DEARBORN ? Lincoln Advanced Technologies won the startup category at the Midwest Regional final of the $500,000 Global Security Challenge September 21 at the University of Michigan-Dearborn campus, while the small to midsize businesses winner was NIMtech.

Lincoln of Hinkley, Ill., showcased a mask that they developed to protect against biological, nuclear and chemical agents (global security.) The mask used today (e.g. H1N1) is vintage 1940s. Lightweight but flimsy and does not protect eyes at all. The other option is the heavyweight military-style gas mask.

Lincoln?s mask protects all the critical infrastructure workers and their families in the event of a bioterrorism attack or naturally occurring pandemic. Knowing they will be protected, they will also show up for work.

The small to midsize businesses winner was NIMtech of Toronto, Canada. (They were named after a “non-invasive measurement technology” that has a wide variety of security and commercial applications.)

NIMtech uses multi-spectral ultrasonics to see through pipes and containers of everything from stainless steel and ceramics, and a huge materials database to classify what?s inside.

Applications could run from grading of fuel or other materials to make sure it hasn?t been tampered with to detecting different kinds of explosives inside containers ? just the thing for that military checkpoint or baggage inspection.

The two Michigan regional winners now move onto the final round of competition in London this November, competing against eight other companies representing Europe, Asia and two other U.S. regional finals in the $500,000 competition. During the finals, more than 350 of the world?s best security start-ups, investors, government leaders and experienced entrepreneur will be in attendance.

The regional event was co sponsored by the The Michigan Security Network (MiSN), of which UM-Dearborn is a board member. MiSN is a consultant and center of expertise for entrepreneurs, start-ups and established businesses to encourage and promote innovation and commercialization of technology in cyber security, biodefense and border security.

Top contenders from previous Global Security Challenge competitions have subsequently raised over $80 million in new capital. Examples include TenCube, an Asia finalist, which was recently acquired by McAfee in a multi-million dollar deal and Kromek, the 2009 winner, which secured $18.9 million in funding following their triumph.

For more information, click on MichiganSecurityNetwork.Com

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