2026 Big Bang! Winners

First Bite

UC Davis

Our device, First Bite, combines the idea of a pacifier and a breathing tube holder into one device, utilizing a modified pacifier and a dual-plane head strap to safely secure the breathing tube. The device is simple to use, quick to install, and its infant-focused design provides oral soothing through the pacifier component, reducing patient discomfort during intubation while facilitating development of the natural sucking reflex. This minimizes oral aversion and enhances feeding habits once patients are discharged. Our improvements to tube securement and patient comfort reduce hospital costs and facilitate long-term recovery."

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Proof Pudding

UC Davis

Proof Pudding is a functional chocolate pudding snack designed to support brain health and memory without sacrificing taste. Born out of a Food is Medicine philosophy, Proof Pudding was created to address the rising global burden of dementia, projected to reach 152M people by 2050, with nutrition serving as a powerful but largely untapped lever for prevention. To address this, Proof is formulated with two bioactive ingredients that support cognition and memory. Proof is made with only clean, recognizable ingredients, is low in sugar, and is a good source of protein, making it suitable for breakfast, post-workout recovery, or a guilt-free treat. By combining nutrition science with a familiar comfort food, Proof makes eating for longevity simple and enjoyable. Our mission is to help people fuel their brains every day through an accessible, delicious snack that fits seamlessly into modern life."

 

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Data Pigeon

UC Davis & Sacramento State

Data Pigeon builds AI-powered monitoring and diagnostics software for EV charging networks. Our platform continuously analyzes charger data, detects early signs of failure, and pinpoints the root cause in real time. Instead of reacting after a breakdown, operators can proactively fix problems before drivers are impacted. By turning raw operational data into clear, actionable insights, Data Pigeon reduces downtime, lowers maintenance costs, and helps networks meet strict reliability standards. We partner with researchers and charging operators to validate real-world failures and deploy at scale for a more dependable transportation infrastructure."

 

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Stork Labs Medical

UC Santa Cruz

The U.S. is in a maternity care crisis – unplanned C-Sections, a major abdominal surgery, significantly contribute to these poor outcomes. Operative Vaginal Delivery tools are an Obstetrician’s last line of defense against emergency C-Sections, but often go unused due to their significant limitations. To address this clinical unmet need, we propose a flexible, handheld, semi-autonomous OVD device to improve safety, efficacy, and physician confidence. We use embedded sensors to guide device usage and provide real-time fetal monitoring. Flexible materials conform to sensitive anatomy while supplying the force needed for delivery."

 

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Pharmstead

UC Davis

Pharmstead helps stop Salmonella before it reaches people by making animal vaccines easier to deliver on farms. Instead of labor-intensive injections, we use custom-designed microscopic carriers that protect and deliver vaccines through a simple spray or drinking water. This fits how poultry and livestock operations already work, so farms can treat entire flocks or herds quickly, with little added labor or stress to animals. Our platform is built to adapt to new bacterial strains and different species, and we plan low-cost manufacturing so pricing works in high-volume agriculture."

Ground Truth Genomics

UC Davis

Ground Truth Genomics provides independent genomic certification for clonally propagated crops. We verify that planting material is the correct variety and assess whether mutations have occurred, issuing a clear Clonal Integrity Certificate that supports operational and legal decisions. High-value clonal crops represent billions of dollars in annual production, yet lack a trusted genomic verification standard. We serve nurseries, breeding companies, tissue-culture labs, and large growers who depend on genetic uniformity to protect yield, quality, and intellectual property."

 

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CuraVoice 

UC Davis

CuraVoice is an AI-powered clinical communication and exam preparation platform for healthcare students and professionals. It allows users to practice realistic patient interactions through voice-based simulations, helping them build clinical reasoning, communication confidence, and decision-making skills in a safe environment. Unlike passive study tools, CuraVoice combines interactive patient conversations with targeted clinical questions for board and course preparation (e.g., NAPLEX, nursing, and PharmD). Our AI evaluates responses, provides personalized feedback, and reinforces knowledge through active learning. Currently used across multiple healthcare domains and institutions, CuraVoice helps students move beyond memorization to real-world readiness—improving exam performance, patient interaction skills, and clinical confidence before they step into practice."

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