National Science Foundation

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency established in 1950 and based in Alexandria, Virginia. It is dedicated to supporting research and education in science and engineering across a wide range of disciplines. The NSF provides significant non-dilutive funding, up to $1.5 million, to startups and small businesses through its America's Seed Fund initiative, which is part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program mandated by Congress. With an operating budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF is committed to advancing fundamental research and education, thus fostering innovation and technological development in the United States.

James Donlon

Program Director

Debasis Majumdar

Program Director

Graciela Narcho

Staff Associate

Sethuraman Panchanathan

Director

Past deals in LED

Future Semiconductor Business

Grant in 2022
Future Semiconductor Business specializes in the development of advanced bandgap semiconductors, particularly focusing on those used in light-emitting diodes. The company has innovated a GaN substrate that offers infinite reuse of the parent wafer and facilitates rapid layer release. Additionally, it provides two-dimensional material-based layer transfer technology, enabling epitaxial growth on graphene and seamless transfer to host substrates. This process allows clients to produce high-quality, single-crystalline semiconductors on graphene, ultimately enhancing performance and reducing costs in semiconductor manufacturing.

NanoPattern Technologies

Grant in 2021
NanoPattern Technologies, founded in 2019 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in the development of photopatternable quantum dot formulations aimed at advancing display technology. The company focuses on creating nanoparticle inks for use in Quantum dot-MicroLED and quantum dots-organic light-emitting diode display systems. Its patented resin-free nanoparticle lithography enables the precise patterning of high-resolution quantum dot downconverter layers, facilitating the production of advanced display systems for various applications, including televisions, smartphones, wearables, augmented reality, and virtual reality.

Lucendi

Grant in 2021
Lucendi is a technology company specializing in AI-enabled smart measurement platforms focused on micro-object detection and characterization. The company’s innovative technology portfolio combines computational microscopy and holographic imaging with advanced image processing, big data, and machine learning techniques. This robust approach allows Lucendi to offer versatile applications across various industries, enhancing efficiency and cost-effectiveness for its clients. Additionally, Lucendi provides a range of products related to lighting, electrical materials, solar energy systems, and electrical sockets, further diversifying its offerings in the technology and energy sectors.

Phosio

Grant in 2021
Phosio specializes in producing unique chemicals that facilitate the creation of metal oxide thin films using ultraviolet (UV) light at very low temperatures. These metal oxides are utilized across various industries, including semiconductors, batteries, optical coatings, and optoelectronic devices such as displays and solar cells. Additionally, Phosio develops photoresist materials designed to manufacture high aspect ratio nanostructures, focusing on low-temperature production of high-refractive-index optical coatings that are UV curable, transparent, and robust. These advancements support the tech hardware industry in developing smart devices for components like augmented reality, organic light-emitting diode (OLED), and light-emitting diode (LED) technologies.

Terecircuits

Grant in 2020
Terecircuits Corporation is a materials and processes developer focused on micro assembly and mass transfer for displays and advanced electronics. Established in 2015 and based in Mountain View, California, the company specializes in advanced polymers, encapsulation materials, and liquid metal interconnects. Terecircuits is known for its innovative photo-polymer mass transfer techniques, particularly for MicroLED applications in automotive and augmented/virtual reality environments. Additionally, the company designs new materials and methodologies for systems in package manufacturing, catering to the Internet of Things and health technology sectors. By offering novel circuit fabrication and assembly techniques, Terecircuits enables industries such as displays, electronics, and semiconductors to create products that are lighter, more efficient, and cost-effective.

NanoPattern Technologies

Grant in 2019
NanoPattern Technologies, founded in 2019 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in the development of photopatternable quantum dot formulations aimed at advancing display technology. The company focuses on creating nanoparticle inks for use in Quantum dot-MicroLED and quantum dots-organic light-emitting diode display systems. Its patented resin-free nanoparticle lithography enables the precise patterning of high-resolution quantum dot downconverter layers, facilitating the production of advanced display systems for various applications, including televisions, smartphones, wearables, augmented reality, and virtual reality.

Allumia

Grant in 2019
Allumia LLC, established in 2013 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, specializes in lighting upgrade services for commercial markets. The company evaluates existing lighting systems, proposes energy-efficient designs, installs upgraded hardware, and provides ongoing maintenance. Allumia serves diverse sectors including commercial, athletic, automotive, and industrial clients nationwide through its offices in Seattle, Los Angeles, and Durham. Its unique Energy Efficiency-as-a-Service model optimizes project financing, development, metering, and maintenance via a proprietary software and IoT platform, enabling clients to achieve significant cost savings and improved energy efficiency.

QLEDCures

Grant in 2019
QLEDCures is a medical technology company developing quantum dot light-emitting devices (QLEDs) for light-based medical treatments. Their innovative QLEDs aim to replace expensive and bulky lasers and LED systems with wearable, flexible devices, enabling new treatment options and expanding access to photobiomodulation and photodynamic therapy.

Lucendi

Grant in 2019
Lucendi is a technology company specializing in AI-enabled smart measurement platforms focused on micro-object detection and characterization. The company’s innovative technology portfolio combines computational microscopy and holographic imaging with advanced image processing, big data, and machine learning techniques. This robust approach allows Lucendi to offer versatile applications across various industries, enhancing efficiency and cost-effectiveness for its clients. Additionally, Lucendi provides a range of products related to lighting, electrical materials, solar energy systems, and electrical sockets, further diversifying its offerings in the technology and energy sectors.

Helux Technologies

Grant in 2018
Helux Technologies specializes in the development of advanced solid-state lighting systems that incorporate optical microsystems technology. The company focuses on creating personalized illumination solutions that adapt to various environments, including homes and workplaces. By utilizing controllable micro-mirrors in their lighting systems, Helux Technologies allows users to electronically adjust light position, brightness, and illumination area. This innovative approach not only enhances the user experience but also promotes energy efficiency, productivity, and overall well-being. Through its cutting-edge technology, Helux Technologies aims to redefine how light is utilized in everyday settings.

SelfArray

Grant in 2018
SelfArray, founded in 2015 and based in Troy, New York, specializes in directed self-assembly technology that streamlines the assembly of chip-on-board (CoB) LED displays into pixel arrays. By utilizing diamagnetic levitation, SelfArray's innovative approach allows for the rapid and cost-effective assembly of millions of LEDs, facilitating their transfer to final printed circuit boards for bonding in parallel. This technology not only reduces costs for direct-view LED display manufacturers but also supports the industry's transition to more economical, unpackaged LED solutions.

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.

Lucent Optics

Grant in 2017
Lucent Optics, Inc. is a Sacramento, California-based company that specializes in the development and manufacture of solar energy-powered light-emitting diode (LED) panels and related products. Founded in 2012, the company focuses on innovative optical technologies designed to enhance solar energy harvesting and improve energy efficiency in lighting. Its product offerings include flexible LED lighting panels, light couplings for LCD displays, solar array concentrators, daylight harvesting materials, retro-reflective sheeting, daylight directing window films, and Panaglo, a daylight harvesting and glare-control window panel. Lucent Optics employs a sophisticated methodology for idea creation, critical evaluation of competing approaches, and proof-of-concept validation to minimize development costs and streamline the transition from invention to market-ready products. By collaborating with corporate partners and industry stakeholders, the company aims to effectively bring its technologies to high-growth markets.

Smart Material Solutions

Grant in 2017
Smart Material Solutions specializes in advanced nanomanufacturing through its patented process known as Nanocoining. This innovative technique enables the creation of seamless cylindrical molds for roll-to-roll nanoimprint lithography, allowing for scalable production of nanopatterned surfaces. The company's technology enhances the functionality of various advanced coatings, producing anti-reflective and self-cleaning films suitable for applications in displays, solar panels, solid-state lighting, and windows. By utilizing Nanocoining, Smart Material Solutions helps clients improve optical performance by reducing glare on transparent surfaces, maximizing light transmission through screens and solar panels, and ensuring surfaces remain clean and dry. The company is positioned at the forefront of nanotechnology, offering solutions that meet the growing demand for high-performance materials in diverse industries.

SelfArray

Grant in 2016
SelfArray, founded in 2015 and based in Troy, New York, specializes in directed self-assembly technology that streamlines the assembly of chip-on-board (CoB) LED displays into pixel arrays. By utilizing diamagnetic levitation, SelfArray's innovative approach allows for the rapid and cost-effective assembly of millions of LEDs, facilitating their transfer to final printed circuit boards for bonding in parallel. This technology not only reduces costs for direct-view LED display manufacturers but also supports the industry's transition to more economical, unpackaged LED solutions.

Fluency Lighting Technologies

Grant in 2015
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.

Tivra

Grant in 2015
Tivra Corporation operates in the electronics market focussing on microelectronics, semiconductor, and LED products. The company was incorporated in 2012 and is based in Pleasant Hill, California.

EIE Materials

Grant in 2015
EIE Materials specializes in nanotechnology and LED phosphors. EIE Materials was founded in 2013 by Jonathan Melman and Rob Nordsell.

Smart Material Solutions

Grant in 2015
Smart Material Solutions specializes in advanced nanomanufacturing through its patented process known as Nanocoining. This innovative technique enables the creation of seamless cylindrical molds for roll-to-roll nanoimprint lithography, allowing for scalable production of nanopatterned surfaces. The company's technology enhances the functionality of various advanced coatings, producing anti-reflective and self-cleaning films suitable for applications in displays, solar panels, solid-state lighting, and windows. By utilizing Nanocoining, Smart Material Solutions helps clients improve optical performance by reducing glare on transparent surfaces, maximizing light transmission through screens and solar panels, and ensuring surfaces remain clean and dry. The company is positioned at the forefront of nanotechnology, offering solutions that meet the growing demand for high-performance materials in diverse industries.

EGW Technologies

Grant in 2014
EGW Technologies offers technology development and product design in industries including medical devices, laboratory equipment, avionics, defense, robotics, consumer electronics, sports equipment, transportation, industrial controls, and lighting.

Glint Lighting

Grant in 2014
Glint Lighting is a manufacturer specializing in architectural lighting fixtures. Their products, designed for consumer spaces, excel in providing optimal light utilization and visual comfort, blending seamlessly into their surroundings without drawing unnecessary attention. The fixtures are slim and adjustable, preventing glare, allowing architects and designers to create well-lit, aesthetically pleasing environments that promote occupant well-being.

Tivra

Grant in 2014
Tivra Corporation operates in the electronics market focussing on microelectronics, semiconductor, and LED products. The company was incorporated in 2012 and is based in Pleasant Hill, California.

Nanophotonica

Grant in 2014
NanoPhotonica Inc. is a manufacturer specializing in nanomaterials and production techniques for the display, solar panel, and electronic device industries. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Lake Mary, Florida, with a research lab in Gainesville, the company focuses on enhancing the characteristics of optoelectronic devices. Its innovative materials serve as barriers to moisture and oxygen permeation, thereby preventing the premature degradation of organic material layers and significantly extending the lifespan of electronic devices. Additionally, NanoPhotonica produces QLED displays that deliver pure and vibrant colors, utilizing low-cost, high-throughput production methods that reduce material waste and enable affordable pricing for consumers.

EIE Materials

Grant in 2014
EIE Materials specializes in nanotechnology and LED phosphors. EIE Materials was founded in 2013 by Jonathan Melman and Rob Nordsell.

EIE Materials

Grant in 2013
EIE Materials specializes in nanotechnology and LED phosphors. EIE Materials was founded in 2013 by Jonathan Melman and Rob Nordsell.

Dot Metrics Technologies

Grant in 2013
Currently UV treatment of fluids is almost exclusively carried out using Low and Medium Pressure lamp technology that incorporate mercury as a generation source for UV photons. While UV treatment is replacing traditional chemical treatment in many applications, it still has a number of drawbacks. UV light-emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) provide solutions to most of these drawbacks.

Lightwave Photonics

Grant in 2013
Lightwave Photonics provides the commercially available conductive, reflective, and lattice-matched templates for subsequent epitaxial growth of gallium nitride-based LEDs.

Nanophotonica

Grant in 2012
NanoPhotonica Inc. is a manufacturer specializing in nanomaterials and production techniques for the display, solar panel, and electronic device industries. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Lake Mary, Florida, with a research lab in Gainesville, the company focuses on enhancing the characteristics of optoelectronic devices. Its innovative materials serve as barriers to moisture and oxygen permeation, thereby preventing the premature degradation of organic material layers and significantly extending the lifespan of electronic devices. Additionally, NanoPhotonica produces QLED displays that deliver pure and vibrant colors, utilizing low-cost, high-throughput production methods that reduce material waste and enable affordable pricing for consumers.

LuxVue Technology

Grant in 2012
LuxVue Technology Corporation develops low-power, microLED-based displays for consumer electronics applications. LuxVue Technology Corporation was formerly known as Papierlos Corporation. The company was incorporated in 2009 and is based in Santa Clara, California.

LumiSands

Grant in 2012
LumiSands, Inc. is a United States-based company that specializes in the manufacturing of phosphors. The company develops silicon nanoparticles through a process that involves etching silicon wafers and embedding the resulting particles in a super-thin membrane. LumiSands focuses on creating a cost-effective, non-toxic, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional rare earth element (REE) phosphors, utilizing its patent-pending silicon quantum dot phosphor technology. This innovative approach aims to enhance the performance of LED lighting, providing users with improved illumination solutions.

Nitride Solutions

Grant in 2012
Nitride Solutions Inc. is a manufacturer specializing in aluminum nitride products tailored for the electronics market. The company develops and produces aluminum nitride templates, bulk substrates, and coatings that serve various applications, including deep-UV LEDs, high-power switches, motor controls, and UV laser diodes. Their products enhance electronic device structures by maintaining thermal conductivity and voltage resistance, addressing critical challenges in power generation, transmission, and high-speed communications. Founded in 2007 and based in Wichita, Kansas, Nitride Solutions focuses on providing solutions that meet the evolving demands of the electronics industry.
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