Edmund Optics has launched startUP, an integrated, customizable program to provide optics and photonics startups with assistance during all development stages. "For years Edmund Optics has worked closely with young companies, often in life sciences, and now because of the dramatic growth in startups and incubators, we see the need to develop an official program to help these companies grow their businesses — on their own terms and at their own pace," said Andrew Lynch, senior manager of inside sales at Edmund Optics. "Whether they're just starting to build a prototype, want a small manufacturing run or are ramping up to full production, startUP provides engineering, technical and purchasing solutions tailored to each unique situation." Companies are provided with access to Edmund Optics' engineering team and can collaborate with more than 250 optical, mechanical, design and manufacturing engineers to supplement in-house resources. Technical support is also available via phone, email and online chat, 24 hours a day. The program also offers customers discounts on Edmund Optics products Edmund Optics is a manufacturer and distributor of precision optics, optical assemblies and image processing components.