where temperature accuracy directly affects outcomes
Discussion focused on hospital economics, workflow integration with bedside monitors, and the path to FDA clearance. The company is targeting a single-use model and strategic distribution through patient-monitoring partners.
Chromint-AI — Smarter Identification for Portable GC-MS
Chromint-AI, founded by Gerald John, Ph.D., applies machine learning to portable gas chromatograph mass spectrometers used by first responders, DoD teams, and field analysts. Current devices depend on static libraries; when a compound isn’t listed, results can be unreliable.
The Auburn team presented:
- an AI engine that classifies chemical “fingerprints” rather than library matches
- proof-of-concept accuracy above 99% in early datasets
- a go-to-market path through OEM partnerships with device manufacturers
Questions centered on integration with existing instruments, offline vs. cloud models, and phased adoption beginning with defense and hazardous-materials use cases.
What a Good ThursDeal Fit Looks Like
Across both presentations, several traits stood out – signals we see repeatedly in strong ThursDeal candidates:
- Clear wedge market with measurable impact
- Evidence of motion (grants, pilots, LOIs, prototypes)
- Workflow awareness – how the solution fits into ORs, field units, or OEM devices
- Defined revenue logic rather than abstract TAM
- Specific asks for partners, pilots, or introductions
Teams need to be moving and ready for real conversations. But they don’t need to be “perfect.”
Why a University Startup Pitch Event Matters
Academic founders often face the same gap: the research is compelling, but commercialization networks are fragmented. A recurring university startup pitch event creates a predictable doorway: one that respects the pace of research while connecting builders, operators, and investors who understand university-originated innovation.
ThursDeal exists to make that doorway routine.
Who Should Apply
ThursDeal wecomes:
- faculty founders and clinical entrepreneurs
- EIRs and venture creation staff
- tech transfer teams with software-enabled projects
- SBIR or I-Corps validated teams
If your project has a demonstrable prototype and early problem-solution fit, this forum is for you.
Apply to present at an upcoming ThursDeal
Recap
January’s session showed exactly why a structured university startup pitch event works: practical feedback, relevant introductions, and momentum for teams already building meaningful technology. We’re grateful to the presenters from CU Boulder and Auburn University and to the partners who make these conversations possible.
What questions should we explore in future sessions? Share your thoughts in the comments.
FAQs
No. It is primarily a feedback and connection forum. Investment conversations may follow, but they are not guaranteed.
Post-research with a prototype, early validation, or SBIR/I-Corps progress.
Yes. Technical and business leads are encouraged to present together.
Based on validation, market readiness, and fit for software commercialization.
