MARYVILLE, Mo. – The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) at NorthwestMissouriStateUniversity has entered into an agreement with BlurPort LLC, the University and company announced Friday.
The company was founded last fall by Northwest student Aakash Patel to develop the BlurPort, an innovative secure USB data storage device that operates in unison with smart phones to enhance user verification.
Under the terms of the agreement, approved by the University’s Board of Regents, BlurPort will lease an office in the CIE. Patel said BlurPort will use the space for development and testing. The company also plans to utilize the expertise of Northwest students and faculty for assistance with marketing, business plan development and computer software development.
A prototype of the BlurPort has been manufactured, and the company has entered into agreements with suppliers. Patel says the product could be ready for market as early as this spring and will be available through kickstarter.com, an online platform designed to attract buyers and funding for creative projects.
The fact that the CIE is located on the Northwest campus is a real advantage. With the resources it offers, it was really easy to get up and running. Having an office at the CIE helps with all the aspects of starting a business such as securing funding and intellectual property.
– Aakash Patel
The CIE offers the expertise and location to help accelerate the company to the marketplace. Larry Lee, director of the CIE, said that climate is ideal for helping BlurPort mature.
It is always exciting to see a creative project come to fruition and we are excited to welcome BlurPort to the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship,” Lee said. “The CIE is uniquely positioned to help entrepreneurs like Aakash access resources and establish the relationships they need to succeed in the business community.