Startup companies c2renewand Discovery Express Kidsare graduating from the NDSU Incubator, located in the NDSU Research and Technology Park. They will be relocating in Fargo to further grow the companies.
“We will really miss the connections that the incubator offered,” said Corey Kratcha, co-founder and CEO of c2renew. “It gave us a chance to talk to one another and have beneficial ad hoc discussions that help startups develop.”
c2renew is expanding and moving to their manufacturing location to streamline the workflow in the creation of materials made of agricultural waste products. c2renew is a material designer, custom compounder, and engineering service provider. In addition to assisting other businesses by guiding them through the design and creation process of composites, they have advanced technology with their bio-composite material made from recycled plastics and local agricultural by-products to support both the environment and their local community.
Founders Chad Ulven, professor of mechanical engineering, and Kratcha are excited for their new journey. They are co-locating with 3DFuel and providing them with the filament for 3D printing made from their innovative recycled composites.
Discovery Express’ Erin Nyren will be relocating to downtown Fargo. She is focusing her company on educating pre-school age children as well as facilitating science education in after-school programs. Her goal is to get students excited about STEM subjects, have fun and practice good habits for scientific beginners.
“The incubator provides services that are specific to new entrepreneurs,” Nyren said. “They have built an incredible support system and understand that you might be coming in with nothing established at all. Their team is very receptive to what you need as a brand-new business, and they are very flexible and helpful with all the challenges that may arise as a new company. They make it clear that they are there to help you succeed.”
The companies join other incubator graduates, such as Intelligent InSites, Pedigree Technologies, Appareo, Myriad Mobile and Fargo 3D Printing. All are located in Fargo.
“We are very proud of both companies as they are great examples of what we are trying to accomplish at NDSU That is to help faculty, students and startups advance their innovations into commercial companies that help diversify and grow our North Dakota economy,” said Chuck Hoge, NDSU Research and Technology Parkexecutive director.“Along with assistance by incubator personnel, the companies utilized state programs such as Innovate ND, Agricultural Products Utilization Council grants, Research North Dakota and Technology Base Entrepreneurial Grants. We wish both companies much success.”
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