Somnair Sleep is developing a first-in-class, non-invasive neurostimulation device intended to open the airway for people with obstructive sleep apnea. The company’s multidisciplinary founding team brings together otolaryngology, mechanical engineering, electromechanical design and biomedical device validation experience, while the Somnair device remains in pre-clinical development ahead of planned clinical studies.
SomniFixSomniFix makes patented mouth strips that gently keep the lips closed during sleep, helping sleepers shift to nasal breathing. Created by a physician who was also a former champion snorer, the company says its strips are made in the USA and grew from a 2017 effort to address mouth breathing, snoring and dry mouth. SomniFix’s design includes a breathing vent and hypoallergenic adhesive, and its approach has been studied by Harvard Medical School researchers.CHEVY CHASE, MD
BRYGGS MedicalBRYGGS Medical develops reusable, FDA-cleared EPAP devices for adults with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, including its hose-free ULTepap therapy. Built around the patented Rashidi-Sleeper valve, the device uses a patient’s own exhalation to create therapeutic back pressure without a blower, power source, or bulky CPAP equipment. Its newer ULTepap 2 adds two adjustable resistance settings for a more customizable fit.AVON, OH
Respair, IncBorn from University of Pittsburgh clinical research, Pittsburgh-based Respair develops airway devices for ventilated patients, beginning with RelianceET, a breathing tube designed to replace the conventional inflatable cuff with soft baffles that seal the airway without added pressure. Founded by physicians Carl Snyderman and Garrett Coyan, the company brings surgeons, engineers, and entrepreneurs together to address ventilator-associated complications. Respair completed hundreds of benchtop tests and received a Phase I SBIR award from the NIH while advancing the device toward regulatory submission.PITTSBURGH, PA
KimbaKimba began with founder Ben Fuxbruner’s personal search for relief from PTSD, nightmares, and severe sleep disruption. The company is developing a personalized sleep-support device that responds to a sleeper’s patterns with precisely timed scent, offering an alternative to passive aromatherapy for adults who have trouble falling or staying asleep.NEW YORK, NY