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 Automotive

Hyprlift

Grant in 2023
Hyprlift is developing an advanced elevator system specifically designed for skyscraper-class buildings. The company's innovative cabs function as self-propelled, high-performance electric vehicles that operate independently of traditional fixed shafts. This technology allows the elevators to navigate autonomously through multiple shafts, significantly improving the efficiency and convenience of passenger transport within tall structures. By reimagining elevator design and functionality, Hyprlift aims to enhance the experience of moving within high-rise buildings.

Paradigm of New York

Grant in 2022
Paradigm of New York designs and manufactures pollution control devices for diesel and gasoline engines. Paradigm's customers save money on diesel fuel and engine maintenance and improve their productivity. Paradigm was founded to provide unique pollution control devices for the diesel engine industry. Diesel engines are used worldwide as the workhorse of transportation, construction, mining, industry, marine, and agriculture. While diesel engines provide the ultimate in performance and longevity, they are inherently dirty engines resulting in two sets of problems. First, their exhaust gases contain hazardous pollutants such as CO, NOx, and carbon particulate matter (PM) or soot which are associated with childhood asthma, respiratory disease, cancer, emphysema, and cardiovascular disease. Secondly, complicated pollution control systems and devices are required by the EPA to control these hazardous pollutants. These systems and devices are expensive to operate and maintain and they use more diesel fuel. Paradigm technology reduces PM soot in the exhaust. As a result, Paradigm's customers can use their engines with reduced pollution while saving money on maintenance, saving money on diesel fuel, and improving their engine productivity.

Phlux Technologies

Grant in 2022
Phlux Technologies, Inc. is a developer of advanced 3D sensor technology aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in robotics and automation. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company focuses on creating programmable 3D sensors that enable robots to navigate safely and collaboratively in industrial environments. By replacing traditional physical barriers with digital safety zones, Phlux's innovative products utilize proprietary optical sensing technology, artificial intelligence, and computer vision. These sensors help protect workers from hazardous machinery and alert vehicles to obstacles, ultimately freeing up floor space, reducing setup times, and improving overall productivity. Phlux Technologies is dedicated to enabling the development of smarter robots and self-driving vehicles, contributing to safer industrial operations.

NextGen Battery Technologies

Grant in 2022
NextGen Battery Technologies focuses on the development of innovative electric vehicle batteries utilizing proprietary solid-state electrolyte and cobalt-free cathode technology. Their HC series of composite electrolytes effectively merges the advantageous characteristics of ceramic and polymeric materials. This battery technology is designed to facilitate the large-scale adoption of electric vehicles by providing a high-performance energy solution that maintains high ionic conductivity across a range of temperatures. The synthesis of these batteries employs scalable processes, allowing car manufacturers to easily integrate them as drop-in replacements for existing cathode materials.

PHYTunes

Grant in 2022
PHYTunes, based in Palo Alto, California, addresses mobility challenges and handover interruptions for various applications, including robotics, automated mobile robots, automated guided vehicles, VoIP, and mobile real-time video. The company has developed a patented technology that creates a Single Frequency Wi-Fi Network capable of covering spaces up to 100,000 square feet, offering deployment at a significantly lower cost compared to traditional WLAN providers. Additionally, PHYTunes is working on a converged Wi-Fi and mid-band 5G solution for private networks, allowing for the simultaneous distribution of both network types across multiple carriers. This innovative approach utilizes existing wire-line infrastructure, such as telephone lines and fiber-optic cables, to enhance the coverage of high-frequency mobile systems, thus enabling cellular network providers and businesses to improve connectivity for their customers.

NanoFlex Power

Grant in 2022
NanoFlex Power Corporation specializes in the research, development, commercialization, and licensing of advanced photovoltaic technologies focused on thin-film solar products. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, the company has established a portfolio of U.S. patents and international counterparts resulting from its sponsored research programs. Its innovations include Gallium Arsenide-based solar thin films and organic photovoltaic materials, which are designed for high efficiency, flexibility, and aesthetic applications such as semi-transparency and tinting. The technologies are applicable across a wide range of sectors, including portable and off-grid power generation, building-integrated photovoltaics, aerospace, and automotive industries, as well as Internet of Things applications. Founded in 1994, NanoFlex Power aims to unlock new opportunities in solar energy with its cost-effective and high-performance solutions.

Roadprintz

Grant in 2021
RoadPrintz, Inc. is a manufacturer based in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, specializing in robotic equipment for road painting and pavement markings. Established in 2018, the company develops machines that efficiently survey, map, paint, and repaint road markings for various traffic signs, including turn arrows and lane separators. The primary objective of RoadPrintz is to enhance road safety by making effective visual street markings more affordable and accessible. By utilizing robotic technology, the equipment allows traffic engineers and road painting contractors to apply paint schemes on roads quickly, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall road safety.

Yank Technologies

Grant in 2021
Yank Technologies specializes in developing long-range, high-power wireless charging technology tailored for the automotive industry and home use. The company utilizes proprietary antenna and amplifier innovations in magnetic resonance to create scalable charging solutions that work over varying distances. Their technology allows users to charge devices without the need for physical contact, enhancing convenience and flexibility. Additionally, Yank Technologies offers a mobile application that manages the charging experience, enabling users to maintain connectivity regardless of their location or activity.

Frost Defense

Grant in 2021
FrostDefense, founded in 2018 and based in Champaign, Illinois, specializes in developing innovative frost protection solutions. The company focuses on creating environmentally friendly biofertilizers and patented sprayable compounds designed to combat early spring frost, particularly in vineyards and specialty fruit crops. By offering these frost protection products, FrostDefense aims to help vineyard owners prevent frost damage, thereby enhancing crop yield and improving labor management and mechanized farming operations.

Uncaged Innovations

Grant in 2021
Uncaged Innovations focuses on developing next-generation biomaterials that replicate bovine and exotic leather using advancements in materials chemistry and digital manufacturing. The company aims to provide sustainable and ethical alternatives to traditional animal skins, catering to various industries, including luxury fashion and automotive. By leveraging innovative technologies, Uncaged Innovations supports businesses seeking to adopt environmentally friendly practices while maintaining high-quality material standards.

StarNav

Grant in 2021
StarNav is a developer and manufacturer of satellite receivers focused on delivering accurate and reliable positioning data for both government and private sector applications. The company specializes in converting ambient non-GNSS radio signals, including cellular, television, and satellite transmissions, into precise positioning information. This innovative technology enables vehicles to operate safely even in environments where traditional GNSS signals are unavailable, addressing a critical need for reliable navigation solutions during complete GNSS denial.

CrossLink Composites

Grant in 2021
CrossLink Composites, founded in 2017 and based in Harriman, Tennessee, specializes in developing proprietary carbon fiber technology tailored for various industrial applications. The company focuses on providing low-cost, high-performance carbon fiber and composites designed for sectors such as cleantech, automotive, wind energy, and civil infrastructure. By emphasizing high-volume industrial applications, CrossLink Composites aims to meet the specific needs of its customers with customized carbon fiber solutions.

Gencores

Grant in 2021
Gencores focuses on developing advanced materials and technologies to enhance safety and efficiency in transportation and sports. The company manufactures customizable, smart, shock-absorbing helmet inserts designed to reduce the risk of concussion. Additionally, Gencores specializes in composite metamaterials that significantly lower the weight of passenger vehicles and aircraft. By leveraging state-of-the-art robotics, innovative 3D printing techniques, and advanced material science, Gencores aims to enable high-volume production of these metamaterials. This approach not only addresses technical challenges in the transportation and manufacturing sectors but also contributes to making vehicles lighter and more energy-efficient.

GrayMatter Robotics

Grant in 2021
GrayMatter Robotics specializes in addressing complex surface treatment and finishing challenges encountered by manufacturers with high-mix, high-variability production needs. The company develops advanced robotics equipped with proprietary artificial intelligence, which are integrated into smart robotic cells. These systems are designed to assist human operators in performing tedious and ergonomically challenging tasks, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and productivity. By leveraging its innovative technologies, GrayMatter Robotics aims to streamline manufacturing processes, making them more effective and user-friendly for clients in various industries.

HeXalayer

Grant in 2021
HeXalayer, located in Louisville, KY, specializes in advanced lithium-ion battery technology, utilizing a proprietary carbon material known as IML Graphene. This innovative approach enhances the capacity and performance of rechargeable batteries, specifically designed for battery-powered vehicles. The company has developed graphene anode batteries that have been integrated into thirty prototype battery cells, demonstrating effective performance through rigorous testing. HeXalayer's technology focuses on providing cost-effective materials that ensure stable long-term cycling characteristics, offering customers reliable energy storage solutions.

OWL Autonomous Imaging

Grant in 2021
Owl Autonomous Imaging, Inc. is a technology company based in Fairport, New York, founded in 2018. The company specializes in developing advanced imaging solutions, including a two-color infrared camera for the US Air Force and a 4D-camera that integrates 1550nm Flash-LiDAR and thermal imaging within a single solid-state megapixel focal plane. These innovations are aimed at enhancing safety in the automotive mobility sector, particularly for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles. Their proprietary Monocular 3D Thermal Ranging™ technology employs optical fusion and deep learning techniques to generate dense range maps from heat signatures without the need for additional illumination. Co-founder Chuck Gershman brings over 30 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, having held leadership roles in multiple startups, three of which he led to successful acquisitions.

Swift Solar

Grant in 2021
Swift Solar Inc. is a company that designs and manufactures lightweight solar panels and systems, focusing on advanced solar technology. Established in 2017 and headquartered in San Carlos, California, with an additional site in Golden, Colorado, Swift Solar specializes in perovskite solar cells, which are engineered to be more efficient and cost-effective than conventional solar panels. The company’s innovative approach involves creating ultra-thin perovskite films that absorb various parts of the solar spectrum, resulting in high-efficiency tandem solar cells. These cells not only enhance solar conversion efficiency but also provide significant weight advantages, making them suitable for applications in aerospace, automotive, and building sectors. Swift Solar emphasizes domestic manufacturing and utilizes abundant raw materials to ensure scalability in its operations.

STL Scientific

Grant in 2021
STL Scientific develops a non-invasive screening tool for detecting overweight trucks on the road in real-time. The company's headquarters are in Temple City, California.

Serinus Labs

Grant in 2021
Serinus Labs, Inc. is a manufacturer of nano-scale silicon gas sensors, established in 2017 and located in Berkeley, California. The company specializes in developing integrated chip-scale gas sensors tailored for various industries, including health and safety, automotive, consumer electronics, and healthcare. Serinus Labs offers custom solutions for both established and emerging gas sensor markets, focusing on applications such as Li-ion battery state-of-health monitoring. Their ultra-low-power trace gas sensors contribute to enhancing battery intelligence, particularly in electric vehicles, addressing critical needs in strategic markets.

Hyprlift

Grant in 2021
Hyprlift is developing an advanced elevator system specifically designed for skyscraper-class buildings. The company's innovative cabs function as self-propelled, high-performance electric vehicles that operate independently of traditional fixed shafts. This technology allows the elevators to navigate autonomously through multiple shafts, significantly improving the efficiency and convenience of passenger transport within tall structures. By reimagining elevator design and functionality, Hyprlift aims to enhance the experience of moving within high-rise buildings.

Eonix

Grant in 2021
Eonix is a manufacturer focused on developing semi-autonomous materials that streamline the design process for lithium-ion batteries. The company has introduced the ATLAS-system, an innovative research and development platform that significantly cuts down the time and costs associated with creating new materials. This system allows for the rapid design of drop-in compatible electrolyte solutions that enhance energy density and support higher voltage operations. By addressing specific challenges faced by electric vehicles, grid storage, and hybrid defense systems, Eonix aims to facilitate the adoption of clean technology and advance the performance of next-generation energy storage solutions.

Recurrent

Grant in 2021
Recurrent Motors, Inc. specializes in analyzing electric vehicle (EV) batteries and providing detailed reports that assist car dealers and private buyers in purchasing used electric cars. Founded in 2020 and based in Seattle, Washington, the company offers tools that assess battery health, life expectancy, and current maximum range of EVs, addressing the complexities involved in understanding these factors as vehicles age. By delivering non-invasive tests and leveraging a national database of vehicle data and history, Recurrent enables informed decision-making for both dealers and consumers. Additionally, the company provides personalized monthly battery analyses for EV owners, enhancing their understanding of their vehicles' performance over time.

Silicon Assurance

Grant in 2021
Silicon Assurance specializes in hardware security software aimed at enhancing security and trust in silicon chips through a zero trust model. Founded in 2021 and based in Gainesville, Florida, the company offers automated tools designed to streamline the security assessment of chip designs, thereby minimizing the risk of data leakage and protecting revenue for businesses. Silicon Assurance focuses on addressing challenges related to reverse engineering and identifying both intentional and unintentional design flaws in semiconductor components, including system-on-chips (SoCs) and printed circuit boards (PCBs). Their solutions are particularly relevant for the electronics supply chain, supporting the security needs of smart-connected devices such as self-driving cars, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, and smart grid technologies.

Natural Fiber Welding

Grant in 2021
Natural Fiber Welding, Inc., founded in 2015 and based in Peoria, Illinois, specializes in the manufacturing and supply of sustainable fabrics and materials derived from plants. The company has developed a circularity platform that produces high-performance, plastic-free materials suitable for various industries, including fashion, footwear, automotive, and upholstery. By integrating its innovative technology into existing supply chains, Natural Fiber Welding enables brands to design and scale eco-friendly products effectively.

Aura Intelligent Systems

Grant in 2021
Aura Intelligent Systems specializes in advanced solutions within the domains of radio technology, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The company has developed patented digital imaging radar technology that offers high-resolution spatial sensing, addressing issues of interference and latency commonly faced by existing radar systems. Their innovative approach combines a 5G hardware architecture with intelligent, programmable software, facilitating 5D situational awareness while minimizing harmful effects such as jamming and multipath interference. This software-defined radar not only achieves longer operational ranges but also maintains low power consumption, providing a cost-effective solution for automotive and robotics applications.

Metalmark Innovations

Grant in 2020
Metalmark Innovations, Inc. develops advanced 3D nanostructured coatings designed to treat airborne pollutants and toxins, thereby enhancing indoor air quality. The company offers its innovative materials as coating additives for various applications, including building materials and vehicle interiors. Its technology effectively targets and breaks down harmful substances such as hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, ozone, PM2.5, volatile organic compounds, odors, and germs in diverse transportation settings, including airplanes, ships, trains, cars, and buses. Founded in 2017 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, Metalmark Innovations aims to address the pressing challenges of air pollution and climate change through its cutting-edge air cleaning solutions. The company was previously known as Aircrew Technologies, Inc. before rebranding in January 2019.

Nativus

Grant in 2020
Nativus is a hardware technology company developing a hyper-efficient air-conditioner for commercial and residential applications in the heating and cooling industry. Current technologies have remained stagnant for decades, receiving only incremental improvements over the past 50 years. However, through our patent-pending technology which combines the heat exchanger surface with a centrifugal fan, it’s theoretically possible to achieve a 10x better overall system efficiency than currently available air conditioners. With the US HVAC market valued at over $20B, we initially plan to target the room a/c market and offer customers an extremely efficient, quiet, lightweight, and stylistic product.

WideSense

Grant in 2020
WideSense is dedicated to promoting the adoption of clean and efficient mobility through its innovative solutions for electric vehicle fleet management. The company offers a physics-based, AI-powered software platform that assists planners and operators in designing, deploying, and managing electric vehicle fleets effectively. Its services focus on ensuring operational reliability while maximizing vehicle utilization and minimizing electricity costs. By providing tools for capital planning and continuous performance monitoring, WideSense enables fleet operators to enhance their operational efficiency and profitability. Headquartered in Berkeley, California, the company is rapidly expanding its global reach, serving major metropolitan and commercial fleet operators with expertise in software, machine learning, and fleet management.

Box Robotics

Grant in 2020
Box Robotics is a mobile robotics startup focused on enhancing warehouse and manufacturing automation through advanced technology. The company specializes in developing an Automatic Guided Vehicle (AGV) perception stack that utilizes high-definition maps, three-dimensional LiDAR, and deep learning. Their products significantly improve AGV localization, planning, and object detection capabilities, allowing for faster and safer operation. By creating voxel layers in HD maps and enabling precise object localization, Box Robotics achieves a higher level of scene understanding, which contributes to safer vehicle operation and efficient path replanning. This innovation not only enhances AGV speed and safety but also increases overall vehicle throughput, making it a valuable asset for clients in the automation sector.

GrayMatter Robotics

Grant in 2020
GrayMatter Robotics specializes in addressing complex surface treatment and finishing challenges encountered by manufacturers with high-mix, high-variability production needs. The company develops advanced robotics equipped with proprietary artificial intelligence, which are integrated into smart robotic cells. These systems are designed to assist human operators in performing tedious and ergonomically challenging tasks, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and productivity. By leveraging its innovative technologies, GrayMatter Robotics aims to streamline manufacturing processes, making them more effective and user-friendly for clients in various industries.

CrossLink Composites

Grant in 2020
CrossLink Composites, founded in 2017 and based in Harriman, Tennessee, specializes in developing proprietary carbon fiber technology tailored for various industrial applications. The company focuses on providing low-cost, high-performance carbon fiber and composites designed for sectors such as cleantech, automotive, wind energy, and civil infrastructure. By emphasizing high-volume industrial applications, CrossLink Composites aims to meet the specific needs of its customers with customized carbon fiber solutions.

Aerogel Technologies

Grant in 2020
Aerogel Technologies is an online distributor and manufacturer specializing in aerogel materials, providing a range of products including silica, carbon, and polymer-based aerogels. The company offers innovative solutions such as its proprietary Airloy, a mechanically robust aerogel that can be produced from various materials including carbon, metals, and ceramics. Aerogel Technologies caters to diverse sectors, supplying ultralight, super-insulating, and soundproofing materials for aerospace, automotive, and cold chain applications. To enhance the availability of aerogel technologies in the United States and ensure competitive pricing, the company invests in automation and process innovation, while also focusing on creating next-generation job opportunities.

Astrolabe Analytics

Grant in 2020
Astrolabe Analytics specializes in battery data management and predictive analytics, catering to various sectors, including automotive, electric vehicles, aerospace, and grid storage. The company has developed an analytics platform that serves partners across the battery value chain, from materials developers to systems integrators. By providing customized insights and solutions, Astrolabe Analytics aims to enhance business outcomes, accelerate time-to-market, and facilitate informed decision-making. In addition to its platform, the company also offers consulting services to support its clients in optimizing their battery-related operations.

Boston Materials

Seed Round in 2020
Boston Materials, Inc. is a manufacturer of advanced composite materials, specializing in 3D reinforced carbon fiber pre-pregs. Founded in 2016 and based in Bedford, Massachusetts, the company utilizes patented Z-axis Fiber technology, which incorporates vertically aligned carbon fibers to enhance energy transfer properties. Its product line includes Carbon Supercomposite, a magnetically assembled carbon fiber pre-preg, which finds applications across various sectors such as aerospace, automotive, marine, wind energy, and sports equipment. Boston Materials' advanced materials aim to improve thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties, offering a roll-to-roll manufacturing process with in-line quality control and an annual production capacity of one million square meters. These innovations enable industries like semiconductors and electrified vehicles to achieve greater efficiency, reliability, and weight reduction while addressing critical challenges in durability and performance.

Roadprintz

Grant in 2020
RoadPrintz, Inc. is a manufacturer based in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, specializing in robotic equipment for road painting and pavement markings. Established in 2018, the company develops machines that efficiently survey, map, paint, and repaint road markings for various traffic signs, including turn arrows and lane separators. The primary objective of RoadPrintz is to enhance road safety by making effective visual street markings more affordable and accessible. By utilizing robotic technology, the equipment allows traffic engineers and road painting contractors to apply paint schemes on roads quickly, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall road safety.

OWL Autonomous Imaging

Grant in 2020
Owl Autonomous Imaging, Inc. is a technology company based in Fairport, New York, founded in 2018. The company specializes in developing advanced imaging solutions, including a two-color infrared camera for the US Air Force and a 4D-camera that integrates 1550nm Flash-LiDAR and thermal imaging within a single solid-state megapixel focal plane. These innovations are aimed at enhancing safety in the automotive mobility sector, particularly for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles. Their proprietary Monocular 3D Thermal Ranging™ technology employs optical fusion and deep learning techniques to generate dense range maps from heat signatures without the need for additional illumination. Co-founder Chuck Gershman brings over 30 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, having held leadership roles in multiple startups, three of which he led to successful acquisitions.

Aeromutable

Grant in 2020
Aeromutable operates in the trucking industry, focusing on the design and development of aerodynamic-enhancement systems for heavy vehicles. The company specializes in flow control technologies that dynamically alter the aerodynamic behavior of these vehicles. By sensing their surroundings, Aeromutable's technology actively modifies the perceived shape of heavy vehicles, leading to reduced fuel consumption and improved maneuverability and safety. This innovation aids heavy vehicle manufacturers in achieving significant drag reduction and enhancing stability within their 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.

Frost Defense

Grant in 2019
FrostDefense, founded in 2018 and based in Champaign, Illinois, specializes in developing innovative frost protection solutions. The company focuses on creating environmentally friendly biofertilizers and patented sprayable compounds designed to combat early spring frost, particularly in vineyards and specialty fruit crops. By offering these frost protection products, FrostDefense aims to help vineyard owners prevent frost damage, thereby enhancing crop yield and improving labor management and mechanized farming operations.

NextGen Battery Technologies

Grant in 2019
NextGen Battery Technologies focuses on the development of innovative electric vehicle batteries utilizing proprietary solid-state electrolyte and cobalt-free cathode technology. Their HC series of composite electrolytes effectively merges the advantageous characteristics of ceramic and polymeric materials. This battery technology is designed to facilitate the large-scale adoption of electric vehicles by providing a high-performance energy solution that maintains high ionic conductivity across a range of temperatures. The synthesis of these batteries employs scalable processes, allowing car manufacturers to easily integrate them as drop-in replacements for existing cathode materials.

Silpara

Grant in 2019
Silpara Technologies specializes in developing molecular technology aimed at enhancing vehicle fuel economy. The company utilizes a combination of biotechnology and nanotechnology to create advanced composite materials that reduce friction in tires. This innovation is particularly beneficial for the logistics industry, enabling companies to lower fuel consumption and improve profitability. Silpara addresses customer inquiries through various channels, including phone, email, and online applications, ensuring effective communication and support.

PrintFoam

Grant in 2019
PrintFoam specializes in 3D printing services that utilize foamed materials to create lighter and more cost-effective components. By employing advanced materials formulation and manufacturing techniques, the company produces innovative foam products that can be tailored to meet specific requirements across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, defense, oil and gas, and construction. Their technology allows for adjustments in foam porosity and matrix properties, resulting in enhanced compressive strength and reduced material expenses. This combination of benefits positions PrintFoam as a valuable partner for businesses seeking efficient and effective additive manufacturing solutions.

NXM LABS

Grant in 2019
NXM Labs Inc. specializes in the development of security and data integrity software that protects connected devices from cyber threats, including those posed by quantum computing. Founded in 2016 and based in San Francisco, California, the company focuses on enabling seamless collaboration among devices to enhance security and safeguard personal privacy. NXM Labs serves a variety of sectors, including communications, semiconductors, automotive, and enterprise software. Its technology empowers clients to automatically manage security across their operations, from hardware to cloud, ensuring the integrity and versatility of their data. The company has been recognized for its innovative contributions to IoT security, receiving the Frost & Sullivan’s North American Visionary Innovation Leadership Award in 2019.

STL Scientific

Grant in 2019
STL Scientific develops a non-invasive screening tool for detecting overweight trucks on the road in real-time. The company's headquarters are in Temple City, California.

Swift Solar

Grant in 2019
Swift Solar Inc. is a company that designs and manufactures lightweight solar panels and systems, focusing on advanced solar technology. Established in 2017 and headquartered in San Carlos, California, with an additional site in Golden, Colorado, Swift Solar specializes in perovskite solar cells, which are engineered to be more efficient and cost-effective than conventional solar panels. The company’s innovative approach involves creating ultra-thin perovskite films that absorb various parts of the solar spectrum, resulting in high-efficiency tandem solar cells. These cells not only enhance solar conversion efficiency but also provide significant weight advantages, making them suitable for applications in aerospace, automotive, and building sectors. Swift Solar emphasizes domestic manufacturing and utilizes abundant raw materials to ensure scalability in its operations.

Vartega

Grant in 2019
Vartega Inc. specializes in recycling carbon fiber, a material known for its strength and lightweight properties, primarily serving the aerospace, automotive, wind energy, and sporting goods sectors. Founded in 2014 and based in Golden, Colorado, Vartega has developed a patented recycling process that produces low-cost carbon fiber suitable for various applications, including thermoplastic pellets, nonwoven fabrics, yarns, and three-dimensional printing filament. The company’s technology effectively diverts carbon fiber scrap and waste from landfills, contributing to environmental sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing fuel economy in vehicles. Vartega's carbon fiber is available in multiple forms, including semi-continuous, chopped, and milled, making it adaptable for mass-market use.

ClearFlame Engines

Grant in 2019
ClearFlame Engines, Inc. is a company that develops and manufactures engines specifically designed for heavy-duty applications, including markets such as marine, agriculture, transportation, power generation, rail, and construction. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Woodridge, Illinois, ClearFlame has created a patented system that replaces traditional diesel engines, aiming to decarbonize heavy-duty engines while reducing operating costs. This innovative technology allows heavy-duty engine manufacturers to produce engines that offer higher performance and fuel cost savings, addressing the challenges posed by reliance on diesel fuel.

Mirada

Grant in 2019
Mirada Technologies Inc., established in 2017 and headquartered in San Francisco, specializes in developing and selling LiDAR sensor components. These components are integral to advanced driver safety systems and autonomous vehicles, primarily serving automotive suppliers. Mirada's core offerings include innovative laser scanning and detector technology, with its flagship product being a state-of-the-art laser scanner that ensures accurate ranging distance, wide field of view, reliability, and scalable volume production.

Metalmark Innovations

Grant in 2019
Metalmark Innovations, Inc. develops advanced 3D nanostructured coatings designed to treat airborne pollutants and toxins, thereby enhancing indoor air quality. The company offers its innovative materials as coating additives for various applications, including building materials and vehicle interiors. Its technology effectively targets and breaks down harmful substances such as hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, ozone, PM2.5, volatile organic compounds, odors, and germs in diverse transportation settings, including airplanes, ships, trains, cars, and buses. Founded in 2017 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, Metalmark Innovations aims to address the pressing challenges of air pollution and climate change through its cutting-edge air cleaning solutions. The company was previously known as Aircrew Technologies, Inc. before rebranding in January 2019.

Aligned Carbon

Grant in 2019
Aligned Carbon Inc. is a manufacturer of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) specifically designed for the integrated circuit industry. Founded in 2018 and based in Santa Clara, California, the company is the first to offer semiconductor-pure, aligned CNTs on industry-standard wafers at a manufacturing scale. These CNTs are aligned in arrays that cover full semiconductor substrates and can be purified to serve either semiconducting or metallic functions. Aligned Carbon's technology allows semiconductor foundries to move beyond traditional silicon, leading to significant enhancements in processing speed, energy efficiency, and capabilities in signal processing and sensing. The company's CNTs are also utilized as transistor materials in displays and thin film transistors, providing clients with innovative solutions for advanced computing applications.

HeXalayer

Grant in 2019
HeXalayer, located in Louisville, KY, specializes in advanced lithium-ion battery technology, utilizing a proprietary carbon material known as IML Graphene. This innovative approach enhances the capacity and performance of rechargeable batteries, specifically designed for battery-powered vehicles. The company has developed graphene anode batteries that have been integrated into thirty prototype battery cells, demonstrating effective performance through rigorous testing. HeXalayer's technology focuses on providing cost-effective materials that ensure stable long-term cycling characteristics, offering customers reliable energy storage solutions.

Nativus

Grant in 2019
Nativus is a hardware technology company developing a hyper-efficient air-conditioner for commercial and residential applications in the heating and cooling industry. Current technologies have remained stagnant for decades, receiving only incremental improvements over the past 50 years. However, through our patent-pending technology which combines the heat exchanger surface with a centrifugal fan, it’s theoretically possible to achieve a 10x better overall system efficiency than currently available air conditioners. With the US HVAC market valued at over $20B, we initially plan to target the room a/c market and offer customers an extremely efficient, quiet, lightweight, and stylistic product.

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.

Serinus Labs

Grant in 2019
Serinus Labs, Inc. is a manufacturer of nano-scale silicon gas sensors, established in 2017 and located in Berkeley, California. The company specializes in developing integrated chip-scale gas sensors tailored for various industries, including health and safety, automotive, consumer electronics, and healthcare. Serinus Labs offers custom solutions for both established and emerging gas sensor markets, focusing on applications such as Li-ion battery state-of-health monitoring. Their ultra-low-power trace gas sensors contribute to enhancing battery intelligence, particularly in electric vehicles, addressing critical needs in strategic markets.

Momentum Optics

Grant in 2019
Momentum Optics is focused on addressing the growing demand for high-quality glass optics through innovative, on-demand manufacturing solutions. Utilizing proprietary technology developed with support from NASA, the company employs a laser-based mechanism combined with machine learning to produce custom lenses with exceptional precision. This approach allows Momentum Optics to manufacture optics ten times faster and at a significantly lower cost than traditional methods, while also achieving superior performance metrics. By enabling researchers and product developers to create multiple lenses simultaneously, Momentum Optics facilitates accelerated discovery, reduces overall costs, and enhances the performance of optical devices, ultimately shortening the time to market for new products.

Molecular Glasses

Grant in 2019
Molecular Glasses, Inc. specializes in the development of non-crystallized molecular glasses aimed at enhancing the performance and longevity of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and other organic electronic devices. Founded in 2015 and based in Rochester, New York, the company provides a range of proprietary materials for OLED manufacturers, particularly in automotive electronics and lighting applications. Its product portfolio includes hole-transporting, electron-transporting, ambipolar, fluorescent, phosphorescent, and cross-linkable materials that are soluble in water, alcohol, and green solvents. By offering amorphous and soluble small molecules that prevent the aggregation of dopant emitters, Molecular Glasses helps clients achieve significant improvements in OLED lifespan and reliability, thereby facilitating broader adoption of OLED technology.

Emissol

Grant in 2018
Emissol is a company based in Mill Creek, Washington, specializing in the development of emission control technology aimed at reducing emissions from vehicles and other mobile sources. The company offers a range of services and capabilities, including engine and chassis-dynamometer testing, mobile emission measurements, innovative coating techniques, selective catalytic reduction, and gasoline particulate filters. Through these advanced technologies, Emissol enables its clients to contribute to a cleaner environment by effectively managing and minimizing harmful emissions.

Liminal

Grant in 2018
Liminal, formerly known as Feasible, Inc., specializes in battery analytics through its innovative EchoStat platform, which utilizes ultrasound waves to assess the physical properties of batteries. By sending ultrasonic pulses through a battery and analyzing the resulting echoes, Liminal can detect differentials within individual cells, across multiple cells, and even between production lines. This technology allows for real-time insights into the electrical, thermal, and mechanical conditions of battery components, making it particularly valuable for industries such as automotive, residential storage, grid storage, and consumer electronics. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, Liminal is positioned to enhance battery performance and reliability through its advanced screening and analytics capabilities.

PowerFlex Systems

Grant in 2018
PowerFlex Systems, Inc. is a company based in Los Altos, California, that focuses on designing, building, operating, and monitoring electric vehicle charging stations. Established in 2017, it operates as a subsidiary of EDF Renewables Inc. PowerFlex offers an intelligent energy management platform, known as PowerFlex X™, which optimizes clean energy assets such as solar, energy storage, EV chargers, and microgrids. This system employs patented algorithms to reduce energy costs by maximizing the use of distributed energy resources. PowerFlex is recognized as the second-largest installer of commercial rooftop solar and has developed the fourth-largest network of Level 2 EV chargers in the United States. Its solar and storage projects contribute to reducing carbon emissions, offsetting approximately 70,000 tons of CO2 annually, while its network of more than 10,000 EV chargers accounted for a reduction of nearly 19,000 tons of CO2 in 2023. The company's initiatives aim to transform organizations into clean-energy facilities, enhance energy resiliency, and support sustainability efforts.

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.

Enertia Micro

Grant in 2018
Enertia Micro, established in 2014 and based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, specializes in manufacturing micro inertial sensors. These sensors, based on microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology, are designed to provide precise motion detection for autonomous vehicles. The company's focus is on developing miniature gyroscopes that outperform conventional MEMS sensors, catering to the evolving needs of the mobility industry and ensuring safe, reliable navigation in autonomous vehicles.

Micro-LAM

Grant in 2018
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.

Boston Materials

Grant in 2018
Boston Materials, Inc. is a manufacturer of advanced composite materials, specializing in 3D reinforced carbon fiber pre-pregs. Founded in 2016 and based in Bedford, Massachusetts, the company utilizes patented Z-axis Fiber technology, which incorporates vertically aligned carbon fibers to enhance energy transfer properties. Its product line includes Carbon Supercomposite, a magnetically assembled carbon fiber pre-preg, which finds applications across various sectors such as aerospace, automotive, marine, wind energy, and sports equipment. Boston Materials' advanced materials aim to improve thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties, offering a roll-to-roll manufacturing process with in-line quality control and an annual production capacity of one million square meters. These innovations enable industries like semiconductors and electrified vehicles to achieve greater efficiency, reliability, and weight reduction while addressing critical challenges in durability and performance.

DeepScale

Grant in 2018
DeepScale, Inc. is a technology company specializing in perceptual system software for semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicles. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, the company focuses on enabling automakers to utilize low-wattage processors for improved perception capabilities. DeepScale's technology incorporates artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms to create advanced driver-assistance systems. The company develops a visual perception platform that utilizes training data and innovative deep neural network architectures to enhance vehicle awareness of their surroundings in real time. In 2019, DeepScale became a subsidiary of Tesla, further integrating its advanced perception technologies into the evolving landscape of autonomous driving.

Lunewave

Grant in 2018
Lunewave Inc. is a manufacturer based in Tucson, Arizona, specializing in Luneburg lens-based antennas and automotive radar sensor systems. Founded in 2017, the company serves various sectors, including telecommunications, aerospace and defense, automotive, and specialized research. Lunewave develops advanced, three-dimensional printed Luneburg lens antennas and radar systems tailored for applications in autonomous driving, wireless communications, and drone technology. Its products feature custom-made antennas available in various sizes and operating frequencies, designed to meet specific customer needs. The sensors are characterized by their compact, robust design, offering high resolution, all-directional fields of view, and long detection ranges.

Fluency Lighting Technologies

Grant in 2018
Fluency Lighting Technologies, Inc. is based in Santa Barbara, California, and focuses on developing next-generation, energy-efficient lighting solutions utilizing advanced laser technology and materials design. The company aims to overcome the limitations of traditional lighting by creating low-étendue light sources that offer high control over light output while maintaining a compact size. Their products are designed for a variety of applications, including tactical flashlights, automotive and aircraft lighting, projectors and displays, medical device illumination, architectural spotlighting, and downlighting for museums and retail environments. By enabling clients to incorporate these innovative technologies, Fluency Lighting Technologies enhances energy efficiency and supports the development of cutting-edge products in various markets.

Mentium Technologies

Grant in 2017
Mentium Technologies Inc. specializes in the development of artificial intelligence processors tailored for power electronics, including cameras, sensors, microphones, and wearable devices. Founded in 2016 and located in Santa Barbara, California, the company focuses on creating ultra-high efficiency AI chips that enable complex video analytics in edge applications. By leveraging a unique approach centered on non-volatile memory devices, Mentium's technology facilitates analog in-memory computation, ensuring high speed, quality, and reliability for mission-critical AI inference. Their solutions aim to achieve optimal accuracy and performance, making them particularly valuable in applications that demand resilience to temperature and device variations, such as autonomous vehicles and cloud computing.

Mirada

Grant in 2017
Mirada Technologies Inc., established in 2017 and headquartered in San Francisco, specializes in developing and selling LiDAR sensor components. These components are integral to advanced driver safety systems and autonomous vehicles, primarily serving automotive suppliers. Mirada's core offerings include innovative laser scanning and detector technology, with its flagship product being a state-of-the-art laser scanner that ensures accurate ranging distance, wide field of view, reliability, and scalable volume production.

Perceptive Automata

Grant in 2017
Perceptive Automata, Inc. specializes in developing machine learning and computer vision solutions focused on human behavior prediction for automated vehicles. Founded in 2014 and based in Somerville, Massachusetts, the company addresses critical challenges in the safe deployment of highly automated and fully autonomous vehicles, particularly in urban settings. Its technology enables these vehicles to anticipate the actions of pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers, allowing for safe navigation in human-dominated environments. By employing advanced AI inference models, Perceptive Automata enhances the driving experience, facilitating smoother and more natural interactions between autonomous vehicles and their surroundings. The company collaborates with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), suppliers, and technology firms in the development of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technologies, leveraging expertise from leading institutions such as Harvard, MIT, and Stanford.

Big Blue Technologies

Grant in 2017
Big Blue Technologies focuses on high-temperature thermal processes to enhance the value of minerals and ores, specifically in the production of metals and ceramics. The company is advancing a thermal magnesium metal production process, which is particularly relevant for the automotive industry as it promotes vehicle light-weighting to improve fuel efficiency. In addition to its core technology, Big Blue Technologies provides a range of services, including reactor research, analytical support, and consulting, aimed at helping clients boost operational efficiency, lower costs, and pursue pathways toward net-zero emissions.

NimbleDroid

Grant in 2017
NimbleDroid, Inc. specializes in developing Android applications aimed at enhancing battery life and overall performance on user devices. Based in New York City, the company utilizes patent-pending technology originally created at Columbia University to deliver advanced tools that assist developers in creating efficient mobile applications. NimbleDroid offers functional performance testing software that automatically tests mobile applications for critical issues, discovering user flows and integrating seamlessly with continuous integration workflows. This capability allows developers to identify performance bottlenecks early in the development cycle, analyze application metrics, and implement recommended fixes to improve user experience. As a subsidiary of Headspin Inc., NimbleDroid is well-funded and supported by a diverse team of experts in computer science and software development.

Clinc

Grant in 2017
Clinc, Inc. is an artificial intelligence company that develops software applications primarily for the banking, automotive, gaming, and healthcare sectors. Founded in 2015 and based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Clinc offers a conversational AI platform that creates advanced virtual assistants capable of understanding and responding to human speech. The platform utilizes natural language processing, machine learning, and deep neural networks to analyze various factors such as user intent, sentiment, and context, which allows it to deliver accurate and contextually relevant responses. This technology not only enhances customer experiences but also enables enterprises to build stronger relationships with their clients by continuously learning from user interactions. Clinc's expertise in the financial and banking industries further strengthens its capabilities, allowing it to provide valuable insights and improve engagement outcomes for its customers.

Z-senz

Grant in 2017
Z-senz develops the next leap in LIDAR to enable safety and reliability in autonomous vehicles. The company's headquarters are in Washington, D.C. Founded in 2015 by a group of scientists with expertise in optics, lasers, material science, physics, and manufacturing,

PowerFlex Systems

Grant in 2017
PowerFlex Systems, Inc. is a company based in Los Altos, California, that focuses on designing, building, operating, and monitoring electric vehicle charging stations. Established in 2017, it operates as a subsidiary of EDF Renewables Inc. PowerFlex offers an intelligent energy management platform, known as PowerFlex X™, which optimizes clean energy assets such as solar, energy storage, EV chargers, and microgrids. This system employs patented algorithms to reduce energy costs by maximizing the use of distributed energy resources. PowerFlex is recognized as the second-largest installer of commercial rooftop solar and has developed the fourth-largest network of Level 2 EV chargers in the United States. Its solar and storage projects contribute to reducing carbon emissions, offsetting approximately 70,000 tons of CO2 annually, while its network of more than 10,000 EV chargers accounted for a reduction of nearly 19,000 tons of CO2 in 2023. The company's initiatives aim to transform organizations into clean-energy facilities, enhance energy resiliency, and support sustainability efforts.

ClearFlame Engines

Grant in 2017
ClearFlame Engines, Inc. is a company that develops and manufactures engines specifically designed for heavy-duty applications, including markets such as marine, agriculture, transportation, power generation, rail, and construction. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Woodridge, Illinois, ClearFlame has created a patented system that replaces traditional diesel engines, aiming to decarbonize heavy-duty engines while reducing operating costs. This innovative technology allows heavy-duty engine manufacturers to produce engines that offer higher performance and fuel cost savings, addressing the challenges posed by reliance on diesel fuel.

Flora Coatings

Grant in 2017
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.

Quantum

Grant in 2017
Quantum products provide the perfect vehicle for a "windows down, music up" type of drive. Their technology was fit for more than just marine vessels, including vehicles, wooden items, tables, doors, benches, pilings, and planes.

Applied Novel Devices

Grant in 2017
Applied Novel Devices, founded in 2008 and based in Austin, Texas, specializes in developing semiconductor device architectures for discrete and integrated power products. The company focuses on innovative exfoliation technology that improves the manufacturability and reliability of thin crystalline power devices. This technology significantly reduces costs while enhancing performance for power devices used in a wide array of applications, including consumer electronics, communications, automotive, and industrial sectors. Additionally, Applied Novel Devices creates tools and technologies for crystalline semiconductor devices, allowing clients to scale device metrics effectively while maintaining favorable cost structures.

Pax Scientific

Grant in 2017
PAX Scientific, Inc. is an engineering research and product design company based in San Rafael, California, specializing in fluid dynamics. Founded in 1997, the company develops solutions for various fluid-related industrial challenges, focusing on air-handling technologies such as fans and blowers, as well as marine hull designs. PAX Scientific also addresses water and wastewater management and industrial mixing technologies. Its innovative equipment is designed to minimize turbulence, reduce friction and noise, and enhance heat transfer, ultimately providing energy-efficient alternatives that improve performance. The company markets its fan designs through licensing agreements across various sectors, including industrial, domestic, computer, and automotive markets.

LumiShield

Grant in 2017
LumiShield Technologies Inc. specializes in anti-corrosion products tailored for the metal plating industry. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company has introduced Lumidize®, an innovative aluminum oxide coating designed for the $11 billion metal pretreatment market. This coating enhances the adhesion of paints to various metal substrates, significantly improving corrosion resistance. LumiShield's products cater to diverse sectors, including biomedical, automotive, aerospace, infrastructure, electronics, manufacturing, marine, and consumer goods. By leveraging their proprietary chemistry, Lumidize® allows manufacturers to utilize existing capital equipment, streamlining production processes and reducing costs while addressing environmental concerns associated with traditional technologies.

Lunewave

Grant in 2016
Lunewave Inc. is a manufacturer based in Tucson, Arizona, specializing in Luneburg lens-based antennas and automotive radar sensor systems. Founded in 2017, the company serves various sectors, including telecommunications, aerospace and defense, automotive, and specialized research. Lunewave develops advanced, three-dimensional printed Luneburg lens antennas and radar systems tailored for applications in autonomous driving, wireless communications, and drone technology. Its products feature custom-made antennas available in various sizes and operating frequencies, designed to meet specific customer needs. The sensors are characterized by their compact, robust design, offering high resolution, all-directional fields of view, and long detection ranges.

Anticipant Speech

Grant in 2016
Anticipant Speech specializes in designing and implementing spoken dialogue systems that enhance human-computer interaction. The company develops advanced automated conversation and speech processing services that allow users to communicate naturally and efficiently through voice commands. Their technology helps individuals manage tasks seamlessly in various environments, such as homes and vehicles, by enabling real-time understanding, prediction, and response to spoken language. Through these innovations, Anticipant Speech aims to improve everyday living by making interactions with automated systems more intuitive and user-friendly.

Emissol

Grant in 2016
Emissol is a company based in Mill Creek, Washington, specializing in the development of emission control technology aimed at reducing emissions from vehicles and other mobile sources. The company offers a range of services and capabilities, including engine and chassis-dynamometer testing, mobile emission measurements, innovative coating techniques, selective catalytic reduction, and gasoline particulate filters. Through these advanced technologies, Emissol enables its clients to contribute to a cleaner environment by effectively managing and minimizing harmful emissions.

Qelzal

Grant in 2016
Qelzal Corporation, based in La Jolla, California, specializes in developing advanced artificial intelligence-driven systems for object and activity recognition. The company's product offerings include the Perception Appliance, which enhances the capabilities of autonomous vehicles and robots, and an image-free sensing system that utilizes brain-inspired artificial intelligence. Qelzal's technology significantly improves the safety and efficiency of commercial drones, enabling them to fly autonomously in near-earth environments without the risk of collisions. The company's solutions target various sectors, including building automation, security, mobile robotics, and autonomous vehicles. Incorporated in 2014, Qelzal is committed to advancing obstacle avoidance systems and fostering innovation in the realm of autonomous technology.

Infinium Metals

Grant in 2016
Infinium Metals, based in Natick, Massachusetts, specializes in the development and commercialization of advanced metallurgical processes for producing lightweight and magnetic materials. The company manufactures essential metals including magnesium, titanium, tantalum, neodymium, dysprosium, and solar-grade silicon using innovative techniques such as solid oxide membrane electrolysis. This low-energy process not only enhances efficiency but also minimizes environmental impact. Infinium Metals provides magnesium for fuel-efficient vehicles and aircraft components, neodymium for magnets used in wind turbines and hybrid vehicles, and elements for high power-to-weight generators. Additionally, the company offers recycling solutions for magnesium and rare earth elements. Infinium serves various industries, including aerospace, automotive, consumer technology, defense, energy, and mass transit. Originally founded in 2008 as Metal Oxygen Separation Technologies, Inc., the company rebranded in 2013 to reflect its broader focus on clean metals.

DeepScale

Grant in 2016
DeepScale, Inc. is a technology company specializing in perceptual system software for semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicles. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, the company focuses on enabling automakers to utilize low-wattage processors for improved perception capabilities. DeepScale's technology incorporates artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms to create advanced driver-assistance systems. The company develops a visual perception platform that utilizes training data and innovative deep neural network architectures to enhance vehicle awareness of their surroundings in real time. In 2019, DeepScale became a subsidiary of Tesla, further integrating its advanced perception technologies into the evolving landscape of autonomous driving.

RightHand Robotics

Grant in 2016
RightHand Robotics, Inc. specializes in the manufacturing of robotic order-picking systems designed to enhance supply chain logistics and order fulfillment across various industries, including e-commerce, food handling, and flexible manufacturing. Founded in 2015, the company is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an additional office in Frankfurt, Germany. RightHand Robotics offers innovative solutions like the ReFlex SF, which features a 3D-printed palm equipped with advanced servos and compliant fingers, and the ReFlex TakkTile, a tactile sensor that aids in gentle object handling. Their technology enables robots to automatically grasp a wide range of items from bins and cases without the need for extensive data entry or parameter tuning, making their systems cost-effective and adaptable to changing business needs.

K&A Wireless

Grant in 2016
K&A is continuing its development of an innovative wireless spectrum intelligence technology in support of next-generation Internet of Things/Everything (IoT-IoE) applications. This will improve spectrum utilization and surety of data in the presence of many other connected users and devices. Market focus is IoT-IoE pollution mitigation in the transportation and smart city segments. McKinsey estimates smart city IoT will have an economic impact of $0.9T to $1.7T (trillion) by 2025. Utilization of spectrum intelligence as part of the IoT-IoE infrastructure improves not only the performance and reliability of the entire system, but also creates a new Natural EcoSystem™ that is unattainable without it. The combined efforts will identify polluting vehicles, create new revenue streams, support regulations and improved driver behavior, provide operational efficiencies, contribute to cleaner air and lower healthcare costs, and enable a better quality of life. K&A’s commercialization partner is SensorComm Technologies, Inc. who is mass-customizing a state-of-the-art NOx emission sensor. SensorComm has engaged K&A to develop the wireless IoT-IoE infrastructure for the NOx sensor, which focuses on smart monitoring of NOx emissions from the exhaust pipe of a vehicle as part of an air quality monitoring system. Active pilot programs are in place in the U.S. with additional pilots being implemented globally. K&A provided foundational IoT/IoE development. Sensor development was originally funded through DoE grants (including SBIR) to, and licensed from, both The University of Florida and The Ohio State University. The SensorComm and K&A team have a combined patent portfolio of eight (8) issued patents (worldwide), two (2) applications and two (2) provisional patents filed, including one related to creating incentive structures for pollution mitigation.

Perceptive Automata

Grant in 2016
Perceptive Automata, Inc. specializes in developing machine learning and computer vision solutions focused on human behavior prediction for automated vehicles. Founded in 2014 and based in Somerville, Massachusetts, the company addresses critical challenges in the safe deployment of highly automated and fully autonomous vehicles, particularly in urban settings. Its technology enables these vehicles to anticipate the actions of pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers, allowing for safe navigation in human-dominated environments. By employing advanced AI inference models, Perceptive Automata enhances the driving experience, facilitating smoother and more natural interactions between autonomous vehicles and their surroundings. The company collaborates with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), suppliers, and technology firms in the development of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technologies, leveraging expertise from leading institutions such as Harvard, MIT, and Stanford.

Big Blue Technologies

Grant in 2016
Big Blue Technologies focuses on high-temperature thermal processes to enhance the value of minerals and ores, specifically in the production of metals and ceramics. The company is advancing a thermal magnesium metal production process, which is particularly relevant for the automotive industry as it promotes vehicle light-weighting to improve fuel efficiency. In addition to its core technology, Big Blue Technologies provides a range of services, including reactor research, analytical support, and consulting, aimed at helping clients boost operational efficiency, lower costs, and pursue pathways toward net-zero emissions.

NimbleDroid

Grant in 2016
NimbleDroid, Inc. specializes in developing Android applications aimed at enhancing battery life and overall performance on user devices. Based in New York City, the company utilizes patent-pending technology originally created at Columbia University to deliver advanced tools that assist developers in creating efficient mobile applications. NimbleDroid offers functional performance testing software that automatically tests mobile applications for critical issues, discovering user flows and integrating seamlessly with continuous integration workflows. This capability allows developers to identify performance bottlenecks early in the development cycle, analyze application metrics, and implement recommended fixes to improve user experience. As a subsidiary of Headspin Inc., NimbleDroid is well-funded and supported by a diverse team of experts in computer science and software development.

DexMat

Grant in 2016
DexMat specializes in the production of Galvorn, a high-performance conductive carbon nanomaterial that surpasses traditional materials in strength, weight, and durability. Galvorn is ten times stronger than steel, half the weight of aluminum, and offers a flex life that is one hundred times greater than copper. This innovative material is designed to replace heavy and environmentally damaging metals across various industries, including sporting goods, e-textiles, electronics, energy, aerospace, and automotive sectors. DexMat manufactures Galvorn as fibers, yarns, films, and fabrics, providing a lightweight and flexible alternative to conventional metals. The company's commitment to sustainability is evident in its carbon-negative production processes, positioning Galvorn as a key player in reducing carbon emissions on a global scale.

Qualicent Analytics

Grant in 2016
Qualicent Analytics uses artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to achieve breakthrough reductions. applying machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques for revolutionary reductions in downstream end-point failure and field failure in the automotive, medical device, aerospace, defense, and other sectors where failure costs are high, failure can result in death or injury, or failure can raise issues of national security.

Clinc

Grant in 2016
Clinc, Inc. is an artificial intelligence company that develops software applications primarily for the banking, automotive, gaming, and healthcare sectors. Founded in 2015 and based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Clinc offers a conversational AI platform that creates advanced virtual assistants capable of understanding and responding to human speech. The platform utilizes natural language processing, machine learning, and deep neural networks to analyze various factors such as user intent, sentiment, and context, which allows it to deliver accurate and contextually relevant responses. This technology not only enhances customer experiences but also enables enterprises to build stronger relationships with their clients by continuously learning from user interactions. Clinc's expertise in the financial and banking industries further strengthens its capabilities, allowing it to provide valuable insights and improve engagement outcomes for its customers.

Detroit Materials

Grant in 2016
Detroit Materials is an advanced materials firm focused on the commercialization of ultrahigh performance structural materials. It has a portfolio of customizable high-strength low-alloy structural ferrous materials for demanding applications in the defense, off-highway, tooling, and transportation industries. Detroit Materials’ materials provide cost and performance advantages over current high alloy materials. Its combination of material chemistry and manufacturing process creates steel with an average 40% lower material cost and similar properties to exotic alloys such as boron, nickel, and cobalt steels. Detroit Materials is headquartered in Michigan, U.S.

Liminal

Grant in 2016
Liminal, formerly known as Feasible, Inc., specializes in battery analytics through its innovative EchoStat platform, which utilizes ultrasound waves to assess the physical properties of batteries. By sending ultrasonic pulses through a battery and analyzing the resulting echoes, Liminal can detect differentials within individual cells, across multiple cells, and even between production lines. This technology allows for real-time insights into the electrical, thermal, and mechanical conditions of battery components, making it particularly valuable for industries such as automotive, residential storage, grid storage, and consumer electronics. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, Liminal is positioned to enhance battery performance and reliability through its advanced screening and analytics capabilities.

Supercool Metals

Grant in 2016
Supercool Metals specializes in the development of ultrahigh strength metals that provide processability similar to plastics. The company employs advanced manufacturing techniques to create custom components using amorphous metals and bulk metallic glasses, which exhibit superior properties compared to traditional materials like steel, titanium, and aluminum alloys. These innovative materials allow for unique product designs, enhanced structural integrity, and lightweight solutions, while also enabling precision and complex geometries that exceed the capabilities of conventional metal manufacturing methods. Through its novel approaches, Supercool Metals supports customers in miniaturizing components and improving overall product functionalities.

Pyrochem Catalyst Company

Grant in 2016
Pyrochem Catalyst, founded in 2010 and based in Louisville, Kentucky, specializes in the development of oxidation and reduction catalysts aimed at automotive emissions abatement and chemical processing. The company's products facilitate the conversion of natural gas into synthesis gas, particularly in environments characterized by high aromatic content, high sulfur levels, and elevated temperatures. By offering reliable performance over extended periods, Pyrochem Catalyst helps businesses reduce both capital expenditures and operating costs, making their solutions valuable in high-temperature catalytic processes.

American Manufacturing

Grant in 2016
American Manufacturing specializes in the volume production of standard steel containers for chrysler, ford, general motors, and their suppliers. They build standard and custom steel containers that are used to move parts through the manufacturing and assembly processes. The company fabricates and assembles a broad range of products, including military vehicle brackets, after-market towing products, cargo carrying devices, stamped and fabricated production parts, and machined weldments.

ClearMotion

Grant in 2015
ClearMotion, Inc. is an automotive technology company that specializes in developing advanced suspension systems to enhance vehicle comfort and handling. Founded out of MIT in 2008 and based in Billerica, Massachusetts, with operations in Nuneaton, United Kingdom, ClearMotion integrates hardware and software to create a proactive ride system that anticipates and counteracts shocks and vibrations from uneven road surfaces. This innovative technology not only improves ride quality but also enhances the overall user experience in vehicles. By mapping road surfaces in real-time, ClearMotion's system can mitigate the effects of road roughness almost instantaneously, ensuring a smoother ride for both drivers and passengers.
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