The startup scene in United States

Dayton’s startup activity includes technology companies and university-linked commercialization. Nabu Optical Systems describes itself as based in Dayton and says it develops maskless lithography; in July 2026, the Entrepreneurs’ Center described Nabu as commercializing University of Dayton research. (Claims 103713, 103714, 103715)

Niobium identified Dayton as its headquarters in an April 2026 announcement. EE Times reported that Niobium raised a $5.5 million seed round and completed its first chip tapeout in June 2024. Ravee Optics describes its focus as compact optical communications for small satellites; Payload reported its $6 million seed financing in July 2026. (Claims 103721, 103719, 103720, 103722, 103723)

The Entrepreneurs’ Center advertises an initial founder inquiry route and lists entrepreneurs in residence and investment readiness among its technology-startup services. The Hub, a partnership between the University of Dayton and the Entrepreneurs’ Center, lists venture-creation services and advertises a tour inquiry for prospective workspace visitors; tour booking availability was not tested. (Claims 103731, 103733, 103734, 103736, 103737, 103738)

The Entrepreneurs’ Center describes EC Angels as a network of more than 50 investors and requires accredited-investor status for membership. The University of Dayton’s StartUp Office Fellowship page advertised rolling applications subject to remaining office capacity and requires applicants to have operated a business for at least one year; the linked form could not be accessed, and current vacancies were unverified. (Claims 103729, 103730, 103753, 103754)