National Science Foundation

The National Science Foundation (NSF), established in 1950 and located in Alexandria, Virginia, is an independent federal agency dedicated to advancing fundamental research and education across all scientific and engineering disciplines. With an annual budget of approximately $7.8 billion, the NSF operates America's Seed Fund, which allocates nearly $200 million each year to support startups and small businesses through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This initiative provides non-dilutive funding of up to $1.5 million to assist in research and development efforts, thereby facilitating the transformation of scientific discoveries into commercially viable products and services. By helping to de-risk technology, the NSF plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and addressing societal challenges through scientific advancements.

James Donlon

Program Director

Sean L. Jones

Assistant Director for Mathematical and Physical Sciences

Sethuraman Panchanathan

Director

Ben Schrag Ph.D

Program Director and Policy Liaison, SBIR / STTR

Past deals in Los Angeles, CA

VRiends

Grant in 2022
VRiends provides evidence-based teaching of social, academic, and life skills. They combine state-of-the-art VR technology with the expertise of specialised facilitators to guide adolescents, young people, and adults through a variety of games and exercises.

Pyte

Seed Round in 2022
CipherMode is a new data utilization and sharing platform which preserves the confidentiality of data even during the computation itself. This is possible through the use of CipherMode’s cutting-edge encryption that allows for computation on encrypted data without decryption. Aside from higher security, enterprises will be able to seamlessly leverage their data across different organizations and/or jurisdictions while remaining compliant and protecting against data breaches. In addition, CipherMode allows secure collaboration between multiple enterprises. Applications range anywhere from co-marketing to drug discovery to fraud detection. CipherMode is a cryptographic software-only solution that unlike other privacy enhancing technologies, e.g., trusted execution environments and differential privacy, provides provable security guarantees. Compared to Homomorphic Encryption, CipherMode is between two to three orders of magnitude faster. The technology is based on more than seven years of academic research.

InvVax

Grant in 2022
InvVax, Inc. develops and commercializes influenza vaccine that prevents pandemics. It focuses on identifying influenza vaccines for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. The company was founded in 2012 and is based in Los Angeles, California.

GrayMatter Robotics

Grant in 2021
GrayMatter Robotics creates solutions to assist humans in tedious and ergonomically challenging tasks. It develops robotic brains for industrial robots designed to allow them to transform into smart assistants for high-mix low-volume manufacturing applications. It makes AI-brains for robots to make them smart, easy to use and rapidly deployable for complex operations, enabling users to improve their quality of life by leveraging robotics and artificial intelligence. The company was founded in 2020 and is based in Los Angeles, California.

Niche Biomedical

Grant in 2021
Developer of gastrointestinal therapeutic device designed for the alleviation of postoperative ileus and the restoration of gastrointestinal motility. The company's device aims to revolutionize medical science by using bioelectronic medicine for the treatment of diseases and injuries incurable pharmaceutically and is capable of developing miniaturized implantable device, while retaining sophisticated functionality with various electrode shape and number, enabling clinicians to treat diseases and injuries through neuromodulation.

Ecate

Grant in 2021
Ecate is developing an organo-robotic interface that combines human and machine intelligence. The company was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.
Autonomous underwater swarm robotic systems for ocean exploration, founded by Sushil Tyagi

rivieh

Grant in 2021
Rivieh develops hardware technology that transforms properties into smart buildings. The company was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.

Flotherm

Grant in 2020
Flotherm develops a thermal compression device that maintains normothermia in a timely manner. The company's headquarters are in Los Angeles, California.
Noria Water Technologies provides solutions for improving the operations of water-based processes. It optimizes industrial processes by shining a spotlight on critical industrial surfaces. The company was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.

GrayMatter Robotics

Grant in 2020
GrayMatter Robotics creates solutions to assist humans in tedious and ergonomically challenging tasks. It develops robotic brains for industrial robots designed to allow them to transform into smart assistants for high-mix low-volume manufacturing applications. It makes AI-brains for robots to make them smart, easy to use and rapidly deployable for complex operations, enabling users to improve their quality of life by leveraging robotics and artificial intelligence. The company was founded in 2020 and is based in Los Angeles, California.
Autonomous underwater swarm robotic systems for ocean exploration, founded by Sushil Tyagi

Niche Biomedical

Grant in 2020
Developer of gastrointestinal therapeutic device designed for the alleviation of postoperative ileus and the restoration of gastrointestinal motility. The company's device aims to revolutionize medical science by using bioelectronic medicine for the treatment of diseases and injuries incurable pharmaceutically and is capable of developing miniaturized implantable device, while retaining sophisticated functionality with various electrode shape and number, enabling clinicians to treat diseases and injuries through neuromodulation.

Elloveo

Grant in 2019
Elloveo is a mobile game that intuitively teaches children of all ages the fundamentals of electricity and magnetism. The company is based in Los Angeles, California, and was founded by David Colleran in 2016.

ETC Solar

Grant in 2019
ETC Solar B.V. is a company that specializes in the development and commercialization of innovative front contact technology for solar cells. Founded in 2017, the company operates from its headquarters in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and has an additional office in Los Angeles, California. ETC Solar focuses on its effectively transparent contacts, which enhance solar cell performance by reducing energy losses. The company aims to advance solar technology and contribute to sustainable energy solutions.

Lucendi

Grant in 2019
Lucendi operates in the field of advanced technology and renewable energy solutions. The company develops AI-enabled smart measurement platforms that focus on micro-object detection and characterization, utilizing computational microscopy and holographic imaging. Their technology incorporates innovative image processing, big data, and machine learning techniques, offering clients versatile applications while optimizing costs. In addition to its technology offerings, Lucendi also provides lighting, electrical materials, solar energy systems, and electrical socket products, catering to diverse energy and electrical needs.

Ambercycle

Grant in 2018
Ambercycle is a chemical technology company focused on creating a closed-loop ecosystem for apparel by converting end-of-life textiles into new yarns. The company's innovative recycling technology transforms complex textile waste into a polymer powder, facilitating the recycling process and making it more cost-effective. This approach allows apparel businesses to produce and market clothing using renewable feedstocks, thereby reducing waste and contributing to environmental sustainability. By addressing the challenges associated with textile waste, Ambercycle aims to promote a more sustainable fashion industry.

Ambercycle

Grant in 2017
Ambercycle is a chemical technology company focused on creating a closed-loop ecosystem for apparel by converting end-of-life textiles into new yarns. The company's innovative recycling technology transforms complex textile waste into a polymer powder, facilitating the recycling process and making it more cost-effective. This approach allows apparel businesses to produce and market clothing using renewable feedstocks, thereby reducing waste and contributing to environmental sustainability. By addressing the challenges associated with textile waste, Ambercycle aims to promote a more sustainable fashion industry.

Elloveo

Grant in 2017
Elloveo is a mobile game that intuitively teaches children of all ages the fundamentals of electricity and magnetism. The company is based in Los Angeles, California, and was founded by David Colleran in 2016.

Niche Biomedical

Grant in 2016
Developer of gastrointestinal therapeutic device designed for the alleviation of postoperative ileus and the restoration of gastrointestinal motility. The company's device aims to revolutionize medical science by using bioelectronic medicine for the treatment of diseases and injuries incurable pharmaceutically and is capable of developing miniaturized implantable device, while retaining sophisticated functionality with various electrode shape and number, enabling clinicians to treat diseases and injuries through neuromodulation.

Hyperthesis

Grant in 2016
Hyperthesis, LLC is a startup based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2014, that focuses on enhancing productivity in behavioral and life science research. Sponsored by the National Science Foundation, the company utilizes advanced artificial intelligence techniques and an innovative interface to streamline the research process. Its technology allows researchers to efficiently navigate through research papers by collecting and establishing connections between various variables, significantly reducing the time spent sifting through irrelevant materials. This enables researchers to quickly grasp the current state of research on specific topics, ultimately accelerating their work and enhancing the overall effectiveness of scientific inquiry in the social and behavioral sciences.

Perception Robotics

Grant in 2016
Perception Robotics develops touch- and vision-based sensing solutions for modern industrial robots and next-generation assistive robots. Their compliant rubber tactile sensors (“skin”) give robots a sense of touch, equipping automation systems with robust material handling capabilities their gecko-inspired gripper integrates nanoscale “hairs” with electrostatics to enable efficient on/off adhesion for handling flat objects.

NovaSignal

Grant in 2016
NovaSignal is a medical technology company commercializing a robotic cerebral ultrasound system. Its Robotic System combines non-invasive ultrasound, robotics, and artificial intelligence to assess real-time cerebral blood flow. Through the use of cloud computing and data analytics, NovaSignal supports physicians in their clinical decision making to help improve patient outcomes. It was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.

Alelo

Grant in 2015
Alelo is a company focused on enhancing communication skills through innovative learning technologies. Originating as a spin-out from the University of Southern California, Alelo leverages research to create effective educational products. The company specializes in cloud-based e-learning solutions that feature socially intelligent virtual avatars, enabling users to engage in interactive, asynchronous conversations. Its platform offers avatar lesson plans and virtual role-play simulations, integrating advancements in software technology, social science, and learning science. Alelo serves a diverse array of markets, including government, military, education, and commercial sectors, while continuously evaluating and refining its offerings to meet the evolving needs of its users.

VizCommunication

Grant in 2015
VizCommunication is a visual communication platform that makes the written and spoken language more accessible. The company was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.

SynTouch

Grant in 2015
SynTouch Inc., founded in 2008 and based in Montrose, California, specializes in tactile evaluation sensors that enhance machines' ability to perceive touch similarly to humans. The company offers the BioTac Toccare, a biomimetic device that provides advanced tactile awareness and dexterity. Additionally, SynTouch has developed NumaTac sensors, which are designed to improve the functionality of prosthetic hands and assistive robotic arms. Its proprietary Tactile Evaluation Instrument quantifies the tactile qualities of materials and consumer products with precision surpassing that of human experts. This technology aids manufacturers in product design and quality control by providing accurate touch data, enabling the optimization of product feel to meet consumer preferences.

Falcon Computing

Grant in 2015
Falcon Computing, founded in 2014 by Dr. Jason Cong, specializes in providing technology solutions for data scientists and software developers in sectors such as Genomics, Machine Learning, Finance, and Computer Vision. The company focuses on simplifying the adoption of heterogeneous accelerated computing through automated compilation tools and runtime management solutions. Its innovative platform allows users to convert C/C++ code into optimized FPGA implementations, enhancing performance, energy efficiency, and productivity. Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, with additional offices in Los Angeles and Beijing, Falcon Computing aims to support companies in integrating advanced acceleration technologies into their data center infrastructures, ultimately making cloud computing more energy-efficient.

AccuPS

Grant in 2014
AccuPS, LLC, established in 2014 and based in West Lafayette, Indiana, specializes in high-definition 3D motion tracking technology. The company offers innovative products such as AeroWand, which turns smartphones and TVs into virtual reality entertainment systems, and AeroDynaPen, a versatile 3D stylus compatible with various devices including phones, tablets, and computers. AccuPS has developed a mobile virtual reality system that incorporates a head-tracking device, hand controller, and transmitting antenna, all of which connect to smartphones to facilitate precise motion tracking for virtual and augmented reality experiences.

NovaSignal

Grant in 2014
NovaSignal is a medical technology company commercializing a robotic cerebral ultrasound system. Its Robotic System combines non-invasive ultrasound, robotics, and artificial intelligence to assess real-time cerebral blood flow. Through the use of cloud computing and data analytics, NovaSignal supports physicians in their clinical decision making to help improve patient outcomes. It was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.

Perception Robotics

Grant in 2014
Perception Robotics develops touch- and vision-based sensing solutions for modern industrial robots and next-generation assistive robots. Their compliant rubber tactile sensors (“skin”) give robots a sense of touch, equipping automation systems with robust material handling capabilities their gecko-inspired gripper integrates nanoscale “hairs” with electrostatics to enable efficient on/off adhesion for handling flat objects.

SynTouch

Grant in 2013
SynTouch Inc., founded in 2008 and based in Montrose, California, specializes in tactile evaluation sensors that enhance machines' ability to perceive touch similarly to humans. The company offers the BioTac Toccare, a biomimetic device that provides advanced tactile awareness and dexterity. Additionally, SynTouch has developed NumaTac sensors, which are designed to improve the functionality of prosthetic hands and assistive robotic arms. Its proprietary Tactile Evaluation Instrument quantifies the tactile qualities of materials and consumer products with precision surpassing that of human experts. This technology aids manufacturers in product design and quality control by providing accurate touch data, enabling the optimization of product feel to meet consumer preferences.

UC CEIN

Grant in 2013
The University of California's Center for Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology (UC CEIN) is working to ensure the responsible use and safe implementation of nanotechnology in the environment through a multi-disciplinary approach to research, knowledge acquisition, education and outreach. By bringing together researchers of many disciplines across the nation and the world, UC CEIN is leveraging multiple efforts to ensure that national and international communities can continue to make use of nanotechnology to benefit the global economy and society without harmful impacts to the environment. More...

Reach Bionics

Grant in 2013
Reach bionics is a Los Angeles-based corporation, founded in 2011. The company was formed to develop and commercialize a revolutionary proprietary controller technology. Reach Bionics Inc. is developing technology that repurposes signals from a vestigial muscle system around the ears to provide the brain a new mode of command output that can be wirelessly applied to any target device. The ear muscles, or peri-auricular muscles, are part of a vestigial human system that evolved to orient the ears towards sounds. While this muscular system is no longer functionally significant in humans, the muscles remain in nearly everyone and provide an untapped human output. Higher primates have not needed these muscles for millions of years, yet they exist in nearly everyone. Because this system of muscles originally evolved to focus, or “point”, the ears towards sounds, it has the potential to serve as an innate and intuitive way to direct a computer cursor, operate electronics, or drive a motorized wheelchair.

ChromaDex

Grant in 2013
ChromaDex Corporation is a nutraceutical company focused on promoting healthy aging through innovative ingredients and scientific research. It is best known for its flagship product, Nicotinamide riboside (NIAGEN), a form of vitamin B3 that helps enhance levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), which naturally decline with age. The company also offers Immulina, a spirulina extract aimed at boosting immune function. ChromaDex operates through three primary segments: Consumer Products, Ingredients, and Analytical Reference Standards and Services, with the bulk of its revenue generated from the Consumer Products segment. The company is involved in developing and commercializing patented ingredient technologies for various markets, including dietary supplements, food, beverages, skincare, and pharmaceuticals. Alongside its product offerings, ChromaDex provides analytical testing and regulatory consulting services, reinforcing its commitment to quality and safety in its ingredient development. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, ChromaDex continues to leverage its extensive intellectual property and scientific backing in the biosciences sector.

EyePredict

Grant in 2012
EyePredict is a developer of commercializing predictive attention software which is intended to improve health commonly for neurological and psychiatric conditions to allow marketplaces to optimize commercial displays. The company intends to improve decision making for attention development which reflects upon patterns in mental dysfunction using neuroscience based software technology to predict visual attention. EyePredict was established by Ran Carmi in Los Angeles, California.

Pyro-E

Grant in 2012
Pyro-E Inc. specializes in thermal-electric technologies, focusing on the development of solid-state systems for waste energy recovery and clean energy generation. Founded in 2012 in Los Angeles, the company designs and implements energy harvesting solutions that can capture energy from low-frequency, intermittent vibrations found in various applications, including buildings, train rails, and pipelines. By integrating its technologies with commercial sensors, Pyro-E enables devices to operate without the need for wiring, enhancing energy-use efficiency and minimizing environmental impact. The company serves multiple industries, including smart water, industrial IoT, regenerative pavement, and ocean power, positioning itself as a leader in innovative energy solutions.

VizCommunication

Grant in 2012
VizCommunication is a visual communication platform that makes the written and spoken language more accessible. The company was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.

Reach Bionics

Grant in 2012
Reach bionics is a Los Angeles-based corporation, founded in 2011. The company was formed to develop and commercialize a revolutionary proprietary controller technology. Reach Bionics Inc. is developing technology that repurposes signals from a vestigial muscle system around the ears to provide the brain a new mode of command output that can be wirelessly applied to any target device. The ear muscles, or peri-auricular muscles, are part of a vestigial human system that evolved to orient the ears towards sounds. While this muscular system is no longer functionally significant in humans, the muscles remain in nearly everyone and provide an untapped human output. Higher primates have not needed these muscles for millions of years, yet they exist in nearly everyone. Because this system of muscles originally evolved to focus, or “point”, the ears towards sounds, it has the potential to serve as an innate and intuitive way to direct a computer cursor, operate electronics, or drive a motorized wheelchair.
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