The 2025 class of startups recognized by the Cincinnati Business Courier as “ones to watch” exemplifies UC’s history of tackling challenges across diverse industries, from aviation and health care to artificial intelligence-driven research and consumer wellness.

The following startup companies could potentially make significant impacts locally and globally, and UC is delighted to play a part in their journeys.

Airtrek Robotics: Revolutionizing airport safety

Aviation safety has a new ally in Airtrek Robotics. With support from UC’s Venture Lab, co-founders Chris Kyoochul Lee, Jon Taylor and Huzefa Dossaji have developed an autonomous robot to clear airport runways of hazardous debris. Dubbed a “Roomba for the tarmac,” this AI-powered innovation enhances airport efficiency and safety by mitigating the risk of foreign object damage.

Rescue Ventilation Solutions: A breath of life

Emergency medicine is being redefined by Rescue Ventilation Solutions (RVS). Co-founded by  Justin Benoit, MD, MS, UC Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine; Jason McMullan, MD, MS, UC Professor of Emergency Medicine and Ephraim Gutmark, PhD, distinguished professor of aerospace engineering, the company has introduced Spiritus, a cutting-edge device that seamlessly integrates with standard bag valve masks to optimize emergency resuscitation. With roots dating back to 2017, RVS aims to revolutionize CPR and improve patient survival rates.

Kilele Health: Pioneering real-time heart monitoring

Biomedical engineering professor Jason Heikenfeld is reshaping how individuals monitor and manage chronic illnesses. Kilele Health’s innovative device provides real-time heart monitoring, giving users deeper insights into their cardiovascular health. This breakthrough technology is poised to revolutionize preventive care, helping individuals detect early warning signs and avoid severe heart conditions.

Cool Comforts Vpod: Relief for women’s health

Innovation meets wellness with Cool Comforts. Founded by Kesha Williams and supported by UC’s Venture Lab, the company has developed a game-changing solution for women with vaginitis. Williams’ invention — a specially designed pod that can be frozen and applied for pain relief — offers a simple yet effective way to alleviate discomfort. With a potentially global reach, Cool Comforts is making women’s health more accessible and manageable.

Karneyium Health: AI for health equity

Kelvin Brown is the founder of Karneyium Health, which uses AI and geographic information systems (GIS) mapping to tackle disparities in healthcare access. By identifying underserved regions, Karneyium Health empowers medical providers to strategically deploy clinical trials and improve health outcomes in disadvantaged communities. This AI-driven approach has the potential to reshape how healthcare is delivered, fostering equity in medical treatment and research.

Qualz.ai: AI-powered insights for research

Qualz.ai is changing the landscape of qualitative research. This AI-powered platform streamlines the research process, making it more efficient, cost-effective and insightful. By democratizing access to high-quality research, Qualz.ai ensures that every voice is heard and valued. The platform’s ability to enhance data collection and interpretation from non-numerical data is a game-changer for businesses, academia and market research firms.

One additional startup to note from the Business Courier’s list with a connection to UC is SMB.co. 1819 partner Fireroad, which focuses on investing in early-stage tech companies, now includes SMB as part of its portfolio.

Cover image Photo/Alisha Sutcliffe