The Black community has played a pivotal role in shaping the biotechnology industry. Their contributions, often overlooked, have driven breakthroughs in genomics, drug discovery, diagnostics, and beyond. At Scispot, we celebrate diversity and inclusion by highlighting trailblazers who are redefining the bioeconomy. Through our blogs, interviews, and partnerships, we aim to empower underrepresented innovators and inspire the next generation of leaders in biotech. By championing their stories, we contribute to a more equitable and innovative future for all.
Below are 10 innovative Black-founded companies chosen by the Scispot team that are leading the world toward a promising future:
Founders: Charles Cathlin, Tshaka CunninghamLocated in Rockville, Maryland, Polaris Genomics develops genomic assays to address PTSD and other mental health challenges. Their flagship PTSD biomarker test, PTS-ID™, integrates genomic and behavioral risk data, providing personalized tools for clinicians to assess and manage symptoms, particularly for veterans and first responders. By driving innovation in PTSD detection and care, Polaris is making mental health diagnostics more accessible and precise.
Founders: Paul Turner, Robert McBride, Vivek Mutalik
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, Felix Biotechnology is at the forefront of designing phage-based therapeutics to combat antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. Their lead asset, YPT-01, is currently undergoing a Phase 1/2 clinical trial (CYPHY) at Yale University, targeting chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in cystic fibrosis patients. Felix is addressing the urgent global issue of antimicrobial resistance through innovative therapies with applications in both healthcare and agriculture.
Founder: Jen NwankwoBased in Boston, Massachusetts, 1910 Genetics uses its proprietary AI-driven drug discovery engines, ELVIS™ and ROSALYND™, to accelerate the development of small molecules and protein therapeutics. These platforms integrate computational and experimental techniques, significantly reducing drug discovery timelines while maintaining accuracy. Their work focuses on addressing unmet medical needs across a range of diseases, including rare and orphan conditions.
Founder: Ashlee WisdomHeadquartered in New York City, Health in Her Hue is a digital health platform designed to connect Black women with culturally competent healthcare providers. Their platform offers tailored health content, telehealth services, and community support, addressing systemic health disparities. By empowering users to advocate for their health, Health in Her Hue is creating a more inclusive healthcare ecosystem.
Founders: Yaw Bediako, Yaw Attua-Afari, David Hutchful, Joyce NgoiLocated in Ghana, Yemaachi Biotech leverages immunogenomics, bioinformatics, and AI to revolutionize cancer diagnostics in Africa. Their research identifies unique biomarkers prevalent in African populations, enabling earlier cancer detection and improving treatment efficacy. Yemaachi’s groundbreaking work is critical in reducing the rising cancer burden in underserved regions.
Founder: Del SmithLocated in Atlanta, Georgia, Clara Health focuses on improving clinical trial accessibility for underrepresented communities. Their platform uses advanced algorithms to match patients with trials based on eligibility and needs. By streamlining recruitment and ensuring diversity in medical research, Clara Health is breaking barriers in drug development and fostering equity in clinical innovation.
Founder: Abasi Ene-Obong
Based in Lagos, Nigeria, 54Gene aims to bridge the genomic data gap for African populations, which account for less than 3% of global genomic data. By partnering with international research institutions, they are expanding their biobank infrastructure and advancing genomic studies to drive precision medicine in Africa. Their molecular diagnostic services and genetic testing platforms provide essential insights for tailored healthcare solutions on the continent.
Founder: Tristan WalkerA-Frame Brands, based in Los Angeles, California, creates science-backed personal care products tailored to underserved communities. Their focus on sustainability and inclusivity has redefined how biotech intersects with consumer products. By addressing specific needs with innovative formulations, A-Frame is setting new benchmarks for personal care and wellness.
Founder: Temiloluwa AdeniyiSituated in Atlanta, Georgia, Nopneu is developing an affordable diagnostic tool to detect pneumonia efficiently. Their device simplifies diagnosis by eliminating the need for expensive imaging tools, making it accessible in low-resource settings. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize pneumonia management and save countless lives globally.
Founder: Nabiha SaklayenLocated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Cellino Biotech integrates laser-based precision engineering and AI to manufacture personalized cell therapies. Their proprietary technology enables high-throughput production of stem cells, addressing scalability challenges in regenerative medicine. Cellino is paving the way for accessible and affordable advanced therapies, making transformative treatments a reality for more patients.
Conclusion
The contributions of Black-founded biotech companies are reshaping the future of healthcare and science. From tackling antibiotic resistance to democratizing access to genomic data, these innovators are addressing some of the most pressing global challenges. At Scispot, we celebrate their achievements and are committed to fostering a more inclusive bioeconomy. Together, we can build a world where diverse perspectives drive innovation and create solutions that benefit everyone.
Stay inspired and join us in supporting the pioneers of tomorrow’s biotech revolution.
