Innovators

At D2P, we work with all kinds of creative individuals on campus to help develop their innovative ideas. Some call themselves entrepreneurs. Others favor terms like “pioneer” or “mad scientist.” Some are still exploring and learning, and some have launched successful startups and licensed technologies. All of them are bright and dedicated, and we’d like to introduce you to just a few of them.

Ben Winters co-founded FoodChain as an undergraduate student in the School of Business. It provides an innovative digital solution to connect growers and consumers. Meet Ben»

Melissa Skala and her team are developing imaging technology to predict the most effective cancer treatments. Meet Melissa»

Bill Murphy is a professor of biomedical engineering and co-founder of Stem Pharm, a company that develops stem cells to aid in drug discovery, cell therapy and regenerative medicine. Meet Bill»

Paolo Desiati and Elena D'Onghia are developing technology to shield astronauts from harmful cosmic radiation during space travel. Meet Elena and Paolo»

Jim Steele is a professor of food science at UW–Madison and founder of Lactic Solutions (acquired by Lallemand). Steele's innovation uses lactic acid to increase yields in the ethanol production process. Meet Jim»

Shawn Michels founded SteadyShot while he was an undergraduate student in the School of Business. The company developed a one-handed injection device for diabetics. Meet Shawn»

Kit Chow and Aditya Singh Parihar are undergraduate students and co-founders of Boosted Chews, a startup that produces bite-sized caffeinated chocolate. Meet Kit and Adi»

Kattia Jiménez is a UW–Madison staff member and the founder of Mount Horeb Hemp, a company that produces CBD oil from locally grown plants. Meet Kattia»

Paul Mross is a UW–Madison consultant on research exploring yoga and fall prevention. He is the co-founder of Happy Wellness, a company that has created a unique mat and communication system to facilitate therapy. Meet Paul»