Capital Connection Company of the Year

Oriel Therapeutics, Inc.

Description

Growing out of research conducted in laboratories at UNC-Chapel Hill, Oriel Therapeutics Inc. is committed to developing technology for drug delivery to the lungs to better treat respiratory and pulmonary diseases. Through the development of a dry powder inhaler (DPI) with its own energy source, the Oriel team aims to provide patients with uniform medication dosage at a cost-efficient price. This will improve the health maintenance of those suffering from asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) allowing them easier breathing and better living.

Reasons for winning the award

During the fall of 2002, Oriel participated in CED’s STREAK program, where they showcased their company to investors from the angel and venture capital communities. Oriel also presented to angel investors, venture capitalists, and strategic investors at CED’s Capital Connection Luncheon in December 2002. Oriel Therapeutics has created a buzz in the biotech community with the company’s unique technology used to help improve respiratory and pulmonary diseases. Oriel has already positioned itself as leader in updating inhalant technology that has been unchanged for more than 50 years.

Quote

"We are honored to be in the elite circle of CED Company of the Year award members. Moreover, our CED relationship has given us access to key resources and networks as we fully develop and commercialize our patented dry powder inhaler technology on a global basis.With a seasoned management team, supported by CED and backed by proven scientific underpinnings and strong intellectual property, to date we have been successful in establishing partnerships, raising capital and meeting aggressive development milestones." -- Paul J. Atkins, CEO

"CED's recognition is a significant milestone in the growth of the company as we accelerate partnerships with pharmaceutical companies and the investment community. The exposure gained through presenting at the Venture 2003 Conference and now being recognized as the company of the year by the largest entrepreneurial support organization in the country will significantly impact our business goals." -- Tom Sekel, CFO

History

The core of Oriel’s proprietary technology, exclusively licensed from UNC-Chapel Hill, was developed through a decade of research into powder dispersion and inhaler design conducted by Oriel’s Chief Scientific Officer, Prof. Anthony Hickey. While completing his graduate studies at UNC-Chapel Hill in Prof. Hickey’s laboratories, Oriel’s Chief Technology Officer, Dr. Timm Crowder, was the primary inventor of the novel aerosolization approach. Dr. Hickey’s longtime colleague Dr. Paul J. Atkins, former director of Respiratory Delivery Systems at GSK, joined the team as Chief Executive Officer, and Oriel was born. The founding team was joined by Chief Financial Officer Tom Sekel, a finance veteran in different industry sectors.

Photo courtesy of BP Studios.

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