Piersica is a battery technology company focused on the development and commercialization of advanced solid-state lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are designed to provide double the energy density compared to conventional lithium-ion options, enhancing the safety and efficiency of electric propulsion systems for both terrestrial and aerial vehicles. Piersica leverages proprietary technology to create batteries that feature high-rate lithium-metal anodes, thin solid separators, and high-voltage cathodes. This innovative approach not only improves battery performance but also supports a more sustainable energy future by providing environmentally friendly energy storage solutions for utilities and other applications.
Orbital Services Corporation (OSCorp)
Grant in 2024
OSCorp is an in-space services company that safeguards the space domain and builds a thriving in-space economy. OSCorp develops cutting-edge technologies at the nexus of GN and C, AI/ML, LiDAR sensors, space robotics, and lasercom terminals. The company aims to revolutionize space operations by delivering strategic capabilities for the U.S. government and commercial space operators. It also aims to provide government operators with unparalleled situational awareness and enable them to execute tactically responsive space operations to protect strategic government and commercial space assets, and the services they provide, from denial, disruption, destruction, or degradation.
National Air and Space Museum
Grant in 2023
The National Air and Space Museum of the Smithsonian Institution has the world's biggest and most significant collection of aviation and space objects, including all aspects of human flight, as well as associated works of art and archive materials. It operates two iconic facilities that accommodate more than eight million visitors every year, making it the country's most visited museum. The Center for Earth and Planetary Studies is also housed there.
Advisory Aerospace OSC
Grant in 2023
Advisory Aerospace OSC is a management consulting firm that enables aerospace transformations and transactions. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota.
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Grant in 2022
North Carolina A&T State University is so many things to so many people, both in our state and around the country. North Carolina A&T State University is an HBCU. We are a top-flight research university, the largest historically black university (HBCU) in the country, the #1 producer of degrees awarded to African Americans in North Carolina and nationally recognized or our excellence in science, technology, mathematics and engineering (STEM) education. We are a diverse community, bound by intense pride and tradition, with fiercely loyal alumni who hold positions of importance and influence in companies and government agencies across the state, the country and the world. We are achievers, driven by a curious, limitless, fearless spirit that fuels discovery and innovation, resulting in 41 patents issued based on our research, as well as numerous spin-off and start-up companies. We are inclusive and welcoming, with students from many backgrounds and cultures, every part of our state, our nation and countries around the globe. We are passionate, driven by a desire to do more, be more and make more of a difference. Since we opened our doors in 1892, we have focused on giving every student the hands-on opportunities, core knowledge and global perspective that will lead them to make real and lasting change in their lives and the lives of others. At N.C. A&T, we have so much to be proud of, and you can learn more about those "Points of Pride" here. You can also use the links below to learn more about what makes N.C. A&T unique, from our leadership and history to our many rankings and recognitions.
Stoke Space is a company dedicated to developing a fully reusable medium-lift rocket known as Nova, which aims to provide cost-effective and sustainable access to space. The company focuses on creating rockets that deliver satellites in a manner that is low-cost, on-demand, and capable of daily flights. By emphasizing environmental stewardship, Stoke Space seeks to significantly reduce atmospheric impact and facilitate dynamic space operations. With its vertically integrated design and manufacturing capabilities, the company is positioned to accelerate the growth of the space economy while promoting sustainable practices in the aerospace industry.
Xona Space Systems
Grant in 2022
Xona Space Systems, Inc. is a company focused on developing and manufacturing position, navigation, and timing (PNT) satellite solutions. Established in 2019 and headquartered in San Mateo, California, the company is creating a constellation of low-cost, low-Earth orbit satellites designed to enhance navigation services for a variety of sectors, including smart transportation and infrastructure. Xona's flagship product, the Xona Pulsar, delivers high-power signals to support applications such as autonomous vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and mobile robotics. The constellation aims to provide secure, resilient, and precise navigation and timing services essential for the safe and scalable operation of modern intelligent systems.
Circle Optics
Grant in 2022
Circle Optics is a technology company specializing in advanced camera systems. They develop parallax-free cameras designed to capture high-definition virtual reality video in real-time, eliminating the need for image stitching. This innovation aims to accelerate resource delivery, enhance safety in aerospace and surveillance applications, and improve immersive experiences across various industries such as entertainment, autonomous systems, and aerospace.
Torre Space and Power Systems
Grant in 2022
Torre Space and Power Systems specializes in developing innovative electrical power generation technologies for spacecraft, orbiting platforms, and planetary bases. The company leverages magnetohydrodynamics, a scientific principle that harnesses the high-energy ionized plasma emitted by the sun. This cutting-edge approach enables efficient energy production in space, providing critical insights and solutions for various governmental and commercial space applications. Through its advancements, Torre aims to enhance the sustainability and functionality of space missions, supporting a new era of exploration and development beyond Earth.
Omega Hydrodynamics Research
Grant in 2022
Omega Hydrodynamics Research specializes in developing innovative solutions for complex fluid-structure interaction challenges through advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software. The company's flagship product, OMEGA-CFD, is designed for simulating transient fluid-structure interactions, while OMEGA-SW offers a comprehensive numerical model for analyzing wave-ship-bathymetry interactions in shallow water environments. By providing cloud-based CFD software and tailored consulting services, Omega Hydrodynamics Research caters to clients across the marine, energy, and aerospace sectors, enabling them to address specific needs and enhance their operational efficiency.
NanoFlex Power
Grant in 2022
NanoFlex Power Corporation is a Scottsdale, Arizona-based company that specializes in the research, development, commercialization, and licensing of advanced photovoltaic technologies, particularly focusing on thin-film solar products. Established in 1994, the company holds a global license to sublicense intellectual property from its sponsored research programs, resulting in a robust portfolio of issued and pending patents in the United States and internationally. Its innovative technologies include Gallium Arsenide-based solar thin films and organic photovoltaic materials designed for ultra-thin applications. These advancements enable various uses, such as portable and off-grid power generation, building-integrated photovoltaics, semi-transparent solar glazing for windows, and solar films for automobiles and consumer electronics. NanoFlex Power aims to provide high-performance solutions that are lightweight, flexible, and cost-effective, thereby enhancing the accessibility and versatility of solar energy applications across multiple sectors.
Open Source Instruments
Grant in 2022
Open Source Instruments is a manufacturer of specialized equipment tailored for astrophysics and related fields. The company develops a range of innovative devices, including telemetry systems, survey cameras, a two-camera wire position sensor, an implantable stimulator, and an implantable accelerometer. These products empower researchers and scientists to enhance their capabilities in collecting spectra from distant galaxies by facilitating variable-intensity visible and infrared illumination. Through its offerings, Open Source Instruments aims to support advancements in scientific research and exploration.
Howe Industries
Grant in 2021
Howe Industries is a developer of innovative technologies focused on advancing space exploration and terrestrial applications. The company specializes in nuclear technologies, thermal systems, and space propulsion, creating solutions that support the human race's journey into deeper space. Among its projects are systems for space-based power generation, including radioisotope-fueled and reactor-based systems, which facilitate progress to new destinations in space. Additionally, Howe Industries is involved in initiatives such as debris deorbiting and the development of a rover designed for exploration on the surface of Mercury. Through its diverse range of projects, the company aims to enhance capabilities in both space and terrestrial environments.
Lunar Resources
Grant in 2021
Lunar Resources is a Houston-based company established in 2019 that focuses on developing energy generation and space environment technologies. Its mission is to support the economic construction of space infrastructure by leveraging space resources. The company's innovations aim to facilitate the large-scale commercialization of the Moon, particularly in power generation, resource extraction, and manufacturing systems. By enabling industries such as energy, defense, and aeronautics to utilize the abundant resources found in space, Lunar Resources plays a pivotal role in catalyzing the development of a lunar and cislunar economy.
Urban Sky is focused on creating a pioneering reusable micro-satellite system that utilizes near-space balloon technology to collect high-resolution Earth observation data. This innovative approach enables the capture of detailed imagery over entire cities, significantly enhancing the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of remote sensing and weather-related data acquisition. By leveraging advancements in component miniaturization and the unique vantage point of the stratosphere, Urban Sky's Microballoon drastically lowers costs associated with aerial imagery collection, making it feasible to gather extensive data over broad areas regularly. This capability has the potential to transform understanding of urban landscapes and the Earth's surface, contributing valuable insights to various sectors that rely on precise mapping and monitoring.
4D Avionic Systems
Grant in 2021
4D Avionic Systems specializes in providing advanced aviation and aerospace solutions focused on enhancing airspace management. The company offers services such as flight path management, strategic and tactical deconfliction, and four-dimensional prescriptive control, which are designed to improve safety and efficiency in high-density operations. By leveraging these technologies, 4D Avionic Systems aims to deliver a more effective framework for airplane operators, ultimately contributing to a safer and more profitable aviation industry.
Cambrian Works
Grant in 2021
Cambrian Works is a space technology development firm focused on advancing fault-tolerant communications networks for space applications. The company specializes in creating hardware and software solutions that serve as a network provider for both Earth and lunar constellation networks. Cambrian Works offers innovative tools for network management that can function as standalone software or be integrated into its GigRouter, facilitating connectivity and routing within spacecraft. Their technologies are designed to provide flexible, low-latency, and secure network solutions, enabling clients to efficiently implement communication systems that connect to bus processors and various cross-link and downlink terminals.
Apogee Semiconductor
Grant in 2021
Apogee Semiconductor specializes in the development of radiation-hardened power, analog, and mixed-signal semiconductors, aimed at making space more accessible. The company focuses on creating technologies and solutions that facilitate the design and production of semiconductors capable of withstanding harsh environments. By utilizing cost-effective standard semiconductor processes, Apogee Semiconductor enables designers to integrate commercial technology with high-reliability requirements, thereby bridging the gap between these two domains. Their innovative approach provides a reliable foundation for integrated circuits and intellectual property blocks, supporting advancements in space and other demanding applications.
Emerging Futures
Grant in 2021
Emerging Futures is a research and analysis consultancy specialising in two key areas: climate change mitigation and the commercial expansion of humanity into space. The company offers insights and forecasts on technological advancements promising positive futures in these domains, leveraging deep expertise to help clients transform economic systems and facilitate human expansion into the solar system.
Space Domain Awareness is a manufacturer of optical beacons focused on enhancing accountability, transparency, and predictability in space operations. The company provides advanced space object tracking solutions that allow customers to accurately identify and classify on-orbit space assets. Its products are designed to seamlessly integrate orbital information into existing space traffic management systems, catering to a diverse clientele that includes commercial, military, and civil satellite operators. By leveraging these technologies, Space Domain Awareness aims to improve the management and safety of space activities, addressing the growing complexities of space traffic.
Anello Photonics
Grant in 2021
Anello Photonics, based in Silicon Valley, specializes in developing advanced sensors that deliver optical gyroscope performance at an affordable price. Founded by experts in silicon photonics and inertial navigation, the company has created a patented technology known as the Anello SiPhOG gyroscope. This innovative sensor leverages an integrated photonic system-on-chip that utilizes a proprietary waveguide process, which simulates the characteristics of optical fiber within a compact chip. Anello's technology aims to redefine navigation systems with next-generation capabilities, positioning the company as a leader in the mass-market sensor industry. The company has garnered support from prominent venture capital firms to propel its growth and technological advancements.
Epirus, Inc. is a technology company based in Hawthorne, California, specializing in the design and development of advanced defense systems that utilize artificial intelligence and directed energy. Founded in 2018, the company focuses on creating solid-state, software-defined high-power microwave solutions aimed at countering unmanned aircraft systems and other asymmetric threats. Its flagship product, ELECTROMAGNETIC PULSE, serves as a counter-infrastructure solution that can simultaneously target multiple threats, effectively neutralizing drones and swarms. By integrating AI and machine learning with advanced electronics, Epirus enhances the detection and tracking of objects of interest, offering innovative capabilities in electronic warfare and power management for both defense and commercial sectors.
SubUAS specializes in the development of unmanned aerial and underwater vehicles designed for challenging environmental conditions. These vehicles are capable of operating in rough weather and strong underwater currents, making them suitable for a variety of applications. Each vehicle can be equipped with a customized suite of sensors tailored to specific missions, allowing clients to efficiently conduct inspection, reconnaissance, and payload delivery tasks. By leveraging advanced technology, SubUAS aims to provide cost-effective solutions that enhance operational effectiveness for its clients.
Satellite Vu is a developer of high-resolution thermal imaging satellites designed to monitor the temperature of buildings and infrastructures globally. By utilizing infrared technology to capture heat emissions in near real-time, the company provides valuable insights into economic activity, energy efficiency, and carbon footprints. This information aids various sectors, including the energy industry, investors, natural disaster responders, and building operators, in making informed decisions related to sustainability and resource management. Through its innovative satellite imagery, Satellite Vu aims to enhance understanding of environmental impacts and support initiatives in sustainable finance and disaster response.
OWL Autonomous Imaging
Grant in 2021
Owl Autonomous Imaging, Inc. is a technology company founded in 2018 and headquartered in Fairport, New York. The company specializes in developing advanced imaging solutions, including a two-color infrared camera designed for the US Air Force and a cutting-edge 4D camera that integrates 1550nm Flash-LiDAR with thermal imaging. These innovations target the automotive mobility and industrial markets, offering Monocular 3D Thermal Ranging™ capabilities that enhance safety in various conditions by leveraging deep learning techniques to produce dense range maps from heat signatures without the need for external illumination. Co-founded by Chuck Gershman, who has extensive experience in the semiconductor industry and a track record of successful entrepreneurial ventures, Owl Autonomous Imaging aims to revolutionize how sensing technology is applied in autonomous vehicles and other sectors.
Swift Solar Inc. is a California-based company founded in 2017 that specializes in the design and manufacture of lightweight solar panels and systems. The company focuses on developing advanced solar technology, particularly through its innovation in perovskite solar cells, which are engineered to be more efficient and affordable than traditional solar panels. These ultra-thin films are capable of absorbing various parts of the solar spectrum, resulting in high-efficiency tandem solar cells that offer significant weight advantages. Swift Solar emphasizes domestic manufacturing and the use of abundant raw materials, ensuring the scalability of its products for applications in aerospace, automotive, and building sectors.
Rotoye is a technology developer and researcher specializing in multirotor and avionics systems. Founded in 2017 and based in Marietta, Georgia, the company focuses on advancing aviation and aerospace component manufacturing. Rotoye offers a range of electronics and battery accessories, which support clients in creating innovative mobile robotics and electronic drones. Through its research and development efforts, Rotoye aims to contribute to the evolution of the aerospace industry.
Vianair develops an airspace information model to aid in the design and planning of airspace. The company is found in The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in New York.
Skyhaven Systems
Grant in 2021
Skyhaven Systems is a specialty research and development firm based in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, with primary research and development facilities located in Westford, Massachusetts. Founded in 2017 through the merger of Reactive Innovations, LLC, the company focuses on addressing critical needs in the Defense, Energy, Aerospace, and Environmental sectors for various U.S. government agencies, including the Department of Defense and NASA. Skyhaven applies advanced electrochemical engineering and reaction-based chemical processes to tackle complex technical challenges, conducting innovative work in areas such as reactor design, separation systems, and materials development. The firm operates a 4,200 square foot facility for research, development, and light manufacturing, and it pursues government-funded contracts to explore high-risk development areas. By retaining ownership of the technology rights generated from these projects, Skyhaven can commercialize its innovations for non-government applications while providing the government with a royalty-free license to use the technologies developed. This approach positions Skyhaven as a key player in creating sustainable solutions that enhance performance and reduce costs across various industries.
Airity Technologies
Grant in 2021
Airity Technologies is a deep-tech startup focused on advancing power electronics through innovative high-voltage power conversion technologies. The company designs and develops power supply units that are significantly smaller and more power-dense than conventional options, boasting tenfold reductions in size and fiftyfold increases in power density. By creating novel circuit topologies, Airity Technologies aims to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, providing solutions that generate plasma in various environments, including open atmosphere and partial vacuum. Their products cater to a range of industries such as semiconductor, aerospace, telecommunications, and medical, offering compact power supplies that compete effectively with existing technologies.
Ballydel Technologies
Grant in 2021
Ballydel Technologies is a research and development company founded in 2018 and headquartered in Newark, Delaware. It focuses on creating innovative material and technology solutions aimed at various sectors, including space exploration, defense, public health, and societal applications. The company specializes in areas such as nanocomposite design and synthesis, hypersonic materials and manufacturing, as well as pharmaceutical tagging and authentication. By providing advanced materials and technologies, Ballydel Technologies enables clients to enhance existing products and optimize their manufacturing processes.
Endeavos Innovations
Grant in 2021
Endeavos Innovations is a product development and engineering services firm established in 2014 in Clifton Park, New York. The company specializes in advanced mechanical and systems engineering, offering on-demand services that include finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Endeavos focuses on the fields of mechanical, aerospace, and mechatronics engineering, providing clients with valuable insights to evaluate their designs and enhance innovation. Through its research and engineering expertise, Endeavos supports the development of structural and machine designs, empowering clients to improve existing products and generate new ideas.
Vertiq specializes in the development of high-performance propulsion solutions for aerial vehicles and mobile robots. The company’s core product features a lightweight, integrated motor and electronic speed controller (ESC) that includes an embedded position sensor. This innovative design, combined with advanced motor calibration and control software, provides significant performance benefits, such as extended flight duration, improved maneuverability, and enhanced reliability. By optimizing motor performance and controllability, Vertiq enables clients to significantly enhance the capabilities of their vehicles, making it a key player in the propulsion systems market.
Novo Aero Technology
Grant in 2021
Novo Aero Technology, Inc. specializes in the development of Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft. Founded in 2018 and based in Raleigh, North Carolina, the company utilizes a unique lift-generating mechanism that features compact propellers positioned within ducts in the aircraft's fuselage. This innovative design allows for a powertrain that incorporates fewer moving parts compared to traditional helicopters. As a result, it offers potential fuel savings and a competitive edge for manufacturers of helicopters and business jets, enhancing the operational efficiency of modern aerospace vehicles.
Advisory Aerospace OSC
Grant in 2021
Advisory Aerospace OSC is a management consulting firm that enables aerospace transformations and transactions. The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota.
US Air Tech is a company based in Tucson, Arizona, specializing in the development of innovative satellite communication technology. The company focuses on creating a low-cost advanced satellite communication ground terminal and satellite module, which includes an IP-protected Satcom antenna. This antenna is designed to enhance satellite communication capabilities in space by addressing challenges such as high data volume throughput, data rate speed demands, and signal degradation caused by atmospheric conditions. By providing solutions that enable users to receive low noise signals, US Air Tech aims to improve the overall efficiency and reliability of satellite communication systems.
Drone Amplified
Grant in 2020
Drone Amplified, Inc. is a company that specializes in fire ignition management using drone technology. Incorporated in 2017 and based in Lincoln, Nebraska, the company offers IGNIS, a system that integrates with drones to carry a payload of chemical spheres. Upon deployment, these spheres initiate a chemical reaction that generates flames, facilitating controlled burns for wildfire management. Drone Amplified serves a diverse clientele, including landowners, public wildlands, and federal and state agencies. The company's innovative approach enhances safety and reduces costs compared to traditional helicopter-based fire management methods, thereby improving the effectiveness of prescribed burns while minimizing risks to personnel.
Outward Technologies
Grant in 2020
Outward Technologies offers in-space manufacturing and space resource utilisation, which is a burgeoning industry seeing rapid growth. As they develop space infrastructure and human settlements on other planetary bodies,
Guardion is a technology company specializing in advanced sensor technology, particularly in the development of radiation detectors that utilize the quantum properties of nanomaterials. This innovative approach allows Guardion to create low-cost, highly sensitive, and energy-efficient detectors suitable for large-scale deployment, especially in urban environments. The company focuses on applications that demand high sensitivity and miniaturization, providing analytical instruments and chemical detectors that serve various industries, including aerospace, healthcare, and national security. Guardion has received recognition for its contributions to the field, winning multiple awards such as the MassChallenge Gold Prize and the Technology in Space Prize from CASIS and Boeing. Additionally, the company participated in the inaugural cohort of the Techstars Autonomous Tech Accelerator, which is sponsored by the Air Force.
ThruWave is a technology company that specializes in millimeter wave imaging solutions for various commercial and industrial applications. Founded in 2017 and based in Seattle, Washington, ThruWave offers low-cost sensors that leverage patent-pending radar signal processing and GPU-accelerated image reconstruction techniques. Its innovative technology is designed for multiple markets, including robotics, construction, and quality control. By enabling the imaging of internal structures such as walls, ceilings, and floors, ThruWave's solutions enhance operational efficiency and reduce risks for construction professionals. Additionally, its systems assist in inventory verification, shipment validation, and detecting packaging issues, thereby empowering clients to automatically verify proper packaging, count contents, and identify damaged or missing items.
SynMatter is a company based in Orlando, Florida, founded in 2015, specializing in the development of anticorrosive pigments designed for the creation of smart particles. These pigments are engineered to be integrated into a variety of polymers, including coatings, varnishes, plastics, resins, caulks, putties, sealants, and adhesives. By providing advanced solutions for extended metal protection and antifouling coatings, SynMatter serves industries such as automotive, aerospace, and marine, helping to safeguard vehicles, aircraft, and ships from corrosion.
ZIN Technologies
Grant in 2020
Zin Technologies, Inc. is a Cleveland-based company specializing in the design, fabrication, assembly, and operation of integrated products and spaceflight hardware for clients, including NASA and major corporations. Founded in 1957, the company provides a wide range of products and services, including data acquisition, space systems engineering, and specialized power conversion solutions. Zin Technologies develops space flight hardware for applications such as mission planning, complex systems integration, and both flight and ground software development. The company also offers engineering, modeling, simulation, and testing services across various sectors, including aerospace, healthcare, electronics, and manufacturing. Additionally, Zin Technologies supports the entire life-cycle development of aerospace hardware and software, focusing on dynamic analysis and vibration isolation to meet the needs of its diverse clientele.
University of Oklahoma
Grant in 2020
The University of Oklahoma is a public research university that offers a range of academic programs in various disciplines. It emphasizes research and scholarship, engaging students in hands-on learning experiences. It collaborates with multiple industries, including education, healthcare, energy, and aerospace.
Lux Semiconductors
Grant in 2020
Lux Semiconductors specializes in the development of crystalline thin-film semiconductors tailored for flexible integrated circuits. The company focuses on addressing limitations in semiconductor chip integration through its innovative system-on-foil platform, which facilitates heterogeneous integration. This patent-pending technology integrates silicon circuitry onto a patterned flexible silicon substrate, allowing for the creation of densely integrated devices. Lux Semiconductors' solutions cater to a diverse range of sectors, including aerospace, defense, clean energy, medical applications, and consumer internet-of-things electronics, providing designers with the capability to fabricate devices that are not only durable but also lightweight and flexible.
Circle Optics
Grant in 2020
Circle Optics is a technology company specializing in advanced camera systems. They develop parallax-free cameras designed to capture high-definition virtual reality video in real-time, eliminating the need for image stitching. This innovation aims to accelerate resource delivery, enhance safety in aerospace and surveillance applications, and improve immersive experiences across various industries such as entertainment, autonomous systems, and aerospace.
Maverick Space Systems
Grant in 2020
Maverick Space Systems, founded in 2019 and based in San Luis Obispo, California, specializes in satellite deployment hardware and provides integration and launch brokering services across North America. The company develops customized and cost-effective hardware solutions that facilitate end-to-end launch services. Maverick Space Systems manages satellite development and launch campaigns for diverse clients, including university programs, government missions, and commercial constellations. By offering seamless, turn-key services, the company enables its customers to efficiently place their payloads into orbit.
G-Space is a company focused on space manufacturing and the development of advanced materials through an AI-powered software platform. It aims to optimize materials and manufacturing processes by leveraging the unique conditions of space, specifically by removing the effects of gravitational force. G-Space provides rapid prototyping and commercialization of innovative, gravity-independent materials, allowing clients to access a range of specialized products, including heavy metal fluoride glass. Through its technology, G-Space is positioned to lead in the creation and design of next-generation materials that can meet the demands of various industries.
Blue Cranium
Grant in 2020
Blue Cranium develops cutting-edge technology solutions for the commercial, medical, transportation, space, and defense industries. Comsat Architects has been established as a trade name by Blue Cranium LLC.
Volant Aerial
Grant in 2020
Volant Aerial specializes in an advanced aerial monitoring platform that integrates drones, computer vision, and IoT technology. This platform is designed to provide critical data and insights for various applications, such as early detection of forest fires, security surveillance, crop analysis, construction oversight, workforce management, inventory tracking, port monitoring, wildlife management, and natural disaster response. The system consists of a network of autonomously operating hardware components, including drones, aerostats, and strategically positioned towers equipped with high-powered RGB and thermal cameras. Additionally, it features aerial and ground sensors that monitor a wide range of variables, enabling users to access and control the system remotely via an Internet connection.
Aerogel Technologies
Grant in 2020
Aerogel Technologies is a prominent online distributor and manufacturer of aerogel materials, specializing in custom solutions tailored for various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and cold chain applications. The company produces a diverse range of aerogels, including silica, carbon, and polymer-based varieties, as well as a unique class of mechanically robust materials known as Airloy. These innovations allow Aerogel Technologies to meet the specific demands of industry, government, and academic clients. By investing in automation and process innovation, the company aims to provide competitive pricing for advanced materials in the American market, thereby facilitating access to next-generation aerogel technologies.
Stoke Space is a company dedicated to developing a fully reusable medium-lift rocket known as Nova, which aims to provide cost-effective and sustainable access to space. The company focuses on creating rockets that deliver satellites in a manner that is low-cost, on-demand, and capable of daily flights. By emphasizing environmental stewardship, Stoke Space seeks to significantly reduce atmospheric impact and facilitate dynamic space operations. With its vertically integrated design and manufacturing capabilities, the company is positioned to accelerate the growth of the space economy while promoting sustainable practices in the aerospace industry.
Astrolabe Analytics
Grant in 2020
Astrolabe Analytics specializes in battery data management and predictive analytics solutions, catering primarily to the automotive and electric vehicle sectors, along with aerospace and grid storage industries. The company offers a comprehensive analytics tool designed for various stakeholders across the battery value chain, from materials developers to systems integrators. Their platform enables clients to enhance business outcomes, expedite time-to-market, and make informed decisions through customized insights derived from battery data management and predictive analytics. Additionally, Astrolabe Analytics provides consulting services tailored to meet specific client needs.
GelSight, Inc. is a technology company based in Waltham, Massachusetts, focused on developing advanced sensor solutions for precise surface measurements. Founded in 2011, GelSight specializes in a unique sensor technology that captures the 3D topography of various rigid materials, providing detailed surface geometry and dimensional measurements with precision down to single-digit microns. Its flagship product, the GelSight benchtop scanner, is designed to meet the diverse needs of industries such as aerospace, electronics, ballistics, and metrology, as well as applications in universities and forensics. The company's innovative approach allows for flexible measurements across a wide range of scales, enabling clients to obtain highly accurate and reliable 3D data that reveals intricate surface details not visible to the naked eye.
Lunar Resources
Grant in 2020
Lunar Resources is a Houston-based company established in 2019 that focuses on developing energy generation and space environment technologies. Its mission is to support the economic construction of space infrastructure by leveraging space resources. The company's innovations aim to facilitate the large-scale commercialization of the Moon, particularly in power generation, resource extraction, and manufacturing systems. By enabling industries such as energy, defense, and aeronautics to utilize the abundant resources found in space, Lunar Resources plays a pivotal role in catalyzing the development of a lunar and cislunar economy.
Off Planet Research
Grant in 2020
Off Planet Research is a company founded in 2015 and based in Lacey, Washington, that specializes in providing an extraterrestrial research facility for the testing of space technology and the development of innovative solutions for off-world missions. The company's facility is equipped to create environments that simulate the regolith and ices found on the Moon and other celestial bodies. Off Planet Research focuses on designing, adapting, and testing components and processes essential for future lunar and extraterrestrial endeavors. By offering quality simulants and a dedicated research environment, the company aims to enhance mission assurance, improve cost-effectiveness, and accelerate the development of safe and effective technologies for space exploration.
Xona Space Systems
Grant in 2020
Xona Space Systems, Inc. is a company focused on developing and manufacturing position, navigation, and timing (PNT) satellite solutions. Established in 2019 and headquartered in San Mateo, California, the company is creating a constellation of low-cost, low-Earth orbit satellites designed to enhance navigation services for a variety of sectors, including smart transportation and infrastructure. Xona's flagship product, the Xona Pulsar, delivers high-power signals to support applications such as autonomous vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and mobile robotics. The constellation aims to provide secure, resilient, and precise navigation and timing services essential for the safe and scalable operation of modern intelligent systems.
Boston Materials
Seed Round in 2020
Boston Materials, Inc. is a manufacturer of advanced composite materials based in Bedford, Massachusetts, founded in 2016. The company specializes in producing 3D reinforced carbon fiber pre-pregs and offers a patented Z-axis Fiber technology that incorporates vertically aligned carbon fibers. This innovative approach enhances the thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties of materials, making them suitable for various high-growth industries, including semiconductors, aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy. Boston Materials' products are designed to improve performance, efficiency, and reliability while addressing challenges related to durability and weight reduction. The company employs a roll-to-roll manufacturing process with in-line quality control, achieving an annual production capacity of one million square meters.
OWL Autonomous Imaging
Grant in 2020
Owl Autonomous Imaging, Inc. is a technology company founded in 2018 and headquartered in Fairport, New York. The company specializes in developing advanced imaging solutions, including a two-color infrared camera designed for the US Air Force and a cutting-edge 4D camera that integrates 1550nm Flash-LiDAR with thermal imaging. These innovations target the automotive mobility and industrial markets, offering Monocular 3D Thermal Ranging™ capabilities that enhance safety in various conditions by leveraging deep learning techniques to produce dense range maps from heat signatures without the need for external illumination. Co-founded by Chuck Gershman, who has extensive experience in the semiconductor industry and a track record of successful entrepreneurial ventures, Owl Autonomous Imaging aims to revolutionize how sensing technology is applied in autonomous vehicles and other sectors.
Orbit Fab, Inc. is a company focused on developing orbital propellant depots to support satellite servicing operations. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, Orbit Fab creates infrastructure that offers satellite propellant supply in Earth orbit, thereby enhancing the operational capabilities of both existing and new space assets. Its product offerings include the Rapidly Attachable Fluid Transfer Interface (RAFTI) for on-orbit refueling, as well as various prototypes for rigid tankers designed for the International Space Station (ISS). By enabling more flexible fuel management, Orbit Fab aims to facilitate the growth of a sustainable in-space market that supports a range of industries, including communications, Earth observation, space tourism, manufacturing, and mining.
Parallel Flight Technologies
Grant in 2020
Parallel Flight Technologies is focused on creating innovative drone technology aimed at improving safety and efficiency in various applications. The company designs heavy-lift Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) utilizing proprietary parallel hybrid drone technology. This advanced technology includes a novel system that enhances safety by allowing aircraft to remain operational even in the event of engine failures. Through its developments, Parallel Flight Technologies aims to transform the use of drones, contributing to lifesaving efforts, property protection, and environmental preservation.
Aeromutable is a company operating in the trucking industry, specializing in the design and development of aerodynamic enhancement systems. It focuses on flow control technologies that dynamically alter the aerodynamic behavior of heavy vehicles. By utilizing advanced sensors to assess their surroundings, Aeromutable's technology actively changes the perceived shape of vehicles, leading to significant reductions in fuel consumption. This innovation not only improves the efficiency of heavy vehicles but also enhances their maneuverability and safety. Aeromutable's solutions aim to assist manufacturers in achieving notable drag reduction and stability improvements within their trucking fleets.
Lucida Research
Grant in 2020
Lucida Research provides research and development in optical gun sights. Their research and development conducted under this project will enhance scientific and technological understanding of optical beam steering and optical guidance techniques applicable to broad fields of science and engineering, such as astronomy, missile tracking, remote sensing, and self-driving cars.
LiBAMA Power
Grant in 2020
LiBAMA Power, established in 2017 and based in Cookeville, Tennessee, specializes in the design, manufacture, and marketing of advanced metal anodes (AMAs) for next-generation lithium-metal batteries. The company's core business involves developing and commercializing cutting-edge lithium metal battery technology, aiming to enhance energy density without disrupting existing manufacturing processes. This innovation caters to various industries, including consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and aerospace, offering unprecedented mobile power solutions.
Akrobotix is a research and product development startup that specializes in autonomous systems and robotics technology across various domains, including space, air, land, and sea. The company develops advanced autopilot systems tailored for fully autonomous unmanned aerial, ground, and marine vehicles. By integrating multi-modal situational awareness information, Akrobotix creates reliable and reproducible application-specific missions while effectively mitigating operational risks. This focus enables businesses to utilize industry-focused mission planning software designed for specific applications, enhancing the efficiency and safety of autonomous operations.
Howe Industries
Grant in 2019
Howe Industries is a developer of innovative technologies focused on advancing space exploration and terrestrial applications. The company specializes in nuclear technologies, thermal systems, and space propulsion, creating solutions that support the human race's journey into deeper space. Among its projects are systems for space-based power generation, including radioisotope-fueled and reactor-based systems, which facilitate progress to new destinations in space. Additionally, Howe Industries is involved in initiatives such as debris deorbiting and the development of a rover designed for exploration on the surface of Mercury. Through its diverse range of projects, the company aims to enhance capabilities in both space and terrestrial environments.
Clarkson University
Grant in 2019
Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York is the perfect school in which to attend an undergraduate or graduate program. Among the many programs available for study are Aeronautical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Health Sciences, Global Supply Chain Management, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Pre-Law, Pre-Medical Sciences, Social Documentation, and Software Engineering. Clarkson University offers many services to ensure that students have every opportunity in the world to succeed. The campus tutoring services cover most of the programs offered at the school. Group tutoring is offered on a weekly basis. The counseling center is available for students who are unsure of their path and need somebody understanding to talk to. The student health center is available to see to the student body’s health needs. Financial aid options include loans, grants, work-study, and scholarships to those who qualify. When you begin your job hunt, the career center is available to support you with its many resources. Opportunities for internships or co-ops can be accessed there. The many webshops and online tutorials can illustrate how to search for a job. There are also career days and fairs where your future employer may be waiting to meet you. There’s so much to learn about Clarkson University, you’ll just have to contact the school yourself to find out more!
Mstatt develops photonic technologies for the healthcare, aerospace, manufacturing, and defense industries. The company was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.
MITO Material Solutions, Inc. is a specialty chemical company based in Indianapolis, Indiana, with an additional office in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Founded in 2016, the company focuses on developing and manufacturing graphene-based hybrid polymer modifiers and additives that enhance material performance across various industries. MITO's flagship product, the MITO T-Series, is a nano-additive that, when mixed with epoxies or resins, significantly improves the toughness of composite parts by up to 100% while reducing the likelihood of mechanical failure by 80%. This innovative solution allows industries such as aerospace, automotive, and marine to either increase the durability of their products or reduce the amount of material used, leading to cost savings and lighter components. MITO's products are applicable to a wide range of materials, including ester resins, BPA and BPF epoxies, and thermoplastics, making them versatile for use in manufacturing processes involving fiberglass, carbon fiber, and other composite materials.
Improving the world for plants, animals and people by commercializing sensors for fine and ultrafine particulate matter detection. Based on MEMS and Thin FBAR technology. Funded by National Science Foundation (NSF) Seed Fund for America, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), National Institutes of Health (NIH) and others. Finalist NASA Earth Space Air Prize. Winner Cutting Edge Award Shanghai/Yangpu Global Startup Competition. Winner 2019 Red Herring Top 100 North American Companies award.
Airgility is a designer and manufacturer of unmanned aerial systems, specializing in drones that can operate in confined areas with limited or no global positioning system access. The company's product lineup includes the DS-1 Minotaur, a counter-drone system, and perimeter defense solutions. Airgility's drones are equipped with artificial intelligence, allowing them to provide real-time information that enhances decision-making during critical situations, such as disaster response or inspections. Customer inquiries are managed through various channels, including phone, email, and online applications.
PrintFoam specializes in 3D printing services that utilize foamed materials to produce lighter and more cost-effective components. By employing advanced materials formulation and manufacturing techniques, the company creates innovative foam products tailored for various industries, including automotive, aerospace, defense, oil and gas, and construction materials. PrintFoam's approach allows clients to benefit from adjustable foam porosity and enhanced compressive properties, enabling significant reductions in material costs and weight without compromising performance.
Phoenix Tailings
Grant in 2019
Phoenix Tailings Inc. is a company focused on producing primary metal products from mining tailings, with a commitment to sustainability and economic efficiency. Founded in 2019 and based in Woburn, Massachusetts, the company specializes in the recycling and re-mining of hazardous by-products, particularly Bauxite Residue, from the aluminum industry. By treating mining and refining waste as a new source of ore, Phoenix Tailings aims to extract strategic materials essential for various industries, including aerospace, defense, automotive, biotechnology, and more. The company's innovative approach not only facilitates the recovery of valuable metals but also addresses environmental concerns by reducing hazardous waste and providing carbon-free alternatives for metal sourcing.
Squishy Robotics
Grant in 2019
Squishy Robotics Inc. is a company based in Berkeley, California, specializing in the development of mobile sensing robots designed for disaster rescue, remote monitoring, and space exploration. Founded in 2017, the company leverages advanced technologies at the intersection of robotics, mobile sensing, machine learning, and the Internet of Things. Their robots are equipped with a variety of sensors, including visual, audio, chemical, biological, radiological, and GPS, allowing them to traverse challenging environments. These robots can be rapidly deployed by ground or aerial vehicles and are particularly focused on the HazMat and CBRNE response markets, providing critical situational awareness and sensor data to enhance the safety of first responders. Squishy Robotics aims to create a customizable platform that can adapt to dynamic situations, with potential future applications in scientific monitoring, delivery services, smart home devices, and educational tools for a wide range of users.
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Grant in 2019
North Carolina A&T State University is so many things to so many people, both in our state and around the country. North Carolina A&T State University is an HBCU. We are a top-flight research university, the largest historically black university (HBCU) in the country, the #1 producer of degrees awarded to African Americans in North Carolina and nationally recognized or our excellence in science, technology, mathematics and engineering (STEM) education. We are a diverse community, bound by intense pride and tradition, with fiercely loyal alumni who hold positions of importance and influence in companies and government agencies across the state, the country and the world. We are achievers, driven by a curious, limitless, fearless spirit that fuels discovery and innovation, resulting in 41 patents issued based on our research, as well as numerous spin-off and start-up companies. We are inclusive and welcoming, with students from many backgrounds and cultures, every part of our state, our nation and countries around the globe. We are passionate, driven by a desire to do more, be more and make more of a difference. Since we opened our doors in 1892, we have focused on giving every student the hands-on opportunities, core knowledge and global perspective that will lead them to make real and lasting change in their lives and the lives of others. At N.C. A&T, we have so much to be proud of, and you can learn more about those "Points of Pride" here. You can also use the links below to learn more about what makes N.C. A&T unique, from our leadership and history to our many rankings and recognitions.
Labsys is a company based in East Lansing, Michigan, founded in 2011, that specializes in the development of microelectronics and microfabrication technology. The firm focuses on creating solutions for government, industry, and academic partners, primarily aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in various applications. Labsys's technology is designed to control sensors for detecting toxic or explosive gases and to facilitate quality control processes. Additionally, the company offers non-destructive evaluation techniques for assessing the structural integrity of aircraft, as well as microfluidic integration for bio-analysis. Their innovations also include bio-mimetic self-adhesives, enabling the aircraft industry to implement advanced sensors and algorithms for identifying cracks and corrosion in airframes.
Wilder Systems
Grant in 2019
Wilder Systems is a robotics and automation company based in Austin, Texas, founded in 2015. It specializes in developing automation solutions specifically for the aerospace industry. The company manufactures a platform that employs collaborative robots and mobile products to enhance existing processes, requiring minimal modifications to current production environments. This innovative approach enables aerospace companies to improve productivity, quality, and ergonomics in their operations.
Swift Solar Inc. is a California-based company founded in 2017 that specializes in the design and manufacture of lightweight solar panels and systems. The company focuses on developing advanced solar technology, particularly through its innovation in perovskite solar cells, which are engineered to be more efficient and affordable than traditional solar panels. These ultra-thin films are capable of absorbing various parts of the solar spectrum, resulting in high-efficiency tandem solar cells that offer significant weight advantages. Swift Solar emphasizes domestic manufacturing and the use of abundant raw materials, ensuring the scalability of its products for applications in aerospace, automotive, and building sectors.
Rotoye is a technology developer and researcher specializing in multirotor and avionics systems. Founded in 2017 and based in Marietta, Georgia, the company focuses on advancing aviation and aerospace component manufacturing. Rotoye offers a range of electronics and battery accessories, which support clients in creating innovative mobile robotics and electronic drones. Through its research and development efforts, Rotoye aims to contribute to the evolution of the aerospace industry.
Vartega Inc. is a technology development firm based in Golden, Colorado, that specializes in the recycling of carbon fiber, a strong and lightweight material used across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, wind energy, and sporting goods. Founded in 2014, Vartega employs a patented recycling process to transform carbon fiber scrap and waste into low-cost, high-quality products suitable for mass-market applications. The company’s offerings include semi-continuous, chopped, and milled carbon fiber, which can be utilized in thermoplastics, nonwoven fabrics, and molding compounds. By diverting carbon fiber waste from landfills, Vartega aims to enhance the sustainability of these industries, contributing to improved fuel economy and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Sensatek Propulsion Technology
Grant in 2019
Sensatek Propulsion Technology, Inc. is a technology company that specializes in the development of advanced wireless ceramic sensors designed to withstand extreme conditions, such as high temperatures, pressure, and strain. Their flagship product, Smartjet, enables the wireless monitoring of harsh environments within applications like fuel cells and gas turbine engines. The company also offers a solution called Vision AI, which utilizes video pixel data to perform wireless vibration and condition monitoring, providing insights into issues that may lead to system inefficiencies. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida, Sensatek conducts research focused on the synthesis and characterization of various ceramic materials, including nano-rod composites and micro-electromechanical systems, aimed at optimizing energy assets for utilities, ensuring operational efficiency and minimizing downtime.
Drone Amplified
Grant in 2019
Drone Amplified, Inc. is a company that specializes in fire ignition management using drone technology. Incorporated in 2017 and based in Lincoln, Nebraska, the company offers IGNIS, a system that integrates with drones to carry a payload of chemical spheres. Upon deployment, these spheres initiate a chemical reaction that generates flames, facilitating controlled burns for wildfire management. Drone Amplified serves a diverse clientele, including landowners, public wildlands, and federal and state agencies. The company's innovative approach enhances safety and reduces costs compared to traditional helicopter-based fire management methods, thereby improving the effectiveness of prescribed burns while minimizing risks to personnel.
Weiss Envirotronics
Grant in 2019
Weiss Envirotronics offers pre-engineered, custom environmental test chambers, and equipment for industries. Weiss Envirotronics offers testing solutions for all industries, whether they are testing extreme temperatures, humidity, altitude, vibration, or a combination of these. Weiss Envirotronics designs and manufactures temperature, humidity, vibration, altitude, thermal shock test chambers, portable shock chambers, burn-in chambers, custom equipment, fluid chillers, air burn-in systems, SAE dust chambers, combustion air units, automotive test systems, drive-in chambers, conditioned rooms, and forced air ovens.
SynMatter is a company based in Orlando, Florida, founded in 2015, specializing in the development of anticorrosive pigments designed for the creation of smart particles. These pigments are engineered to be integrated into a variety of polymers, including coatings, varnishes, plastics, resins, caulks, putties, sealants, and adhesives. By providing advanced solutions for extended metal protection and antifouling coatings, SynMatter serves industries such as automotive, aerospace, and marine, helping to safeguard vehicles, aircraft, and ships from corrosion.
Guardion is a technology company specializing in advanced sensor technology, particularly in the development of radiation detectors that utilize the quantum properties of nanomaterials. This innovative approach allows Guardion to create low-cost, highly sensitive, and energy-efficient detectors suitable for large-scale deployment, especially in urban environments. The company focuses on applications that demand high sensitivity and miniaturization, providing analytical instruments and chemical detectors that serve various industries, including aerospace, healthcare, and national security. Guardion has received recognition for its contributions to the field, winning multiple awards such as the MassChallenge Gold Prize and the Technology in Space Prize from CASIS and Boeing. Additionally, the company participated in the inaugural cohort of the Techstars Autonomous Tech Accelerator, which is sponsored by the Air Force.
Momentum Optics
Grant in 2019
Momentum Optics specializes in the on-demand manufacturing of premium glass optics, addressing the growing demand for high-quality optical components. The company utilizes proprietary technology supported by NASA to produce custom lenses with precision, significantly enhancing manufacturing efficiency. By employing machine learning and a unique laser-based mechanism, Momentum Optics is able to fabricate multiple lenses simultaneously, thereby accelerating the development process for researchers and product developers. This innovative approach not only reduces costs and improves the performance of optical devices but also shortens time to market, positioning Momentum Optics as a leader in the optical components industry.
Outward Technologies
Grant in 2019
Outward Technologies offers in-space manufacturing and space resource utilisation, which is a burgeoning industry seeing rapid growth. As they develop space infrastructure and human settlements on other planetary bodies,
Manifold Robotics
Grant in 2019
Manifold Robotics is a company that specializes in developing innovative drone technology aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in autonomous navigation. By utilizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) from power lines as a navigational source, the company enables drones to operate within shielded airspace, facilitating automated inspections of utility infrastructure. This capability allows for beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations, significantly improving operational efficiency and reducing the costs associated with power line inspections. Manifold Robotics focuses on creating practical solutions that simplify drone operations and enhance their safety, ultimately contributing to advancements in various industries reliant on aerial technology.
PC Krause and Associates
Grant in 2018
PC Krause and Associates (PCKA) was incorporated in the state of Indiana in 1983. After the successful completion of several small task-ordered contracts with government agencies and Midwest utilities, PCKA was starting to become recognized as an up-and-coming consulting company with highly-talented engineers. It is a high-tech company with a concentration of high-level expertise in the dynamics of electromechanical systems with particular emphasis on power-electronic-based systems of the types to be found in advanced aircraft, ships, and ground vehicles. The company has a well-established reputation for solving engineering challenges through the use of advanced modeling, simulation, analysis, and control techniques.
South 8 Technologies
Grant in 2018
South 8 Technologies, Inc. is a San Diego-based company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of lithium batteries and electrochemical capacitors utilizing an innovative liquefied gas electrolyte known as LiGas. Founded in 2015, South 8's LiGas technology addresses critical safety concerns associated with traditional lithium-ion batteries, effectively reducing fire risk and enabling operation across a wide temperature range of -60 to 60 °C. The LiGas electrolyte enhances energy density, supports fast charging, and is compatible with existing battery materials, making it a cost-effective solution for manufacturers. South 8's battery products, including the Arctic LiGas 18650 cell, cater to a diverse array of applications, including electric vehicles, energy storage, and sectors such as aerospace and defense. The company holds 23 patents in multiple jurisdictions, reflecting its commitment to innovation and advancing the capabilities of battery technology.
Flora Coatings
Grant in 2018
A significantly high volume of non-recyclable waste is being generated every day, either during the cleaning process, or due to ever damaging infrastructure. For example, the amounts of chlorinated pesticides being used for cleaning surfaces is causing serious corrosion damages or the amount deicing fluid being used to keep the airplanes flying during freezing conditions. Now imagine having a bottle filled with transparent liquid that we can spray on surfaces and that transforms into a smart, solid, glass. This invisible coated surface won’t corrode, restores, can’t be scratched, won’t get dirty, remains germs free and can be seen with black light. Remember, 80% germs spreads through touching the infected surface and we can provide 99.9% protection. We are global experts in advanced coatings development and manufacturing. We offer a globally patented, non-toxic, ready to use coating that is registered as medical device with FDA. Coating is offered as easy to use product, tested and validated by independent agencies. Single application of this thin coating could protect surfaces for more than six months. We are targeting $25 billion protective coatings market. Products have been sold to more than 100 major companies operating in aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and public sectors.
Vianair develops an airspace information model to aid in the design and planning of airspace. The company is found in The company was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in New York.
Micro-LAM Technologies, LLC, founded in 2012 and based in Battle Creek, Michigan, specializes in manufacturing precision laser-focused cutting tools. The company's flagship product is the Micro-LAM Optimus T+1, a hybrid laser-diamond cutting tool system designed for ultra-precision machining of advanced engineered ceramics, semiconductors, glass, metals, and other materials. In addition to its cutting tools, Micro-LAM offers feasibility analysis, process development, system customization, and installation and support services. These services include manufacturing setup evaluations, laser absorption tests, hardness reduction tests, sample machining, and value proposition analyses. The company serves a diverse range of industries, including optics, aerospace, defense and armor, semiconductor, and automotive.
Lux Semiconductors
Grant in 2018
Lux Semiconductors specializes in the development of crystalline thin-film semiconductors tailored for flexible integrated circuits. The company focuses on addressing limitations in semiconductor chip integration through its innovative system-on-foil platform, which facilitates heterogeneous integration. This patent-pending technology integrates silicon circuitry onto a patterned flexible silicon substrate, allowing for the creation of densely integrated devices. Lux Semiconductors' solutions cater to a diverse range of sectors, including aerospace, defense, clean energy, medical applications, and consumer internet-of-things electronics, providing designers with the capability to fabricate devices that are not only durable but also lightweight and flexible.
Hinetics provides electrification for commercial regional jets and narrow-body aircraft. They offer services that include superconducting machines, permanent magnet machines, and direct-drive electric machines.
Boston Materials
Grant in 2018
Boston Materials, Inc. is a manufacturer of advanced composite materials based in Bedford, Massachusetts, founded in 2016. The company specializes in producing 3D reinforced carbon fiber pre-pregs and offers a patented Z-axis Fiber technology that incorporates vertically aligned carbon fibers. This innovative approach enhances the thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties of materials, making them suitable for various high-growth industries, including semiconductors, aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy. Boston Materials' products are designed to improve performance, efficiency, and reliability while addressing challenges related to durability and weight reduction. The company employs a roll-to-roll manufacturing process with in-line quality control, achieving an annual production capacity of one million square meters.
Lunewave Inc., established in 2017 and headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, specializes in manufacturing Luneburg lens-based antennas and automotive radar sensor systems. These products are designed for various applications including autonomous driving, wireless communications, drones, telecommunication, aerospace/defense, and specialized research sectors. The company's sensors feature a compact, robust design capable of high resolution, all-directional fields of view, and long detection ranges, with custom-made antennas available in different sizes and operating frequencies to meet specific requirements.
Planck Aerosystems
Grant in 2018
Planck Aerosystems Inc. is an autonomous drone company based in San Diego, California, founded in 2014. The company specializes in developing innovative drone technology, particularly through its Shearwater software, which enhances surveillance and mapping capabilities for various applications, including emergency response and scientific research. Planck Aerosystems integrates artificial intelligence into its systems, enabling drones to operate autonomously from moving vehicles or vessels, both on land and at sea. This advanced vision-based navigation and control technology significantly expands the operational applications of drones across sectors such as security, defense, maritime, and logistics. Planck serves government agencies and industrial maritime operators, providing them with new capabilities to improve efficiency and effectiveness in their operations.
Fluency Lighting Technologies
Grant in 2018
Fluency Lighting Technologies, Inc. is a Santa Barbara-based company focused on developing next-generation, low-étendue light sources that leverage advanced laser technology and innovative materials design. The company aims to create ultra-efficient lighting solutions that exceed the limitations of traditional technologies, offering enhanced control and compactness. Fluency specializes in designing lighting products for a variety of applications, including tactical flashlights, automotive and aircraft lighting, projector and display illumination, medical devices, architectural spotlighting, and retail and museum downlighting. By providing these cutting-edge lighting technologies, Fluency enables its customers to enhance their product offerings, improve energy efficiency, and gain a competitive edge in their respective markets.
Improving the world for plants, animals and people by commercializing sensors for fine and ultrafine particulate matter detection. Based on MEMS and Thin FBAR technology. Funded by National Science Foundation (NSF) Seed Fund for America, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), National Institutes of Health (NIH) and others. Finalist NASA Earth Space Air Prize. Winner Cutting Edge Award Shanghai/Yangpu Global Startup Competition. Winner 2019 Red Herring Top 100 North American Companies award.
Squishy Robotics
Grant in 2017
Squishy Robotics Inc. is a company based in Berkeley, California, specializing in the development of mobile sensing robots designed for disaster rescue, remote monitoring, and space exploration. Founded in 2017, the company leverages advanced technologies at the intersection of robotics, mobile sensing, machine learning, and the Internet of Things. Their robots are equipped with a variety of sensors, including visual, audio, chemical, biological, radiological, and GPS, allowing them to traverse challenging environments. These robots can be rapidly deployed by ground or aerial vehicles and are particularly focused on the HazMat and CBRNE response markets, providing critical situational awareness and sensor data to enhance the safety of first responders. Squishy Robotics aims to create a customizable platform that can adapt to dynamic situations, with potential future applications in scientific monitoring, delivery services, smart home devices, and educational tools for a wide range of users.