Harbor Launch at the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET) is an incubator for early-stage science and science support companies, with a focus on life sciences and environmental science.
Founded in 2016 as an initiative of IMET, a University of Maryland research institute, Harbor Launch connects incubator companies with the resources (people, facilities, and more) of Baltimore and the surrounding region, as well as the University System of Maryland. It offers affordable wet labs and office space, business advising and mentoring, networking, an Entrepreneur in Residence program, open pro bono Entrepreneur Office Hours, and many other resources.
Harbor Launch companies include academic “spinoff” companies and those founded independently of a University. They are solving problems in human and environmental health through the development of products and services. Their technologies include novel therapeutics, diagnostic devices, molecular tools, bioservices, big data-enabled platforms, algae and bioproducts technology, environmental consulting and services, and more.
Why did IMET establish Harbor Launch?
The incubator contributes to and synergizes with IMET’s mission of economic development through entrepreneurship. Harbor Launch companies collaborate with IMET scientists; act as models for aspiring IMET entrepreneurs; and serve as peers for IMET researchers and students who have made the leap into entrepreneurship.
Harbor Launch at IMET is grateful to the Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation for a grant to create the incubator.
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Testimonials from the Harbor Launch Community
“Headquartered in Montreal QC Canada, established a US office at Harbor Launch after a Maryland delegation visited Montreal. Harbor Launch has since provided a great central location to access regional utilities and engineering firms – and also serves as our hub for the US mid-Atlantic area. The HL team continues to provide connections and insights into other environmentally focused organizations and opportunities throughout the region. Being here has proven to be a tremendous asset towards continuing our business growth. “
“The level of support for young entrepreneurs is excellent. Harbor Launch team includes entrepreneurs with expertise in R&D, seed stage grant funding, VC fund-raising , sales and marketing. The success of the incubator is evident from multiple startups at the Incubator, who were able to successfully seek federal and other grants and move to initiate commercialization.“
“We’ve been welcomed into a great community. We’ve started new collaborations with academic labs and companies in the building and the region. As the company has grown, we have been able to scale our facilities. “
“The advice we have received through Harbor Launch has been instrumental in our successful applications for funding from both state and federal agencies including TEDCO and NIH SBIR. Harbor Launch mentors continue to provide insightful feedback on the development of our commercialization plan and growth strategy. “