Welcome to Echo Amplified, where we revisit the latest from our portfolio companies, highlight new investments in cutting-edge ideas, and share other recent updates from the EchoSystem.
Entering 2024, we are grateful for those who partnered with us in 2023 and all we accomplished together across energy, life science, national security, and media & entertainment. This past year was filled with investments, milestones, developments, and moments that fuel our excitement for the coming year.
Read on for the latest insights and stay tuned for much more to come.
Wheeler Bio celebrates ribbon cutting
Built within our venture studio, Wheeler Bio officially opened its doors for business and ushered in a new industry in downtown Oklahoma City in October.
Catch me up: We had a great crowd of partners, government officials, leaders, supporters, and friends joining us at Kerr Park to cut the ribbon on Wheeler’s state-of-the-art biomanufacturing facility and on-site quality control lab in partnership with Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (NYSE: CRL)
In the news: Local coverage of the exciting day included an exclusive sit-down interview with CEO Dr. Jesse McCool. Watch here.
Echo named OKC Coolest Office
In November, we were honored to be featured in CBRE’s inaugural edition of OKC’s Coolest Offices. We love our reimagined, light-filled space in the Ziggurat building (“Zig”) overlooking Kerr Park.
Our Story: When Echo was planning to relocate a few years ago, our team was inspired to repurpose a vacant building originally constructed for fitness amenities in downtown Oklahoma City. Following acquisition, we collaborated with architect Aaron Young (Northwest Studio) and Stan Lingo (Lingo Construction) to give the space new life.
At first, we thought we would need to design a new building for Echo’s permanent home. But when we toured this building, we loved its idiosyncratic quality and recognized its untapped value. This is actually very similar to how we invest, so the project had a real resonance for us.
Check it out: Flip through the digital brochure and see all the stunning spaces here.
Prairie Surf launches creative division
In September, Prairie Surf Creative officially launched with CEO Matt Payne at the helm.
The concept: Prairie Surf has assembled a talented team of creatives ready to deliver high-impact narratives, documentarian work, and original content to amplify community and empower storytelling.
Coinciding with launch was the premiere of a documentary trailer for The JEWEL, a project elevating the history of OKC’s last surviving Black cinema and playing a vital role in saving the important cultural landmark.
A growing body of work: Prairie Surf Creative has since partnered with some of the largest companies and organizations in the state to meet their business objectives and marketing goals. This includes development of compelling visual stories and campaigns for the University of Oklahoma Price College of Business, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, State Chamber of Oklahoma, Wheeler Bio, OKC Philharmonic, Visit OKC, and others.
Deka Biosciences closes latest financing round
Our portfolio company Deka Biosciences announced the successful close of a $20 million series B2 to support the advancement of Deka’s pipeline and drug product manufacturing.
What they’re saying:
It is gratifying to be supported by investors who recognize the potential of our innovative science to radically improve immunotherapy treatments by evaluating each patient’s immune system and combining biology with the power of precision medicine.
National spotlight on Oklahoma’s film industry
With an increasing number of hit productions filmed in Oklahoma, including blockbuster Killers of the Flower Moon, the state is getting national attention for its attractive tax incentives, diverse topography, and welcoming communities.
A starring role: As a strong advocate for advancing film in the state, Prairie Surf Studios CEO Rachel Cannon was featured prominently in this Oklahoma spotlight piece from Variety.
Investment in Nucleus RadioPharma
Echo was proud to recently add Nucleus RadioPharma to our portfolio of strategic investments.
Why it’s important: A CDMO specializing in radioligand therapies, this Mayo Clinic-backed innovator is a driving force in developing a resilient supply chain and building solid infrastructure to advance science in radiopharmaceuticals.
What they’re saying:
Theranostic radiopharmaceuticals are offering promise for millions who currently have limited treatment options. As truly targeted therapies, these drugs are proving not only to be highly effective but also to maintain a superior safety profile. This funding advances the reach and impact of these life-saving agents, allowing for therapies that can be mass-produced, and offers hope to those with few alternatives.
Go deeper: Learn more about Nucleus RadioPharma’s fascinating innovation here.