6 S.C. startups join SCRA fold

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S.C. startups in industries ranging from cybersecurity to pet insurance have received funding and support from the South Carolina Research Authority.  

Six companies, including three based in Columbia, have been accepted as SCRA member companies, while two others have received $50,000 acceleration grants from the nonprofit corporation chartered to fuel innovation in the state. 

LokDon LLC, a cybersecurity and software development business founded by Josiah J. Umezurike, uses patented keyless authentication to encrypt data before and after it is shared to the internet. The company, whose clients include the USC/Columbia Technology Incubator, is one of six new SCRA member companies.  

It is joined by Columbia-based Rainwalk Technology Inc., which provides an online platform for pet health insurance claims processing and covers up to 90% of veterinary bills, and Columbia-based Xpress Group Inc., which developed a quantum-proof, multiform data protection encryption service to help companies protect data.  

Member companies receive coaching, access to experts in SCRA’s Resource Partner Network, eligibility to apply for grant funding and the opportunity to be considered for support from SCRA’s investment affiliate, SC Launch Inc.  

Other new member companies include Infinity Collar LLC, a Fort-Mill based creator of portable and customizable pet transport; Offeroo Inc., a Greenville-based startup that provides potential buyers leads on off-market real estate properties; and Ruffian Software LLC, a Mauldin-based cybersecurity company.  

Two Lowcountry startups received acceleration grants. Mount Pleasant-based ADoH Scientific LLC helps companies address and manage mental health issues with science-based digital assistance, while Ladson-based LifeTagger LLC provides businesses with an app that uses real-time marketplace indicators to help companies connect and engage with target audiences.  

Grant funding is made possible in part by the Industry Partnership Fund. Contributors receive a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit.