Vasc-Alert LLC has developed systems to proactively monitor and manage access sites in hemodialysis patients. An analysis is performed for each dialysis session, and trends are established for each patient that can indicate when a patient's flow through an access site has been reduced and pressure increased. Once the pressure in the access site has exceeded a certain threshold for three consecutive treatments, Vasc-Alert issues a report to the dialysis center staff for prompt intervention.

Assistance from the Indiana Venture Center:

After hearing of the Indiana Venture Center through a consultant and learning more about the organization, Vasc-Alert realized they could use additional assistance. “The Indiana Venture Center is a valuable resource that is cost effective,” commented Vasc-Alert Vice President Douglas Curry.

After becoming familiar with Vasc-Alert and really understanding the needs of the business, the Indiana Venture Center quickly recognized their high growth potential. Through business strategy assistance, the Center challenged Vasc-Alert to look at long-term strategy in addition to focusing on the present. “[Indiana Venture Center staff] help to point out the road ahead and get us thinking long-term,” stated Curry. “Good questions are asked that get us thinking more strategically.”

In planning for the future, the Center assisted the organization with high level financial strategy and planning. Indiana Venture Center 2005 summer Hoosier Fellows created a financial modeling tool that allowed the company to analyze their figures and constantly plan for the future. Center staff continues to assist Vasc-Alert with their financial modeling and structuring.

Through the Hoosier Fellowship program, the Center has also provided insight into the Vasc-Alert marketing plan. Curry stated the Center was “a fresh set of eyes looking at our marketing materials, and new ideas were presented for us to think about.”

After the necessary steps had been taken, the Center helped Vasc-Alert explore several funding options ranging from federal grants to equity capital. Once the proper fundraising strategy was put in place, the Center helped facilitate fundraising opportunities. “They allowed us to present to angels, and they also individually introduced us to investors,” stated John Kennedy, Vasc-Alert President. “They take the issue of trying to find angel money one step closer to where it needs to be.”

“The Indiana Venture Center is an incredibly valuable resource in Indiana for growing high level businesses,” commented Curry. “The door is always open to ask questions and get help – they are very valuable to tap into on high-level business strategy.”

Through a relationship that continues to strengthen, the Indiana Venture Center remains committed to seeing Vasc-Alert become a successful, high growth company. Ongoing communication allows for a mutually beneficial alliance.