Enterprise Forum today announced the 2nd quarter finalists for its
"Below the Radar" Innovation Recognition Program. The winners include:
* R3 Systems Group (Carol Stream, IL) - business model innovation
* Rightfield Solutions, LLC (Chicago, IL) - design innovation
* VasSol, Inc (Chicago, IL) - technology innovation
* Solvent Systems, International (Elk Grove Village, IL) -
product/service innovation
"In selecting these outstanding examples of innovation as finalists in
our program, we are also articulating our definition of innovation and
the multiple domains in which we recognize it," said Darrell Dvorak,
Director of the Below the Radar Program. Dvorak is a partner with Tatum
Partners, LLC and assists early-stage technology companies to become
fundable and then get them funded. He also works with companies of all
sizes in concluding strategically critical transactions, including
licenses, acquisitions, joint ventures and divestitures.
"We strongly believe in the power of innovation to create opportunities
for new kinds of partnerships and business models across traditionally
disconnected business segments," stated Peter Balbus, President of the
MIT Enterprise Forum of Chicago. "By raising awareness of the innovation
occurring in Chicago, we hope to promote active discussions and
profitable partnerships between those segments of our business community
-- and raise the general level of innovation in Chicago and Illinois."
The Below the Radar Innovation Recognition Program showcases outstanding
examples of innovation in Chicago that might otherwise go unnoticed. The
program recognizes innovation in multiple forms, including: business
model innovation, innovation management, technology innovation, design
innovation, and product/services innovation.
The MIT Enterprise Forum of Chicago appoints a panel of judges chosen
from the Chicago business community to select the finalists from the
large number of nominations received. This quarter, the judges included:
David Findling (Motorola), Greg Morris, M.D. (Morris & Gunter
Associates) and David Smith (RPX Group).
Details on The MIT Enterprise Forum Below the Radar 2nd quarter 2006
finalists are:
Business Model Innovation
R3 Systems Group, Tom Kunkel, Managing Partner
R3 Systems is recognized for an outsourcing business model that provides
its customers with a high value alternative to simple liquidation of
obsolete IT assets. The company provides total control of IT assets and
any data they may contain, and the opportunity for customers to recoup
as much asset value as possible. www.r3systemsgroup.com
Design Innovation
Rightfield Solutions, Jordon Dolin, CEO
Rightfield is recognized for its design of Expectation Management and
Medical Information (EMMI), an easy to use medical patient education
program that provides significant benefits to both patients and the
healthcare industry. An online/offline program, EMMI walks patients
through an entire medical procedure experience from pre-op to post-op,
including risks and alternatives. It speaks in plain language and uses
clear graphics; answers common questions; and allows patients to ask
their doctor questions as they come to mind. In addition, by capturing
and documenting the entire process of informed consent, EMMI reduces the
likelihood of malpractice suits. www.rightfield.net
Technology Innovation
VasSol, Inc., Anthony Curcio, CEO
VasSol is recognized for its NOVA (Non-invasive Optimal Vessel Analysis)
medical diagnostic technology. NOVA is the first technology to
non-invasively quantify the volumetric blood flow rate in vessels of the
brain, enabling physicians to more effectively diagnose and treat
individuals who are at risk for or who have suffered from stroke and
cerebral aneurysms. It was developed over an 11-year period of
multidisciplinary research and clinical work conducted at the University
of Illinois at Chicago. www.vassolinc.com
Product/Service Innovation
Solvent Systems International, Steve Rundell, CEO
Solvent Systems is recognized for its Grease Gator aqueous product that
will revolutionize the way industrial parts are cleaned by metal
fabricators and finishers. Grease Gator is more effective, provides
better ROI for customers and offers extraordinary environmental
benefits. Grease Gator cleans up to 57% better and faster than mineral
spirits; virtually eliminates volatile organic compound emissions; is
safe for the operator; and the used oil so pure that it can be sold or
used as-is for a fuel source. www.solvent-systems.com
About the MIT Enterprise Forum
The MIT Enterprise Forum offers provocative new ideas, business cases
and professional networking opportunities to senior business leaders
while showcasing MIT's contributions to innovation and entrepreneurship
in communities around the world
The intent of the Forum is to serve as a focal point for senior business
leaders to learn, exchange views and enhance their ability to manage
innovation. Established in 1983, the Chicago chapter is part of a
network of 24 chapters worldwide. Participation and membership is open
to the general public. No prior affiliation with MIT is required.
Press Contact: Darrell Dvorak
Company Name: MIT Enteprise Forum of Chicago
Email: email protected from spam bots
Phone: 847.295.1575
Website: www.mitefchicago.org
