UCT spin-off companies win inaugural Cape Chamber Innovation Award

The Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently hosted its inaugural Academic Innovation Awards in collaboration with the Cape Higher Education Consortium (CHEC). The event celebrated groundbreaking innovations that have significantly contributed to economic growth in the Western Cape.

Two University of Cape Town (UCT) spin-off companies were honoured with the inaugural Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry Innovation Award for Best University Spin-off Company: MariHealth Solutions, a pioneering biotech company specialising in aquaculture health management, and Impulse Biomedical, an innovator in medical devices focused on developing commercially sustainable solutions.

“This award from CHEC and the Cape Chamber of Commerce is a much-appreciated recognition of university spin-off companies in the region, which foster economic growth and strengthen various industry sectors,” said Dr Andrew Bailey, Acting Director at the UCT Research Contracts and Innovation department.

About MariHealth Solutions

Emerging from UCT, MariHealth Solutions has quickly established itself as a key player in aquaculture health. The company leverages proteomics – an analytical approach crucial to advancing human health. Coupled with deep data analytics and bioinformatics, MariHealth explores the complete protein landscape in farmed fish, uncovering biological responses that traditional observations might miss. By understanding the underlying functions and molecular responses in fish, MariHealth aims to ensure sustainable aquaculture practices through enhanced animal nutrition and improved welfare – all while working toward breeding fish that thrive in diverse water conditions.

About Impulse Biomedical

Impulse Biomedical is breaking down barriers to access life-saving medical technologies. Their flagship product, the Easy Squeezy, is a breakthrough attachment sleeve that fits over standard inhalers, reducing activation force by two-thirds. Specifically designed for pediatric asthma patients, it improves ease of use and enhances the overall treatment experience.

Impulse Biomedical’s ZiBiPen is another life-saving innovation – a versatile, reloadable Emergency Auto Injector platform. The launch model was developed specifically for the treatment of anaphylaxis with adrenaline. This user-friendly device ensures a swift and efficient response, buying crucial time until medical help can be reached.