Saravan Kumar, Ph.D.
Represented Oklahoma State University in 2012 Governor’s Cup
Finalist, Graduate Student Generated Technology Award
Currently CEO of MaxQ Research LLC
What was your winning Entrepreneur’s Cup idea and how have you pursued it since?
Our winning idea at the Entrepreneur’s Cup was to develop smaller, lighter, high-performance cold chain shipping containers for the safe transportation of temperature-sensitive biologics like blood, vaccines, and pharmaceuticals. Post-competition, we pursued this opportunity diligently, developing multiple core technologies with a strong IP portfolio, building robust U.S.-first manufacturing and supply chain operations, and delivering a highly differentiated product portfolio. Today, MaxQ is the largest blood packaging solutions provider in the U.S., helping over 1,200 hospitals transport over 20,000 units of blood every day and 23 million blood samples each year with near-zero product losses, significantly impacting the U.S. healthcare system.
What inspired you to participate in the competition?
The competition aligned perfectly with our entrepreneurial goals at that time, as it provided a structured platform to articulate our vision, receive feedback from experienced judges, and gauge the viability of our concept in the market. Participating in the Entrepreneur’s Cup was a strategic step in our journey, helping us to sharpen our focus, refine our business plan, and build the confidence needed to pursue our entrepreneurial goals.
What do you think is unique about the Entrepreneur’s Cup?
The Entrepreneur’s Cup plays a critical role in the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the state of Oklahoma. It provides the necessary structure, coaching, and platform for students to boldly take their ideas, explore deeply, and develop a business plan. In the last 10 years since my introduction to this competition, I have witnessed many businesses spin out and succeed, adding to the strength of the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. These ventures have created jobs and contributed significantly to the greater Oklahoma economy. The competition is more than just a contest; it’s a catalyst for innovation and economic growth in our state.
