Congratulations to DUB Biologics, who took second place in the 2022 Inclusive Innovation Pitch Competition. The startup, based out of SUNY Upstate Medical University and the CNY Biotech Accelerator won $5000 of funding for their newly formed company. 

Audrey Bernstein, PhD and Tere Williams, co-founders of Dub Biologics.

DUB Biologics is a partnership of Audrey Berstein, PhD and Tere Williams who have created a siRNA therapeutic that prevents corneal scarring and inflammation, and could revolutionize the treatment of corneal injuries.  

“We are so honored to have been invited to participate in this competition with founders seeking to address issues in society with innovative solutions,” says Bernstein and Williams. 

Inclusive Innovation (or I2) is geared toward aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage startup founders with no requirement for a fully launched business. Participants connected with panels of entrepreneurs, startups, investment, and diversity leaders to learn about their experiences and inform their entrepreneurial journey. Participants then got the opportunity to pitch their idea for up to $10,000 in cash and services. 

“As an early-stage company, we are thrilled to have received 2nd place for our presentation on US09 and its potential to address fibrotic diseases," says the pair. "We would like to thank the organizers, the participants, and of course the Koffman Incubator for their support—It is the first infusion of money into our company!” 

You can read more about DUB Biologics in the fall issue of Innovate Upstate here.