Introducing the 2025 USC and Techstars University Catalyst Class

Sep 08, 2025

Los Angeles (September 8, 2025) – We are delighted to announce the second USC and Techstars University Catalyst class! This pre-accelerator program is in partnership with the USC Office of Research and Innovation in an effort to support startup innovation at USC.

USC faculty, staff, alumni, and student founders will spend 10 weeks elevating their business through expert-led virtual masterclasses, personalized pitch coaching, 1:1 mentoring, and a community of ambitious, like-minded founders. See how they progress at their Virtual Pitch Day Showcase on November 13! 

Welcome to the USC and Techstars University Catalyst 2025 class:

Applixy™

An AI-powered admissions platform transforming how students apply and how institutions review

Avarie Femcare

Reshaping period care with ultra-thin, super absorbent pads and disposable panties specifically designed for women with heavy flow

Biotransport Systems Development

A next-generation, AI-powered, non-invasive diabetes screening platform that detects diabetes risk

CoordiCare

Simplifying the chaos of caregiving by giving families a shared space to organize care, track tasks, and support loved ones with confidence

DataCare

Automating prior-authorization filing by medical providers

FireWarden

An analysis platform that designs and delivers customized wildfire defense systems, converting a homeowner’s existing pool water into rooftop sprinklers and pumps for protection

First Gen X

Empowering academic advisors with the tools and support they need, so every student can access the guidance and resources necessary to thrive in college

FungiFix

Using fungi to clean contaminated soil and transform the post-remediation mushroom biomass into sustainable concrete

Jam

An AI-powered family management platform that simplifies the logistics of modern family life

Nara

Automates administrative workflows for home care agencies and assisted living communities so that people can focus on people

Pali VR

A study platform that merges neuroscience with immersive AI technology to work with the brain’s natural memory systems

Seventh Degree Technologies

IoT-enabled assistive devices that connect to a Remote Patient Monitoring platform, giving occupational therapists new tools to track daily living and support patient independence beyond the clinic

SIER Sidekick

Turns any glasses into smart glasses: a clip-on AI assistant that acts as a live coach, with impact across accessibility, education, and enterprise

Simplest Healthcare

Supports patients with Tourette's Syndrome through TicVision (a tic tracking & management tool) and CoralEHR (the simplest clinical workflow tool for behavioral therapists)

Str3amcore Labs

A data protocol for music and media rights that enables transparent tracking, ownership, and provenance, while streamlining licensing and payments

Textura

An innovation hub for experiences with curly and textured hair

Threadlabs

A modern platform that connects designers, brands, and organizations with vetted, high-quality manufacturers for apparel and merchandise

Tummi

A real-time gut health tracker built into the cap of your water bottle

Veena

AI-powered DAW for musicians

Wellspring

An alternative high-yield savings app powered by DeFi, giving everyday Americans a simple, secure, and transparent way to grow their money faster


Connect with us on LinkedIn for more announcements and learn more about the USC and Techtstars Programs.

Telesha Bowen

Program Lead, Techstars Startup Community

USC and Techstars University Catalyst