The Forge, McMaster University’s startup incubator, is proud to announce the launch of its final Business Incubator cohort of 2025, welcoming five promising ventures into its year-long commercialization program.
The Forge’s Business Incubator is designed to support early-stage ventures as they transition from prototype to scalable, market-ready solutions. Open to entrepreneurs from the local community, the program provides a structured pathway for startup growth through tailored mentorship, strategic business development support, and access to a robust network of industry experts, investors, and advisors.
This cohort represents a diverse range of sectors — including biotechnology, digital health, mobility, and athlete empowerment — and reflects the bold, impact-driven innovation The Forge is known for.
Meet the Cohort
Block Biosciences
Founders: Agata Kieliszek & Amie Phinney
Block Biosciences is developing first-in-class small molecule therapies combined with a companion diagnostic to prevent brain metastasis-an urgent and underserved cancer complication. Built on novel biology and predictive biomarkers, our proactive approach aims to block metastatic spread before it reaches the brain, extending survival and preserving quality of life for high-risk patients. Learn more
MobilitiQ
Founders: Harith Abdulsattar & Hao Yang
MobilitiQ is an AI-powered shared mobility platform that makes urban transportation more intelligent, accessible, and sustainable. We bridge the gap between public transit and private mobility with flexible on-demand shuttles and ride-sharing services, helping cities reduce congestion, cut emissions, and improve accessibility for all. By integrating smart data, electrification, and automation, MobilitiQ is reimagining how people and communities move.
Neuro-Mod Inc.
Founder: Stevie Foglia
Neuro-Mod is transforming the way we treat chronic pain, starting with chronic neck pain, which affects one in five Canadians. We’ve developed tAugmented Reality Sensorimotor Training (ARST), the first rehabilitation platform that uses augmented reality and AI to improve pain and function in chronic neck pain. Patients complete engaging, personalized exercises at home while physiotherapists remotely monitor progress and adjust treatment in real time. This not only improves access and adherence to therapy but also delivers better outcomes and reduces reliance on ineffective or risky treatments like opioids. Our goal is to make pain management safer, smarter, and more accessible for millions of people worldwide.
Powered By ARC
Founder: Gihan Fonseka
ARC Profile is the next-generation digital identity for athletes and creators. In just minutes, it builds a dynamic, AI-powered personal website that showcases achievements, stats, highlights, and social content—all kept automatically up to date. Unlike static portfolios or clunky team pages, ARC Profile adapts in real time, integrating with leagues, schools, and governing bodies to create a verified digital passport that grows with the athlete’s career. It’s simple, powerful, and designed to help athletes get discovered, get recruited, and get ahead. Learn more
Rayyan Therapeutics
Founder: Hasam Madarati
Rayyan Therapeutics is developing a next generation thrombolytic for ischemic stroke. Our engineered, protease resistant enzyme targets clot formation at its source and protects microcirculation, with the goal of extending the safe treatment window so more patients qualify for therapy. Learn more
Program Highlights
Throughout the incubation period, startups will benefit from:
- One-on-one mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and subject-matter experts
- Workshops and training in business development, fundraising, IP strategy, and go-to-market planning
- Access to funding opportunities and investor networks
- Collaborative workspace and technical resources
- Community engagement and visibility through events and showcases
The Forge’s Business Incubator continues to play a critical role in advancing McMaster-affiliated innovation and supporting the commercialization of high-impact technologies.
Looking Ahead
As these ventures begin their journey, The Forge remains committed to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that empowers founders to solve real-world problems and create lasting value.
We look forward to supporting this cohort as they scale their solutions and contribute to the future of innovation.
Welcome to The Forge!