An XcellR8 member since 2017, Brittany  and her team at Lactation Innovations are developing novel solutions to address barriers faced by breastfeeding mothers.  Read on for more about Lactation Innovations and a brief interview with Brittany.

Lactation Innovations is developing a non-invasive medical device to empower mothers to breastfeed. Leveraging infrared and Bluetooth technology, the device will track and share in real-time how many ounces of breast milk a baby is consuming. By providing mothers with knowledge and data, Lactation Innovations seeks to decrease maternal anxiety regarding their infant’s nutritional intake and increase breastfeeding maintenance rates.

Even though Lactation Innovations is a newer company and its device is still in development, the company’s efforts are being recognized throughout the state. At the 2018 Connecticut Entrepreneur Awards, Molkenthin was recognized as the Community Favorite Student Entrepreneur and was the runner up for the Community Favorite Scalable Venture. She also received an Honorable Mention for Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Molkenthin was also featured in Innovation Destination Hartford and The CT Startup Podcast.

How has your involvement with the XcellR8 group contributed to your company’s success to date?

XcellR8 has contributed significantly to the success of Lactation Innovations Llc to date. I have participated in two sessions, and been present for others in the audience. My first session when the company was brand-new allowed me to establish crucial collaborations early on. I was also able to secure mentors and advisors that I utilize to this day. The first session allowed me to practice my pitch, and begin to develop a timeline for the company. I met Deb Santy that day. She is an advisor I cherish and the woman who spiked my interest in applying for a SBIR grant. I successfully applied for my first SBIR grant last year. I also met Arrow Electronics, who I keep in close contact and will use further down the line with advancement of the company. Members of the audience all had various backgrounds, which added a rich value to my pitch delivery. They asked questions and proposed ideas that helped me grow as an entrepreneur. My second session was focused on SBIR. I was able to get helpful tips and advice, comments and concerns regarding my grant proposal. That session was a valuable learning lesson.

How will your involvement with XcellR8 continue to help you in the future?

In the future, XcellR8 can help with creating future collaborations and partnerships. I believe that there is the possibility of amazing connections with various entrepreneurs, engineers, and those of various backgrounds at each session. As Lactation Innovations develops, another session would be helpful because the ‘ask’ is different. I also enjoy being an audience member because listening to others’ pitches and stories helps spark motivation and guidance in my own business story. I also continue to, and will in the future, value Kevin’s guidance and mentorship. He is invaluable.

Can you share any specific XcellR8 experiences you had that were particularly important or influential?

My first session was very valuable and important. Coming straight out of nursing school, I knew very little about running a business or what it event mean to be an entrepreneur. This first session was the foundation of my business career and formed relationships that I treasure to this day. This session was exactly what I needed starting off right out of school and owning a new business. I am so fortunate that I begin my career as an entrepreneur with an XcellR8 session.

Best of Luck to Brittany and the Lactation Innovations Team!

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