Congratulations to our 2026 TBMC Winners!

Rob Lalka and the founders of Exactics smiling and holding a giant check for $75,000 from Tulane Business Model Competition.

First Prize: $75,000

Exactics, Tulane University and University of Chicago

Exactics is a biotechnology startup developing fast, affordable at-home diagnostic tests that deliver results without labs, clinics, or long wait times. Beginning with the first at-home Lyme disease test, the company is redefining access to diagnostics through a scalable, capital-efficient platform model.

Second Prize: $30,000

BRCĒ, Michigan State University

BRCĒ is a patented material-technology startup developing advanced polymer-composite materials that enhance stability, durability, and injury prevention across athletic, industrial, and medical-adjacent applications. Its proprietary Lattice-Grip® technology has been validated across every major U.S. professional sports league and is already powering partnerships with globally recognized brands.

Third Prize: $20,000

Nerview Surgical, McMaster University

NerView Surgical is developing NerveSense™, a patent-pending imaging and AI platform that allows surgeons to visualize nerve tissue in real time without dyes, electrodes, or tissue contact. By making nerve identification a reproducible visual step, the technology aims to reduce preventable nerve injuries and improve surgical outcomes.

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