Akron-based S4 Mobile Laboratories develops compact mobile soil laboratories that use fiber-optic spectroscopy and push-probe technology to map underground chemical signatures in real time. Its Subterra platform spans precision agriculture—measuring soil organic carbon and bulk density at field scale—and minimally invasive forensic searches for unmarked graves. The company has raised $1.6 million in national and state grants and received a patent in 2024 for its all-fiber-optic soil probe design.
Prolific Earth SciencesProlific Earth Sciences develops the microBIOMETER® soil-testing system, a smartphone-based, on-site test that estimates microbial biomass and the fungal-to-bacterial ratio in about 20 minutes. Based in Everett, Washington, the company makes its testing accessible to farmers and soil stewards in more than 100 countries, with kits also designed for university instruction and student research. Its cloud portal lets users store, organize, export, and share soil-test results over time.MONTGOMERY, NY
Teralytic Holdings, IncTeralytic Holdings is a Tempe-based team of soil scientists, engineers, and data scientists building tools for farmers who need a clearer view of field conditions. The company makes wireless soil probes that send continuous readings from below the surface to help growers manage their fields with timely data. Its regional footprint includes engineering in Berkeley, hardware operations in Tempe, and agronomy field testing in Cropsey, Illinois.TEMPE, AZ
Kalix TechnologiesKalix Technologies develops portable molecular diagnostic systems that let farmers and veterinarians test animal, food, water, and agricultural samples on-site in about an hour. Based in Centerville, Ohio, the company combines PCR testing with automated analysis and cloud-based data tools, including a compact unit that can process up to 16 samples at once. Kalix was selected for the AgLaunch365 accelerator and received support through Ohio’s Third Frontier Technology Validation and Startup Fund.DAYTON, OH
AccuStrata IncFounded in 2008 through the University of Maryland TAP program, Rockville-based AccuStrata develops custom optical spectroscopy instruments, sensors and control systems for real-time industrial and environmental monitoring. Its fiber-optic platforms combine optical measurement with predictive modeling and machine learning, while the company takes projects from early concepts through prototypes, field validation and commercialization. AccuStrata’s patented work includes AtOMS, a system for monitoring thin-film deposition and etching, and the company has developed technology for applications ranging from solar manufacturing to portable water testing.ROCKVILLE, MD