Firms

Luminate NY

Luminate NY is a Rochester, New York-based accelerator and investment program launched in 2017 for startups commercializing optics, photonics, imaging and laser-enabled technologies. Administered by NextCorps and funded by Empire State Development, it supports deep-tech applications including machine vision, biophotonics, quantum technology, semiconductors, autonomous systems and healthcare. The program provides initial investment of up to USD100,000, currently structured as a convertible note, mentoring and access to industry and laboratory resources, with additional funding awarded through its annual competition. Its portfolio includes Neurescence, which received a USD100,000 initial investment through cohort two. As announced October 6, 2026, former Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer Sujatha Ramanujan is moving to the NSF STELLAR Engine and will join Luminate’s advisory board; Veronica LoCurcio and Damon Diehl continue to lead its operations and technology integration. The program reported USD26 million invested across 96 startups as of October 2026.

Founded: —
Type: Venture capital