On January 29, the UNM Rainforest Forum was hosted at the Lobo Rainforest Building to highlight the progress of awardees from the NMEDD Research University Team Pilot Program. This state-funded initiative was designed to support the commercialization of science- and technology-based research created at New Mexico universities.
The panel discussion was moderated by Nora Meyers Sackett, Director of the Technology and Innovation Office (TIO) at the New Mexico Economic Development Department (NMEDD). TIO plays a critical role in administering the program, which helps university-born technologies transition into successful New Mexico-based businesses.
In 2024, Research University Team Awardees received $200,000 in grant funds to support technology commercialization and business development. Additionally, each company also received $50,000 worth of entrepreneurship consulting by the New Mexico Angels and their partnership network, providing strategic guidance, brand development, and investment readiness.
Following the overview of the program, Sackett led a discussion with representatives from the University Team Awardee companies.
Carbon Swarm
Scott Nowicki, PhD, is the Owner and Chief Scientist of Earth and Planetary Insights, LLC (Carbon Swarm). Dr. Nowicki has been combining robotics with environmental science with the development of an autonomous drone technology that can detect, locate, and measure methane leaks. This technology provides critical data to keep humans out of harm’s way and can operate in complex terrain.
According to Dr. Nowicki, the NMEDD award played a vital role in reviving their project. With the new funding, the team conducted testing at multiple sites, including volcanic locations, allowing them to gather valuable data.
YEEO Eco-Safe
The second panelist was Ivy Hurtwitz, the Chief Science Officer of YEEO Eco-Safe. Dr. Hurwitz is commercializing an environmentally friendly insect control technology that uses an innovative yeast-based delivery system to kill mosquito larvae without harming pollinators and other important animals.
NMEDD funding enabled YEEO to secure a critical licensing agreement and a partnership with Ikove Startup Nursery. These relationships positioned the company for investment opportunities and paved the way for a $1.25 million seed investment round led by Tramway Ventures. YEEO has also established valuable market connections and engaged with prospective customers.
Sandia Medical Technologies
The third panelist was Rick Thomson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sandia Medical Technologies. Thomson shared the progress of the ZEPART thumb implant, a revolutionary prosthetic designed to treat CMC osteoarthritis.
Since receiving funding, the company has launched its website, developed branding materials and conducted additional testing in the lab.
Additionally, Sandia Medical Technologies submitted an initial application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to obtain feedback and is now preparing for its next 510(k) premarket submission.
Looking Ahead
The success of these three teams underscores the vital role of the NMEDD Research University Team Pilot Program. The combination of funding and mentorship support has proven instrumental in helping early-stage companies advance towards commercialization.
Looking ahead to 2026:
- Carbon Swarm is preparing for SXSW in Austin where they’ll be competing in the Intelligent Systems, Robotics & Multisensory Technology category. See the press release, SXSW Unveils 2026 Pitch Competition Finalists.
- YEEO Eco-Safe is focusing on securing U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approval, with plans to begin sales shortly after.
- Sandia Medical Technologies continues to move their ZEPART thumb implant through the development pipeline and is preparing for its next FDA 510(k) submission.
