Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance

We are thrilled to announce that Alercell Inc. has joined MPQA as a valued member. Alercell is at the forefront of preventative oncology, pioneering groundbreaking advancements in early cancer and leukemia detection. With a mission to “stop it before it starts,” Alercell integrates AI-driven diagnostics with genetics-based testing to revolutionize early intervention. In 2024, the company made a significant leap by incorporating artificial intelligence into molecular diagnostics, further reinforcing its commitment to improving patient outcomes through early and precise detection. By harnessing the power of AI, precision medicine, and molecular insights, Alercell is redefining the future of oncology diagnostics—ensuring patients receive the best possible chance at successful treatment from the very beginning. “Alercell is a true innovator, disruptor, and leader in the field of preventative oncology. We are committed to making a difference in the fight against cancer and leukemia. ‘Let’s stop it before it starts’ is our mantra at Alercell,” states Frederic Scheer, Founder and CEO of Alercell. Welcome to the MPQA community, Alercell. We’re excited about the impact we can make together. Learn more about their mission at: www.alercell.com | www.Lenadx.com

MPQA is excited to celebrate with Prospera their 40th anniversary. As a founding partner and steadfast supporter of the Montanan photonics and optics industry, Prospera has played a pivotal role in fostering innovation and economic growth. Since 1985, they have been a cornerstone of success, empowering over 11,700 businesses, supporting the launch of 267 new companies, providing over $100 million in financing, and strengthening communities with 37 impact projects across Montana. Prospera’s Executive Director Paul Reichert has been an integral part of MPQA and has served on MPQA’s board since 2016. Support their mission at: https://lnkd.in/gseQk5A8 We deeply appreciate their support and unwavering commitment to progress. Here’s to 40 more years of prosperity and impact.

Join us for the Innovator's Bootcamp with Perkins Coie in Missoula on April 16! This full-day workshop is designed to help Montana startups navigate key legal and funding challenges. This event will be led by experts from Perkins Coie and will cover essential topics such as business entity selection, startup funding structures, corporate governance, intellectual property strategies, and licensing agreements. Time: 9am-5pm (MDT)

MPQA is proud to announce that several of our members participated in the State Chamber Blazing Trails Montana Women in Business Summit. Dana Cuccia, CEO of HealthGuard Systems, Mary Johnson, CEO of Wavelength Electronics, Sarah Lukes, CEO of Agile Focus Designs, and Lisa Wood, CEO of Analog Physics, hosted the panel, “Breaking Barriers: Photonics & Quantum from a Female Perspective.” The panel was moderated by our very own MPQA board member, Elle Gahl, CLP of Shadow Ridge Analytics. The panel highlighted the challenges and successes of women in the field of photonics and quantum with an opportunity to talk about their journey to where they are. The discussion sparked insightful dialogue on the impact of women in the global economy and the importance of supporting women in STEM. We hope this event inspires more women to pursue careers in STEM and drives innovation in Montana and beyond.

We are thrilled to welcome Phenix Fiber Optics to MPQA. As a key player in Bozeman's optics industry and manufacturing, Phenix Fiber Optics brings decades of expertise and innovation to the Montana photonics community. Notably, their CEO, Roger Robichaud, founded Montana’s first photonics company, Orionics, further cementing their place in Montana’s photonics industry. "Our mission at Phenix Fiber Optics is to achieve excellence without compromise in fiber optic manufacturing instrumentation. Our products are manufactured in Bozeman, MT, with quality and design rooted in over 45 years of experience in the fiber optic industry," quoted from Phenix Fiber Optics. We’re excited for the collaboration ahead and the continued growth of Montana’s photonics sector. Learn more about their capabilities at www.phenixfo.com.

April 16! Save the date and register today for the Innovator's Bootcamp with Perkins Coie! https://lnkd.in/gF7SUzBu #Montana #Innovation #Partnership #startup #intellectualproperty #seedfunding

As one of the only U.S.-based companies in the Western Hemisphere that grows custom silicon and germanium boules, TPC company Lattice Materials is a trusted global partner for the most demanding optical applications. From medical imaging to F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, UAVs and semiconductor fabrication, Lattice’s rare crystal solutions power high-tech innovations across industries. ?? Learn how Lattice is leading the way in this article by ElectroOptics: https://lnkd.in/gf8ezPcw #TPC #LatticeMaterials #Crystal #Solutions #Germanium #Silicon #Optical

We’d like to thank the Montana Bioscience Alliance for inviting our executive director, Jason Yager. Dedicated to advancing bioscience innovation, the Alliance hosted a dynamic gathering sponsored by GSK, featuring a panel discussion on vaccine advancements, a biotech showcase with innovative pitches, and the announcement of the Sharon Peterson Scholarship, which supports STEM educators across Montana. The first annual Sharon Peterson Scholarship was given to Stephanie Nadasi and we hope that Stephanie and her students enjoy their new biotech equipment.? It is inspiring to see how Montana’s science community is growing and thriving and organizations such as the Bio Science Alliance are leading the charge in establishing our state’s bright future in the biotech and tech spaces.

Remember to register for the International Pitch Competition.

As a longtime partner and collaborator with Gallatin College, we are so ecstatic that their funding goal has been reached. We would like to thank Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation for their extremely generous donation of $4.8 million to complete Gallatin College’s funding goal of $22 million for an on-campus facility. Gallatin College has been a vital part of the Montanan photonics and optics ecosystem and will continue to power workforce development in Montana with this new facility. For additional information on this great news, read: https://lnkd.in/guQMQXRt Congratulations Gallatin College! We cannot wait to see what your facility will do.