Business Incubator

Avani Enterprizes, LLC. -  Dr. Sridhar Viamajala

Dr. Sridhar Viamajala is the Founder and CEO of Avani Enterprizes, LLC, an Ohio-based company focused on advancing sustainable technologies for recycling polypropylene waste into high-value, pure materials. A professor at the University of Toledo, Dr. Viamajala leads a nationally funded, internationally recognized R&D program with over $14 million in support from agencies such as the U.S. Department of Energy, NSF, and Ohio Third Frontier. His expertise spans biomass conversion, environmental remediation, and bioprocessing—including pioneering work in algae-based fuels. At Avani, he is guiding the development and scale-up of innovative recycling technologies aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting a circular economy by diverting polypropylene from landfills and setting new standards in resource efficiency.

EZ - FIT - Jomoko Graves

Jomoko Graves is a Toledo-based entrepreneur and inventor who developed the EZ-FIT container cap valve dispenser—an innovative, chemical-resistant tool that enhances the safe, precise dispensing of fluids from 5-gallon buckets and other bulk containers. Made from durable high-density polyethylene, the EZ-FIT features a two-piece ball valve for controlled flow, easy operation, and quick disassembly for cleaning. Designed to minimize spills, reduce waste, and prevent injuries from heavy lifting, it is ideal for both DIY users and professionals handling materials like paint. Graves, also the founder of IDEA Intellectual Property Holdings, holds multiple patents and is known for his inventive contributions across consumer goods and entertainment. Through his work, he continues to support local innovation and economic development in the Toledo region.

CerviStrength Solutions - Dr. Burton Rogers, ED.D., MBA, ATC (Ohio & Michigan), PTA, CSCS

Dr. Burton Rogers, a veteran sports medicine professional with over 40 years of experience, is the founder of CerviStrength Solutions, a company at the forefront of concussion prevention through cervical strength training. Leveraging decades of research in human anatomy, physiology, and injury mechanics, CerviStrength has developed a proprietary system that precisely measures neck strength, assesses concussion risk, and delivers personalized training programs. Under Dr. Rogers' leadership, the company translates evidence-based practices into cutting-edge technology to reduce the likelihood of concussive injuries. His deep expertise in athletic training and injury rehabilitation—combined with his leadership of a multi-million-dollar sports medicine division serving over 50 schools and colleges—positions CerviStrength Solutions as a leader in scientifically backed injury prevention.

SuReLight - Dr. Jayaraman Sivaguru

Dr. Jayaraman Sivaguru is the Founder and CEO of SuReLight, LLC, a company transforming the radiation curing industry through patented, bio-based photoinitiators that enable efficient UV and visible light curing using non-toxic, sustainable materials. This award-winning technology, recognized with the 2021 RadTech Award, reduces energy consumption and enhances safety across various industrial applications, including automotive coatings. In addition to leading SuReLight, Dr. Sivaguru is a professor at Bowling Green State University, where he holds the Antonia and Marshall Wilson Professorship in Chemistry. He is internationally recognized for his contributions to photochemical sciences, serves as editor of a leading journal in the field, and has been honored with numerous accolades, including the Honda-Fujishima Lectureship Award from the Japanese Photochemical Association. His academic and industry experience positions him as a leading figure in sustainable chemical innovation.

EventPin - Matthew Medlin

Matthew Medlin is the Chief Operating Officer of EventPin, a privacy-first event technology platform that reimagines how people discover local events. Unlike traditional platforms that rely on data harvesting, algorithms, and sponsored content, EventPin uses a transparent, map-based interface that empowers users to find events based on their own preferences—location, date, and interests—without manipulation or ads. With a strong background in sales, marketing, and tech innovation, Medlin brings decades of leadership to the role, having served as Director of Sales and Marketing at Estone Technology and co-invented SkyLIFE Technology. He also leads Atlas Automotive Group and supports growth strategy at Ostrich Towne, underscoring his versatility as a business leader committed to building user-centric technology solutions.

By fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and collaboration, the Tech419 Pitch Competition not only supports emerging startups but also stimulates economic growth and encourages the development of solutions that benefit society as a whole. Join us at the Nitschke Technology Commercialization Complex at The University of Toledo as we celebrate the spirit of innovation and witness the next wave of impactful technologies that will shape our future!

Don't miss your chance to be part of shaping the future of northwest Ohio's tech ecosystem!