Ortner Mining and Trading Company (ORTMT) originally was a division within the Republic University where it specialized in mining and trade activities in Ortner and Hed space. As the University grew in stature and reputation within the Minmatar Empire its board of directors grew concerned over OMT's often questionable affairs especially in Hed space, including rumors of unsanctioned trade and combat activities.

The Republic University, in collaboration with Grun Thul, ORTMT's general manager at the time, agreed to a full diversification of ORTMT's asset for an undisclosed sum rumored to be in 100s of trillions of ISK. The University has since distanced itself from OMTMT completely.