The Central Coast Innovation Awards recognize the emerging technology in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties. This event, hosted by Pacific Coast Business Times in partnership with UCSB CNSI, celebrates the Central Coast as a distinct innovation hub and puts the spotlight on the region’s entrepreneurs. As an integral part of the Innovation Awards, Startup Village has historically provided a place for early-stage companies to make connections, initiate deals, and in some cases, make their first public appearance among a hometown group. This year, Startup Village showcases 25 startups from four sponsoring Universities – UC Santa Barbara, Cal Poly, Cal Lutheran, and Cal State Channel Islands. Explore this year’s collection of exciting startups below!
UC Santa Barbara

Dragon Q Energy
Dragon Q Energy is an innovator in battery energy storage technologies, delivering rugged, scalable, and reliable solutions with safety as the foundation. Their battery pack operates within an oxygen-free, pressurized argon atmosphere, drastically reducing the risk of combustion or runaway thermal reactions. In the unlikely event of a thermal incident, they have designed a multi-tier safety system that mitigates,retains, controls, and ultimately vents smoke and hazardous gases through an engineered pathway to prevent pack deflagration and explosion. The system is designed for extreme operating environments, ranging from extreme temperatures to maritime conditions. The system leverages passive geothermal cooling when installed underground, dissipating heat naturally to enhance efficiency and longevity. The first application of their technology is the PowerPole, an off-grid energy solution that integrates solar charging and satellite connectivity to provide resilient electricity in remote and extreme environments. Their current battery packs are scalable from 2-7.5 kWh, however they are planning development of a 0.6 MWh for larger applications. In short Dragon Q Energy’s batteries go to work where others can’t.

ECPC Travel
ECPC Travel is an online marketplace that connects travelers with vetted, eco-conscious, and people-centered stays and experiences worldwide. The concept was born from our master’s research at UCSB’s Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, where we studied the impacts of the tourism industry on destination ecosystems and local communities. From this research, we developed a set of environmental and social responsibility criteria that guides our platform’s vetting process. By leveraging generative AI, we efficiently onboard and qualify local, sustainable providers, creating an accessible database that simplifies the process of finding responsible travel options. Our platform empowers both local entrepreneurs and eco-conscious travelers, promoting a more sustainable and equitable travel ecosystem. Book a trip with us at ecpctravel.com.

Etna Solutions
ETNA Solutions began its journey in 2023 as a team of engineers, PhDs, and venture capitalists resolved to develop a product that better serves the green hydrogen production market. Currently, only 2% of global hydrogen production is green - that is, made using renewable energy whereas 98% is produced by other methods that contribute to greenhouse gases. Still, that amounts to roughly 2.5 million tons of green hydrogen! Existing green electrolyzers can produce hydrogen efficiently, but not at a price that is competitive with other polluting methods. Our team has designed, built and derisked a High Output Thermogenic Electrolyzer (HOT-E), working within the CNSI Incubator Program - a novel Water Alkaline Electrolyzer designed to produce the lowest levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH). It will produce green hydrogen, utilizing solar and wind energy, at a cost that is 25% lower than comparable systems and, most importantly, will leave no carbon footprint. We are currently in the process of building a 10 kW demonstration unit, with the goal of eventual commercialization with a 1 MW modular system.

FLO Materials
FLO Materials is commercializing a new class of proprietary circular polymers, Enamine Covalent Adaptable Network (ECANs), that form durable and dynamic plastics designed to be mechanically and chemically recycled at the end of life. ECANs can be manufactured into performance products of various form factors - such as sheets, fibers, rubbers, adhesives - with versatile material properties for applications across industries like fashion, electronics, automotives. These materials can then be recycled at low temperature, low energy, in the absence of catalysts, and even in mixed waste streams without compromising quality, efficiency, cost; truly integrating performance, sustainability, and profitability for multi-plastic products.

GaNify
GaNify Inc. develops semiconductor device and module technologies that will provide transformative solutions in power electronics for a broad range of applications from consumer electronics to electrification of transport and industry to high-performance computing centers to the modernization of the electrical grid.

Lucidean
Lucidean develops advanced optical interconnects for AI and data center networks, leveraging proprietary photonic integrated circuits to deliver high-speed, energy-efficient data transmission. Our technology addresses the growing bandwidth and power challenges in modern computing infrastructure, enabling more scalable and sustainable network architectures. Currently pre-revenue, Lucidean is focused on validating its cutting-edge solutions with industry partners, with the long-term goal of transforming data center and AI networks.

Pacific Optica
Pacific Optica brings technological and application expertise to advanced optics, photonics, and imaging to create impactful products that unlock new capabilities.

ProFoldBio
We have developed a workflow combining new cutting-edge generative AI tools, physics modeling, and wet lab techniques for discovering and optimizing drugs for pharmaceutical companies. Our services significantly improve success rates, cutting down the time and cost for our customers to get drug candidates into preclinical trials.

ResiliReefs
ResiliReefs is revolutionizing coral restoration with mobile, self-sufficient coral nurseries designed to bypass building permits, reduce setup time, and lower costs for restoration practitioners. Our modular labs provide a done-for-you solution equipped with life-support systems, monitoring equipment, and sustainable energy sources, allowing reef restoration to begin immediately in remote or resource-limited areas. By eliminating logistical and financial barriers to land-based coral restoration, ResiliReefs empowers NGOs, governments, and research institutions to scale their efforts efficiently. Our approach accelerates coral recovery, enhances ecosystem resilience, and creates new opportunities for innovation in marine conservation.

Sensory Plants
At Senseory, we are bringing an entirely novel indoor fragrancing experience to the world through living fragrances. We use biotechnology to change common houseplants to express fragrances both through soil microbiomes and through plant tissues. These beautiful fragrant and familiar houseplants offer a solution to the current problems produced by candles and diffusers, which are toxic for both the user and the planet. Our team at Senseory is driven to bring the outdoors in through esthetic, safe, and affordable luxurious plants.

Sunstone Energy
Sunstone Energy is a geospatial technology company specializing in custom solar photovoltaic (PV) microgrid predevelopment tools for communities in rural areas and Tribal lands in the United States. Sunstone Energy supports the development of solar PV microgrid assets through its suite of Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping tools and software. Sunstone is currently working with two Tribal energy firms on the development of strategic energy plans for various Tribes. In addition, Sunstone works with developers, agencies, and nonprofits looking to generate maps and reports for development proposals (RFPs), site prioritization, capital raises, grant writing, and customer acquisition.

Tricia
Tricia is a guided journaling platform that helps older adults preserve memories, detect early cognitive changes through natural conversation, and connect with dementia care specialists at the right time.
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Castlelock Corporation
Founded in 2019 by U.S. Air Force service member Shaun Tanaka, Castlelock Corporation was built upon the mission to save lives by reinventing firearm safety in America. The team behind Castlelock™ is composed of military service members across all branches of the United States Armed Forces. United by one common mission, the team is constantly innovating to establish Castlelock™ as the go-to solution for firearm safety in America. With the expertise of military professionals who have firsthand experience in the field, the team understands the critical importance of speed, reliability, and readiness when it comes to defense and is committed to developing firearm safety solutions that enhance safety without compromising performance. The team at Castlelock Corporation brings talent and experience from all walks of life, including former NASDAQ executives, registered US inventors, public company founders, and US military special forces. As the inventors of the original biometric chamber lock, Castlelock™ helps gun owners sleep easy, knowing their families are safe and secure.

GreenSight Tech
At GreenSight Technologies, we’re developing automation solutions for large-scale electronics recycling and refurbishment facilities to support a circular economy for electronics. With our software, users can take a photo of a device and instantly retrieve model information, specifications, and resale value. Our platform helps operations teams make faster and smarter data-driven decisions, increasing revenue and reducing operational expenses.

Horizen Technologies
Horizen Biotech is working on creating affordable, wearable technology that can help people make better decisions around their health. Our first product is a non-invasive skin patch that monitors user BAC levels transdermally in a convenient and discreet way. With that in mind, we are wanting to give people the tools they need to make better decisions around drinking alcohol.

JackRabbit Marketplace
JackRabbit works to mainstream recovery of materials from Construction & Demolition/Deconstruction activities. While our desktop app can facilitate recycling of C&D Waste, and increase throughput for existing recovery efforts, our focus centers on driving industry change toward increasing supply of reusable building materials. We relentlessly seek out opportunities to optimize value while minimizing waste and actively tell the stories and celebrate incremental success.

Odin Diagnostics
ODIN Diagnostics is redefining concussion care to preserve brain health. Our initial product–ODIN–is a sideline-ready virtual reality headset combining proprietary eye-tracking technology and a cloud-based application to provide accurate, non-invasive concussion assessments in minutes.Every second worldwide, 12 concussions occur and $1,522 is spent on concussion care (University of Michigan). In the U.S. alone, an estimated 3.8 million sport-related concussions occur annually, with 50% going undetected (The Mayo Clinic) due to ineffective assessment tools used today. ODIN Diagnostics will lead a transition in the concussion diagnostic space from pen-and-paper symptom checklists–taking 20 minutes to complete–and basic “follow-my-finger” assessments that are currently used today to a solution that provides objective measures of mild traumatic brain injury. ODIN eliminates the guesswork and provides medical professionals with actionable, reliable data that can be easily shared with stakeholders such as parents and coaches, enabling informed decisions to prioritize the safety and well-being of athletes. Our portable, user-friendly solution prevents further damage after injury, guides treatments, and reduces long-term effects.

SafePlate Technologies Inc.
SafePlate Technologies is creating the next generation of food safety test kits, by utilizing machine learning and biosensors to create a cost-effective device capable of a wide range of contaminant tests on food products. Currently, we are focusing on creating the most automated, rapid commercial pathogen test to help ensure that manufacturers have peace of mind and reduced liability when they release a product that is claimed to be free of dangerous pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli. Our solutions will allow food manufacturers to have more extensive and valuable data on their products more quickly, enhancing the reaction time to food safety issues, reducing recalls, and ensuring trust in the food supply. This is the perfect time for such a solution, as manufacturers are being pushed by regulation and the threat of recent recalls to digitize their data and use software for risk analysis and predictive models for outbreaks and food safety breakdowns.
California Lutheran University

Careagram
Careagram is a platform that keeps families informed with real-time care updates about loved ones in nursing or assisted living facilities.

GRIFFITH Eco-Luxe
GRIFFITH Eco-Luxe is a startup brand specializing in eco-friendly, sustainable, and vegan cork leather bags and accessories. The company aims to provide unique and stylish, high-quality alternatives to traditional leather while promoting sustainability and ethical fashion. The bags will be hand-crafted with the highest quality materials and can be hand-painted with botanical designs for a one-of-a kind artistic and personalized touch.

Misfit Munchies
Misfit Munchies repurposes visually imperfect but perfectly edible fruits and vegetables into nutritious dog treats to support pet health without compromising environmental integrity. Focusing on sustainability, our treats reduce landfill waste by working with local farmers in Southern California.

SPF805
SPF805 is an ocean-inspired clothing brand dedicated to supporting ocean conservation through its successful clothing line that has expanded to all 50 states. With the mission to give back to the ocean, SPF805 has donated thousands of dollars to non-profit ocean organizations and participates in ocean conservation projects. The brand plans on expanding into reef-safe products and an interactive storefront that merges retail with ocean education.

Suma
Suma is a transformative software platform founded by Denice Wharton, designed to address the critical licensing challenges in the healthcare industry. With the growing demand for CNAs, LVNs, and RNs and over 70,000 healthcare facilities in need of direct care workers, Suma helps healthcare providers navigate complex licensing requirements, particularly benefiting marginalized groups. The platform streamlines licensing management, offering a tracker for records and proactive notifications to ensure compliance and simplify license renewals. Suma serves hospitals, home health agencies, and nursing homes, providing a digital system to manage staff licensing and compliance. Recognized for its innovation with awards such as the National Institute on Aging Start-Up Challenge and Top 10 MedTech Color Finalist, Suma has already onboarded thousands of providers and organizations. With plans for national expansion, Suma is poised to revolutionize the healthcare workforce, empowering providers to thrive in their careers while ensuring quality patient care.

Wayside Energy
As energy demand surges, old transmission strategies grow more costly, and power grids become increasingly unreliable and unsafe. This creates an urgent need for effective ways to store and distribute electricity. Truly effective solutions are lacking in the market, and with hundreds of billions being spent, there needs to be a solution that holistically meets the needs of future energy markets. That’s where Wayside comes in. Our flagship system, Whitney, is an immersion-cooled stationary battery that delivers robust fire safety and high performance in a sleek, turnkey package. By submerging battery cells in a non-flammable, biodegradable fluid, Whitney minimizes the risk of fire while increasing reliability. Paired with solar or wind, Whitney makes it dramatically easier for communities (urban or remote) to tap into clean, locally generated power. We combine forward-thinking engineering with a warm retro-futuristic brand, reflecting our belief that revolutionary technology should be both inviting and transformative. For neighborhoods battling power outages, organizations seeking to cut energy costs, and any place needing localized clean power, Whitney is the key to a more resilient, inclusive, and exciting future.
Cal State Channel Islands

Leap Pharma
Leap Pharmaceutical is a start-up company focused on developing innovative pet nutrition products, specialized compounding, and generic medication and being committed to promoting long-term health and wellness for pets .Our nutrition line is innovative and tailored on preventive care of dogs, helping your furry friends to maintain a healthy and happy life. Many pets face unique health challenges that may not always be covered by off-the-shelf products or existing products are too expensive and unavailable. The specialized compounding and generic medications will address specific health needs including emergency medication, unavailable or unmet needs providing a crucial solution for pets' owners and veterinarians.
Central Coast Startup Ecosystem

BioScience Alliance
As we observed our region’s life science/biotech industry’s growing need for the resources of experienced scientists, executives and professionals within the industry and the multitude of key vendors serving this industry; BSA’s goal developed into an effort to assist and expand these resources for the life science/biotech community in our region to build a vibrant life science cluster.
Networking is a key part of building business relationships and the “eco-system” which is so critical to developing a life science cluster. These relationships encourage the exchange of ideas and promote growth of the industry. BSA helps to facilitate these relationships through its events that connect industry scientists, executives, professionals and key vendors.
Since 2008, BSA has been a centerpiece for connecting the region’s life science/biotech industry and believes in the importance of bringing together an “Alliance” comprised of the industry, education institutions and governmental agencies located in the West San Fernando Valley and Ventura and Santa Barbara counties – the 101 Biotech Corridor™

Fathomwerx
FATHOMWERX is a technology-based collaborative that includes the EDC, Matterlabs, NAVSEA, NAVFAC and the Port of Hueneme. Serving as a public-private laboratory, community, and resource for technological innovation, the partners strive to fuse small and non-traditional companies, academic institutions, and other Department of Defense stakeholders together to work on the most challenging problems in military, port, and maritime domains.