Encore Path, Inc.
By Gianna Arnold and Rita Piel

March 2010

Snapshots provides a glimpse into Life Science companies founded by WIB members. Today we learn about EncorePath through a discussion with CEO and Founder Kris Appel. We thank Kris for her enjoyable and informative remarks as the Opening Speaker for the Women In Bio 2010 Annual Dinner.

An Interview with Kris Appel

Q: How long have you been involved or affiliated with Women in Bio? What has been the major
benefit from your involvement?

A: I have met many women who have acted as informal advisors. These women then
connected me to others, some of whom have served as formal advisors and others I have hired
as consultants. The networking is valuable. Also, several workshops focused on specific topics of importance to me, such as IP protection. I learned at lot at these events. Also WIB enabled me to keep in touch with other alumnae from UMBC's ACTiVATE program.

Q: Could you tell me a little about the current state of your business and what you see on thehorizon?

A: December 4 was the third anniversary of Encore Path's founding! Our first product went on
the market in May 2009. We are getting traction in the market place, and what is really taking off is international sales. 2010 will be a big year for international sales. We have some significant partnership discussions in the early stage. If this comes to fruition in 2010, it could be huge for us.

Q: What or who are the influencers on your business decisions?

A: My board is my primary influence but also some mentors and advisors that I talk with aboutvarying issues. Much seems very instinctual. Once I was in negotiations with a possible investor that were taking a long time and I started to think that if it was going to be thismuch work at the outset, what would it be like to work with him long term? I believe I made the right choice in listening to my inner self and stopping those negotiations.

Q: What are the most pressing issues facing your company now? How are you addressing them?

A: Cash flow. I am addressing this by keeping overhead low and being really diligent about account receivables. I am also doing all I can as inexpensively as possible. The other issues are the problems associated with growing rapidly, including the paperwork related to expanding internationally. It is hard to keep up, but I am hesitant to spend the money to hire someone else! I am just maintaining now to do the best I can until the cash situation improves and I can hire others.

Q: What kind of research and development do you see as critical in achieving your company's
future goals?

A: It is important to keep improving the product. I have received suggestions for accessories to sell with the product and want to continue research related to new products. Also I am continuing research on the current device.

Q: Is there anything that you specifically would like to see highlighted about your company in this article?

A: I read something disturbingly interesting recently. The article said that women do not
mentor other women well. The perception is, "I did it on my own so you can too." I would like to change this and would like to assist others. I have been blessed with excellent mentors that have really helped me and I would like to help other women with items that I have learned such as grant writing. Also, if anyone has connections with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other individuals working in the rehabilitation field, I would love to be introduced!

Gianna Arnold, principal at Miles & Stockbridge, PC, is a lawyer providing business and intellectual property counsel to clients in the life-science industries. Miles and Stockbridge. Rita Piel, Associate at Miles & Stockbridge, PC, is a lawyer providing business counsel to clients in the lifescience industries Miles and Stockbridge.