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PROVIDENCE, R.I. – May 13, 2026 – Ocean State Labs, powered by Portal Innovations, Rhode Island’s first life science incubator, today celebrated the grand opening of Rhode Island’s first dedicated life science incubator, marking a major milestone in the state’s strategy to build a strong life sciences ecosystem.
Established by the Rhode Island Life Science Hub (RILSH) in partnership with the State of Rhode Island, Brown University, the 195 District, and L&G – Asset Management, America (L&G), Ocean State Labs provides specialized infrastructure and operational support for early-stage life science companies. Located in the 195 District, Providence’s Innovation District, the incubator will support up to 30 startups and is part of a broader, state-supported effort to retain and attract emerging companies and talent while strengthening Rhode Island’s long-term life science capacity, supporting job growth, and attracting private capital.
“The grand opening of Ocean State Labs is a defining moment for Rhode Island’s life sciences sector, and demonstrates the impact of strong collaboration across government, academia, and industry,” said Lilia Holt, Interim President of the Rhode Island Life Science Hub. “This facility provides the infrastructure and hands-on support needed to help early-stage companies grow here in our state—strengthening our economy, attracting private investment, and accelerating the development of innovations that improve health outcomes.”
“Rhode Island continues to invest in industries that support economic growth and create well-paying jobs,” said Governor Dan McKee. “Ocean State Labs helps ensure that companies developing breakthrough technologies can do so here in Rhode Island, contributing to our workforce, our economy, and the health of communities in our state and beyond.”
“Ocean State Labs reflects Rhode Island’s strategy to grow a competitive innovation economy,” said William Tsonos, Chair of the RILSH Board of Directors. “Our focus now is to ensure companies have the continued resources, connections, and support to move quickly from early science to real-world impact here in Rhode Island.”
Managed by Portal Innovations, Ocean State Labs combines fully equipped lab space with venture development support, giving companies access to capital networks, technical expertise, and industry partnerships. It was designed to be a purpose-built environment where companies can start, scale, and remain in the state while advancing breakthrough therapies and technologies. The incubator has already welcomed its inaugural cohort of companies working across oncology, regenerative medicine, neuroscience, and other growing fields.
The initial tenants of Ocean State Labs Powered By Portal Innovations include:
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Lyora Therapeutics, a biotechnology company developing novel genetic medicines for inherited retinal degenerations (IRDs) and hearing disorders
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MindImmune Therapeutics, a biopharmaceutical company focused on neuroinflammation and Alzheimer's disease.
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Nova Design, an industrial design, mechanical engineering, and user experience design consultancy that specializes in medical devices, wearables, women's health, and consumer electronics.
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p53-Therapeutics, pursuing a new class of small molecule therapeutics designed to overcome p53 tumor suppressor mutations in cancer.
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Pax Therapeutics, advancing gene-delivery technologies to optimize healing of tendon and ligament injuries.
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Symphysis Medical, a medical device company developing and advancing the releaze™ Drainage System as a platform for treating fluid build-up in the chest (pleural effusions).
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XM Therapeutics, a biotech developing tissue repair and regeneration platforms for chronic disorders.
“The launch of Ocean State Labs marks a significant milestone for Rhode Island with the promise to strengthen the path from research breakthroughs to real-world applications,” said Brown University President Christina H. Paxson. “With its immediate proximity to Brown research labs, key healthcare partners and the state’s broader innovation ecosystem, this incubator will accelerate how discoveries move from the lab into new therapies, technologies and commercial ventures. A number of these companies originated with Brown research, and we’re excited to see them grow here in Rhode Island.”
“Rhode Island is entering a new chapter for innovation and entrepreneurship,” said John Flavin, Founder and CEO of Portal Innovations. “Through Portal’s network, companies in Rhode Island will have direct access to leading investors, pharmaceutical partners, and strategic collaborators across the country. Our goal is not only to help startups launch here, but to connect them to the relationships and resources that can help them scale globally.”
“The 195 District is proud to help create a home for companies advancing groundbreaking therapies, technologies, and research right here in Providence,” said Caroline Skuncik, Executive Director of the 195 District. "This investment strengthens our innovation district, supports high-quality jobs, and reinforces Rhode Island’s growing position in the life sciences economy.”
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