Kalm Therapeutics, an Alabama-based biopharmaceutical startup, has won $100,000 in non-dilutive funding through the Alabama Launchpad Life Sciences Track.
Breakthrough Recognition for a Skin-Health Innovator
The award—powered by the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA) in collaboration with Innovate Alabama—honors the company’s development of the first naturally derived prescription patch for eczema and psoriasis. The technology delivers biomaterial-based medicine directly to the skin while reducing scratching, infection, and environmental irritation.
Fueling Growth Through Funding and Mentorship
Founder AJ Singhal accepted the prize along with continued mentorship and access to Alabama’s growing network of investors and research partners. Singhal noted that the support will help the company expand patient treatment and run additional biomarker tests during the next clinical trial.
Kalm’s approach aims to improve the lives of people living with chronic inflammatory skin conditions by protecting sensitive areas and promoting healing.
Strong Competition Among Statewide Finalists
Kalm Therapeutics stood out among fellow life-science innovators, including:
Flexicoat (Mountain Brook) – Developing ultra-fast, self-sterilizing biomedical device coatings.
Gulf Sterilization Inc. (Mobile) – Offering contract sterilization services for medical devices.
A panel of judges—including biotech professional Nancy Wenger Keller, UAB neuroscience professor Dr. Jamie Tyler, and healthcare investor Kellie Clark—praised the finalists for their innovation and impact.
The 2025 Cycle 2 competition is part of Alabama Launchpad’s expanded three-track model, which gives each finalist $2,500 in upfront support and a 12-week mentorship program.
Earlier this fall, Launchpad also awarded $70,000 to Homepoint founders Caroline and Trey McMeans and $50,000 to VRobotics founder Stephane Lee.
More information about upcoming cycles can be found at alabamalaunchpad.com.
About Kalm Therapeutics
Kalm Therapeutics develops naturally derived prescription therapies for chronic conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Its proprietary patch technology targets inflammation, protects the skin, and supports recovery.
About Alabama Launchpad
Alabama Launchpad—managed by EDPA in partnership with Innovate Alabama—is the state’s leading startup competition, offering funding, mentorship, and exposure to high-potential entrepreneurs.
Sign up for the Homely Birmingham newsletter to stay up to date on Birmingham.
