The University of Tulsa and Hurricane Ventures have announced two new start-up investments: CubeNexus, a platform that unites and analyzes disparate and complex spatial datasets, and Lyceum AI, a breakthrough corporate training platform that harnesses artificial intelligence.
“AI is reshaping the startup landscape, driving new opportunities for innovation across all industries. At The University of Tulsa, we are proud to see Hurricane Ventures portfolio companies leading the charge in developing novel AI solutions. CubeNexus and Lyceum AI exemplify the kind of bold thinking and tech leadership that UTulsa fosters, and we are excited to help support their growth through Hurricane Ventures,” said Chris Wright, director of UTulsa’s Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship.
Launched in April 2023, Hurricane Ventures invests in early-stage companies with strategic connections to the university. The fund leverages the university’s knowledge network and resources to spur success across its portfolio. Through the Collins College of Business and Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Hurricane Ventures advances UTulsa’s innovation ecosystem and drives economic growth across the region.
CubeNexus
CubeNexus
is redefining data management by structuring spatial data for AI. Its cutting-edge software enables users to rapidly query, contextualize, and visualize sensor suite and IoT-derived data in a unified 4D framework. By integrating disparate datasets into a common language, CubeNexus allows users to interact with their data using AI and see it evolve over time in 3D. This unlocks cheaper, faster, and more accurate analytics and real-time insights, empowering industries like aviation, energy, and telecom to operate with greater precision and efficiency.
Co-founded by Tulsan Adam Gobbo, a former U.S. Marine and Air Force pilot, and Steven Brandt, a fellow Air Force veteran with software expertise, CubeNexus leverages their firsthand experience in high-stakes environments to tackle critical challenges in spatial data integration.
With a vision to be the data platform that powers augmented reality, extended reality, and digital twins, CubeNexus is setting the new standard for spatiotemporal data. “There’s no room for error in industries that rely on precise time and location data,” Brandt said. “We’re building the foundation to prepare spatial data for AI so businesses can trust their analytics, automate workflows, and make real-time decisions with confidence.”
Lyceum AI
Co-founded by Russ Hamer, an alumnus of UTulsa’s Kendall College of Arts & Sciences, and Glen Platt, creator of the highly regarded “inverted classroom” concept, Lyceum AI has developed a breakthrough AI training platform that’s transforming corporate learning environments
Lyceum empowers anyone in an organization to create and deploy adaptive conversation-based trainings in minutes that allow companies to measure learning and ROI on training investment. Before, after, or during trainings, learners interact with Lyceum’s AI to deepen their understanding while managers have real-time access to a dashboard that allows them to gain visibility into learner comprehension, sentiment, and skill progress.
“We’re excited to partner with Hurricane Ventures as we build the future of training,” Hamer said. “My education at The University of Tulsa shaped me into who I am, and it’s great to re-engage with the university and continue to receive their support.”
CubeNexus and Lyceum AI are the latest companies to receive support from Hurricane Ventures, bringing the total number of investments to nine.
“CubeNexus and Lyceum AI are prime examples of the innovative companies emerging from UTulsa’s ecosystem. CubeNexus is revolutionizing spatial data management for industries like aviation and telecom, while Lyceum AI is transforming how corporations engage with personalized learning. These investments highlight the strength of the university’s network and our commitment to supporting visionary founders who are driving growth in the region,” said Connor Sitton, director of Hurricane Ventures.
Hurricane Ventures
Hurricane Ventures is a collaborative venture between FortySix Venture Capital LLC (46VC) and The University of Tulsa. Hurricane Ventures invests in early-stage, high-growth companies led by UTulsa students, employees, alumni, and strategic partners. Leveraging the university’s resources and alumni network, Hurricane Ventures aims to support visionary founders in launching and scaling new ventures. The fund embraces a sector-agnostic approach while prioritizing the sectors where the university has demonstrated expertise. For more information, please visit hurricanevc.com