EpiPaws

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Overview

EpiPaws is a biotechnology company based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, known for their innovative approach in pet healthcare using epigenetic biomarkers. Founded in 2022 by Andria Beal, EpiPaws specializes in developing tests that estimate the age of pets through epigenetic sequencing technology. The company has raised $25,000 in funding over multiple accelerator rounds and has established partnerships with notable investors such as Pet Care Innovation and FAU Tech Runway.

Recent Developments

  • December 2024: EpiPaws secured an undisclosed amount in an Angel funding round, with investment from famed investor Kevin O'Leary. This infusion is expected to enhance their direct-to-consumer offerings and expand market reach.
  • July 2024: A partnership was established with Hill's Nutrition to innovate further on epigenetic research and improve pet health offerings, signaling deeper integration within the pet nutrition sector.
  • March 2024: EpiPaws experienced significant growth, launching an online platform that allows pet owners to access their test results digitally and track the health metrics of their pets.
  • 2023: The company emerged as a winner in the Purina Pet Care Innovation Prize, which acknowledges startups that demonstrate promising innovations in the pet care industry.
  • 2023: The company launched its Pet Age Test in the market, enabling pet owners to estimate their pets' age with a proven epigenetic marker method.
    • Developed the first-ever biological age test for dogs and cats, which offers an innovative edge in early disease detection and health management.
  • November 2023: EpiPaws was highlighted for its epigenetic age test, which allows pet owners not only to know their pets' age but also to gain insights into the pets' health needs as they age.

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding Date2022
HeadquartersFort Lauderdale, Florida, United States
FoundersAndria Beal
RevenueN/A
ProfitsN/A
Key InvestorsPet Care Innovation, MedTech Innovator, FAU Tech Runway
IndustryBiotechnology, Pet Services
Number of Employees5

Early History

EpiPaws was founded in January 2022 by Andria Beal, an epigenetic scientist who originally focused on marine life such as sharks and dolphins. The concept of EpiPaws was born out of the need to understand and estimate the age of animals more precisely, which is invaluable for pet health management. Initially bootstrapped, EpiPaws spent its early period refining its proprietary pet age estimation technology and building a user base through direct consumer engagement and partnerships with animal care organizations.

Company Profile and Achievements

EpiPaws operates at the intersection of biotechnology and pet health, focusing on providing advanced epigenetic biomarkers to pet owners. The company’s flagship product, the Pet Age Test, utilizes cutting-edge epigenetic sequencing to determine a pet's age accurately to within one year, a vital metric for ensuring proper healthcare protocols are followed. The innovation earned EpiPaws the 2023 Purina Pet Care Innovation Prize, highlighting their impact on the pet healthcare landscape.

  • Major Milestones:
    1. Launching the Pet Age Test, receiving positive acclaim for its accuracy and utility.
    2. Partnering with Hill's Nutrition to expand research initiatives.
    3. Winning the Purina Pet Care Innovation Prize in 2023.

Current Operations and Market Position

EpiPaws continues to enhance its product offerings with a focus on epigenetic-based health assessments. The company is working on expanding the application of its technology to eventually include comprehensive health diagnostics that track disease development and longevity. Their partnerships with nutrition companies and participation in accelerators like FAU Tech Runway positions them strongly within the growing market of pet biotechnology solutions.

Conclusion

EpiPaws has emerged as a pioneer in the pet healthcare sector, focusing on innovative epigenetic solutions that offer distinct advantages in accurately determining pet ages and assessing health risks. With ongoing research, strategic partnerships, and its recent round of funding, the company is poised to expand its offerings to meet the rising demand for advanced pet care solutions. This trajectory not only bolsters its position within the biotech industry but shows promise for substantial contributions to pet healthcare advancements in the coming years.

References

  1. OurCrowd Startup EpiPaws
  2. PitchBook EpiPaws Company Profile
  3. Crunchbase EpiPaws Overview
  4. Tracxn EpiPaws
  5. LinkedIn EpiPaws
  6. Innovation of the World Article
  7. Refresh Miami News
  8. KISA Core Research on EpiPaws