What unites the diverse group selected to participate in the inaugural ZeroTo510 medical device accelerator?

In a word, entrepreneurship.

That's the common thread that binds the founders of the six startups selected for the ZeroTo510 program in Memphis.

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Ben Tempel (left) is CEO and Dr. Edward Chaum is a co-founder of Nanophthalmics, which is creating microscopic tools for ocular surgery.

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BioNanovations founders Charleson Bell (left) and Andre' Stevenson have developed TestQuick, a technology that uses "bio-nano" particles to reduce the time needed to determine the type of bacterial infection present in a sample.

Some are experienced health care professionals; some are just starting their careers. Some are full-fledged professors at prestigious universities; some are graduate students and research assistants. Some are Memphians; others live and work elsewhere.

"It's inspirational how the spirit of entrepreneurship brings them together," said Allan Daisley, director of innovation and entrepreneurship for Memphis Bioworks Foundation, the organization that houses and administers ZeroTo510.

Created as the first medical device accelerator program in the country, ZeroTo510 aims to create more jobs, boost the local economy and make Memphis a place for entrepreneurs. To participate in ZeroTo510, the startups have to be based here.

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Six startup medical device firms compete in Memphis for fame and fortune