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Phase I
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37DEGREES, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Portable and modular system for long-term live cell & tissue culture imaging
Contact
748 TANAGER LN
Geneva, IL 60134--3152
NSF Award
2423518 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to enable a personal cellular video microscopy solution which will democratize the ability of scientists to visualize dynamic biological phenomenon on a regular basis and at an affordable cost. A large proportion of scientists in the US and globally are currently limited to single-frame time-point images, consistently loosing rich information and insights from cell culture-based experiments that multi-frame videos can provide over hours, days and weeks. Overcoming these limitations will empower the usage of cellular video microscopy into high-impact areas such as research efforts in academia, industry and within service-based contract research organizations (CRO) units, and in science education in university settings. While the former would result in augmentation of research and discovery efforts, the latter would empower the strengthening of STEM education domestically, particularly in the growing field of cell biology. The commercial impact of the project is the spawning of a next-generation cloud-based ecosystem that uniquely supports an exponentially growing library of cellular videos and analysis algorithms with social sharing and monetization paradigms, one that speaks seamlessly with integrated hardware devices located in common biological laboratories, field research and educational facilities.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to resolve key technical problems limiting cellular video microscopy. A first essential problem is keeping cell culture alive in their native incubated environments for extended periods of time (hours, days and weeks), while performing the video microscopy. Existing approaches of engulfing microscopes within large incubation chambers or placing microscopes within large incubators are expensive, cumbersome, contamination-ridden and / or space-intensive. In this project we resolve this problem by modifying a compact, portable and modular incubator with a specially designed optical port to allow for video imaging. This module then integrates with a newly designed video imaging module for automatic alignment and video capture. Seamless integration, multi-day automatic and stable video collection of live cellular samples will be technical results of the project. A second problem involves managing very large video data volumes (often in several Terabytes), analysis, storage and data sharing bottlenecks that ensue. This project resolves these problems by leveraging rapid advancements in Graphical Processor Units (GPUs) and device-to-cloud architectures. Technical results will therefore also include real-time on-board video analysis by GPUs to dramatically reduce data volumes and achievement of a cloud ecosystem to share processed video data.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. -
ABSCO THERAPEUTICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Image-Guided Controlled Release Platform for Intratumoral Immunoadjuvant Delivery
Contact
65 GLEN RD APT H2
Brookline, MA 02445--7753
NSF Award
2507269 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in developing an image-guided intratumoral therapy for treating immunotherapy-resistant solid tumors, a $125 billion market. The only FDA-approved intratumoral therapy costs $65,000?100,000 per patient and is insurance-reimbursed, demonstrating market viability. Pharmaceutical companies developing immune-oncology drugs are actively seeking strategic partnerships to improve drug delivery, as intravenous and oral formulations face toxicity and efficacy challenges. Intratumoral delivery is an attractive alternative, but current approaches suffer from rapid drug leakage (>70% lost within hours) and require frequent, impractical repeat dosing. Beyond its clinical benefits, this project has significant commercial potential, offering pharmaceutical companies an innovative drug delivery platform that could expand their oncology pipeline, improve therapeutic efficacy, and increase drug life cycle. The societal impact includes enhancing treatment options for patients with limited alternatives, reducing systemic toxicity, and potentially improving long-term survival rates. Early discussions with pharmaceutical executives and clinical trial physicians highlight stage IV colorectal cancer with liver or lung metastases as a high-priority clinical need. Additional interest exists in pancreatic, lung, and triple-negative breast cancers, expanding the potential market. This project aims to make intratumoral immunotherapy a viable alternative for cancer patients. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to improve current biologic therapies for solid tumors as they face poor on-target delivery, rapid systemic diffusion, and dose-limiting toxicities due to uncontrolled off-target effects. Systemic administration further exacerbates toxicity and efficacy limitations, restricting broader clinical adoption. This project develops an image-guided intratumoral delivery system that solidifies upon injection, ensuring localized retention and sustained therapeutic release. Unlike freely administered biologics, this approach prevents rapid leakage, aligns with clinical dosing schedules, and minimizes systemic toxicity. Our research focuses on biomaterial strategies to enhance stability, localization, and controlled release of biologics within tumors. While we have successfully developed a hydrophobic small molecule delivery system, biologic-based therapies require innovative hybrid formulations that protect, localize, and sustain release. The anticipated outcomes include improved intratumoral retention, reduced toxicity, and enhanced therapeutic efficacy, ensuring biologics remain active at the tumor site for extended durations. This novel approach optimizes tumor targeting, improves safety, and enables more effective localized immunotherapies, addressing a critical need in oncology. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
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ACADEMIC WEB PAGES, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Integrating MentorAI into a student success platform
Contact
1048E LONG BEACH BLVD
Beach Haven, NJ 08008--5625
NSF Award
2450833 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$286,418
Start / end date
01/01/2025 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project addresses the critical need for scalable, personalized student support in higher education. The project will develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted mentoring platform that enhances peer mentoring programs through data-informed, evidence-based guidance. This innovation comes at a crucial time, as student distress rates have doubled over the past decade, and institutions struggle to meet growing demands for mental health and academic support. The technology will particularly benefit underrepresented students, who often face barriers accessing traditional support services. By combining AI capabilities with human peer mentors, this innovation will make technical advances in how to leverage AI tools within the context of human interactions. This will enable institutions to affordably scale high-quality, site-specific support services that improve student retention and success, advancing the health and wellbeing, academic achievement, and economic prosperity of marginalized students. The commercial potential is significant, with the mentoring software market projected to reach $1.3 billion by 2027. The platform's unique integration of data-driven insights with affordably scaled peer mentoring creates a competitive advantage in this growing market. The business model focuses initially on higher education institutions, with potential expansion into nonprofit, government, and professional development sectors. This product enhancement will offer unique features that address growing demands for personalized, evidence-based support. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop and validate an innovative integration of large language models with retrieval-augmented generation technology to enhance peer mentoring effectiveness. The research addresses technical challenges in secure data integration, model fine-tuning, and scalable system architecture. The project will implement advanced encryption methods and differential privacy techniques to protect sensitive student information while enabling real-time, personalized support. The system architecture employs a modular, multi-tenant design that allows customization for specific institutional contexts while maintaining response times below 500 milliseconds. The research methodology includes developing secure protocols for data integration, implementing bias detection algorithms, and creating a comprehensive ethical framework for a "trustworthy knowledge-in-the-loop" approach using Retrieval-Augmented Generation technology to ensure accurate and evidence-based responses. Technical objectives include achieving 90% accuracy in contextually relevant responses and 85% user satisfaction ratings. The anticipated results include a fully operational prototype demonstrating secure integration of multiple data sources, personalized recommendation generation, and scalable performance under peak usage conditions This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
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ACTUALIZATION AI LLC
SBIR Phase I: Reducing Medical Insurance Claim Denials with Code-Augmented Policies
Contact
14809 CARNATION DR
Tampa, FL 33613--1809
NSF Award
2423392 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,926
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Parvathi Chundi
Peter Atherton
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project to provide a framework so that AI systems can follow rules given by humans, in the form of policies, laws, contractual agreements, or the like. This will allow for trustworthy chatbots and interactive AI agents, which are already becoming widespread amongst all industries despite their known limitations (particularly problems of hallucination) and inability to behave in accordance with the given policies. Actualization?s technology will streamline build the medical claims creation process, by allowing for complex insurance policies and regulations to be incorporated into the considerations of healthcare management systems. Given that virtually all industries with a customer interaction component are turning to chatbots, the economic impact of the project is significant. Furthermore, this work will advance the scientific and technological understanding of how to design rules such that they can be consistently interpreted not only by different humans, but by artificially intelligent systems. To establish commercial feasibility, market and customer hypotheses will be tested through a survey, customer discovery interviews, expert feedback, and the development and testing of a pilot prototype.
This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project seeks to develop an automated method for converting policies, rules, and laws into a format that can be understood and enforced by both humans and machines. It does this by using a combination of state-of-the-art natural language processing techniques developed through prior research on automated legal reasoning to convert policies and examples of that policy?s interpretation into code-augmented policies (CAPs), and to generate test cases designed so that human experts can evaluate whether the CAPs capture the intent and spirit of the original policies. The CAPs can then be integrated into existing frameworks, focusing initially on the domains of customer service chatbots and healthcare claims. Because legal, regulatory, policy, and contractual language are open-textured to allow for flexibility in interpretation, it can be difficult for automated systems to reason about whether a novel action is permitted. And because it is typically impossible to anticipate all possible boundary cases and implications of policies, writing policies can be difficult. Thus, this project will establish technical and commercial feasibility via three experiments designed to discover which AI approaches best overcome these technological hurdles, and which automatic measures of policy-CAP fit best reflect human preferences.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ADAVANCE NANOLYTICS INC
STTR Phase I: AAV QC using SANE Sensor
Contact
7223 ARBOR OAKS DR
Dallas, TX 75248--2201
NSF Award
2415309 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is it will demonstrate a plasmonic nanopore sensor device for all-in-one DNA loading characterization of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) used for gene therapy. In the longer-term, the company anticipates that it will extend uses of this device to accurately test the drug or DNA/RNA loading consistency of soft nanoparticles such as exosomes, other viruses, and liposomes, to make this quality control (QC) technology applicable to all nanoparticles with biological applications and beyond. This project has inextricable interests in biochemistry, nanoengineering, photonics, and resistive pulse sensing which would be beneficial to encourage more students to pursue STEM degree through its outreach program. The PI will lead the company?s outreach in the Dallas County Community College District, whose mission is to build up the local workforce to today?s market needs, with nanosensor demonstrations and discussion of broad applications. The proposed technology also has the potential to drastically reduce the time and resource demands of AAV QC processes and increase success rates in early-phase gene therapy trials, accelerating FDA approvals for desperately needed treatments.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will demonstrate a plasmonic nanopore sensor device that will outperform existing analytical techniques by capturing multiple optical-electrical data types per AAV particle to enable, for the first time, unambiguous payload classification (single-stranded DNA versus double-stranded DNA, or empty) at low, pre-scale-up concentrations to optimize formulations in small batches, enabling significant savings in subsequent large-volume production. The proposed work will show feasibility of the proposed device to be nanofabricated in a scalable manner by electron beam lithography, namely optimize sensor nanofabrication protocol for accuracy and production reproducibility of the 3D plasmonic trap, and ensure accurate laser source alignment with bonded optics, and a photodetector collecting optical signals transmitted through the sensor. In addition, this work will optimize machine learning-based sensor discrimination between empty versus partly and fully loaded AAVs by optimizing the spectrum of AC pulse frequencies that scan each particle during trapping. Once successfully tested, the prototype?s nanofabrication and machine-learning workflows will be ready for further development into the company?s first commercial device after a subsequent Phase II.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ADVANCED CARPET RECYCLING LLC
SBIR Phase I: Advanced Manufacturing Technology for Composite Lumber
Contact
2928 BLUE QUAIL LN
Bedford, TX 76021--4161
NSF Award
2415610 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will reshape synthetic lumber production and contribute to more environmentally friendly and durable solutions within the rail sector. The standard wooden railroad tie must be chemically preserved to maybe last 25 years causing over 21 million ties to be replaced annually. This synthetic innovation extends the crossties? life and eliminates the need for harmful preservation chemicals, which currently threaten disadvantaged communities. By sourcing whole, used carpets to produce a synthetic rail crosstie, this project removes some of the annual 4 billion pounds of carpet waste; thus, saving landfill space from both future carpet and wooden crosstie disposal. Proving a reproducible, streamlined process by using 100 percent of waste product will advance knowledge into recycling efforts. The $7B railroad industry faces two major challenges in using wooden crossties: newly harvested, immature timbers causing 20% installation failures, and the U.S. creosote shortage causes outsourcing. This technology solves these issues and will meet the industry?s stringent regulations where other synthetics fall short. The project will first supply crossties to short-line railroads while waiting on needed certifications to enter class 1 rails.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project for developing railway crossties will enable repurposed waste carpet to be converted into a form with the structural and performance characteristics required for the product to be used as a crosstie. The product must pass standards set by the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-Of-The-Way Association (AREMA). By using a one-step manufacturing technique, this project has the potential to realize a lower price point with a superior-quality product compared to the competition?s three-step processes. The innovation centers around the repeated layering of carpet material, application of resins, and simultaneous application of heat and pressure needed to reach the required crosstie properties and size. Phase I?s research will investigate the high chemistry risks involved in upscaling this technology to produce larger, more complex pieces while minimizing waste, eliminating hazardous waste, and optimizing process time. Validating chemical reactions in a hot fuse environment is critical. The project must also identify the correct resins needed to ensure the variable insource material does not hinder the final product. Scientists from two nationally known laboratories will assist in identifying and mitigating these chemical risks, identifying needed resins, and running necessary tests to meet AREMA standards.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.AERHART, LLC
STTR Phase I: Passive Actuation for Enhanced Urban Air Mobility (UAM) Capability
Contact
6461 KANAN DUME RD
Malibu, CA 90265--4039
NSF Award
2334180 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,999
Start / end date
05/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Elizabeth Mirowski
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project provides increased efficiency and range for urban air mobility (UAM) air-taxi systems. This research allows aircraft to reconfigure in-flight, enabling the craft to land in cityscapes while still being able to fly significant distances. As UAM aircraft primarily use electric power, this technology will facilitate the transition to greener modes of transport in cities, while alleviating surface level congestion due to traffic. The primary focus of this project is on improving the safety of in-flight reconfiguration to promote the well-being of passengers and payload. The UAM sector is set to rapidly expand in the coming years, providing services and creating jobs. By laying the groundwork for improved performance while maintaining high safety standards, the sector, passengers, and public will benefit.
Aerodynamically-actuated wings on urban air mobility vehicles come with the risk of asymmetric deployment. This project aims to mitigate risks by producing a closed-loop aileron control method that promotes symmetric deployment while simultaneously ensuring that even an asymmetric deployment does not induce aircraft instability. Wind tunnel data will be generated for a number of static and dynamic fold conditions. Methods for governing when and how fast reconfiguration takes place will be tested to bridge the control gap between motorized and aerodynamic actuation. Implementation of these methods will allow for operations resembling motorized actuation, without the associated weight penalties and disadvantages. Wind tunnel data will be used to produce the closed-loop aileron control method which will then be tested in the wind tunnel to verify that the level of expected roll torque variance is observed throughout asymmetric reconfiguration. Success will show a marked decrease in roll torque variance compared to reconfiguration where no closed-loop corrective action is taken. Together these methods and risk mitigation techniques will overcome the need for a mechanical actuation device, reducing the complexity and barriers to entry of reconfigurable designs. Introducing such benefits to size constrained aircraft will translate to a better performing urban air mobility sector.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.AERIS WATER TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Water from Air: An Adsorption-Based Atmospheric Water Harvester
Contact
1180 W PEACHTREE ST NW STE 1910
Atlanta, GA 30309--3407
NSF Award
2451639 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,996
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lies in advancing atmospheric water extraction (AWE) materials and devices for potable water production and humidity management. Access to clean water is dwindling due to climate-induced droughts and growing populations. Currently, about 800 million people lack access to safe water, highlighting the need for complementary technologies like AWE alongside desalination. Addressing water scarcity requires a broad range of solutions, and AWE offers promising potential. AWE technologies also apply to humidity control and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) energy reduction, crucial for rising cooling demands driven by growing populations and increasing temperatures. These technologies can efficiently extract water by more than 80-90% compared to traditional air conditioning. This dual-purpose functionality could make AWE a game-changer for domestic, commercial, and industrial systems, drastically lowering energy input for humidity management. By developing innovative materials and devices, this project aims to alleviate water stress and significantly cut energy consumption in HVAC and humidity control applications. Its impact extends beyond water production, addressing critical global challenges like sustainable cooling and energy efficiency while contributing to water and energy security. This SBIR Phase I project aims to develop a functional atmospheric water extraction (AWE) device by addressing four key objectives: device modeling, adsorbent optimization, alternative adsorbent formulations, and testing various form factors for the adsorbent block. The project will create a heat transfer model using standard heat pipe calculators to optimize radiator fin dimensions, spacing, and heating power, ensuring efficient desorption without requiring a vacuum. The target operating temperature for desorption is 60-100°C. The proposed device is designed to produce or remove at least 1?1.5 gallons of water within 12 hours under ambient conditions, with higher water yields in environments with greater humidity. This capability is made possible by an advanced AWE adsorbent, which exhibits superior water capacity across the full range of ambient humidities. This innovation is crucial as existing adsorptive water harvesting systems fail to deliver cost-effective, energy-efficient water production across the wide humidity spectrum of 10?80% relative humidity. By optimizing materials and device configurations, this project will lay the groundwork for a commercially viable AWE system that addresses global water scarcity challenges while offering significant energy efficiency improvements compared to existing technologies. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY MATERIALS, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Dry Powder Pressing Additive Manufacturing (DPP-AM)
Contact
730 SW STALEY DR
Pullman, WA 99163--2077
NSF Award
2419486 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,915
Start / end date
12/01/2024 – 11/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be the development of a new additive manufacturing technique for ceramic materials. Technical ceramics provide unmatched performance in harsh environment applications found throughout the energy, defense, healthcare, and IT sectors. Applications requiring miniaturization or process intensification would benefit from a novel additive ceramic manufacturing that can form internal microfeatures and combine different materials into functional layers for chemical reactions, imaging, or energy transfer. This proposal will advance from proof-of-concept to a functional prototype of a dry powder pressing additive manufacturing printer. This work will improve our understanding of the fluidization and aerosolization of ultrafine and dense nanopwders that are prone to compaction and static adhesion. The high-resolution from dry powder pressing additive manufacturing will lower monolith fabrication cost an order of magnitude to accelerate the adoption of emerging ceramic technologies. No existing ceramic production technology can combine multiple functional materials in the same layer or produce internal flow features at the proposed sub-mm scale. The technology will be leased or sold to advanced ceramic fabricators to enable further technology developments in the ceramics industry. The manufacturing will first be applied to the energy market, but has the potential to impact defense and health imaging technologies as well.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to scale the throughput capacity of a dry-powder pressing additive manufacturing technique that can fabricate multifunctional ceramic monoliths with internal flow structures. Five key capabilities distinguish dry-powder pressing additive manufacturing from existing ceramic additive manufacturing methods: i) applicability to materials not amenable to laser sintering, ii) co-deposition of multiple materials with high lateral precision, iii) densification of materials typically incapable of pressureless sintering to full density, iv) a quality control step can reject a layer prior to adhering to prior layers, and v) co-deposition of fugitive material can form internal gas routing that eliminates costly and complex ceramic sealing technology in harsh environment applications. The proposed work will advance the technology by creating a high-throughput printing system to deposit patterned 50 cm2 layers in a single pass, representing a 100x throughput increase. Automation will also address two precision targets; layer deposition below 7.5mg/cm2 and lateral resolution less than 0.5mm. The scope of work will advance the science of dry powder deposition and transfer to refine the processing capability for thinner layers and finer microfeatures while simultaneously engineering a high throughput device representative of pilot-scale manufacturing.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.AMERICAN PRIME SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS LLC
STTR Phase I: Commercial applications of CropMAP (Monitoring, Analysis, and Prediction) for oil seed fields
Contact
201 DAVID L BOREN BLVD RM 124A
Norman, OK 73072--7337
NSF Award
2423424 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Elizabeth Mirowski
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project involves the development and evaluation of the Crop Ecosystem Monitoring, Analysis, and Prediction (CropMAP) tool. This project addresses the critical need to support food security profitability by optimizing resource management and decision-making through advanced monitoring and predictive analytics in crop production. The significance of this research lies in its potential to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability across the United States, thereby improving the lives of farmers by increasing yield outputs and reducing losses. Furthermore, the successful commercialization of CropMAP could generate substantial economic benefits, including increased tax revenues and job creation in the agricultural sector. By aligning with NSF?s mission to advance the progress of science, this project contributes to the scientific understanding of agricultural ecosystems and impacts related fields such as environmental science and economics.
This project represents a significant technical innovation in the field of precision agriculture through the development of the CropMAP tool, a high-risk effort with substantial potential for high impact. CropMAP integrates novel algorithms and models with real-time data feeds for enhanced monitoring and predictive analytics of crop conditions. The primary innovation involves the application of machine learning techniques to satellite images and climate data to predict crop yields, water usage, and soil health more accurately than current methods allow and the use of artificial intelligence to make actionable insights timely available to technical and non-technical users. The goals of this project are to validate these models' effectiveness in real-world settings and to establish a scalable framework for its application across various agricultural contexts. The project will employ rigorous methodological approaches, including the use of time-series image analytics and data-driven diagnostic models, to achieve these objectives. Through its focus on innovation and scalability, the project aims to set a new standard in agricultural practices, ultimately facilitating better resource management and sustainability.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.AMRF LLC
SBIR Phase I: Design and Develop Decade-Bandwidth Beamforming Integrated Circuits
Contact
1811 RONIE WAY
San Jose, CA 95124--3631
NSF Award
2415054 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,993
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is the design and implementation of wideband radio-frequency front-end systems with phased arrays, which are poised to transform wireless communication hardware development. The front-end market continues to expand with a fast annual growth rate of >13% till 2030 to reach 60 billion USD. However, this market is highly fragmented in terms of applications and frequency bands. While customized front-end components are commonly developed for specific applications, the potential for wideband designs to unify and standardize solutions has yet to be realized at an economic scale. The proposed Radio-Frequency Fractional Hilbert Transformation design theory in this project establishes a crucial foundation for developing ultrawideband beamforming integrated circuits. In addition to this type of products, the company plans to expand its portfolio by incorporating wideband functional blocks such as power amplifier modules.
This Small Business Innovation (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on exploring the feasibility of designing ultra-wideband beamforming integrated circuits using the innovative Radio-Frequency Fractional Hilbert Transformation design theory. Through this project, the company aims to validate the ultra-wideband beamforming concept, assess its performance impacts, identify crucial design parameters, and create a prototype to demonstrate its effectiveness in a 1x4 phased array. As the initial phase of the project, the team will design and implement multiple radio-frequency signal processing units using commercially available components and printed circuit boards. These units form the fundamental building blocks for the project's objectives. Upon successfully completing the second step?assembling and characterizing the performance of ultra-wideband beamforming circuits using signal processing units?a 1x4 phased array demo system will be developed. This will highlight the technology's capabilities and potential. The ability of this array to scan radiation patterns across frequencies from 2 to 18GHz will be critical in demonstrating the successes of Phase I and setting the stage for Phase II of the project. Additionally, the company will explore integrated circuit-based solutions to further enhance the implementation of ultra-wideband circuits within the project.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ANEURISK, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Aneurisk - A Clinical Decision Support Tool to Manage Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Patients
Contact
5504 BEACON ST
Pittsburgh, PA 15217--1904
NSF Award
2422725 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Alastair Monk
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will provide a novel software solution that enables clinicians to potentially improve the treatment of patients with an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Abdominal aortic aneurysm is the ballooning of a major blood vessel in the body that if left untreated can rupture, leading to almost certain (85% mortality) death. AAA is the 13th leading cause of death (1 in 100,000) in the United States. The current clinical standard for surgical intervention relies on measuring the diameter of the aneurysm from medical images. This undesirable method leads up to 23.4% of patients rupturing before reaching the diameter that indicates safe, surgical intervention/repair. Therefore, there is a need to help doctors identify and treat high-risk patients who remain below the threshold of safe aneurysm diameter. This STTR project supports the development of a unique, artificial intelligence, solution that combines aneurysm diameter with stress, strain, shape analysis, and patient information to predict future patient outcomes and aneurysm growth. The patent-pending technology can disrupt how doctors currently watch and follow aneurysms by providing them with a risk profile to avoid dangerous rupture events allowing them to provide the patients with the right treatment at the right time
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop and validate machine learning models for risk classification, growth projection, and wall stress prediction for abdominal aortic aneurysms. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is the 13th leading cause of death in the United States, with a mortality rate exceeding 85%. The current clinical standard for intervention is based on the diameter of the aneurysm, however, between 7 and 23.4% of patients rupture before the threshold is reached. The Aneurisk team is developing artificial intelligence-based tools to accelerate image, biomechanical, and morphological analyses. Additionally, the Aneurisk team will perform cross-validation of previously trained long short-term memory recurrent neural networks to forecast diameter and a classifier that predicts patient outcomes (remain stable, eventual repair, or eventual rupture). The toolset is effectively a method to achieve virtual surveillance to provide clinicians a method to better understand when to treat patients. If successful, the Aneurisk approach will reduce the number of surveillance visits to track diameter, reduce patient anxiety, and reduce costly and high-mortality rupture events.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ANOVA BIOMEDICAL, INC.
SBIR Phase I: 3D printing of personalized vascular grafts using novel elastomeric resins
Contact
237 KING RD E
Ithaca, NY 14850--9448
NSF Award
2431804 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,811
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact potential of this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project is that the proposed resin, and the devices whose manufacturing it enables, will advance treatment of cardiovascular disease ? one of the leading contributors to medical spending and death in the United States. Current vascular grafts used for treatment of vascular disease have poor long-term success and lead to a tremendous amount of patient suffering, rehospitalization, reoperation, and premature death. Thus, there is an urgent unmet need for improved treatment options. Successful translation of the proposed technology will result in an entirely new class of vascular prosthetics for this patient population to improve quality of life and decrease morbidity, all while alleviating a tremendous financial burden on the American healthcare system. Commercialization of this technology will generate new jobs in the biotechnology/additive manufacturing sector in upstate NY ? a region that is severely lacking in these industries ? demonstrating a positive potential impact on the economic advancement of the region.
This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project consists of three distinct objectives that will further development of our product, and significantly derisk the technology. The development of our novel 3D printing resin in this proposal is focused toward production of personalized, elastic, bioresorbable vascular grafts. Development, characterization, and optimization of this resin is the primary objective. Once the resin is produced, its ability to be manufactured into personalized vascular grafts will be demonstrated by using human CT angiography images to 3D print vascular prosthetics. Finally, vascular grafts produced from the resin will be implanted in the rat carotid artery to demonstrate the bioresorption of the material over time as an elastic neo-artery regenerates in its place. To date, we have demonstrated the ability to produce one-size-fits-all bioresorbable grafts that fully transform into elastic neo-vessels. This work will enable the growth of that technology for use in situations that can benefit from a personalized device ? pediatric patients, arteries with diameters below 6mm, and branching arteries, to name a few.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ANVIL DIAGNOSTICS INC.
SBIR Phase I: Ultra-Sensitive and Multiplexed Pathogen Profiling for Neonatal Sepsis Detection
Contact
750 MAIN ST
Cambridge, MA 02139--3544
NSF Award
2451306 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$298,646
Start / end date
01/15/2025 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lies in its potential to transform sepsis diagnostics and patient care, particularly for vulnerable newborns. Globally, sepsis is responsible for up to a third of neonatal deaths, with an increased burden in low- and middle- income countries. Current diagnostic methods rely heavily on blood cultures, which require substantial blood volumes, take 24+ hours to yield results, and frequently produce false negatives. The proposed DNA-based technology seeks to comprehensively identify and quantify pathogens in a few hours from small volumes of blood, critical capabilities for low-birthweight and immunocompromised newborns. The clinical impacts could include more targeted antibiotic therapy and guided therapy durations that could translate to thousands of lives saved annually, shortened hospital stays, and reduced readmission rates. This technology's compatibility with existing digital PCR hardware enables a very capital-efficient development path and reduces barriers to adoption in hospitals given the expanding use of digital PCR in clinical diagnostic laboratories. Enabling routine pathogen testing for sepsis in any community hospital represents a major opportunity. The core proposed technologies can build on a growing installed base of compatible hardware, adding new tests in other diverse applications. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a rapid diagnostic test for sepsis-causing pathogens in plasma samples with available digital PCR hardware that can scale to cover all critical pathogens. Pathogen identification tests must be very sensitive, fast, and able to detect a wide range of organisms. Specific innovations are proposed to make the test suitable for neonates with less than 1 mL of blood per test. Currently, digital PCR-based technologies achieve state-of-the-art sensitivity with results in a few hours but are limited in their panel breadth, typically detecting no more than a dozen analytes simultaneously. DNA sequencing can achieve comprehensive detection but is complex, costly for on-demand use, and much slower than PCR. The proposed technology combines advanced primer design with statistical algorithms to achieve critical features by targeting microbial cell-free DNA in plasma. The research objectives include developing an initial 17-target panel for common sepsis-causing pathogens and achieving analytical sensitivity below 5 genome copies/mL with turnaround time under 4 hours. Anticipated results include demonstration of clinically relevant analytical sensitivity and high analytical specificity in plasma samples. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
ARCLET LLC
SBIR Phase I: Health Communication Software Integration with AI and LMLs To Target Localized, High-Quality Health Information Messaging
Contact
18 MAIN ST
Asheville, NC 28803--1428
NSF Award
2432755 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,920
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Alastair Monk
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project is to enhance public health communication by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP) technologies. This project aims to support health communicators in creating, customizing, sharing, and measuring the effectiveness of health messages tailored to diverse cultural and linguistic contexts. By addressing the challenges of delivering accurate and engaging health information, this innovation seeks to improve health outcomes and reduce health disparities in communities across the United States. The project has significant commercial potential, with an initial market focus on health agencies, hospitals, and community-based organizations. Driven by the unique value proposition of providing a user-friendly platform that integrates multiple health communication functions tailored to diverse audiences, the project offers a promise to advance scientific and technological understanding while offering a comprehensive solution to meets the specific needs of health communicators and the patients they serve.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the critical need for culturally and contextually relevant health communication. The research objectives include developing capabilities to generate and customize health messages, creating a dataset to train novel Artificial Intelligence (AI) models, and evaluating the effectiveness of these messages in real-world settings. The proposed research involves collecting health communication materials, processing and tagging this data using Natural Language Processing (NLP), and employing large language models (LLMs) to generate initial drafts of health messages. Customization tools will refine these messages to reflect local cultural and linguistic nuances. The project will implement A/B testing to determine message effectiveness and collect feedback for continuous model improvement. Anticipated technical results include a scalable platform that enhances the ability of health communicators to deliver effective health messages, supported by robust data on message usage and impact. This research aims to bridge the gap between advanced AI technologies and practical health communication needs, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and reduced disparities in underserved communities.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ATMOSENSE, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Optimized High Surface Area Functionalized Nanomaterials for Parts Per Billion (PPB) Gas Sensing Using Machine Learning Models
Contact
5414 OBERLIN DR STE 150
San Diego, CA 92121--4751
NSF Award
2423212 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,991
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to enable the discovery of new materials used in microchip gas sensors for fast detection of harmful gases. The company proposed this project to promote the progress of science through development of advanced materials analysis tools that can help predict which materials should be made for detecting difficult target gases, such as formaldehyde and methane. Formaldehyde is a colorless, carcinogenic gas which is present in various sealants and resins used within the home. Methane is an outdoor greenhouse gas which is more than 80x more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide. Significant market opportunities exist for development of low-cost, high sensitivity microchip gas sensors which can be integrated into various devices (air purifiers, air conditioners, wearable electronics, IoTs, etc.) to diagnose the air quality of our surrounding environments in real-time. The company is also pursuing a commercialization path for another developed gas sensor market segment (ozone). However, this SBIR Phase I project proposes new R&D technologies for rapid discovery and synthesis of complex nanomaterials at manufacturing scale, which can provide a sustainable competitive advantage for future detection of other difficult target gases.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes using machine learning-based materials discovery methods to model electron exchange sensing mechanisms at the target gas (formaldehyde, methane)-nanomaterial interface. This approach can help narrow down which high surface area, noble metal decorated metal oxide nanomaterials need to be synthesized via advanced experimental methods. Key objectives to be accomplished during this Phase I project revolve around accelerating development of candidate nanomaterials by integrating high-throughput synthesis and experiments with first principles computations and state-of-the-art machine learning models. Commercial gas sensors which use thin film metal oxide materials for formaldehyde gas detection typically require significant heating and have difficulty distinguishing among other cross-interferent volatile organic compounds (such as ethanol and isopropyl alcohol). Methane gas is highly stable and unreactive with thin film metal oxide materials used in chemiresistive gas sensors, even when heated to high temperatures. Machine learning-based predictions will help inform the synthesis of candidate high surface area, noble metal decorated metal oxide nanomaterials. Further materials characterization will determine nanomaterial morphology, particle size, surface area, interface active sites, and formulation stability before depositing onto micro-electromechanical microchip electrodes (with integrated micro-hotplates) and conducting gas sensor testing with an outside facility.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ATRILITY MEDICAL LLC
STTR Phase I: Development of Automated Post Operative Rhythm Identification Through Computerized Evaluation of Atrial Signals
Contact
455 SCIENCE DR STE 120
Madison, WI 53711--1067
NSF Award
2423318 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project stems from the development of methods to display and diagnose heart rhythms more accurately and continuously after cardiac surgery. Inadequate post-operative rhythm monitoring remains a significant concern in over 400,000 cardiac surgeries in the United States (US), 30-50% of which result in arrhythmias. Arrhythmias, especially when missed or diagnosed late due to inaccurate or delayed monitoring, often lead to worse patient outcomes, including stroke, cardiac dysfunction, heart failure, and death. These issues are associated with hospital expenses exceeding $9,000 per hospital stay per patient within the growing $8-billion US post-operative cardiac care market. Beyond the significant economic impact, more accurate and continuous post-operative cardiac rhythm monitoring would provide substantial, potentially lifesaving benefits to human health.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project aims to address the limitations of current post-operative rhythm diagnosis using standard surface-based electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring. The inadequacy of atrial signal quality makes it challenging or impossible for providers to interpret rhythm accurately. Additionally, significant variations in patient and ECG characteristics limit the utility of current rhythm monitoring systems, impacting the optimal care of critically ill patients. This project will develop and validate a method for continuous rhythm diagnosis and display using the highest quality atrial electrogram. The diagnosis method will be developed, validated, and optimized with real patient data, ensuring adaptability to varying patient, rhythm, and ECG characteristics. The anticipated outcome is a shift from the current labor-intensive, non-real-time, and inconveniently displayed methodology, which requires specialized training, to a real-time, more accurate, continuous, and easily accessible diagnosis system. If successful, this project is expected to substantially improve post-operative care and establish a more accurate standard for post-operative rhythm assessment.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.AUXILIUM HEALTH INC
SBIR Phase I: An Aerogel Wound Dressing Material Platform with Mechanical Fluid Management, Biofilm Prevention, and pH based Infection Detection Properties
Contact
10000 CEDAR AVENUE SUITE GCIC3-113
Cleveland, OH 44195--1114
NSF Award
2421214 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a novel wound dressing material for improving chronic wound care by mitigating several biological and microbial factors that affect healing. Chronic wounds affect near 50 million patients in developed countries often leading to persistent infections, prolonged inflammation, and increased healthcare costs. Approximately 80% of infections are associated with bacterial biofilms that delay healing and require frequent interventions. Current solutions often rely on reactive infection management and frequent dressing changes. This project proposes a novel wound dressing with optimal porosity to enable oxygen exchange while creating a pathogen barrier, integrated with real-time detection of infection indicated by a rapid color change. The platform offers a potential solution for improving the management of acute wounds, chronic wounds, surgical sites, and burn, with a total estimated $200M annual market. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to develop and validate an aerogel-based biomaterial combining fluid management, biofilm prevention, and rapid infection detection properties into a single platform. The innovation relies on the integration of a biopolymer aerogel material with a multi-layer design. The primary layer aims to promote tissue regeneration while blocking microbial infiltration, and the secondary layer aims to absorb wound fluid while providing a visual indicator of infection. The proposed technology development will optimize the aerogel?s pore structure for effective biofilm prevention, refine the infection-sensing mechanism for reliable detection in under a minute, and ensure the mechanical durability needed for clinical use. If successful this project will demonstrate preclinical safety and effectiveness, with scalable pilot production methods for a prototype wound dressing material, that reduces infection-related complications, minimizes dressing changes, and improve healing outcomes. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
Atrevida Science LLC
STTR Phase I: Active Blade Morphing Control to Improve Efficiency and Reduce Loading for Wind Turbines
Contact
8941 GALWAY TER
Clarence Center, NY 14032--9407
NSF Award
2151668 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$256,000
Start / end date
03/15/2023 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Mara Schindelholz
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is expanding global deployment of wind turbines with increased production not obtainable with today?s fixed blades. An adaptable blade with advanced control capabilities helps solve technical and scientific challenges as wind projects accelerate their move offshore, extending the physics of the larger turbines needed for future wind farms. Developing a high-fidelity modeling tool to design morphing blades capable of boosting energy production, reducing wear and tear, dampening vibration, improving stability, and reducing load effectively achieves two crucial goals. These goals include accelerating the deployment of renewable energy with affordable electricity that is efficiently and economically extracted from wind and improving the loading and stability necessary for the development of floating wind farms capable of installation in challenging water depths and extreme weather. The technology proposed makes large turbines better at capturing wind in more locations to protect against volatile energy prices, generate jobs, and promote greater participation in the global energy transition for developed and developing countries alike. Furthermore, the blade technology resulting from this research provides opportunities for new manufacturing techniques and commercial applications in other industries such as aviation, automotive, and marine renewable energy.
This STTR Phase I project proposes to examine a high-fidelity model to support the design and control of an advanced wind turbine blade configuration with an adaptive twist angle distribution (TAD). Conventional control is generally applied to rotor torque to maximize wind capture, and thus production, below the rated wind speed. Above this speed, control shifts to the blade pitch angle to maintain full power. However, limitations in existing designs lead to trade-offs where wind capture or power production is relinquished to reduce loads, mitigate vibration, and improve stability. The actively adaptive TAD provides greater control capabilities and satisfies these objectives without trade-offs. A crucial goal of this research is the means to understand the complex aeroelastic and aerodynamic relationships with respect to the TAD. The technology is a high-fidelity model that simulates these dynamics and the aeroelastic performance in a reasonable amount of time. This model involves the development of a framework combining these dynamics and uses computational tools that leverage data analytics and machine learning. The technical result of the proposed work is the creation of a digital twin that enables effective design and robust control of highly sophisticated blades with adaptive TAD.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.BASS AGRITECH, INC
SBIR Phase I: Long-Term Railcar-Mounted Wheel Bearing Monitors
Contact
300 LON RD
Rogersville, MO 65742--6200
NSF Award
2423352 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$269,642
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Mara Schindelholz
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project is in improving the efficiency and safety of railroads by accelerating the commercialization of long-term railcar-mounted wheel bearing monitors. These devices can provide live temperature monitoring of railcar wheel bearings in transit, enabling railroads to proactively prevent derailments caused by overheating of bearings. This technology could dramatically reduce the economic impact of damaged equipment and infrastructure: the 2023 derailment in East Palestine, Ohio which inspired this innovation resulted in over $2 billion in damages. Furthermore, these devices can be deployed at a cost of at least two orders of magnitude lower than the cost of existing track-based defect detectors, providing railroads with a far better solution at a lower cost. The potential benefits of this technology extend beyond railroad finances: many trains carry hazardous materials, and derailments run the risk of spilling carcinogens and other toxic substances, damaging ecosystems and harming nearby communities. This innovation can drastically lower the risk of these catastrophes.
The intellectual merit of this project stems from its goal of ascertaining the effectiveness of wheel bearing monitors deployed on railcars long-term. The primary innovation inherent in this project is the monitoring device, which will be designed to withstand the harsh environment of railroad use, update sensor readings over a cellular connection, and recharge in transit via a novel axial flux generator harvesting energy from the rotation of the railcar?s axle. The research objectives revolve around quantifying sensor durability on a railcar truck, axial flux generator feasibility in railroad IoT devices, wireless sensor network reliability in a railroad environment, and digital temperature sensor accuracy and response time on a railcar wheel bearing. It is anticipated that the technical results of this research will conclusively demonstrate that wheel bearing monitors of this type are suitable for long-term deployment in a railroad environment.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.BEAMFEED LLC
STTR Phase I: Highly Efficient Photovoltaic Power Converter for Optical Power Beaming
Contact
19 MORRIS AVE
Brooklyn, NY 11205--1095
NSF Award
2451629 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
02/15/2025 – 01/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project are in addressing critical bottlenecks in the unmanned aerial vehicle, wireless power transmission, and semiconductor industries. The proposed laser power beaming innovation plays a pivotal role in establishing a power grid for remote provisioning of energy to devices. The proposed work is important for several industry verticals where physical wiring may not be a practical solution for continuous and clean power supply. The electric aircraft market has an immediate need for an alternative charging solution. Battery longevity remains a critical bottleneck in the drone industry, causing disruptions in usage and operational efficiency due to frequent and mandatory recharging procedures. This work targets expansion of battery capabilities through a far-field wireless charging solution which directly addresses the unmet needs of drone manufacturers and operators alike and allows for longer operational periods, greater flexibility in device usage, and increased performance capabilities. This project stands to contribute to the fields of photonics, semiconductor technology, and energy harvesting, providing a novel solution to a longstanding challenge in the electrical aircraft market through the advancement and application of wireless power transfer. The proposed innovation serves to drive innovation in the energy efficiency technologies, which are critical to national energy independence and technological leadership. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project aims to enhance the overall power conversion efficiency for wireless power transmission systems through the development of a highly efficient photovoltaic power converter. The proposed innovation is built on the concept of a one-way coherent absorber with inverse-designed aperiodic multilayer front- and back-reflectors that enable maximal optical absorption in a thin-film photovoltaic material for broad incident angles. Innovative design configurations and high-quality fabrication through molecular beam epitaxy will be employed to construct the device based on optimized multilayer binary mirrors, thus aiming to reach record-high external quantum efficiency by efficiently trapping monochromatic light for an oblique angular range. The proposed photovoltaic receiver, responsible for absorbing laser fluence and converting it to electrical energy, will realize substantial progress in power conversion efficiency for far-field power transmission. This approach, which integrates advanced optical and electrical characterization methods, promises to deepen the understanding of light-matter interactions at the atomic scale and has the potential to unlock new avenues for high-efficiency, scalable wireless power systems. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
BEKEN BIO, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Liquid Biopsy Diagnostic for Early Detection of Ovarian Cancer Targeting Novel Extracellular Vesicle Biomarkers
Contact
9276 SCRANTON RD STE 200
San Diego, CA 92121--7703
NSF Award
2423675 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
08/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on advancing a novel ovarian cancer (OC) diagnostic to enhance patient outcomes significantly. This initiative introduces a pioneering method for identifying biomarkers within extracellular vesicles (EVs), early markers specific to cancer circulating in the bloodstream. By targeting cancer EVs in a minimally invasive blood test, the project aims for unprecedented sensitivity and specificity in early detection. Success in this endeavor could pave the way for adapting the approach to develop diagnostics for other cancer types. The global market for OC diagnostics, currently valued at $1.3 billion and growing at an annual rate of 7%, reflects increasing incidence rates in younger populations and a growing emphasis on early detection strategies. A successful outcome from this project would position any resulting products favorably in the broader landscape of cancer detection technologies.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a highly sensitive, minimally invasive laboratory test to detect early-stage ovarian cancers (OC) by assaying relevant biomarkers on circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) in patient plasma. EVs provide significant advantages in sensitivity and patient outcomes over tests using circulating tumor cells or cell-free tumor DNA, as they are secreted by living cancer cells within the primary tumor. This project will utilize a novel technology to identify key proteins in EVs from various OC subtypes, engineering an assay to differentiate between patients with malignant tumors and those without cancer with high specificity. The second objective is to employ a machine learning tool to perform diagnostic classification, providing actionable information to clinicians regarding the presence of a tumor. Successful completion of these objectives will facilitate the development and validation of scalable workflows for the diagnostic assay during Phase II, with the goal of having a laboratory-developed test ready for commercialization by the end of Phase II.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.BERKM INC
SBIR Phase I: Transparent Clay-PET Nanocomposite for Lightweight Packaging with Extended Product Shelf Life
Contact
22 BOND ST APT 615
Watertown, MA 02472--3758
NSF Award
2408935 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,424
Start / end date
06/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project includes reducing plastic pollution, food waste, and CO2 emissions. The project focuses on new and economical ways of manufacturing clay-polyethylene terephthalate(PET) nanocomposite. The nanocomposite displays significantly improved material properties. The improvement in properties enables the use of up to 20% less plastic per package and reduces food and beverage waste by extending product shelf-life 5X-6X. The end beneficiaries of the technology are consumer packaged goods companies. Using the proposed technology, they can save costs from raw materials and product shelf-life extension and meet their sustainability goals. The company has several patents and trade secrets that have been developed over 30 years and the chemistry concept behind the project can be used to develop multiple additive product lines for different polymers. The estimated total addressable market size for inorganic polymer additives is $33B. The company intends to commercialize initially in specialty packaging followed by carbonated drinks.
This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project aims to make clear PET soda bottles with a 2-3X improvement in CO2 barrier that displays industry acceptable yellow index. The team can achieve 5-6X improvement in the CO2 barrier on lab-scale films and is working to convert lab-scale performance to the final soda bottle package. This project aims to understand the barrier performance and haziness of the packages made from our clay-PET composite. The team will use a variety of microscopy and characterization techniques to study the nanocomposite through the bottle making process to determine if particle agglomeration, rapid crystallization, and/or micro-voids are causes for haziness. Depending on the findings, the team will develop co-monomers, high-temperature injection processes, and different compatibilizers to manage haze while maintaining CO2 barrier properties.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.BEYOND SILICON, INC.
SBIR Phase I: strain-relief interconnection and encapsulation of perovskite/silicon tandems
Contact
1101 E CHERRYWOOD PL
Chandler, AZ 85249--5622
NSF Award
2423304 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,999
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Mara Schindelholz
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project is to increase the competitiveness of the United States in photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing through the development of advanced perovskite/silicon tandem technology. Photovoltaics (PV) are an important energy source to reach 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035, and its annual deployment needs to quadruple to meet that target. However, PV companies are suffering with low gross profit margins due to little-to-no product differentation. Perovskite/silicon tandem technology offers >30% higher efficiency than today?s best-in-class silicon PV technology. This improved efficiency could drive down manufacturing cost of PVs and increase the profitability of US PV manufacturers. The high efficiency panel also further discounts the balance-of-system cost, lowering the levelized cost of electricity, which, in turn, could accelerate the deployment of PV as the dominant energy source to power a sustainable future.
The intellectual merit of this project is in the demonstration of strain-relief interconnection and encapsulation technologies for perovskite/silicon tandem photovoltaics. To address the challenges associated with the temperature-sensitive and mechanically delicate perovskite materials, this project will seek to first understand both the thermal and mechanical stress thresholds of tandem devices and then implement metallization and encapsulation strategies to minimize the thermal and mechanical stresses during the module fabrication processes, delivering reliable tandem modules.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.BIOCOGNON LLC
SBIR Phase I:Combinatorial Platform for the Discovery of Improved Molecular Recognition Components for Use in Therapeutic and Diagnostic Antibodies
Contact
2403 SIDNEY ST STE 255
Pittsburgh, PA 15203--2194
NSF Award
2418011 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$273,550
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is the fundamental improvement of crucial antibody components that recognize and bind therapeutic or diagnostic targets. Modern antibodies are usually engineered as protein chimeras comprised of different parts, including one to several molecular recognition domains that mediate binding. The proposed research will integrate breakthroughs in next generation DNA sequencing and synthetic and computational biology to create a combinatorial high throughput platform for generating better recognition domains. The core aim is to creatively and efficiently use genetic information from patients, pathogens and antibodies for the advancement of therapeutics and diagnostics across a spectrum of diseases. The platform could expedite the design and discovery of current antibody-based therapeutics to reduce the enormous costs and time required to bring these drugs to market. The platform is ideally suited for the development of new classes of therapeutics where very rapid, adaptable and inexpensive response is required, such as in truly personalized treatments of continuously changing tumors or in rapidly evolving viral pandemics where passive vaccines need to be generated at scale.
The proposed project will demonstrate that a novel yeast-based high throughput screening platform is able to efficiently generate molecular recognition domains that specifically recognize clinically important targets. The proof-of-concept target antigens are a human receptor/ligand pair important for the immunosuppression of certain cancers and a coronavirus surface protein that mediates infection by binding a human receptor. In these screens, the use of yeast cells that surface display antibody recognition domains, and secrete these target antigens from the same cell, enables next generation sequencing to identify the genetic information encoding both the domain and the target. This dual detection capability is made possible by innovative fluorescent biosensors and is unique to this screening platform. The project will utilize synthetic biology to construct a library with a rich variety of recognition domains that will be screened simultaneously against several target antigens of varying design. Next generation sequencing analysis will show that it is practical to implement combinatorial screens using engineered recognition domains and antigens to identify recognition domains with desired binding specificity and affinity.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.BIODYNAMIK
SBIR Phase I: Innovative actuating smart implant device of Transverse Tibial Transport technology for the treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Contact
11 ORCHARD RD #107
Lake Forest, CA 92630--8319
NSF Award
2432559 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
12/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a novel implantable therapy paradigm for initiating autologous healing in patients suffering from Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs). Severe DFU?s can result in amputations, resulting in loss of limb and subsequent decline in their quality of life. The novel proposed treatment paradigm of Transverse Tibia Transport (TTT) aims to stimulate soft tissue growth to offer a new treatment paradigm to current topical or pharmacological treatments. The system stimulates patients' regenerative mechanisms needed based on mechanical forces to cause neovascularization and circulation restoration to the diseased limb to heal the ulcer. This system aims to provide an invasive therapy option for approximately 967k US patients suffering from DFU equating to a total addressable market opportunity of $8Billion. If successful, the system will be used to treat patients with persistent DFU?s, with the future potential of expanding indications to treat less severe DFUs, other ischemic limb diseases, pressure sores and other common non-healing wounds. This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project proposes a novel implantable system which leverages distraction osteogenesis as a treatment for diabetic foot ulcers. The objectives of this Phase 1 project are to complete the design and development of a low profile implantable Transverse Tibial Transport device integrating an active mechanical mechanism that is to transversely distract or retract a cut tibia bone segment in a programmable manner. The system will be driven using a novel mechanical actuation system that drives the TTT mechanism using a wireless controller. The first phase will be the feasibility development and testing of the distraction screw mechanism of the TTT implant device and the second phase is the feasibility development and testing of the actuation hardware platform for the implanted system. Upon completion, the system will be tested using standard mechanical failure measures suitable for commencing future preclinical validation and human use. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
BIOIMAGINIX LLC
SBIR Phase I: Predicting and Diagnosing Alzheimers Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment by MRI Using Variational Autoencoder and Machine Learning Algorithm
Contact
410 MALLARD RUN
Morgantown, WV 26508--7369
NSF Award
2500009 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$303,089
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is developing a low-cost diagnostic tool for brain imaging using an artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML)-based algorithm. The goal of the proposal is to develop a technology that can distinguish mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients and Alzheimer's disease (AD) cases using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans. Diagnosing AD at the MCI stage and therapeutic intervention at this stage are the keys to developing effective therapeutics, lifestyle changes, and future planning for patients, caregivers, and stakeholders. Clinical diagnosis of AD is miserably low (~60% specificity and sensitivity). Such an image analysis platform will ensure a sophisticated tool for geriatric primary care and neurologists to detect a predementia patient with a certain chance of being converted to AD shortly. In the broader commercial potential, the user-friendly brain imaging data analysis platform will be transferred to the clinic to assist in the early diagnosis of AD, particularly the MCI stage and prognosis, using MRI images. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to utilize 3-dimensional (3D) Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (sMRI) brain scans from the patients as input to a specialized artificial intelligence (AI) platform that reduces dimensions and extracts latent features evolved from the affected whole brain by the disease. This AI-Machine Learning (ML) measures changes related to the atrophy of the brain, and relative temporal and region-specific changes correlated with the level of the patient's cognitive function. The algorithm classified Alzheimer?s disease (AD) vs. mild cognitive impairment (MCI) with accuracies of 81.41% and autopsy-confirmed AD vs. MCI at 92.75%. Proof-of-concept has been published in a peer-reviewed journal. There is no definitive diagnostic tool for AD that is cost-effective. In the broader commercial potential of this SBIR Phase I project, Neurologists/Gerontologists will use it for diagnostic and patient stratification. As the anticipated results, the technology would overlay MRI retrieval and provide an additional interpretive and diagnostic aspect to help neurologists provide a more accurate diagnosis of AD, MCI, other non-AD dementia, and normal brain. The resulting product of this study will address the differential diagnosis of AD, a significant unmet need. The algorithm can be extended to diagnosing other neurological diseases, such as autism, depression, traumatic brain injuries, and schizophrenia. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
BIRED IMAGING INC
SBIR Phase I: Efficient Thermal-Spatial Point-Cloud Extraction and Rapid Assessment of Physics-Based AI Algorithm from Infrared Images to Increase Early Detection of Breast Cancer
Contact
44 BRANDYWINE LANE
Rochester, NY 14618--5602
NSF Award
2451205 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
02/01/2025 – 01/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project relates to improving women?s health through early detection of breast cancer. Women above age of 40 years are advised to undergo annual/biannual screening for breast cancer. In the current breast cancer screening paradigm, mammography is supplemented by adjunctive technologies, such as ultrasound imaging, to improve the cancer detection rates. However, shortcomings from imaging dense breast tissue relating to higher patient recall rates for additional screening and lower detection accuracy have impacted confidence in screening. This SBIR Phase I project aims to improve early cancer detection by providing an innovative screening tool that can accurately detect breast cancer, even in dense breasts. The increase in the overall detection rates and improved cancer detection from this screening tool is expected to provide significant short-term and long-term savings in healthcare costs. This technology is cost-effective as it does not require skilled technologists screening patients. It will increase the revenue to hospitals/breast clinics while providing more confidence in cancer screening and saving out of pocket expense to patients. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses a critical societal need for accurate breast cancer detection, especially in women with dense breasts. Malignant tumors generate more heat as compared to healthy tissue due to their increased metabolic activity. It changes the heat signature on the surface of the breast that can be captured by an infrared camera. This concept was utilized to develop a device that can extract the surface temperatures of the using infrared imaging. A physics-based artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm then back-calculates the size and location of a malignant tumor from these surface temperatures. The technology is free from harmful radiations and is contactless. To meet current clinical workflow demands, improvements in imaging and computing times will be pursued through technical research. Further research in data generation from imaging and physics-based AI techniques will be conducted to reduce the imaging and computing times to integrate this technology into clinical settings. An Institutional Review Board approved clinical study will be undertaken to validate the methods developed in this project. The outcome from this project will be a rapid breast cancer screening technology that will meet current clinical demands for early detection of cancer. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
BLUESTEM BIOSCIENCES INC
SBIR Phase I: Improved Proton ATPase for the Anaerobic Biomanufacturing of Organic Acids
Contact
3555 FARNAM STREET, FL 12
Omaha, NE 68131--3311
NSF Award
2342475 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$273,910
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project includes rural revitalization, greenhouse gas emissions reduction, and domestic supply chain security. To meet the urgent need for more sustainable manufacturing supply chains with reduced greenhouse gas emissions and to remove reliance on foreign supply chains and petroleum, this project will include researching and commercializing the anaerobic bioproduction of commodity chemicals. Acrylates are a primary monomeric component in paints, coatings, plastics, and super-absorbent polymer applications. 3-Hydroxypropionate is a precursor to acrylates and acrylic acid. A bio-based production method must be created to significantly reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of the current petrochemical method for acrylate production. The most prevalent and heavily explored form of biomanufacturing is aerobic fermentation. However, due to their large capital and operating costs, as well as a lack of available aerobic fermentation capacity, aerobic fermentation efforts have largely been unable to scale.
The proposed project seeks to modify yeast microbes to produce chemicals as a byproduct of their growth, just like yeast naturally creates ethanol. Specifically, these chemicals should be made in a way that helps the microbes continue to grow and maintain a balanced energy state. The project is focusing on developing ways to produce commercially valuable organic acids such as 3-hydroxypropionic acid. However, unlike ethanol production, making these acids usually requires using extra energy to push the products out of the microbe cells. A significant goal for the project is to find methods to reduce the amount of energy needed for this process, as efficient energy use is essential for using these methods in settings that don't have oxygen. While previous studies have laid some groundwork, solving the energy-efficient export of these acids is still an unresolved challenge. By utilizing a vast array of documented genetic variations along with advanced computational tools for designing proteins and innovative strategies for selection, a method is proposed to find or develop an enzyme that operates within a cell membrane and can expel more than one particle for each energy molecule it breaks down, a process which is possible within the laws of thermodynamics.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.BRAINSTORM THERAPEUTICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Development and Validation of a Novel Parkinson's Disease Drug Discovery Platform Using Patient-Derived Midbrain Organoids
Contact
5370 TOSCANA WAY H208
San Diego, CA 92122--5656
NSF Award
2414877 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project spans several fronts, starting with advancements in public health and welfare. The project goal is to reduce risks in clinical translation and expedite the development of crucial therapies for Parkinson's disease. Additionally, the highly scalable nature of the proposed platform offers the long-term potential to extend its application to other complex brain disorders and therapeutic domains. The platform will guide therapeutic candidate discovery, stratify patient selection and refine clinical trial endpoints. Beyond health, the project impact extends to the economic competitiveness of the US. For example, by providing therapies that can help address the challenges people with neurological disorders face in the workforce, the developed product will contribute to operational efficiency, reduce healthcare costs, and boost workforce productivity. The commitment to accelerating therapeutic development also fuels innovation, attracting investments and creating high-value jobs, solidifying the US as a global leader in healthcare innovation. Furthermore, the project team actively promotes partnerships between patient foundations, academia, and drug developers in the biopharma industry.
The proposed project addresses the urgent need for effective disease-modifying therapies for Parkinson's disease. There are no approved disease-modifying therapies for Parkinson's disease due to challenges, including the lack of reliable animal models that accurately predict human efficacy, and a poor understanding of the genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors contributing to dopamine neuron degeneration. To overcome these hurdles, an all-in-human Parkinson's disease drug discovery platform will be developed. This approach utilizes familial Parkinson's disease patient-derived midbrain organoid disease models, biomarker-based screening endpoints, and advanced data analytics to identify disease-modifying therapeutics that halt, prevent, or reverse dopamine neuron degeneration. This platform is positioned as a game-changer in the discovery of impactful Parkinson's disease treatments. The core innovations of the approach include patient-derived stem cells capturing human disease biology at the earliest drug development stages, human-first drug discovery reducing reliance on animal models, scalability and reproducibility of organoid production, robust and reproducible quantification of disease-specific phenotypes, and screening compatible with various therapeutic modalities. The focus on genetically validated targets and converging pathways in sporadic Parkinson's disease aims to de-risk clinical translation, reduce costs, and accelerate the discovery of transformative Parkinson's disease therapies.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.BRIGHTLIGHT PHOTONICS, INC
STTR Phase I: Wafer-scale, foundry-ready Ti:Sapphire integrated photonic lasers and amplifiers
Contact
4610 RAVENSTHORPE CT
Sugar Land, TX 77479--3520
NSF Award
2432932 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
02/15/2025 – 10/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is in development of compact, portable, and affordable devices for biomedical imaging. The advanced imaging instruments could be used in diverse fields and applications, ranging from neuroscience research to early cancer detection at the point of care. By developing a photonic platform that can produce these devices at scale, this project aims to make these instruments affordable enough to be widely used in physicians? offices, dramatically improving access to critical diagnostic technologies. This project?s technical innovations will be in reducing the cost and complexity of lasers operating in the visible and near-infrared wavelength spectrum, which are vital in emerging fields like quantum computing. Such an advancement in integrated photonics would also result in more compact and cost-efficient atomic optical clocks, which are essential for defense navigation systems. These societally important applications will generate initial revenue to fund the development of low-cost, two-photon microscopes for cancer detection, reducing the timescale necessary for lifesaving decisions while creating a durable competitive advantage within the cancer diagnostics market. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project aims to transition the Ti:Sapphire-on-insulator (Ti:SaOI) platform from an academic demonstration to a wafer-scale, CMOS-foundry compatible process. This project will enable the scalable production of integrated Ti:Sapphire lasers and amplifiers in the wavelength range of 700 ? 1000 nm, revolutionizing the high-performance visible and near-infrared laser market. Previous proof-of-concept devices had limited performance due to nascent fabrication technology with high propagation losses and were built using chip-scale techniques that could not be scaled for direct commercial viability. This effort lays the foundation for wafer-scale production of this technology, by developing efficient methods of doping sapphire, optimizing plasma etching, and producing a narrow-linewidth laser with the efficiency and power capable of addressing market needs. These advances in the Ti:SaOI platform will then enable the realization of transformative on-chip mode-locked laser technology at scale. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
CARAVEL BIO, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Next generation enzyme engineering: high-throughput directed evolution of spore-displayed enzymes
Contact
4640 S MACADAM AVE STE 130D
Portland, OR 97239--4283
NSF Award
2409142 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to provide a novel synthetic biology platform that generates customizable enzyme solutions for industrial biocatalyst applications. The use of enzymes as industrial biocatalysts continues to expand, offering environmentally friendly and sustainable solutions to a wide range of industrial processes while driving innovation in fields such as pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and food production, and more recently biomining and carbon capture. Viewed as an alternative to conventional chemical catalysts, enzyme biocatalysts offer greater sustainability in their processes owing to their biodegradable nature, high selectivity, ability to operate under mild reaction conditions, and their ability to generate a low amount of byproduct during a reaction; they also negate the need for potentially toxic or energy intensive reagents typically needed for conventional chemical catalysis. These advantages confer downstream impacts on operational efficiency, costs, and energy requirements. With the proposed technology?s enhanced capabilities, there is potential to increase this impact by providing novel enzyme solutions that confer greater robustness and efficiency at lower costs and environmental impacts.
The proposed project aims to apply directed evolution and high-throughput screening technologies to spore-displayed enzymes, enabling rapid prototyping of spore-enzyme variants to improve important variables like enzyme activity, stability, and loading density. While enzyme catalysis is used in a wide range of industries, the ability to create enzymes with thermal and chemical stability that are also reusable remains a challenge. Using a process called spore-display immobilization, the platform uses bacteria to make and assemble enzymes on the surface of spores, a self-assembling and genetically encoded microparticle. The platform is based on key foundational research that resulted in the characterization of 37 proteins that make up the spore coat of Bacillus subtilis and their ability to act as fusion partners for enzymes. To further develop this technology, the following objectives are proposed: 1) Use the platform to implement directed evolution of a commercially relevant enzyme on the spore; establish feasibility of approach to yield improved biocatalytic properties and benchmark to industry standard; 2) Advance system screening capabilities to enable high throughput selection using a microfluidic encapsulation approach; demonstrate ability to screen >1 million enzyme variants per day, and 3) use machine learning to predict and learn from improved catalyst variants.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.CAUSALIT LLC
SBIR Phase I: Two-stage Causal AI modeling for Causally-Aware, Edge-Deployable Healthcare AI
Contact
1020 SW TAYLOR ST STE 550
Portland, OR 97205--2527
NSF Award
2451320 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,929
Start / end date
05/01/2025 – 04/30/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Alastair Monk
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact /commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is the development of new Artificial Intelligence (AI) models that may be capable of human-like causal understanding and reasoning. These algorithms could be more trustworthy and accurate than existing AI due to the integration of causal understanding, making them useful for applications in healthcare where the reliability of modern AI is problematic. Furthermore, using causal information to construct these Causal AI models will enable the creation of smaller, less computationally intensive versions of AI that can be used on devices such as smartphones and embedded computers in medical devices that can operate without a central server. This will make AI technologies more generally available for use in medical applications, as well as enable AI to be used in applications where a device may need to operate in a stand-alone mode for privacy and/or reliability reasons, such as to avoid transmitting private data to a central AI server or in a field or emergency situation where connecting to a central server is not possible. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is intended to create a methodology in Healthcare for creating and utilizing Artificial Intelligence models that comprehend and utilize formal casual logic (e.g. in the form of Directed Acyclic Graphs and/or Structural Causal Models) to overcome the fundamental limitations of statistically-based AI algorithms such as Large Language Models (LLMs). By using causal information, these AI models will provide reliable, traceable, and human-comprehensible analytics and decision-making that outperforms existing approaches in accuracy and trustworthiness. These improvements may make Casual AI models suitable for use in high-trust healthcare applications. In addition, this project will investigate leveraging causal information to produce smaller edge-deployable causal AI models that can be deployed on devices that need to operate in a stand-alone mode for privacy and/or reliability reasons, such as to avoid transmitting private data to a central AI server or in a field or emergency situation where connecting to a central server is not possible, thus expanding the usability of casual AI to many situations where server-based AI solutions are impractical or impossible to use. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
CE-RI-SS MATERIALS LLC
SBIR Phase I: CHAPS (Carbon Hybrid Anchoring Precipitation System)
Contact
12512 DUDLEY STATION LN
Knoxville, TN 37922--5583
NSF Award
2417770 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,919
Start / end date
08/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is based on the manufacture of new lightweight materials made from aluminum and carbon fiber. These materials can be created with advanced properties and at accelerated production rates, resulting in superior and affordable materials used in high-performance industries. Current metal matrix composite materials have inferior mechanical properties due to defects at the interface between the metal and the carbon fiber phases and poor metallurgical bonding. Through scientific investigations into the structure and dynamics of phase formation, this project will develop materials with the low defects and effective load-transfer properties needed for commercial application. The new material has environmental benefits by reducing the weight of manufactured parts in vehicles and other applications, thus reducing fuel requirements and associated greenhouse gas emissions. Customers span high-performance sectors such as transportation, automotive, aerospace, and defense, all pursuing materials that merge mechanical excellence, energy efficiency, and cost effectiveness. The market for such composite materials in the U.S. is projected to grow to $124 million by 2028. The proposed material?s competitive advantage will be superior performance, high-throughput processing, and lightweight yet strong characteristics.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to demonstrate high-strength reinforcements in a metal matrix composite where failure is most likely. The proposed process achieves this by leveraging interface precipitates influenced by reactions between the carbon fiber, aluminum matrix alloying elements, and rare earth element coatings. These precipitates act as anchoring phases, resulting in low-defect-density interfaces and enhanced composite performance. The Phase I objectives are to (1) elucidate the microstructural evolution at the interfaces of aluminum-carbon fiber composites under the influence of rare-earth element coatings and copper in the matrix alloy, (2) identify the composition and microstructure of the anchoring phase at the aluminum-carbon fiber interfaces, and (3) understand the role of coatings in infiltration behavior during casting of aluminum-carbon fiber composites. The project uses high-resolution characterization to investigate the microstructural dynamics and phase formations, the uniformity of precipitate distribution, the influence of rare-earth element coatings on the composition and nanostructure of the interface, the infiltration behavior during casting, and the interfacial adhesion dynamics and metallurgical bonding and defect density in the material. The outcome will be a demonstration of the material?s high mechanical strength and the impact of interfacial phases on mechanical properties. The study will enable new composition-of-matter intellectual property based on unique microstructure arrangements and properties.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.CELLECHO INC
SBIR Phase I: A Microprocessor for Complex, Multidimensional Cell Reprogramming: Acoustic-Electric Micro-Vortices Technology for Precise, Sequential Delivery of Genetic Molecules
Contact
5270 CALIFORNIA AVE
Irvine, CA 92617--3231
NSF Award
2507783 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to make cell engineering more accessible, enabling a wider range of users, from students to experienced researchers, to perform complex cellular modifications with ease. Similar to how 3D printing revolutionized manufacturing, this project aims to develop a microchip-based, miniaturized liquid and cell handling technology that makes advanced cell engineering feasible in diverse laboratory settings. By streamlining these processes, the technology has the potential to accelerate discoveries in cell and gene therapy, fields that are rapidly expanding to address conditions such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. The ability to perform complex cell engineering with precision is critical for the future of personalized medicine, where custom-engineered cell-based treatments could improve patient outcomes and expand therapeutic options. Beyond healthcare, this innovation will also impact biotechnology, drug development, and regenerative medicine, fostering advancements that benefit both scientific research and clinical applications. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses critical challenges faced by existing technologies in multiplex and complex cell engineering. These challenges include low efficiency in genetically modifying cells, the generation of heterogeneous populations of engineered cells, limited processing throughput, and restricted compatibility with different cell types. The proposed microchip technology leverages sound waves and electric fields to manipulate cells and sequentially deliver customizable combinations of genetic coding molecules. In Phase I, the instrument?s components will be designed and optimized to generate homogeneous populations of engineered cells with high efficiency and throughput. To validate the platform?s versatility, the technology will be tested across a variety of cell types, including cancer cells and primary human T cells, using a broad range of genetic materials such as DNA, messenger RNA (mRNA), and proteins. To further enhance commercial and societal impact, the platform will be used to demonstrate multiplex genome editing of T cells for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell manufacturing, a critical area in cancer immunotherapy research and therapeutic development. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
CICADEA BIOTECH, LLC
STTR Phase I: A Urine Test for Kidney Cancer Detection
Contact
1100 CORPORATE SQUARE DR
Saint Louis, MO 63132--2952
NSF Award
2451001 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 09/30/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to improve human health by early detection of kidney cancer to increase survival rates for kidney cancer patients. In 2023, kidney cancer impacted 81,800 Americans. Due to a lack of early detection methods for kidney cancer, most kidney tumors are found incidentally during diagnostic imaging for other purposes. The proposed project will be the development of a novel, non-invasive kidney cancer screening test for use prior to imaging, to reduce unnecessary risk from imaging tests, to enable earlier cancer detection, and to serve as a preventive test for high-risk populations (age 50 to 75). A positive diagnosis through the proposed screening test will result in healthcare providers proceeding with confirmatory imaging tests for further analysis. Using this test, malignant tumor cells in the kidneys and urinary tract will be detected in urine specimens, allowing for the initial detection of cancer and monitoring molecular residual disease (MRD). Due to the current lack of an effective biomarker or screening test for kidney cancer, there is significant commercial potential for the proposed test. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I Project seeks to develop a novel screening and surveillance test for kidney cancer from urine. Currently, there are no screening methods for kidney cancer aside from imaging modalities such as a computed tomography (CT) imaging. While non-invasive, use of routine imaging for kidney cancer screening is an impractical and costly approach for the general population. The proposed project will have these objectives: 1) Demonstrate the specificity and accuracy of the biomarker for the detection of renal tumors from kidney cancer patients at early-stage disease without symptoms; 2) Demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of the test for detecting residual disease in kidney cancer patients of post-nephrectomy. If the proposed project is successful, the work will pave the way for developing and offering the test as a Laboratory Developed Test (LDT) service through a single validated clinical lab, and later pursuing FDA approval as an in vitro diagnostic device (IVD). This noninvasive test will be easily accepted by a broad range of patients from different cultural backgrounds. As a result, this will help to increase the survival rate of kidney cancer patients who are diagnosed at an early stage without symptoms. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
CIRCULARITY FUELS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Sorbent-Enhanced Catalysis for Robust, High-Conversion Single Pass Hydrogenation for Renewable Natural Gas Production
Contact
2566 BAY RD
Redwood City, CA 94063--3014
NSF Award
2432928 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Mara Schindelholz
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lies in its potential to revolutionize the wastewater treatment market for renewable natural gas (RNG), valued at approximately $2 billion. The potential solution focuses on capturing and upgrading biogas from wastewater treatment facilities (WWTFs), which produce a consistent mix of approximately 50% methane and 50% carbon dioxide (CO2). By converting CO2 into methane, the output of RNG can be effectively doubled, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This approach provides WWTFs with a cost-effective way to increase revenue through RNG sales and carbon credits, while addressing capital constraints that often hinder facility upgrades due to the cost of separating CO2 from waste streams. Beyond the wastewater market, this innovation has broader implications for other CO2-laden industrial waste streams and the larger anaerobic digester market, including 8,000 dairy, swine, and poultry farms across the U.S. Overall, this project not only offers significant commercial potential but also contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gasses, supporting broader societal and environmental goals. By aligning with sustainability-focused municipalities, a new standard for renewable energy production and environmental stewardship in the wastewater and agricultural industries can be set.
The intellectual merit of this project centers on advancing the understanding of sorption-enhanced catalytic processes for upgrading waste gasses to renewable natural gas (RNG). The research objectives are fourfold: 1) map the impact of varying catalyst and sorbent compositions on the sorbent enhanced catalyst (SEC) for the first model system, aiming to identify optimal configurations; 2) measure the impact of catalyst and sorbent identity on the sorbent-enhanced catalytic effect, particularly focusing on resistance to contaminants, which is crucial for long-term system performance; 3) elucidate the role of humidity in mediating the synergistic interactions between the catalyst and sorbent, an aspect critical to enhancing the overall efficiency of the process; and 4) investigate how different heating mechanisms influence the system's performance, aiming to optimize energy efficiency and reaction kinetics. These research efforts are anticipated to yield significant insights into the catalytic and sorption processes, thereby enabling the development of a highly efficient, scalable technology for converting waste gasses into RNG, with broader implications for sustainable energy production and environmental impact reduction.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.CISTERNA BIOLOGICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Development of a Novel Platform for Cost-Efficient mRNA Production in Yeast
Contact
3349 LAS VEGAS DR
Oceanside, CA 92054--3809
NSF Award
2415711 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,980
Start / end date
08/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to develop a platform technology that manufactures high-quality messenger RNA (mRNA) at 1/10th the cost of current systems. In Vitro Transcription (IVT), the primary method of synthesizing mRNA for therapeutics and vaccines, encounters significant challenges in the form of expensive patented raw materials, complex purification processes, and supply chain shortages. There is an urgent need to fundamentally redesign mRNA production to accommodate the growing demand, enhance access to affordable, high-quality mRNA, and resolve supply chain issues. This project aims to innovate mRNA production by transforming yeast cells into efficient mRNA factories and using advanced chromatographic techniques for purification. The proposed platform could streamline mRNA manufacturing to significantly reduce costs and to broaden the scope, applicability and accessibility of mRNA. This innovation aims to provide pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, and research institutions in academia, with affordable high-quality mRNA for vaccine development, therapeutics, and research purposes. This democratization of mRNA technology should accelerate innovation across different fields, shorten time-to-market for new treatments, and expand mRNA applications in emerging markets. Additionally, it may improve access for populations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), significantly advancing global health.
The proposed project seeks to overcome high costs and inefficiencies associated with current IVT methods. This project introduces a novel approach to mRNA production by overexpressing a ribozyme-mRNA fusion in yeast, which is then immobilized and precisely cleaved on-column upon addition of a specific substrate that activates the ribozyme. This innovative method facilitates the efficient release and subsequent purification of the targeted mRNA directly from an RNA fusion construct expressed in yeast. Key technical objectives include demonstrating stable expression of the target RNA fusion in yeast, establishing a robust on-column purification system, and validating the purity and potency of the purified mRNA. Achieving these goals will validate the platform's feasibility and facilitate scaling of the technology to produce large quantities of mRNA, from grams to kilograms, at reduced costs, thereby revolutionizing mRNA production for diverse applications.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.COHERENT PHOTONICS, LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
SBIR Phase I: Metasurface Optical Waveguides for Compact and Scalable Optical Systems
Contact
6 SYCAMORE DR
Plainsboro, NJ 08536--1938
NSF Award
2506374 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in replacing conventional optical systems, like lenses, mirrors, or their combinations, that need to be individually produced, assembled, aligned, and placed within a housing or enclosure. Such optical systems are used in smart phones, consumer wearables devices, biometric identification, medical diagnostics, autonomous navigation, robotics, remote sensing, etc. This project will develop novel optical devices that will overcome the limitations of traditional optical systems with respect to weight, size, scalability, and cost. The system will be composed of tiny features that interact with light on a sub-wavelength scale. Development of the novel optical devices will directly benefit U.S. consumers. The innovation is expected to transform a variety of optical and photonic systems into lighter, more affordable, and more compact solutions that can be produced in large volumes. This Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase I project develops innovative metasurface optical waveguiding devices (MOWGs) that control light on a subwavelength level and will provide significant practical benefits over a variety of conventional optical systems. Conventional optical systems contain assemblies of optical components, such as refractive lenses, mirrors, or their combinations, that need to be individually fabricated, assembled, aligned, and placed within a housing or enclosure. That results in relatively bulky and heavy optical assemblies that have limited potential for cost reduction and scalability. Metasurfaces represent a new class of optical surface that control optical fields on the sub-wavelength level. Novel metasurface topologies that can be applied to optical waveguides will be explored. This SBIR Phase I project is intended to overcome the limitations of traditional optical systems with respect to weight, size, scalability, and cost by employing metasurface assemblies containing waveguiding structures. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
CORE BIOTHERAPEUTICS INC
SBIR Phase I: Determination of the Mechanisms Driving Diseases at the Molecular Network Level to Develop Disruptive Drug Candidates
Contact
31 SALVATORE
Ladera Ranch, CA 92694--1425
NSF Award
2451628 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$303,864
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is the development of a platform of drugs with therapeutic effects that cannot be achieved otherwise, such as disease modifying effects for neurodegeneration or universal treatments for cancer. The project aims to determine the biological laws of molecular networks driving diseases and programing these into an efficient, scalable algorithm for drug target discovery. The understanding of network biology may enable the rapid design and development of a high number of therapeutic programs and their commercialization with high predictability. It may also inform the field on how molecular networks operate and initiate a new research field. The societal impact of the innovation is to address high unmet medical needs, such as stopping the progression of neurodegenerative diseases or providing universal treatments for cancer. The platform has the potential for broad impact as it can expand to most cancers, neurodegenerative diseases and beyond, including fibrosis or cardiac disorders. The proposed project of identifying how of molecular networks drive diseases and programing their laws into a drug target discovery algorithm represents a potential technological leap to develop revolutionary therapies. Current treatments focus on single targets, providing variable therapeutic effects. What is advanced here is the opposite approach: reprogramming molecular networks to produce safe, profound and consistent therapeutic effects. Specifically, transcription factors (TFs) are dominant proteins controlling all gene expression and cell fate. Because TFs act in networks, algorithms are built to map TF networks and identify the TFs controlling diseased networks. Oligo-based drugs will be developed with the unique ability to inhibit multiple TFs to drive therapeutic effects beyond single target approaches. The technical objectives of the proposal are the demonstration that oligo efficacy is a function of TF network reprogramming using a well-established breast cancer cell line, building a computational model to select TF targets to reprogram networks toward therapeutic effects and demonstrate the scalability of the model in a second cancer cell line. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
CORLENS INC.
SBIR Phase I: Zernike Double-Metalens Cooke Triplet
Contact
129 LAKESHORE
Terre Haute, IN 47803--1400
NSF Award
2432888 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
01/01/2025 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project are in developing a groundbreaking architecture for thermal imaging lenses that are smaller, lighter, less expensive, and use abundant semiconductor materials such as silicon. This innovation aims to reduce the size and weight of traditional commercial thermal lenses by a factor of two, leveraging new advancements in nanotechnology. The innovation will enhance scientific and technological understanding by offering a mathematical solution to key practical issues. The first market segment targeted is thermal imaging for unmanned aerial vehicles in defense and security applications, using a business-to-business model. This advancement would not only strengthen the U.S.'s leadership in optics and innovation but also support new engineering, scientific, and manufacturing capabilities. The project aligns with national priorities, such as those supported by the CHIPS Act, by leveraging existing infrastructure. Additionally, this project will contribute to workforce development by training a diverse group of students in cutting-edge STEM fields. The proposed technology will provide a durable competitive advantage and be a key factor in enabling the commercial success of the innovation. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to address key technical challenges that have limited the practical application of flat lenses in commercial imaging systems. The primary research objectives are to determine whether the proposed Zernike Double Metalens Cooke Triplet can simultaneously eliminate both image noise and chromatic aberration, achieving high-quality imaging with much fewer optical elements to gain superiority over size and weight when compared to commercial lenses. This will mark a breakthrough in lens architecture with flat optics, moving the technology from research labs to real-world applications. One of the objectives is to mathematically solve a highly non-linear system of coupled equations using a mix of several algorithms to obtain a feasible solution for addressing the undesired large chromatic aberration in flat lens design while keeping a high efficiency. Another objective is to eliminate image noise with the proposed unique architecture while still maintaining a practically feasibly optical system for harsh environments. The project will advance a first prototype in collaboration with payload developers in the aerial imaging systems. The successful completion of this R&D effort will lay the foundation for further commercialization, with the ultimate goal of integrating the technology into commercial imaging sensors. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
COSMIC EATS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture: Enhancing Post-Harvest Quality, Reducing Contamination, and Easing Sterilization for Value Added Mushroom Producers
Contact
1941 EVANS RD
Cary, NC 27513--2041
NSF Award
2423642 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,885
Start / end date
08/01/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project is to develop a more efficient and sustainable way of producing mushrooms in a novel farming set-up. Currently consumer demand for mushrooms exceeds supply, and demand is growing very fast in the US and across the world. Some challenges faced by specialty mushroom growers in operating their businesses include the resource intensive requirements for growing the mushrooms as well as losses incurred due to the short shelf life of the harvested mushrooms. This proposal explores deep, transformative science questions with the goal to implement a novel technology to help mushroom growers overcome these challenges. Successful implementation will result in the growers operating more successful businesses, and will facilitate more novice growers to enter the market. The overall outcome will be an increase in supply to meet the unmet demand of the US consumer. Currently there is a great reliance on imported mushrooms to meet some of the demand. This project will enable an increase in domestic production capabilities thus improving national security, and will support the White House?s National Strategy on Food Insecurity and Better Health.
The innovative research proposed in this project is to define and implement a plasma treated water sterilization method that will impact multiple stages of mushroom cultivation and has the potential to transform production processes by reducing labor, water, and energy usage while enhancing product quality and extending shelf life. The application of plasma treated water in mushroom growing is relatively unexplored but seems promising as it has known antimicrobial activity due to reactive nitrogen and oxygen species. The reactive oxygen and nitrogen species also are known to boost post-harvest quality in mushrooms. However, there is risk that antimicrobial activity could also harm fungal mycelium and delay, inhibit, or otherwise disrupt growth resulting in yield loss. The project seek to understand the impacts of plasma activated water on mushroom production and seek to minimize the deleterious impact on fungal mycelium and mushrooms while maximizing its benefit. Successful applications of plasma activated water for mushroom production through this Phase I project will bring a significant efficiency gain for mushroom growers and reduced reliance on resources will enable production of mushroom in formerly inaccessible environments (such as in austere and isolated environments), thus opening new markets while providing more sources of nutrition to the local populations.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.CREATHADH ENERGIES, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Prototype for Vibration Harvesting in Wearables
Contact
1932 IOWA ST
Cedar Falls, IA 50613--3842
NSF Award
2507259 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 09/30/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be in enabling human movement vibrations to be used to power commercial applications such as wearable devices. The end goal is a wearable, such as a heart rate monitor for athletes, that would never need a coin cell battery replacement or a recharge. Such a wearable product would enable continuous data acquisition, allowing better monitoring of an athlete?s performance. This technology would limit the use of coin cell batteries. Once an initial market of wearables for athletes can be commercialized, longer-term wearable applications in telehealth and national defense will open up. Key innovations will enhance scientific and technological understanding in the power management circuitry for a system powered by human movement and in the long-term use vibrations harvesters. A business model first focused on creating a prototype wearable for athletes will rely on technological advances in chip circuit design and mechanical energy harvesters. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the challenge of building a low-power energy harvesting system to harvest vibrations from human movement. Electromagnetic vibration harvesters are ideal for harvesting low-frequency human movement. Unlike piezoelectric harvesters? high voltage outputs, electromagnetic harvesters? voltage outputs are low and will not create an electrostatic discharge event. This allows the use of low-power innovations in integrated circuit Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology. Unique circuit designs allowing for low-voltage start-up, a custom electromagnetic vibration harvester, and power-management system are necessary for a prototype system that will need to operate from non-periodic human movement in this project. An electromagnetic harvester and discrete power-management system will be built using a pre-existing integrated circuit-based low-voltage start method. New techniques will be developed for the power-management system for non-periodic harvested human movement. To accomplish this, both the harvester and prototype containing the harvester and electronics will be built and tested on a shaker table using human-based acceleration profiles. The final prototype will be shown to store at least 75µW in this testing. The anticipated prototype will be able to charge a rechargeable battery that will power a sensor. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
DAYZERO WATER LLC
SBIR Phase I: Effective, Affordable, UV Treatment Technology for Microbiologically Contaminated Water
Contact
1915 NE 55TH AVE
Portland, OR 97213--3506
NSF Award
2449174 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,950
Start / end date
02/15/2025 – 10/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in the development of a novel inexpensive, adaptable point-of-use water treatment device. It deploys commonly used ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection technology in a simple pitcher-shaped, countertop, household appliance. It operates using electricity when available but can also be powered by a rechargeable battery. Anyone can safely operate it to produce all the drinking water needed after a city?s water treatment or distribution systems are damaged by a flood or earthquake or other natural disaster. Thus, the product can have significant value in addressing the U.S. incident and emergency management challenges. Microbiologically contaminated drinking water contributes to more than 500,000 deaths annually. Globally, about a billion people boil their water every day to make sure it is safe. The proposed product can meet their needs more safely while meaningfully reducing carbon emissions. This project is also in alignment with the 2022 U.S. Global Water Strategy that calls for increased water security where it is needed most. This SBIR Phase I project will focus on the design of an instrumented UV appliance. This will be aided by light transmission modeling in non-cylindrical vessels to assure uniform and adequate exposure of water to the UV light and appropriately locating UV-C LED lamps and UV transmittance monitors to achieve those goals. The device will be experimentally tested with controlled microbial challenges with the goal of demonstrating that the appliance conforms to World Health Organization?s standards for household water treatment technologies for a broad array of contaminated water sources. It is thought that discrete UV intensity monitoring can be correlated with UV-C dose so that performance can be adjusted for water with varying levels of microbial contamination. The appliance will also incorporate sensor capabilities to automatically log, and report use data to support the potential compilation of carbon credits. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
DEBATER HUB, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Revolutionizing Learning Through AI Augmented Debate Centered Instruction
Contact
19616 ADAIR DR
Castro Valley, CA 94546--3306
NSF Award
2431521 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project is to transform education by developing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) enhanced debate-centered learning platform. This innovative technology addresses the crucial need for cultivating 21st-century skills in students, with a focus on critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and self-regulation. The platform provides personalized and engaging debate experiences, aiming to democratize access to high-quality enrichment education, especially for underserved communities. The innovation applies cutting-edge AI techniques to educational contexts, including multi-agent language systems, graph neural networks, and mixture of expert models, thereby enhancing scientific understanding. The target market includes K-12 schools, universities, and workplace learning programs seeking cost-effective solutions to improve student outcomes and career readiness. The technology offers a unique competitive advantage through its innovative integration of AI and debate pedagogy, providing a scalable solution for enhancing student outcomes and career readiness across diverse educational settings. The business model focuses on scalable, subscription-based software distribution, with the potential for rapid adoption across educational institutions which aims to transform how students learn to think critically, debate with evidence and reasoning, and engage with complex ideas.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a novel Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered platform for debate-centered instruction, addressing the complex challenge of enhancing student learning outcomes through advanced technology integration in education. The research objectives include developing an AI-powered Learning Management System for debate education, creating advanced natural language processing algorithms for argument analysis and feedback, and designing a scalable infrastructure for personalized learning experiences. The proposed research will employ a multi-faceted approach, combining techniques from machine learning, educational data mining, and cognitive science. Methods include developing and training specialized language models for debate contexts, implementing knowledge graph technologies for efficient information retrieval, and creating adaptive learning algorithms that respond to individual student growth over time. The research will investigate innovative approaches for ethical AI implementation in educational contexts, focusing on transparent oversight, bias mitigation, and privacy protection while maximizing educational benefits. Anticipated technical results include a functional prototype of the Augmented Debate-Centered Instruction platform, demonstrating improved learning outcomes in critical thinking and debate skills. The research aims to advance the field of AI in education by tackling unique challenges in debate instruction, such as real-time argument evaluation and personalized feedback generation while providing insights into optimizing human-AI collaboration in complex learning environments.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.DEEPBITS TECHNOLOGY LLC
SBIR Phase I: ReleaseChecker: Lastline Software Supply Chain Security via GPU-accelerated Binary Diffing
Contact
20871 WESTBURY RD
Riverside, CA 92508--2974
NSF Award
2433062 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$273,383
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to introduce unique AI-powered code diffing capabilities to defend against software supply chain attacks, capabilities that are not yet available in other software supply chain security solutions. This innovation offers several benefits. Firstly, by reducing cybersecurity operation costs, it improves the competitiveness of U.S. companies, allowing them to allocate resources more efficiently. Secondly, it bolsters software supply chain security, significantly reducing the risk of cyberattacks and protecting sensitive data for governments, enterprises, critical infrastructures, and individuals. Additionally, this innovation will extend our understanding of how to apply AI to program analysis for cybersecurity, including binary code disassembling, function feature extraction and embedding, model training, and optimization. It establishes a new program analysis pipeline based on the latest AI technology, which can be extended to many other cybersecurity applications.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the critical need for enhancing software supply chain security and compliance. Unlike other solutions that monitor each stage of the software supply chain, this project aims to leverage AI-powered code diffing technology to precisely and efficiently find the differences between two released versions of the same software. It further combines software composition analysis and large language models (LLMs) to understand the risks associated with these differences. This solution acts as the final check before the software is released or deployed. The anticipated results include improved accuracy and efficiency in diffing analysis and comprehension, as well as a prototype for testing and commercialization.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.DEEPSEQAI LLC
SBIR Phase I: Development of an AI-Driven Humanized and Developable Single-Domain Library Design Platform for Accelerated Drug Discovery
Contact
3400 COTTAGE WAY
Sacramento, CA 95825--1474
NSF Award
2409105 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,797
Start / end date
07/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Alastair Monk
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact /commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to address major technical and commercial limitations in protein drug discovery. Drug discovery is currently a slow and expensive process, taking an average of 10 years and $2.6B per drug. In 2021 the US pharma industry spent almost $100B on drug research and development (R&D) efforts, with ~10% dedicated to protein drugs. Although some artificial intelligence (AI) solutions exist to support this process, fundamental problems exist: no current system optimizes multiple protein functions simultaneously, existing models rely heavily on predicting protein structures, and there is a lack of transparency in the models. This proposal supports the development of an AI system to improve the identification of small, highly specialized antibodies. The proposed technology could enhance the speed of identifying lead molecules while also reducing the cost through technical innovations. Therefore, this work has enormous clinical and commercial potential.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is intended to support the creation of an AI model to improve the identification of highly developable single-domain antibodies. These molecules have accepted advantages for therapeutic use (strong binding affinity, good thermal stability and chemostability, and less steric hindrance than conventional antibodies). However, they are typically obtained through a time- and cost-intensive process that involves immunizing a camelid or screening a large synthetic library. This proposalwill support the development and validation of an AI model specifically intended to quickly identify effective and highly developable single-domain antibody leads against a given target. In order to accomplish this goal, the proposed work encompasses training a multimodal AI model that is able to ecognize key features and residues of single-domain antibodies, then produce libraries of sufficient depth and quality to generate stable, safe leads with strong binding affinities. After the study period, the model and developed workflows will be evaluated for their ability to rapidly identify lead molecules.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.DEFINED BIOSCIENCE, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Protein isolate serum replacements for low-cost cultivated meat medium
Contact
6404 NANCY RIDGE DR
San Diego, CA 92121--2248
NSF Award
2412327 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,995
Start / end date
07/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to enable a robust, scalable, and cost-effective means of cell expansion for cell-cultivated meat. Cell-cultivated meat offers an alternative source of animal meat products that may address issues of sustainability, conservation, and ethical sourcing. Current meat consumption is 30-40 kg per person per year in a population of nearly 9 billion people, presenting a major and growing annual demand for animal meat. Cell-cultivated meat, by bypassing animal slaughter through the growth of animal-derived cells in controlled environments, could help to meet this demand in a way that reduces greenhouse gas emissions, foodborne illnesses, and land and water usage. It also could offer more control in terms of metabolic profile, fat content, product sourcing, and food testing and analysis, a level of control from single cells to finished meat product. With concerns for animal meat sourcing over the next several decades, cell-cultivated meat may offer an opportunity for supplementing a shortening food supply and an alternative to traditional meat sourcing.
The proposed project expands on a low-cost and highly optimized cell culture medium formulation to enable scalable production of bovine cells for cell-cultivated meat. Cell-cultivated meat expects to use orders of magnitude more growth media than any previous market demand. Even pending the inevitable advancements in high-density cell culture, medium recycling and perfusion, scale-up bioreactor design, and limiting factor replacement that will all reduce this burden, there remains a profound need for lower-bulk, lower-cost media. A challenge is that cell culture has historically relied on blood serum to provide nutrients, growth factors and proteins?the most abundant and costly of which is albumin. The goal of this work is to replace high-cost recombinant albumins with plant-sourced albumin or albumin-like proteins, enabling the affordable production of cells for cultivated meat. Recombinant albumin improves on current formulations in the proliferation of bovine cells, and plant-derived fractions derived from US agricultural waste streams can similarly improve performance. This project aims to identify the highest-performing isolates among a defined set of candidates, followed by formula optimization. The resulting medium would be a low-cost solution for the growth of cells for cultivated meat?with the potential to serve other albumin applications.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.DELAQUA PHARMACEUTICALS INC
SBIR Phase I: Triblock copolymer micelles for enhanced drug solubilization and stability
Contact
7016 TURKEY FARM RD
Chapel Hill, NC 27514--9787
NSF Award
2432717 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is rooted in enhancing the therapeutic use of hydrophobic drugs and yielding improved treatment outcomes with fewer side effects. The proposed technology has the potential to revolutionize the pharmaceutical field by increasing the bioavailability of known hydrophobic drugs and stabilizing new drugs. The technology will improve the health of the American population by allowing more therapeutic to be injected at lower volumes, thereby increasing therapeutic availability and efficacy. The platform will enhance America?s economic competitiveness in the global nanopharmaceutical market by providing a critically needed solubility-enhancing carrier platform. Research, sales, manufacturing, and management jobs will also be created domestically. The technology will engage with pharma companies and academic research groups on the evaluation, co-development, and licensing of novel drug formulations that improve the therapeutic window and reduce side effects. The platform will hasten the development and success rates of therapies that address the unmet medical needs of patients suffering from a broad spectrum of indications including cardiovascular conditions, cancer, infectious diseases, and neurological conditions like Alzheimer?s and dementia.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will enhance the efficacy and safety of hydrophobic drugs and drug candidates through a polymeric micelle approach to drug solubilization. Estimates suggest 40% of approved drugs and 90% of molecules in the discovery pipeline are poorly soluble, thereby hindering bioavailability and efficacy and preventing many late-stage drug candidates from reaching the market. Current solubility-enhancing drug carriers require high amounts of inactive excipients, which adds costs and complexity and may cause adverse side effects. As such, there is a clear need for improved drug delivery methods. This Phase I work will establish the capabilities and safety of the polymeric micelle platform as a robust and widely applicable method of solubilizing and stabilizing hydrophobic drugs to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Objectives are to 1) improve formulation of spherical micelles for enhanced stability and drug solubilization, 2) perform initial toxicity study on polymeric micelles establishing the safety of the platform, and 3) demonstrate efficacy of the platform for solubilization of compounds of different drug classes. The proposed work will generate a scalable, well-characterized, and improved polymeric product for solubilizing active but poorly soluble active pharmaceutical ingredients, thereby enhancing clinical development and commercialization of much-needed therapeutics.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.DESIGNER ECOSYSTEMS LLC
SBIR Phase I: Building A Reef Mimicking Coral-Independent Habitat Support Structure
Contact
487 N OWEN ST
Alexandria, VA 22304--2245
NSF Award
2436946 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$301,769
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to develop a novel modular construction technology to simultaneously provide shoreline protection and restore the most economically important aspects of coral reefs. This technology aims to solve two fundamental problems of traditional coral restoration where corals are transported from nurseries and secured back onto reef habitats: (1) that coral reefs naturally develop slowly over centuries, which means coral restoration efforts are slow to offer measurable returns to investors; and (2) that successful restoration of the reef ecosystem and concomitant services is dependent on coral survival, which is threatened on many levels. The strategy offered by this project is to replace the structure of mature reefs and provide immediate valuable shoreline protection and fish habitat, so that this approach to restoring reef ecosystem services can succeed even when coral mortality events occur. More traditional shoreline protection structures like seawalls change the physical parameters of the marine environment, making customers choose between habitat restoration and coastal protection. This technology offers both long term storm damage reduction to shoreline properties and increased value of natural ecosystems and the resultant blue economy. The product under development in this project is an engineered habitat support structure for reef ecosystems, novel for its relatively larger size and degree of surface complexity. Most artificial reef systems are orders of magnitude smaller or are constructed of large piles of recycled materials that lack the surface features critical to nature-based solutions. While the proposed technology may demand large upfront investments, it can substantially shorten the recovery time of degraded reefs by facilitating self-organization of supporting ecosystems. A major innovation of the product is its modular design, which will allow it to be built of scalable block-like components while also being customizable to a variety of installation sites. This Phase I project will test the feasibility of developing this product as a commercial technology that can be built and installed at scales relevant to coral restoration and shoreline protection needs for customers in several industries across the Caribbean. It will also test tradeoffs between strength and mass of various block shapes, and a variety of block joints that can be used to reduce the cost of construction without reducing the performance of the resulting structure. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
DINYA DNA LLC
STTR Phase I: Commercializing Architect-directed DNA Synthesis
Contact
505 DOUGLAS ST
Durham, NC 27705--3888
NSF Award
2350533 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is to expand innovation in the biotechnology sector through the development of a new DNA synthesis technology. DNA synthesis is a key enabling technology for synthetic biology and biotechnology.
Traditional DNA synthesis methods build DNA one nucleotide at a time and can only synthesize short strands of DNA due to fidelity limitations. These short strands of DNA can be assembled into larger DNA fragments but this process is sequence dependent and often fails. This results in high costs, delayed timelines, and even an inability to complete certain research goals. This project seeks to overcome these challenges by developing an entirely novel DNA synthesis technology that will significantly reduce costs and lead times, while also enabling the synthesis of long and complex DNA. These advances will significantly accelerate and enable innovation and development of new therapeutics, biomanufacturing, agriculture, and more.
The proposed project is focused on the commercial development of novel DNA synthesis technology. This technology is a hierarchical approach to DNA synthesis that relies on small 2-5 bp DNA precursors that can be enzymatically assembled into larger DNA sequences in an exponential fashion (eg, 2 bp to 4 bp to 8 bp to 16 bp, etc). Funding in this program will be used to i) develop new methods for ensuring higher fidelity DNA precursors, ii) reduce synthesis costs by streamlining synthesis reactions, as well as iii) characterize quality control approaches. If successful, this project will pave the way for high fidelity DNA synthesis at low costs and rapid turnaround times.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.DOCARE LLC
SBIR Phase I: Detecting clinical trial communication behavior and preference patterns at a large scale to predict and improve clinical trial participant retention
Contact
1250 AVE. PONCE DE LEON
San Juan, PR 00907--3949
NSF Award
2350202 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$273,188
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Alastair Monk
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project
may be to improve the success rates of clinical trials by possibly enhancing the engagement and retention of participants.
Poor clinical trial communication causes participant disengagement and attrition, resulting in incomplete data,
failed trials, and associated economic losses for the pharmaceutical industry The dynamic communication behavior
prediction tools that will be developed by this research may improve participant engagement through tailored
communication strategies. This technology combines unsupervised machine learning and operations research
models to predict participant communication and optimize contact protocols to increase engagement and
retention. This is a data-driven approach to improve clinical trial decision-making, schedule flexibility,
and participant outcomes, and reduce no-shows and dropout rates.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop a large language model that will
improve the communication between clinical researchers and the participants in clinical trials with a focus on
optimizing engagement and retention to prevent trial failures. The project will use cluster analysis of
communications data from several clinical trials to understand and model group behavior for key variable
detection. These data will be integrated to design customized communication strategies for identified
behavioral clusters. The clustering and group assignment models will be tuned to develop a synergistic model
for employing optimal communication with clinical trial participants. Increased research staff productivity,
improved data collection efficiency, and advances in clinical trial research scientific and technological
understanding are predicted. This new technology could solve a major problem in the industry,
improve patient outcomes, decrease healthcare costs, and increase the success rate of clinical trials by
achieving response rates close to 95% total participation. The ultimate goal is to improve treatment efficacy
and healthcare delivery quality by incorporating a multi-objective machine learning methodology to increase
patient engagement in their care.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.DTP THERMOELECTRICS LLC
SBIR Phase I: The DTP-90 Thermoelectric Device with Distributed Transport Properties (DTP) for Refrigeration and Beyond
Contact
650 SIERRA MADRE VILLA AVE STE 201
Pasadena, CA 91107--2068
NSF Award
2415451 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,773
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Mara Schindelholz
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project is to enable a carbon reducing, energy efficient cooling and refrigeration solution, with far-reaching societal benefits. The novel thermoelectric cooling (TEC) module's portability and compactness are invaluable for applications requiring reliable and precise temperature control, such as medical devices, vaccine storage, and portable refrigerators used in transportation. In off-grid or remote environments where conventional refrigeration is impractical, these modules offer a lifeline for preserving medicines and perishable goods. This technology could prove crucial in disaster relief efforts, field hospitals, and everyday scenarios like camping trips, improving quality of life and access to essential services, particularly in regions with limited electricity. The thermoelectric cooling module has the potential to benefit society in numerous ways, from enhancing electronics efficiency and sustainability to providing critical cooling solutions for portable applications. The solid state thermoelectric device technology does not have any working fluids, offering an innovative solution to current refrigeration systems which contribute to increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) production.
The intellectual merit of this project is to produce distributed transport properties TEC modules using composite elements composed of materials with targeted transport properties informed by modeling and synthesized using conventional thermoelectric alloys. Distributed transport properties (DTP) is the optimal structuring of transport material properties, Seebeck coefficient, electrical resistivity, and thermal conductivity, within thermoelectric (TE) elements to create solid-state temperature control systems with greatly increased performance. The introduction of a Seebeck coefficient gradient within the TE elements partially counteracts detrimental distortion of the internal temperature profile induced by Joule heating. This technology will help portable refrigeration applications to be more efficient and less costly with increased portability. The Phase I objective is to produce a prototype DTP module which can achieve a maximum temperature difference greater than 90 Kelvin (K) with a 3 times increase in cooling efficiency (coefficent of performance (CoP)) and heat pumping at DT=70K as well as a pathway to large-volume manufacturing of DTP modules in the United States (US). The program goal is to combine DTP structure and additive manufacture to enable highly cost-effective manufacture in the US of the world?s best performing TE devices. These advancements can revolutionize both consumer and industrial applications for thermoelectric systems, contributing to a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.DUET BIOSYSTEMS, INC
STTR Phase I: New Paradigm for Combination Drug Optimization and Discovery
Contact
1515 BEECHWOOD AVE
Nashville, TN 37212--5516
NSF Award
2432890 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$264,736
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (STTR) Phase I project is in addressing directly the challenge of optimizing the use and discovery of drug combinations. Effective combination drug therapies optimize the therapeutic effects of these drugs and minimize harmful and/or uncomfortable side effects. Many diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer?s, heart disease, and life-threatening infections, are treated by drugs used in combination. Amazingly, the use of these drug combination is guided by analytical methods that are over 100 years old. Researchers have developed the first components of a new analytical toolkit for combination drug discovery and development across a range of disease indications. This STTR Phase 1 research project will enable the commercialization of this toolkit by discovering how to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to sift through a range of existing (and future) laboratory and clinical data to find the drug combinations that work best. The combination drug toolkit may create significant value for its customers by (1) improving target selection, (2) reducing the number of drug development programs that fail, (3) increasing the efficiency of clinical trials data analysis, and (4) extending the patent life of important drugs with new viable combinations. The proposed project seeks to leverage improvements in quantitative understanding of drug ? drug synergy to overcome challenges associated with the optimization and discovery of combination drug therapies. The Multidimensional Synergies of Combination (MuSyC) algorithm is valued as an improvement in understanding drug ? drug synergy by rigorously defining synergy of efficacy and synergy of potency and extracting these different synergies from experimental data sets. The proposed research seeks to innovate the means of data production and integration across diverse data sources and merge this with additional relevant databases and clinical data to create an effective analytical toolkit for optimizing all stages of combination drug research and development. The research plan consists of an experimental track and a computational track. The experimental track will use the MuSyC algorithm to inform experimental design and high-throughput data collection for three use cases of considerable clinical relevance. In parallel, the Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning approaches will be used to integrate diverse data sets with the MuSyC algorithm to predict synergies of combinations. The data track and the AI-track will then be merged to provide proof-of-concept for an AI-enabled MuSyC toolkit for optimizing combination drug use and discovery. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
E-ROOTREE LLC
SBIR Phase I: Design of E-Kit implanted as Synthetic root by biomimicking xylem hydraulics for Environmentally & Economically sustainable Holistic Tree care system for Angiosperms
Contact
1028 WILLIE RANCH WAY
Leander, TX 78641--5715
NSF Award
2432240 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$262,960
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Elizabeth Mirowski
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to reduce the chemical use in the form of fertilizers and pesticides and promote tree crop agronomy. Lands being cultivated for centuries now mostly rely on fertilizers and other chemical solutions to maintain yields. Nutrient management plays a key role in tree metabolism, growth, yield and the aesthetics of crop, pest, and stress resistance which determines crop yields. Nutrient consumption is increasing annually with a current consumption of 19 million metric tons in US that is projected to grow to 117 Megatons in 2027. Agricultural emissions contribute to 11.2% of US emissions which challenge our sustainable development goals for 2050. The methods of application of these fertilizers negatively impacting our environment via acidification of soils, toxification of water bodies, harming pollinators, increase emissions and unnecessary economic costs. This project aims to create a single approach to address the multitude needs of tree crops, thereby promoting economic and environmental sustainability in fruit and nut tree crops.
This project focuses on designing a state of the art, unified and stand alone, easy use kit for diverse species of fruit and nut tree to provide regular nutrient, growth, biotic-abiotic stress and pest management from single node on a tree trunk that will cover the entire tree canopy while imparting zero environmental exposure. Such a quantum leap forward in chemical resource management and zero environmental toxification for holistic tree care is possible by integrating bio science and engineering to build a sustainable tree nutrient delivery kit based on Microelectromechanical systems, which bio-mimic the xylem hydraulic system, correlate the energy that drives the transport and allow for compatibility with anatomical structures. This proposal investigates the xylem hydrodynamics and tree susceptibilities to identify and obtain design conditions, needs, and risks in engineering the system. For the kit to function efficiently from single site it is important to control both axial and radials flows to achieve adequate distribution across the tree. The merit of this method is in engineering both flows and ability to distribute wide range of solutions with various viscosities, dosages and flow rates.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.EASCRA BIOTECH, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Development of rod-shaped drug delivery nanoparticles for in-space manufacturing
Contact
22 LAFAYETTE ST
Pawtucket, RI 02860--6122
NSF Award
2415574 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,990
Start / end date
12/15/2024 – 11/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Anna Brady-Estevez
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is its potential to transform the solid tumor cancer treatment market, projected to reach $424.6 billion by 2027. The project aims to advance the regulatory pathway for space-made medicines by using Janus base nanoparticles (JBNps) as a test case to demonstrate comparability with Earth-made versions. This step is crucial for the commercialization of space-made therapeutics, addressing challenges in drug delivery for solid tumors and advancing oncology biotherapeutics. Additionally, the project will boost U.S. dominance in the space economy, drive innovation and economic growth in biotech, and enhance the nation?s global competitiveness. It could lead to advanced, safer therapies for various diseases and contribute to fostering a diverse American STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) workforce. Beyond its technological benefits, this project emphasizes diversity, education, and community outreach, promising broader societal and environmental benefits. Ultimately, it holds potential for positive impacts on the LEO (Low Earth Orbit) commercial space economy and global healthcare. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to tackle the urgent need for advanced drug delivery systems capable of effectively targeting solid tumors. Current lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), while widely used, face challenges in penetrating the dense extracellular matrix (ECM) of tumors. Eascra?s project focuses on creating a regulatory pathway to commercialize space-made Janus base nanoparticles (JBNps). These nanoparticles, with their nano-rod morphology and DNA-mimicking chemistry, offer improved tumor penetration, effective treatment, and minimal toxicity. Additionally, JBNps maintain drug stability and bioactivity at room temperature, overcoming the cold storage challenges faced by LNPs. Phase I will advance the regulatory approval pathway, laying the groundwork for Phase II, where in-space manufacturing of JBNps will be optimized. This technology has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment by providing a versatile, more effective drug delivery platform. The success of this project holds significant implications for future space-made medicines, benefiting both terrestrial and space-based healthcare. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
ECATE LLC
STTR Phase I: High-resolution, spatially selective intraspinal stimulator to restore sensation in spinal cord injury patients.
Contact
3686 BARHAM BLVD APT H301
Los Angeles, CA 90068--1153
NSF Award
2403910 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,976
Start / end date
06/15/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is a novel custom-made micro-probe electrode system for restoring organ function in nervous paralysis and paralysis-related conditions such as neurogenic bladder or fecal incontinence. The electrode system aims to provide real-time, bi-directional, closed-loop spinal cord machine interface to restore both sensation and volitional motor control in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients. The system aims to provide restorative function for the 5.4M US paralysis victims, while providing smaller, more accurate, higher capacity implantable electrode platform for the $7.6 B neurorehabilitation and neurostimulation market.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project aims to demonstrate the preclinical feasibility of a novel spinal cord neural interface as an effective scalable platform for rehabilitating paralysis-related conditions including neurogenic bladder and mobility. This project will develop a new type of neural interface that delivers selective stimulation to specific targeted regions of the patient?s spinal cord in order to evoke a target sensation. For example, bladder fullness will trigger the proposed intraspinal stimulator to deliver safe current pulses to the patient?s spinal cord to reenable the sensation of bladder fullness. The proposed probe will also sense the patient?s intention to urinate and relay the signal to a bladder stimulator to reenable patient?s control over their micturition. Nanopatterned stimulating electrodes will be fabricated and coupled with custom-designed complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) chips to deliver safe and spatially selective current pulses. The system aims to bypass the spinal cord injury to restore communication between the subject?s body and brain. The system will be validated in rodent nervous models and characterized for future human use.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ECHOICS
STTR Phase I: Tunable Transceivers for Multi-Standard Wireless
Contact
308 WORTH ST
Ithaca, NY 14850--4927
NSF Award
2423440 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will be an improvement in the quality, reliability, and coverage of wireless networks, including defense communication and commercial cellular (4G/5G) networks. By advancing scientific understanding of a new type of tunable wireless frontend, wireless networks will achieve higher data rates, a higher number and density of users, and lower energy use. These technical improvements result in lower total ownership costs for communication hardware and more reliable coverage in dense urban environments. Taken together, this project will lower the economic and logistical barrier of entry to wireless connection, enabling more equitable access to the Internet and each other. This Phase I project will help launch a fabless semiconductor business focused on a patent-pending multi-purpose wireless frontend integrated circuit based on this project?s proof of concept. The existing market for such hardware is the $8B software defined radio market, which is immediately impacted by 10x performance improvements in the same form factor as existing products. This same product family will also be suitable for use in the much larger network infrastructure market ($110B).
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project focuses on the commercialization of a novel tunable resonator circuit technique for radio frequency integrated circuits. Radio frequency systems can be designed with hardware tuning (as in frequency modulation receivers), or without hardware tuning, where the signal of interest is isolated from other radio frequency signals in software. This second approach, called software-defined radio has been lauded in academic and industry research for its potential improvements to overall modern wireless network throughput, however the lack of tuning causes software-defined radios to suffer poor efficiency, susceptibility to interference, and high cost. These downsides have prevented adoption outside defense applications. This project aims to close the gap between these two approaches by developing a transceiver that is both tuned and programmable, achieving the benefits of both approaches. Specifically, this project will develop a prototype transceiver integrated circuit with wide frequency flexibility (<400MHz to 8GHz), with built-in filtering of incoming and outgoing interference to eliminate the tradeoffs in existing software defined radio systems. This project?s software-tunable transceiver frontend will serve as a proof of concept demonstrating a path to realizing the benefits of software defined radios without the prohibitive downsides of current hardware.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.EDNA INC.
SBIR Phase I: Addressing Mental Health in Underserved Athletic Populations
Contact
4 MAYFAIR CIR
Oxford, MA 01540--2722
NSF Award
2430370 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Alastair Monk
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact and commercial potential of this SBIR Phase I project lies in its innovative approach to proactively monitor mental health support for student-athletes, particularly those from underserved communities. Research shows that college athletes face 20 times higher rates of mental health issues than their non-athletic peers, with students of color encountering unique challenges tied to economic, culture, and social constructs. This product will launch at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), where underfunded institutions, lack of social support, and imposed responsibilities compound the pressures of athletic competition.
This project focuses on developing an AI tool that provides conversational check-ins, identifying language indicative of mental distress. By leveraging minority data, this tool engages student-athletes in a culturally relevant manner, promoting their mental wellness. The primary objective is to train a large language model (LLM) using this data to proactively monitor the health and wellness of these student-athletes. The bot integrates subjective conversational data with objective clinical surveys through proprietary algorithms, offering a more accurate assessment of mental distress. With a projected revenue of $3 million by year three, this comprehensive approach has the potential to revolutionize mental health support for student-athletes, with broader commercial applications for other vulnerable populations.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ELEKTRUM TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
STTR Phase I: Ultra-Low-Cost Additive Manufacture of Transparent Conductive Electrodes
Contact
9053 IKE BYROM RD
Krugerville, TX 76227--6290
NSF Award
2451340 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
05/01/2025 – 04/30/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is to provide a fully additive method of manufacturing ultra-low-cost flexible transparent metal-mesh conductors. These transparent conductive electrodes offer superior performance at substantially lower cost than existing options based on indium tin oxide. Highly conductive and transparent conductor films enable applications such as current collectors for EMI shielding, flexible energy storage, capacitive touch screens, electrochromic window films, transparent light emitting diodes, solar cells, and more. This project will focus on large-scale production with high throughputs. Existing transparent conductive electrodes largely use indium tin oxide, but indium is a rare earth metal that has been steadily increasing in price as demand increases. Indium is also typically imported. Reducing the dependence on foreign inputs for optoelectronic manufacturing offers commercial and security advantages. While indium tin oxide has been used in some flexible devices, the material is ill-suited for these applications due to its brittleness imposing severe limitations on bend radius and bend cycles. Metal-mesh transparent conductive electrodes do not suffer from these limitations. Thus, a method of cheaply producing flexible transparent conductors will enable the development of smart windows, rollable transparent displays, portable solar panels, and other devices with new form factors. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will (1) develop improved catalytic ink formulations that are compatible with high-speed micropatterning methods and (2) prototype an innovative system for roll-to-roll electroless plating of those catalytic traces with new methods of film conveyance and improved plating-bath control. Capital and operating expenses of existing methods used to make conductive metal micropatterns such as photolithography can be cost prohibitive for many applications and do not scale well. This project aims to eliminate these costly processes and instead use a fully additive process to make the micropatterns. These patterns will then be metalized using electroless plating to obtain conductive metal patterns. The challenge to be solved is that existing manufacturing equipment tends to be unsuitable for roll-to-roll electroless plating of flexible substrates. The modular plating equipment being designed as part of this STTR includes a novel conveyance system that is more compatible with electroless plating baths and new methods of process controls to achieve reliable plating of micro-scale fine metal lines. These new features will maximize flexibility and equipment uptimes. An additional goal is to develop a kit to retrofit existing off-the-shelf equipment to add roll-to-roll capabilities to further reduce equipment cost. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
ELIF ENVIRONMENTAL LLC
SBIR Phase I: Improving feedstock biogas methane yield via microwave and electromagnetic field application
Contact
8737 N RANGE LINE RD
River Hills, WI 53217--2032
NSF Award
2431910 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is centered on enhancing the efficiency of anaerobic digestion for the generation of biogas from organic waste. The United States produces an estimated 70 billion tons or organic waste each year. The bulk of this waste is currently disposed in landfills, where they contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental contamination. Conversely, anaerobic digestion is one of the most effective methods of organic waste management, in that it not only eliminates the environmental hazards associated with mismanaged waste (e.g., reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 10-13%), but also produces biogas, a valuable renewable energy resource that has been predicted as capable of offsetting 6-9% of the world?s primary energy consumption. This project seeks to develop, model, and validate a technology that leverages microwaves and electromagnetic fields to drive improvements in anaerobic fermentation efficiency by at least 20%. The advancements toward building renewable energy-based infrastructure and reducing organic waste support public health and welfare by contributing to climate change mitigation.
The proposed effort is focused on developing a novel technology that enhances anaerobic digestion efficiency by pretreating organic matter with a combination of microwaves (MW)and electro-magnetic fields. Development of a modular system compatible with a wide range of feedstocks while retaining cost-efficient operation is a non-trivial R&D pursuit. The diverse spectrum of inputs with varying dry matter contents and compositions will require different models, operational parameters, and exploration of new technological avenues. Technical de-risking to deliver a core system that is customizable to application-specific needs will require development of 1) mathematical models representative of the technology?s performance against wide array of commercially relevant materials and digestate (e.g., manure, anaerobic digestate, aerobic activated sludge, food waste, and several combinations thereof) and 2) cost-effective operational approaches capable of responding dynamically to feedstock conditions. Technical challenges arise from the complexity of potential feedstocks and the interacting effects of the multi-component system, which could be applied in series, concurrently, or a combination of both, at various ranges of microwave radiation and electromagnetic field application intensities. To overcome these challenges, this project entails development, computational modeling, and testing of a modular system for pre-treatment of a range of commercially relevant organic wastes, to improve anaerobic digestion by at least 20% while maintaining cost- end energy-efficiency.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ELITE NEURO INC
STTR Phase I: Enhancing Cognitive Performance Through a Scalable Virtual Reality Platform
Contact
335 S SIERRA MADRE BLVD APT 201
Pasadena, CA 91107--6515
NSF Award
2451312 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 11/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project lies in addressing the critical need for effective, accessible tools to enhance cognitive performance. Cognitive abilities like memory, decision-making, and processing speed are fundamental to success in education, athletics, healthcare, and high-pressure professions such as law enforcement. This project will leverage virtual reality (VR) technology to create an immersive platform that combines cognitive assessment and training to address these needs. The innovation provides a scalable solution that enables users to identify their cognitive strengths and weaknesses while participating in engaging activities that improve cognitive performance. By initially targeting the athletic market, the project will help athletes enhance reaction times and decision-making skills while reducing injuries. The long-term vision includes expanding into markets such as education and cognitive rehabilitation, potentially benefiting millions by improving learning outcomes and supporting recovery from brain injuries. This platform also advances scientific understanding by applying validated sensory-perceptual training techniques to real-world cognitive challenges. Within three years of implementation, this technology is projected to impact thousands of users and establish a sustainable model for commercialization, with the potential to improve the quality of life and productivity across multiple sectors. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project aims to develop and validate a virtual reality-based platform that integrates cognitive assessment and enhancement through perceptual training. The project addresses the need for scalable, scientifically validated tools to improve cognitive performance across domains. Research indicates that training specific sensory-perceptual abilities, such as reaction time and auditory processing, can enhance broader cognitive functions like memory and decision-making. This project aims to utilize perceptual training tasks to improve cognition through a proposed virtual reality (VR) platform with embedded multi-modal VR tasks targeting specific perceptual tasks known to improve cognitive capacity. The research objectives include developing reliable VR-based measurement tools, designing engaging training modules, which demonstrate measurable cognitive gains in athletic performance through iterative development, user testing, and statistical analysis to ensure the platform?s effectiveness and scalability. Anticipated results include improved perceptual accuracy and reaction time, with significant cognitive gains and the project has the potential to redefine cognitive training by integrating cutting-edge VR technology with rigorous scientific principles, providing a novel solution for enhancing cognitive performance in real-world settings. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
EMODE PHOTONIX LLC
SBIR Phase I: Nonlinear Eigenmode Expansion Method for Integrated Quantum Photonics
Contact
315 S 38TH ST
Boulder, CO 80305--5469
NSF Award
2507617 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 05/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project are in developing a new computer program that will enhance the design and optimization of photonic devices used in quantum technology. Photonic devices in quantum technology use light to process and transfer information in advanced ways. This innovation addresses a major gap in the ability to model and design optical processes which are essential for secure quantum communications, sensing, and computing. Existing computer programs cannot capture the complexity of quantum photonic interactions, leading to slow and expensive designs. By introducing a faster and more accurate modeling approach, this project will help accelerate the development of next-generation quantum technologies, reducing both the cost and time required for device design. The commercialization strategy is focused on offering a free version with basic functionality and premium versions with the newly developed capabilities. The proposed technology will provide a durable competitive advantage and large commercial potential through patent protection. Beyond commercial applications, this project will support workforce development and contribute to research and development, aligning with US leadership goals in AI computing. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on the development of a nonlinear eigenmode expansion simulation tool for modeling nonlinear optical interactions in complex waveguide structures. Current modeling approaches, such as finite-difference time-domain, are computationally expensive and struggle to accurately model key nonlinear optical processes like second harmonic generation and spontaneous parametric down-conversion. The proposed nonlinear eigenmode expansion method aims to overcome these limitations by integrating nonlinear and quantum-specific calculations into an eigenmode expansion framework, using a semi-classical framework. The project will develop and validate a robust simulation tool that significantly reduces computational time while maintaining high accuracy. Research efforts will include implementing core algorithms for modeling nonlinear interactions, extending these methods to quantum-specific processes, and benchmarking the tool against both experimental data and traditional simulation methods. This project will result in a commercially available simulation tool that accelerates research and development in the quantum photonics industry, enabling the design of more efficient and scalable quantum devices. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
EMPALLO, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Developing Artificial intelligence Models to Predict In-hospital Clinical Trajectories for Heart Failure Patients
Contact
809 PEACHTREE BATTLE AVENUE NW
Atlanta, GA 30327--1313
NSF Award
2304358 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2023 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Parvathi Chundi
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project includes improving cardiovascular management, personalized medicine, inclusivity for historically underserved populations, and clinical trial design. The project could improve the health and wellbeing of heart failure (HF) patients while saving billions of dollars in HF hospitalization costs. If the technology proves feasible, it could shift the paradigm of HF management from reactive to proactive. The proposed machine learning model extracts latent features and detects subtle patterns from clinical data, which derives digital biomarkers that can potentially enable novel phenotype discovery and eventually personalized medicine. The digital biomarkers derived from the proposed innovation, when used in clinical trials, could also improve inclusivity and greater generalizability of novel therapies when applied to diverse populations. The proposed technology could enable clinical trial sponsors to achieve the desired statistical power with smaller patient populations. This, in turn, would enable faster, cheaper, and more effective clinical trials.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project mitigates the burden of heart failure (HF), which afflicts over 6.5 million Americans. As the leading cause of hospitalization in the U.S., HF results in more than $29 billion in hospital charges and $11 billion in hospitalization costs, annually. A large portion of hospitalization costs are driven by readmissions, with about 20% of heart failure patients readmitted within 30 days of discharge. The fundamental challenge is the variability of this disease. A treatment regimen that works for one patient might not work for another, even if they show similar symptoms. Anticipating clinical trajectories, treatment response, and potential complications, and translating those insights into actionable interventions is key to improving outcomes for HF patients. To help clinicians anticipate a HF patient?s response to treatment and adverse events during hospitalization and enable personalized intervention planning, this project will develop explainable and generalizable multimodal artificial intelligence (AI) models that predict a HF patient?s clinical trajectory shortly after admission. This technology is a methodological innovation grounded in large-scale, multi-center, clinical data. The key milestone in Phase I is to yield a reasonably accurate predictive AI model, cross-validated between the data of two large healthcare systems.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.EMPIRI, INC.
SBIR Phase I: A cancer diagnostic instrument to measure empirical treatment response
Contact
7505 FANNIN ST.
Houston, TX 77054--1953
NSF Award
2322382 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,930
Start / end date
08/01/2023 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to improve personalized cancer care by developing a first in class cancer diagnostic instrument that can deliver clinically actionable, personalized, drug response data from individual cancer patients using the E-slice assay. The E-slice assay is a novel 3D culture-based assay which has been shown to accurately predict individual cancer patients? responses to treatments. The E-slice assay is currently registered as a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments Laboratory Developed Tests (CLIA LDT). The cancer diagnostic market is expected to grow from $56 billion in 2022 to $162 billion by 2027, and this test and automation could capture a significant share of this rapidly expanding market. Beyond improving outcomes for cancer patients, the automation of this assay could have far-reaching implications, such as accelerating and economizing drug screening, discovery, and development for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and academia.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the most challenging and risky portion of automating the E-slice assay. The novel engineering solutions that the team proposes to develop will automate the processing of live human tissue samples from a needle biopsy or surgery, generate precision-cut slices, and then precisely position them in a tissue culture plate for downstream culture and analysis. The new device will do so in a manner that maintains sterility, minimizes thermal, chemical, and mechanical stresses, and performs in a highly reliable way. The primary technical challenges are ensuring reliable performance that is equal to or superior than manual methods. The technical milestones include meeting thresholds for reliability, sterility, and tissue viability compared to manual processing.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ENCOORD INC
SBIR Phase I: A hybrid phasor/waveform simulation tool for the accurate and efficient simulation of large electric power systems with high shares of inverter-based resources
Contact
1525 RALEIGH ST
Denver, CO 80204--1594
NSF Award
2321329 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,375
Start / end date
09/01/2023 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Mara Schindelholz
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be to develop refined approaches to power system dynamic stability assessments, enabling the efficient, mass integration of renewable energy into systems worldwide. Decarbonization goals and economic opportunity necessitate the increase of inverter-based resources, such as solar, wind, and battery energy storage. A dynamic stability assessment is required before the interconnection of every renewable, inverter-based resource on all power systems. Current simulation approaches do not capture the critical details of inverter operation or are too computationally complex and expensive to be effective with real-world systems. This results in the enormous potential for unique simulation capabilities that streamline this process. There is a global market opportunity for more effective and efficient planning solutions that enable power system operators to meet this need. In the United States, alone, the licensing opportunity for a solution is hundreds of millions of dollars. The proposed hybrid approach combines computational flexibility with
accuracy. This solution will leverage the maturity of these approaches and eliminate their weaknesses. The final solution will yield an invaluable, novel simulation tool for power system operators and planners navigating the challenges of the energy transition.
The intellectual merit of this project results from the development of mathematical methods that will comprise the foundation of this hybrid power system dynamics simulation tool. Existing tools have clear weaknesses. For example, reduced-order, phasor domain simulation approaches do not capture the critical aspects of inverter operation. Detailed waveform domain approaches are sufficient to capture relevant dynamics but are too computationally expensive to be effective with real-world systems. These domains are mature, but separately they do not meet the changing need. Hybridizing them in a single platform is a solution, but it requires research in the following three foundational pillars of the proposed tool: 1) autonomous boundary determination ? identifying the spatial (across the network) and temporal (across the simulation length) boundary that partitions the two simulation domains; 2) intra-simulation model order adjustment ? applying dynamical model granularity for all simulations, but singularly perturbing the differential systems to create algebraic relations and reduce computational burden when substantial detail is not required; and 3) seamless simulation mode switching ? identifying criteria necessary for switching between domains. With the successful completion of this SBIR Phase I project, the viability of the hybrid approach will be confirmed, and a roadmap for implementation will be realized.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.EUGIT THERAPEUTICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Tissue specific delivery of payloads
Contact
930 BRITTAN AVE
San Carlos, CA 94070--4002
NSF Award
2423571 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
08/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is pivotal for the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), which affects around 3.1 million adults in the United States. Traditional treatments are broad and often lead to severe side effects. This project develops a targeted therapeutic delivery system intended to increase treatment precision and reduce adverse effects. Specifically, it aims to provide relief for the 5-10% of patients unresponsive to existing treatments, opening a market opportunity estimated at $4.65 billion. This technology is anticipated to advance the field of precision medicine by enabling therapies that specifically target diseased tissues, potentially improving treatment outcomes for a variety of chronic conditions beyond IBD, and paving the way for reduced healthcare costs and enhanced patient well-being.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is dedicated to creating a novel platform for identifying agents that can specifically accumulate in diseased tissues. The primary goal is to develop a proof of concept showing that our platform can uncover agents capable of targeted delivery to the gastrointestinal tract. This phase involves comprehensive testing in macaques, chosen for their physiological similarities to humans, to ensure the agents maintain their targeting ability without losing functionality. Expected results include demonstrating that these agents can consistently localize to specific tissues in the gut. Success in this phase will set the stage for Phase II, where these targeting agents will be paired with therapeutic compounds to test efficacy in improving treatment outcomes. The project?s completion will enable the company to engage with pharmaceutical companies for potential partnerships and to apply for further funding through an NIH SBIR Phase II project, focusing on enhanced therapeutic applications.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.EVOLVE GENOMIX, INC.
SBIR Phase I: A low-cost field-use DNA-based rapid diagnostic device for plant diseases
Contact
1249 QUARRY LN STE 130
Pleasanton, CA 94566--8446
NSF Award
2433122 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$270,128
Start / end date
11/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Elizabeth Mirowski
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project is to enable farmers to take early action against destructive plant diseases to protect their crops, reducing reliance on harmful pesticides. Climate change and global trade have led to an increased spread of harmful pests and plant diseases like Citrus Greening. These diseases threaten the world's food supply and cost farmers billions of dollars each year. Farmers are forced to rely heavily on pesticides, harming the environment, human health, and ultimately, their sustainability. Currently, identifying these diseases often involves sending samples to centralized labs, which can be slow, inconvenient, and inefficient. This Phase I project aims to develop a user-friendly, affordable testing device that allows farmers to quickly identify plant diseases right in their fields. This early identification of plant diseases would enable the farmers to practice more sustainable farming methods that would lead to higher crop yields, improved food security, maintain U.S. competitiveness in the global food trade and preserve jobs in the agricultural industry. This on-site testing and data-driven decision making by less-skilled farm workers also leads to increased science education, thus serving NSF?s mission.
On-site testing by farm technicians is a critical need for the early detection of destructive plant diseases like Citrus Greening in the pre-symptomatic phase to reduce the spread of infection and to lessen the prophylactic use of pesticides. This project aims to enable such rapid on-site testing of vector-borne plant diseases through development of a low-cost, battery-operated, accurate, nucleic acid-based molecular diagnostic test kit that can process diverse, hard-to-lyse plant tissue samples and produces easily-readable results in 30 minutes. The main goals of this Phase I project are to develop a simple, field use-friendly hardware kit for sample homogenization, nucleic acid extraction, isothermal amplification and signal readout and to formulate optimal formulations for lysis, extraction and amplification reagents. The outcome of this 9-month project will be a universal hardware kit and a Huanglongbing (HLB) disease-specific reagent kit that would be designed and optimized to have >90% sensitivity and 100% specificity for Candidatus liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), the causative pathogen of HLB disease. The universal hardware kit can be used with other pathogen-specific reagent kits that would be developed in the future.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.FEMTOFLUIDICS INCORPORATED
SBIR Phase I: Drug Discovery meets Moore's Law: Synthesizing DNA-Encoded Libraries with Electronics
Contact
5995 RIDGE RD
Excelsior, MN 55331--9148
NSF Award
2423382 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,932
Start / end date
01/01/2025 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to accelerate drug discovery. Despite massive investment, the pace of drug development is slow and appears to be slowing further, with new drugs taking an average of 15 years from discovery to market approval. This project aims to develop hardware that will permit the rapid and inexpensive synthesis of DNA-encoded libraries (DELs). This will not only expedite finding drugs for challenging diseases but also generate valuable data for training artificial intelligence (AI) models to improve drug prediction. Commercially, this technology will strengthen U.S. competitiveness in drug discovery and reinforce its leadership in automation and AI research. It could also aid in biodefense, enabling faster responses to emerging biological and chemical threats. The proposed project straddles three different disciplines ? electronics, chemistry, and material science ? requiring specialized knowledge and expertise in each. Electronics have come to dominate our world as an information processing technology. Its function is to manipulate voltage values, representing the 1's and 0's encoding data. This project proposes a means of chemical processing with electronics. The goal is to build a device that can perform combinatorial chemistry on nanoliter to picoliter volume droplets, on an electronic substrate. This will be applied to the task of synthesizing DELs. Unlike liquid-handling robots, the technology has no moving or mechanical parts. Instead, it manipulates droplets with electric charge. Software controls the switching of the voltages on a grid of electrodes, dispensing, moving, splitting, merging, and mixing droplets. The research addresses key technical challenges, including the durability of dielectric and hydrophobic materials, and optimizing electric field control. The chemical protocols for synthesizing DELs will be adapted to novel physical and chemical constraints, including very small volumes. Mitigating contamination is a significant technical risk, requiring innovations in the design, material science, and chemical protocols. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
FEMTOSENSELABS, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Quantum Magnetometer
Contact
1281 WIN HENTSCHEL BLVD STE 1300
West Lafayette, IN 47906--4360
NSF Award
2403857 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,786
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will result from the development of a cutting-edge scanning magnetometer microscope. This technology will enable high-resolution imaging of novel magnetic materials with unprecedented sensitivity at the nanoscale level. These novel magnetic materials serve as fundamental building blocks for advancing computer memories and pioneering new computing technologies through the field of spintronics. Spintronics utilizes the intrinsic property of electrons known as ?spin? to engineer electronic devices. Imaging this property is beyond the capabilities of conventional microscopes. However, the magnetic footprint associated with spin can be captured using advanced techniques such as scanning magnetometer microscopes. Therefore, breakthroughs in advanced microscopy techniques are a necessity for the field of spintronics to succeed in developing novel magnetic materials. The implementation of such novel magnetic materials holds the promise of accelerating the development of faster and more energy-efficient computing devices to address the demand for more capable mobile computers.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes a new technique for utilizing atomic defects for sensing applications. Atomic defects in host crystals such as diamond have emerged as a groundbreaking platform for quantum technologies. Atomic defects are naturally protected by the host crystal which eliminates the need for complex trapping mechanisms. Better yet, unlike many platforms for quantum technologies which require vacuum and cryogenic temperatures to operate, crystal defects can retain their properties even in ambient conditions. Harnessing these features is a promising path toward realizing advanced microscopy tools with atomic resolution which can be integrated in the workflow of R&D labs. However, due to the small size of these atomic defects and their relatively weak signal, engineering a reliable instrument based on this platform faces significant challenges. The goal of this project is to develop a robust technique for harnessing atomic defects to improve the performance of scanning magnetometer microscopes and break into new territories of resolution and sensitivity. This achievement will pave the way for developing novel magnetic materials for spintronics to build faster and more power-efficient computing devices.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.FLEX ORTHOPAEDICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: A Compliant Intramedullary Stem to Increase Longevity of Total Knee Replacements
Contact
5222 CANGAS DR
Agoura Hills, CA 91301--2306
NSF Award
2404125 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,997
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a novel ancillary orthopedic implant for increasing the lifespan of total knee replacement devices, with a tibial stem which bends and flexes to accommodate knee motion and relieve mechanical stress. Knee replacement is a common procedure for osteoarthritis with one million patients undergoing knee replacement in the United States each year. These systems have a failure rate of 10-20% within 20 years due to mechanical wear and fatigue. Failures often require subsequent invasive surgical revisions with decreased success, and increased risks of knee fusion or above-knee amputation. Each revision also results in approximately $30,000 of additional costs and resources needed for the surgical revision and follow on care. The purpose of this project is to develop a novel ancillary implanted device that reduces the mechanical stress and strain of total knee replacement orthopeduc implants, extending their functional lifespans.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will prototype and validate a flexible tibial stem providing mechanical relief for orthopedic knee replacement implants. The device integrates a compliant mechanical mechanism accommodating the multi-dimensional knee motion to reduce wear on the primary implant while avoiding additional wear surfaces. During this Phase 1 project, the design engineering of system will be finalized, full implant prototypes fabricated, and the prototypes validated in an accelerated mechanical testing model. The specific technical objectives are to optimize structural features for overload protection of the stem, validate short-term implant performance in overload scenarios and failure, and cycle test prototype stems under accelerated mechanical testing to validate long-term survivorship under simulated patient conditions including walking and general movement under daily use. The results are expected to demonstrate feasibility for the design and contraints for developing a device suitable for eventual human use at a future date.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.FLO MATERIALS, INC.
STTR Phase I: Dynamic Covalent Polymers for Transition to Circular Plastics Economy
Contact
5400 HOLLIS ST
Emeryville, CA 94608--2508
NSF Award
2432707 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Rajesh Mehta
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) Phase I project is reducing society?s reliance on hard-to-recycle plastics and transitioning towards a more circular plastics economy. 400M metric tons of virgin plastic is produced each year, <10% of which is recycled. 12% of global virgin plastic productions are thermosets which have a recycling rate of nearly 0%. In the US alone, 2% of energy consumption is dedicated to manufacturing virgin plastics, polymer resin, and synthetic rubbers. By enabling closed-loop plastic recycling with an infinitely recyclable material, waste can be reduced, costs can be lowered, energy consumption can be cut, and greenhouse gas emissions can be drastically reduced. This technology may enable plastic material recovery and significantly mitigate the volume of plastics ending up in landfills and the broader environment, ultimately curtailing a massive source of environmental microplastics that threaten human health. Incorporating commercially viable bio-based inputs will lower the environmental impacts of plastic production by upcycling agricultural waste and using plant-based feedstocks, providing domestically sourced and sustainable inputs. Overall, the technology is positioned to enable and incentivize plastic material recovery, mitigating the plastic waste issue that has allowed plastics to infiltrate water resources, the environment, and the food supply.
The technical innovation of this project lies in the unique features of Enamine Covalent Adaptable Networks (ECANs). These networks have the potential to revolutionize handling of hard-to-recycle plastics, enabling closed-loop lifecycles and significantly reduced waste. ECANs are a platform polymer technology that produces a variety of resins for manufacture into films, sheets, foams, fibers and textiles, adhesives, composites, elastomers, and other high-value raw materials. Unlike conventional polymers, ECANs are dynamic covalent polymers that can undergo associative dynamic bond exchange reactions. ECANs are chemically recyclable and can be quickly recovered and remanufactured into next-generation ECANs. Platform development will occur through the following objectives: 1) develop new pathways for the synthesis of environmentally friendly and cost effective ECANs, 2) develop a platform of ECANs with controllable properties meeting the needs of diverse customers and applications, and 3) validate recyclability over multiple lifecycles. Production of resins with tunable properties will be examined through combinations of small molecules, triketones, polyamines, plasticizers, solvents, and colorants using various synthetic and processing conditions. Thermo-mechanical and rheological measurements will be performed on each newly formed ECAN to determine performance through each new generation. Extrusion and other existing plastics manufacturing processes will be employed for customer ease of adoption of ECAN resins. Recycling parameters will be optimized to increase purity, yield while decreasing cost, energy, and CO2 emissions.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.FORAGR MEDICINES, INC
SBIR Phase I: High-throughput platform for small molecule, in-cell targeting of undruggable proteins via their mRNAs
Contact
606 BOLIN CREEK DR
Carrboro, NC 27510--1263
NSF Award
2432856 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
01/15/2025 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be improvement of the health and welfare of Americans by providing an efficient and cost-effective approach for developing therapeutics for previously undruggable diseases, including hard to treat neurodegenerative diseases and highly aggressive cancers. Most diseases are targeted at the protein level using small molecule drugs, but only 600 proteins have ever been drugged directly. This collective human effort has left the majority of roughly 3,000 disease-related genes in humans undrugged and unable to be drugged using conventional pharmaceutical technology. Messenger RNAs (mRNAs) lie upstream of protein expression and, in principle, can be targeted to modulate protein function and treat disease. However, the physical and chemical properties of mRNAs present unique challenges not faced during protein-based drug discovery, and there has been little success in targeting mRNAs using small molecules. This project will address this unmet need by developing small molecule drugs against hard to treat and previously undruggable diseases by targeting their mRNAs directly. The proposed project will enable critical technical innovations needed to ensure the technical and commercial viability of a nascent drug discovery platform making it high-throughput and cost effective. The high throughput drug discovery platform to be developed creates an efficient path to screen for high-value drug assets and creates multiple pathways to new classes of therapeutics. The drug discovery platform currently has outstanding robustness and accuracy in defining interactions between small molecules and mRNAs in cells. However, the platform includes bespoke and hands-on steps and will remain a research-lab-only tool without critical innovations. The proposed project will improve the platform to be capable of fully automated ligand screening in cells using a library of complex small molecules optimized to bind mRNA. Methods will be developed to screen multiplexed samples, in a quantitative way. Automation will require the integration of diverse, novel methodologies, and data deconvolution. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
FORSEE, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Fire-Resistant Polymer Composites Using Recycled Processed Bio-based Natural Polymer
Contact
1851 RIVERTON DR
Prattville, AL 36066--1918
NSF Award
2420037 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project is in addressing an increasing need to develop more eco-friendly, non-toxic fire-resistant materials in applications ranging from protective gears for firefighters, for industrial workers working in hot environments, and in construction materials such as tiles, wall panels, and roofing. Creating improved fire-resistant materials for homes, buildings, and personnel will decrease costs to homeowners and insurance companies and can potentially save lives. The rise in global temperature, and the escalating frequency and severity of structural and wildfire incidents at scale, combined with need to use non-fossil fuel based materials in industry underscores this critical need. This project is likely to to introduce a a bio-based natural polymer to be developed as an additive to fire-resistant products. A successful development of this technology is also likely to create economic opportunities for a broader section of society that would participate in this novel endeavor.
The novel material under development possesses notable characteristics such as a high nitrogen content, robust elliptic structure, and cross-linked cell membranes. When subjected to high heat levels, these cell membranes expand and create a protective barrier, hindering oxygen from reaching the substrate and thus preventing the spread of fire and heat. The processed material does not liquefy, merge, or melt and can act as insulation or a barrier, impeding or reducing fire spread. This remarkable discovery represents a significant advancement in creating lightweight, fire-resistant building materials, clothing, and reinforcing fire-resistant plastics. Phrase I R&D plan focuses on optimizing material compositions and adjusting polymer loading in the composite mix will adjusted through scientific experimentation for processing ease and improvement of desired properties. These compositions will be then used to develop prototype products that meet or surpass the industry performance standards set by existing fire-resistant products.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.FOURIER LLC
SBIR Phase I: Thermoformable Technical Ceramics for Thermal Management Solutions
Contact
40 WEDGEWOOD ROAD
West Newton, MA 02465--1918
NSF Award
2415557 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
08/01/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to establish, understand, and improve a thermoformable ceramic technology that uniquely provides a scalable pathway to overcome significant thermal management limitations faced by next-generation electronic systems, including 5G cellular devices, high-performance vehicles, renewable energy, and consumer electronics. Thermal management limitations in electronics are a $26B dollar problem that spans industries and is the cause of 55% of all electronic system failures. Within this space, thermal management materials are considered the innovation bottleneck in electronic applications, especially for components with reduced size and weight requirements. The thermoformable ceramics and scalable manufacturing processes proposed in this project offer a new materials paradigm to deliver thermal management solutions with high production volumes, short lead times, and low prices. Further, this project provides a critical path to reestablish U.S. manufacturing of these next-generation technical ceramics enabling domestic economic benefits and supply chain resiliency.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to address and mitigate the remaining technical challenges for the commercial adoption of thermoformable ceramics in thermal management applications. Thermoformable ceramics are uniquely positioned to provide thermal management solutions for electronics due to their ability to conduct heat effectively while remaining electrically insulative, like diamond. However, unlike diamond, thermoformable ceramics can be manufactured at scale and with precise three-dimensional geometries, offering unprecedented thermal materials solutions for the electronic industry. The first technical challenge addressed in this project is to understand and improve the material's robustness against solvent attack. This enhancement will expand the target markets to include maritime technologies and fluid-based heat exchanger technologies. The second challenge is to establish the scalability of part sizes and feature complexity. Successfully addressing this will enable thermoformable ceramics to accommodate larger part sizes, higher production volumes, and entry into higher-value markets. The third challenge is to achieve best-in-class performance in application-based testing. Meeting this objective will facilitate faster customer adoption by reducing the technology's risk through market-relevant testing.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.FUM TECHNOLOGIES, INC
SBIR Phase I: Materials Science Digital Experts and AI-Powered Data Platform
Contact
178 HARVARD ST
Cambridge, MA 02139--2723
NSF Award
2423569 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
06/15/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project lies in its potential to significantly streamline the process of discovering and utilizing novel materials, vital for advancements in sectors like healthcare, energy, and national defense. A large portion of essential materials data is currently inaccessible, hidden within complex documents or known only to a handful of experts. This project aims to develop a technology that transforms this inaccessible data into useful information, drastically reducing the time needed for material selection from weeks to minutes, thereby accelerating scientific and technological advancement and enhancing national prosperity and security. The market for advanced materials is projected to grow to $2.1 trillion by 2025, and the business model for this initiative focuses on providing technological services to materials suppliers, ensuring a sustainable competitive advantage by improving access to and usability of critical data. Initially targeting the semiconductor industry and industries reliant on polymers, the strategy is to achieve significant market penetration, with anticipated substantial annual revenues by the third year of production, underlining its impact across multiple high-value industries.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the critical challenge of "dark" data in materials science?valuable data that is unutilized because it is trapped in diverse formats or accessible only to a few experts. The primary research objective is to develop an artificial intelligence-driven platform capable of extracting and synthesizing this data into an accessible and interpretable format. The proposed research involves the creation of a customizable, conversational digital expert system that leverages advanced Large Language Models (LLMs) to interact with and learn from heterogeneous data sources, including natural language texts and inconsistent file formats. This system will enable the transformation of complex datasets into structured, actionable insights, facilitating rapid and accurate materials selection and application. The anticipated technical results include the successful demonstration of the platform's ability to interpret and organize large volumes of dark data, significantly reducing the time and expertise required to access this information. This breakthrough has the potential to catalyze discoveries and innovations in materials science by making decades of accumulated data readily available for research and commercial use.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.GALLOX SEMICONDUCTORS INC.
STTR Phase I: Harnessing Gallium Oxide for High-Efficiency Power Conversion in Data Centers - Evaluation of Gallium Oxide Power Devices in Power Converters
Contact
350 DUFFIELD HALL
Ithaca, NY 14853--2700
NSF Award
2451404 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
02/01/2025 – 01/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is to address the inefficiencies that exist within power electronics. Power electronics is the use of components and circuits to modify the voltage to make it usable. Electricity goes through many power conversion steps until charging a computer with a cumulative efficiency of <80%. By using new semiconductor materials, these power conversion steps can be made more efficient. By making power electronics more efficient, significant cost savings can be realized, making a positive economic and environmental impact. The benefits of this technology are most obvious within high power or high-power density applications. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure, solar farms, and industrial applications are commercial use cases that will directly benefit in addition to important defense applications for aerospace and weapon systems. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will use the next-generation ultra-wide bandgap semiconductor gallium oxide (Ga2O3). With its large bandgap and the availability of high-quality native substrates, Ga2O3 can meet emerging needs that current materials cannot readily address. Through this grant, the project team will enhance the performance of scaled-up Ga2O3 devices by refining their design to minimize losses. These improved devices will be tested in industry-relevant circuits, allowing the team to quantify their economic and technical advantages. Such circuit-level data will be instrumental in identifying the optimal operating conditions (e.g., voltage, power, frequency) for Ga2O3-based devices and in guiding further engineering efforts. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
GALVANIX INC.
SBIR Phase I: Novel Process for Neodymium Manufacturing Using Continuous Chloride Electrolysis
Contact
50 FAIRWAY TRL
Moreland Hills, OH 44022--2378
NSF Award
2450998 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be to alleviate societal reliance on pollution intensive processes for the production of the Rare Earth metal neodymium. Neodymium is essential to permanent magnets which are key to a wide range of modern technologies including wind turbines, electric vehicles, cell phones, and defense applications such as fighter jets, submarines and drones making a domestic supply critical. Our alternative to the current technology is protected by a combination of patent applications and trade secrets, both competitive advantages which are expected to expand via this project. A toll manufacturing business model is intended to help deploy the technology while insulating the startup company from commodity price fluctuations. The proposed technology is presently the sole market offering for the startup and thus this project is essential to the success of the company. The company intends to target domestic supply chain applications for initial market entry bolstering domestic manufacturing and improving national security. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to disrupt the current (>90% market share) oxyfluoride molten salt electrolysis for reduction of neodymium metal. The current oxyfluoride process is a semi-batch process that relies on consumption of a graphite anode which produces carbon dioxide and perfluorocarbons pollutants. The direct generation of perfluorocarbons, which are strictly regulated by the US EPA, makes domestic deployment of the oxyfluoride process challenging and costly. A novel alternative molten salt electrolysis process has been developed that is more electrically efficient than oxyfluoride. However, the process was originally developed for intermediate temperature, solid neodymium reduction. To achieve cost-competitiveness, this project aims to advance the novel process to run stably for extended durations at higher temperatures where liquid neodymium can be produced continuously, achieving cost-advantaged neodymium reduction. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
GELASTOMERICS LLC
SBIR Phase I: Bringing Intrinsic Lubricity to the Medical Elastomer Market
Contact
1830 OVERLOOK DR
Fort Collins, CO 80526--3315
NSF Award
2507798 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
05/01/2025 – 04/30/2028 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to bring a new hydrogel elastomer technology to market. This technology was engineered to address the acute need for (and conspicuous absence of) intrinsically lubricious, elastomer materials in the today?s medical plastics marketplace. Medical device manufacturers produce millions of elastomeric devices designed for intimate contact with biological tissues and fluids, but rely heavily on the use of costly, capital- and labor-intensive coating processes to achieve the sustained, biologically inert, surface lubricity. Catheter systems designed to enable minimally invasive surgical access to remote intravascular spaces constitute one such set of important examples. However, even routine catheters designed for biological fluid collection, delivery and drainage, and day-to-day healthcare consumables such as medical tubing, containers, and bags - all rely on combined elasticity and biologically non-reactive surface hydrophilicity as key components of their design and function. As a versatile, drop-in elastomer alternative, this new technology offers the promise of pushing the technological capabilities and improving the performance and function of a broad spectrum of tissue contacting devices, eliminating the need for economically burdensome coating solutions, and transforming current archetypes in device design and manufacturing. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is focused on the R&D activities designed to establish the viability of this new hydrogel elastomer technology as a versatile, drop-in alternative in intravascular catheter componentry design and manufacture specifically. Customer discovery has indicated the introduction of intrinsically lubricious elastomer technology into the intravascular catheter design space could eliminate up to 25% of the current manufacturing costs associated with current coating processes while simultaneously providing a technological advantage that helps push the current limits of least invasive surgical devices and their ability to access deeper, more remote vascular spaces. Challenges to be addressed include validating that the new hydrogel elastomer technology can be formulated to meet the diversity of technical performance demands required for use in catheter componentry, namely tunable stiffness and flexibility, durable lubricity, biocompatibility (including hemocompatibility), and a tolerance to standard device sterilization protocols used throughout the medical device industry. Expected results from the planned R&D activities include the generation of key composite formulations of the new elastomer technology demonstrating defined benchmarks in the above performance categories over a range of material hardnesses and flexibilities. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
GENALPHA NUCLEAR TECHNOLOGIES LLC
SBIR Phase I: Development of Metal Foam-based Neutron Sensors for Advanced Nuclear Reactor Instrumentation
Contact
1510 VETERANS DR APT 12
Traverse City, MI 49684--3403
NSF Award
2404863 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ben Schrag
Errata
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Abstract
This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop a metal foam electrode-based neutron sensor that can withstand the harsh, high-temperature and radiation-suffused environments of advanced nuclear reactors. Such a product does not yet exist on the market. Advanced nuclear reactors could become a major contributor to our planet?s clean energy solution in the coming decades. Since their safety and performance rely on instrumentation and control systems, advanced reactors? successful deployment is contingent on developing commercially viable, adaptable high-temperature and high-sensitivity neutron sensors. Currently, domestic and global market sizes for neutron sensors are approximately $12 million and $50 million per year respectively; both these figures are expected to double over the next two decades. More broadly, the sensors being developed could find numerous applications in other industries, including medical diagnostics and treatments, medical isotope production, sterilization, space radiation effects, national security/nonproliferation, manufacturing, industrial processes, oil and gas, and direct (electric) energy conversion power devices. Any situation requiring radiation detection and measurement, in any environment, is a potential target market for the proposed sensors.
The intellectual merit of this project lies in gaining an understanding of the complex physics occurring in open-cell metal foams when subjected to nuclear radiation. Under these conditions, these structures both generate and contain a nuclear-excited low-temperature plasma through which an electrical current ? at high densities ? can be extracted. The goal of this project is to understand how nuclear-excited low-temperature plasmas in metal foams are affected by various parameters including: radiation type and intensity, foam composition, and foam porosity. The team will execute a research campaign using a nuclear reactor which characterizes these parameters? effects on sensor performance at both ambient and high temperatures. The experimental findings, validated by modeling and simulation methods, will test the sensor electrodes? performance. If successful, the Phase I outcomes are expected to show sensor performance that will significant exceed that offered by state-of-the-art competing devices, ultimately validating this novel concept.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.GENEXGEN INC
STTR Phase I: GEX: an mRNA-based tolerogenic vaccine for viral-based gene therapies
Contact
169 E PORTOLA AVE
Los Altos, CA 94022--1242
NSF Award
2337317 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,763
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is to develop a scalable, relatively affordable, easily programmable and specific solution to the problem of unwanted immune response in cell and gene therapies, autoimmunity, and transplantation. If successful, this could greatly expand the number of patients who are able to be treated by these types of therapies, including many suffering from rare diseases with little or no current treatment options.
The proposed project uses mRNA technology and novel anti-adjuvant technologies, to train the immune response to ignore an antigen encoded in the delivered mRNAs. This project focuses on adeno associated virus-based gene therapies, but the insight gained can be applied in other conditions when hyperactive immune response against self or foreign antigens creates unwanted result. Current gene therapies face a number of challenges associated with immune response to delivery vehicles or the therapeutic proteins. Achieving high and persistent level of therapeutic product expression has been a challenge, often leading to failure of therapies and necessitating redosing. The proposed mRNA based tolerogenic vaccine, will prepare the body to receive multiple doses of gene therapies and to achieve higher level of transgenes in light of body?s response to gene therapies.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.GEOFINANCIAL ANALYTICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Tiered multi-satellite observation scheme for methane quantification and attribution
Contact
141 BULKLEY AVE
Sausalito, CA 94965--2231
NSF Award
2405214 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in being able to assess and mitigate company-level methane emissions from oil & gas operations across the globe. Methane, with its global warming potential 85 times that of carbon dioxide over a 20-year period, represents a critical target in meeting the climate change goals. Specifically, the proposed intervention could help flatten the methane emissions curve ? cutting emissions of US oil & gas producers by 75% over five years. This 75% reduction in emissions from fossil fuels aligns with the International Energy Agency?s goal for 2030 that would enable limiting global warming to 1.5°C. Additionally, decreased global warming mitigates the frequency and severity of climate-related disasters such as wildfires, floods, and heatwaves. These changes have profound implications for biodiversity, ecosystems, and human livelihoods, particularly in vulnerable regions which includes much of the U.S.
The proposed technical innovation is a computationally efficient, tiered multi-satellite monitoring system that tracks daily-to-weekly methane emissions from oil & gas assets across the globe. These are then used to assess company-level emission performance and benchmark companies amongst their peers. The technology integrates satellite observations from multiple sensors, deep learning models, and statistical data aggregation. A crucial component is a deep learning model which automatically detects methane plumes in high-resolution imagery from satellites not designed to detect methane, like the Landsat suite and Sentinel-2. These plumes are used to refine TROPOMI baseline observations. Most quantification methods, and deep learning models in particular, are too computationally expensive to use at a global scale. Thus innovative, computationally efficient methods for emission quantification and statistical data aggregation must be developed. A significant technical risk is that these new computationally efficient methods may sacrifice some accuracy in methane quantification. Larger uncertainties using these methods could result in a data product that lacks meaningful insights. The intellectual merit of the proposed project is in developing computationally efficient new methods which strike the appropriate balance between efficiency and accuracy that meet real-world information needs of key stakeholders.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.GIANT BIOSYSTEMS INC.
SBIR Phase I: High-Throughput AST Using Gradient-Based Microfluidic
Contact
87 MARION AVE
Pasadena, CA 91106--2008
NSF Award
2444168 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to create a rapid point-of-care antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) kit that can be run on the same day the sample is taken. This will help physicians to utilize the best antibiotic at the optimal dosage sooner, reducing the number of exposures for antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Such infections are responsible for more than 2.8 million infections and 35,000 deaths annually in the U.S. The integration of the proposed platform with mobile devices for result interpretation ensures that it can be widely deployed, including in resource-limited settings and during emergencies. This adoptability is crucial for promptly responding to future pandemics and ensuring that even remote or underserved areas have access to advanced diagnostic capabilities. This project will help to reduce the economic burden associated with AMR ($20 billion/year) and infectious diseases ($41 billion/year). Once commercialized, the proposed platform is expected to promote better antibiotic stewardship, reducing antibiotic release into the environment. Antibiotics in plants and the food chain pose risks to human and animal health, and contribute to the spread of resistant bacteria, making infections harder to treat and increasing outbreak risk. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop a novel microfluidic platform for rapid and precise AST. Current methods, such as broth microdilution and Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion, are limited by long turnaround times of 3-5 days. This delay leads to a postponement in adjusting antibiotics. Even emerging rapid diagnostic systems, while quicker, still require >20 hours to provide results, resulting in >4 doses of broad-spectrum antibiotics before precision adjustments can be made. The proposed platform generates actionable results within 6-9 hours from time of sample, as opposed to the conventional 3-5 days, identifying not only the most efficacious drug but also the appropriate dose. In the short-term, the technology will improve patient outcomes, particularly in life-threatening conditions like sepsis. In the long-term, more precise antibiotic usage promotes stewardship and extends the overall value we can derive from antibiotics before resistance mechanisms become ubiquitous. Three primary areas of risk will be addressed during this project: 1. Compatibility with scalable manufacturing materials used in injection molding, 2. Extending the shelf life to >6 months by lyophilizing pre-loaded antibiotics, and 3. Creating colorimetric interpretation software that can run on mobile devices to provide accessible and objective analysis and readouts. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
GOODMAN CONSULTING GROUP, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Pathogen Interception: A new method for finding and identifying genetic sequences
Contact
3749 N PLACITA VERGEL
Tucson, AZ 85719--1439
NSF Award
2230484 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
05/01/2023 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be the ability to quickly and inexpensively determine the presence and genetic sequence of a wide variety of pathogenic organisms. Most importantly, this technology could be implemented without prior assumptions as to which organisms are expected. Sequencing will be accomplished by direct electrical identification of the building blocks, the bases, of the genomic sequence. The potential societal impact of this technology is to provide a method to screen individuals quickly (under a minute) for the presence of infections. Screening at ports of entry and in appropriate community settings will minimize disease transmission and allow for the quick identification and treatment of any infected individuals at US borders. In addition, beyond this immediate application, the technology may also enhance scientific understanding of normal genetic sequences in any organism. If its anticipated speed, high accuracy, and low cost are realized, this technology may find applications in human in vitro diagnostics and human genome sequencing. The studies in this Phase I project will lead to a proof-of-concept demonstration for an automated, commercial instrument.
The project seeks to determine the identity and order of the genetic building blocks, the nucleotide bases, comprising any genomic sequences present in a sample solution. This sequencing will be done by examining the ability of each base in the sequence to modify a tunneling current as it is passed by electrophoresis across two very closely spaced tunneling electrodes. Tunneling is a well-known quantum mechanical effect, and it is quite sensitive to the electrical configuration of the object (here a given specific nucleotide base) present between its electrodes. Experiments with this technology to date have been unsuccessful because genetic sequences have not been able to be moved slowly enough across the tunneling electrodes for their bases to be distinguished. The studies here will overcome this problem by modifications of the geometry and solution conditions of the electrophoresis and possibly with improved methods of tunneling current detection. The data obtained through the application of this technology is expected to enhance the current understanding of nucleotide base chemistry. The solution may permit the detection of nucleotide base modifications of potential biological and medical importance.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.GRAYSKYTECH, INC
SBIR Phase I: Enhanced Parallelism for Faster Simulation and Validation of Integrated Circuits
Contact
19505 219TH AVE NE
Woodinville, WA 98077--6732
NSF Award
2414353 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be in significant reduction of the time required to design complex integrated circuits (ICs) and accomplish comprehensive verification. ICs are integral part of modern electronic devices and play a critical role in determining device performance and cost. However, exponentially rising demand for better smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc., is forcing IC designers to include more features within a smaller format. These complex designs can take months for complete verification using the current state-of-the-art tools (simulators and emulators). Due to extremely high market competition, IC manufacturers are doing partial design verification and launching the products in the market. This is causing increased revocation of launched products, consumer dissatisfaction, loss of billions of dollars, and generation of e-waste. This work will enable comprehensive verification of ICs at a faster rate and lower cost thereby preventing massive economic losses and environmental pollution.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a technology that will provide IC design houses a distinctive advantage over the competition concerning time-to-market, risk, and remediation of post-silicon bugs, and design NRE (non-recurring engineering) by dramatically improving simulation performance. The innovation is based on successfully minimizing the limitations imposed by Amdahl?s law. To overcome Amdahl?s law, the company is developing an instruction-less, configurable computer architecture. It incorporates a bulk synchronous data flow architecture, using a proprietary data format and algorithm. The technology can in effect turn a single FPGA (field-programmable gate array) into hundreds of incredibly fast virtual processors that can concurrently solve product terms for equations at the speed of the processor-to-memory interface. The company has developed an initial virtual processor called the Boolean Processing Unit (BPU). The software converts the design from Verilog into a set of Sum-of-Product form Boolean equations, that the BPU can solve via targeting IC behavioral simulation computing, 30x faster than existing simulators. The innovation has the potential to provide emulator performance at simulator cost and features.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.GREENKEY, LLC
STTR Phase I: Nanocellulose Derived from Sargassum Dissolving Pulp
Contact
27 AMANDA DRIVE
Penrose, NC 28766--8802
NSF Award
2423491 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project lies in transforming Sargassum seaweed, an invasive species, into low-cost nanocellulose for sustainable packaging. This innovative approach addresses the environmental challenge of Sargassum blooms while contributing to the circular economy by creating valuable products from waste. The project's potential impact includes significant environmental benefits by reducing plastic waste and reliance on non-renewable resources, stimulating economic growth in coastal communities affected by Sargassum, and fostering green technology innovation. By making biodegradable solutions more accessible and cost-effective, this project supports the national interest by promoting scientific progress, advancing national health and prosperity, and enhancing environmental welfare. The technology offers a market opportunity by providing a competitive alternative to traditional packaging materials.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project aims to develop a novel, cost-effective process for producing nanocellulose from Sargassum seaweed. The technical challenge addressed includes overcoming the high cost and energy requirements associated with current wood-based nanocellulose production methods. The research objectives are to validate a proprietary pulping process, optimize energy and water usage, and achieve efficient nanofibrillation of Sargassum dissolving pulp. The proposed research involves detailed characterization of the resulting nanocellulose, comparing its properties and production costs to those derived from hardwood pulp. Anticipated technical results include establishing a scalable method for producing high-quality nanocellulose, demonstrating reduced energy and water consumption, and providing a sustainable alternative to conventional materials. This project builds on preliminary research that has shown the potential of Sargassum-based nanocellulose to meet industry standards, with significant implications for materials science and environmental sustainability.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.Goeppert LLC
STTR Phase I: Ultrascalable Non-volatile Memory with Multifunctionality by MOCVD Direct Growth Two-Dimensional Materials
Contact
2200 ARCH ST UNIT 504
Philadelphia, PA 19103--1343
NSF Award
2420854 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Anna Brady-Estevez
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) project is to advance the development of high-performance, energy-efficient artificial intelligence (AI) hardware. The proposed innovation enables the scalable integration of adaptive, non-volatile memory elements based on atomically thin molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) into complex silicon trench structures. This approach promises to overcome density and bandwidth limitations in current memory technologies, providing a platform for specialized AI accelerators with tightly coupled computation and storage. Successful commercialization could significantly enhance the capabilities of machine learning systems across various domains, offering societal benefits in fields such as healthcare, transportation, and scientific research. The project fosters collaboration among academic institutions, government agencies, and industry partners, strengthening the U.S. position in the strategically important AI hardware sector.
This STTR Phase I project proposes to develop a novel manufacturing process for integrating two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 material into trenches composed of CMOS-compatible materials to make high-density memristors in a high-aspect-ratio microstructure. The goal is to demonstrate the feasibility of directly growing conformal MoS2 monolayers on complex 3D topographies using a low-temperature metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) technique. The research objectives include optimizing the growth parameters to achieve reliable resistive switching performance and assessing the scalability of the integration scheme. The anticipated technical results comprise a proof-of-concept demonstration of multifunctional MoS2 memristor arrays with improved storage density as well as fabrication process uniformity compared to planar designs. This project aims to establish the groundwork for further development of this technology toward commercially viable AI hardware solutions for less energy-hungry, multifunctional, and highly efficient computing.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.HPLUS INC
SBIR Phase I: ADVANCING PROTON EXCHANGE MEMBRANE WATER ELECTROLYZER TECHNOLOGY USING A MULTIFUNCTIONAL POROUS TRANSPORT LAYER TO PRODUCE LOW-COST GREEN HYDROGEN WITH LOW ENERGY
Contact
990 CHELTENHAM RD
Santa Barbara, CA 93105--2234
NSF Award
2430376 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$269,334
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Mara Schindelholz
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the stress on the nation?s energy infrastructure by reducing carbon pollution through increasing energy and electrical efficiencies and integrating renewable energy sources. Electrolysis, a promising hydrogen production option, addresses all these areas and has a global polymer electrolyte membrane electrolyzer market valued at $131.01 million in 2022, predicted to reach $2.304 billion by 2031. Phase I of this project targets key design advancements that benefit the broader scientific community, through increased efficiencies of these electrolyzers. The proposed efficiency improvement ensures the United States maintains a technological lead in developing and deploying advanced energy technologies and enhances economic and energy security by lowering the $/kilogram (kg) of hydrogen, making green hydrogen cost competitive. This, in turn, helps reduce imports of energy from foreign sources as green hydrogen is incorporated, resulting in a reduction of energy-related emissions.
The intellectual merit of this project aims to reduce electrolyzer operating expense, constituting 50% of the total ownership cost, by improving electrolyzer efficiency by 20%. This enables polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolyzers (PEMWEs) to use only 44 kilowatt-hour (kWh)/kg hydrogen (H2), surpassing the Department of Energy?s 2026 targets, and is more efficient than current PEMWE tech at 53 kWh/kg H2. This is realized in Phase I through systematic studies to improve porous transport layer (PTL) design and validate the efficiency improvements under normal commercial operating conditions. As such, Phase I technical objectives are to: (1) Develop an advanced multi-scale, physics-based numerical model to understand the impact of microstructure parameters on mass transport and access the efficiency gains in the tunable 3D space; (2) Harness photochemical etching of the novel titanium microfluidic-based PTL prototypes for precise control of morphology and related performance; (3) Conduct performance tests for design validation and to understand performance and ohmic loss mechanisms; (4) Address market risks relevant to PTL design through mechanical durability and hydrogen crossover testing. Anticipated results include higher efficiency and cost reduction from PTL design optimization, successful implementation of manufacturing leading to scalability and cost effectiveness, and addressing market risks, advancing the product toward commercialization.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.Himet Materials LLC
STTR Phase I: Wafer-Integrated Soft Magnetic Composite Films for Inductors with High Power Density and Efficiency
Contact
16433 MONTEREY ST. SUITE 120
Morgan Hill, CA 95037--7168
NSF Award
2304631 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,972
Start / end date
09/01/2023 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is to revolutionize the miniature-powered Integrated Circuit (IC) converter market, widely used in cellular phones, Internet of Things devices, and microsensors. The technology will provide form factor reductions of various modules, leading to the further miniaturization of on-chip components. A manufacturing facility can service several IC companies by providing foundry capabilities to integrate inductors according to each customer?s design. The technology can provide US manufacturers of such devices with a significant competitive edge in the very large mobile electronics and miniature electronics markets both in commercial and defense markets. Establishing manufacturing capability in the US will support a revival of component packaging and back-end integration business.
Mobile device miniaturization is increasing at a rapid rate. In on-board power converters, passive components such as inductors and capacitors are among the largest components. The non-availability of IC-compatible, low-cost, soft magnetic cores with low loss, high frequency (>10MHz), and high saturation magnetization limits the implementation of on-chip inductors. The project aims to create innovative, soft magnetic composite (SMC) materials for inductor cores. IC-compatible high-performance SMC films, with thicknesses that can be scaled to 50 microns and above without losing performance, will be developed for the first time. The project's initial goal will be to develop physical and electrochemical synthesis methodologies for high magnetic moment, low loss, SMC materials that can be used to fabricate on-chip inductors, replacing ferrite core-based inductors in circuits. The approach can be scaled to handle different ranges of power and can be integrated on wafers, package substrates, or boards. These cores will enable inductor thickness to be reduced by at least 10 times for use in low form factor, point-of-use, direct current (DC) to DC power converters and IC voltage regulator circuitry.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.IHNNOVA LLC
STTR Phase I: Hand-Held Induction Heaters for Pancreatic and Prostatic Cancer Treatment
Contact
234 CALLE ERNESTO RAMOS ANTONINI, MAYAGUEZ BAJOS
Mayaguez, PR 00680-
NSF Award
2404556 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a portable device providing focused magnetic field applications for treating cancer using magnetic nanoparticle-based cancer strategies, but in patients with metallic implants (e.g., joint replacements, pacemakers, stents) who are currently ineligible for the treatment due to their peripheral effects. Cancer treatments typically require customized strategies and the appropriate tools for treatment without damaging the surrounding tissues. The proposed innovation aims to provide contactless heating of electrically conductive materials in challenging areas to directly access of the patient, enabling access to a subset of patients for an emerging therapy for cancer treatment who are currently ineligible due to compatibility issues with the form of energy delivery and their peripheral effects. The potential opportunity of the 2 million patients with either pancreatic and prostate cancer who may be contraindicated for existing systems represents a 131MM annual market opportunity.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to advance the development and evaluation of hand-held induction heaters for cancer treatment. The system aims to provide magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH), an emerging electromagnetic thermal treatment for treating cancer. The system proposes benefits to current larger and more complex systems with exclusion criteria for patients with metallic implants below their neck due to heating risks. The objectives are to (a) develop methods to deliver signi?cant thermal energy to pancreatic and prostate porcine organs in vivo, and (b) characterize and validate the extent and severity of tissue damage using patented, unique, deep technology on swine models. This project will focus on its feasibility as a cancer treatment, to advance the proposed technology from a Technology Readiness Level 4, representing laboratory validation, to Level 6 indicating the technology has been validated in a relevant environment. The Phase 1 results will finalize feasibility assessments for a novel instrument that enables an emerging MFH cancer treatment but for currently contraindicated patients, into clinical practice for human use, at a future stage.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ILLUMINATE THERAPEUTICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: The LADDR Platform for Precise Delivery of Nucleic Acid Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer and Esophageal Cancer
Contact
16 ALISO WAY
Portola Valley, CA 94028--7527
NSF Award
2432864 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in the development of Illuminate Therapeutics? Light Activated Drug Delivery and Release (LADDR) platform technology to improve patient outcomes in head and neck (H&N) and esophageal cancer treatment. H&N and esophageal cancers are some of the most common cancers worldwide and make up 4.5% of all new cancer cases in the US. Over 60,000 cases of H&N cancer and over 20,000 cases of esophageal cancer are newly diagnosed in the US each year. The total market for H&N cancer treatment is ~$1.2 billion in 2021, with a CAGR of 12.5% during the forecast period. The esophageal cancer market is similarly sized, with the market valued at $1.14 billion in 2021, and it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.50%. The LADDR platform enables precise spatiotemporal delivery of small therapeutic RNAs to tumors by a combination of nanoparticle-mediated delivery and activation triggered by external light. The use of LADDR with microRNA mimics in the treatment of cancer will preserve healthy tissues, maintaining critical tissue function while eliminating the common side effects associated with current standard-of-care treatments.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is crucial to the commercialization of the LADDR technology by derisking two major potential issues: 1) predicting responsive and non-responsive tumors and 2) determining the impact of route of administration on LADDR?s basic pharmacokinetic/dynamic properties. The key objectives in this study are to: 1) identify microRNA-mimic-responsive and non-responsive patient-derived tumors, 2) select the predictive markers for responsive tumors, and 3) determine the basic pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the LADDR vehicle for delivering functional microRNA mimics to tumors in vivo. The research is separated into two objectives. Objective 1 will determine the breadth of each microRNA mimic?s activity in representative patient-derived tumor organoids derived from H&N and esophageal cancers and identify biomarkers of responsive and non-responsive tumors for the development of personalized therapies. Objective 2 will determine the impact of the route on LADDR?s basic pharmacokinetic/dynamic properties. The insight gained in this study will allow the identification of the functional targets of microRNA mimics in H&N and esophageal tumors and provide a proof-of-concept for therapeutic microRNA mimic delivery using light-activated LADDR vehicles in vivo.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.INCUENTRO LLC
STTR Phase I: Enhancing Career Decision-making for Individuals with ASD Through Adaptive Vocational Assessment Using Reinforcement Learning
Contact
11518 SHADOW WAY ST
Houston, TX 77024--5216
NSF Award
2506644 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,951
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project lies in its transformative approach to addressing the critical employment challenges faced by over 5 million autistic adults in the U.S. where unemployment rates soar as high as 85% and many remain underemployed. Current vocational assessments are not only costly and time-consuming but also fail to capture the unique strengths of these individuals. This unique innovation leverages advanced reinforcement learning (RL) integrated with an immersive virtual reality (VR) environment to gather detailed skills, interests, and behavioral data, thereby enabling precise and adaptive job matching. This project enhances scientific and technological understanding by exploring the intersection of AI and VR within the field of neurodiversity, setting a new benchmark for personalized career support. Initially serving high school students and job training programs, the system is poised for expansion into state vocational rehabilitation agencies, creating a sustainable, subscription-based commercial model that provides a durable competitive advantage. By empowering autistic individuals to secure meaningful employment, the solution not only meets a significant market need but also promises to measurably reduce economic dependency projected to reach $11.5 trillion by 2029 to enhance workplace success to positively impact thousands of lives by year three. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project addresses the critical challenge of vocational assessment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by developing an innovative AI-powered virtual reality (VR) system. The project aims to overcome the limitations of conventional evaluation methods by integrating advanced cognitive modeling and reinforcement learning (RL) algorithms to deliver adaptive, personalized vocational assessments and job matching solutions. The research involves simulating real-world vocational environments within VR to capture comprehensive performance metrics and behavioral data. In parallel, synthetic data generation via cognitive models replicates ASD-specific interaction patterns, thereby augmenting the training dataset for the RL framework. This dual approach enables continuous optimization of assessment strategies and job recommendation algorithms based on real-time user feedback. The anticipated technical results include improved accuracy in skill assessment and job matching, reduced evaluation bias, and enhanced predictive performance of vocational outcomes. Moreover, the system?s design incorporates a scalable framework amenable to integration into existing vocational training and human resources infrastructures, thereby offering substantial commercial potential. By leveraging interdisciplinary principles from AI, human-computer interaction, and behavioral sciences, this project promises significant advancements in personalized vocational evaluation and employment integration. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
INFORMUTA, INC.
STTR Phase I: Leveraging Sequencing to Identify and Predict Multidrug Resistance
Contact
2719 DABADIE ST
New Orleans, LA 70119--2213
NSF Award
2421262 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is to develop a platform for detecting genetic antibiotic resistance motifs that are predictive of current and future susceptibility to therapeutics. Antibiotic resistance is a global health crisis that is predicted to overtake cancer and heart disease as the leading cause of death by 2050, taking 10 million lives annually. Antibiotic-resistant infections directly cause 1.2 million deaths and play a significant role in an additional 4.95 million globally. In the US, there are over 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections annually, which result in 35,000 deaths which cost the US health system >$20B in direct medical costs. Contributing to this crisis, it is estimated that half of antibiotic prescriptions are unnecessary or misused. There are currently 6,129 hospitals in the U.S. that have created a total available market for antibiotic resistance diagnostics of $3.9B. With the adoption of next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques making the required data inputs more available every day, this project will expand the 10% market share already garnered by NGS technologies for antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST).
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will establish the feasibility of leveraging mutational signatures found in the DNA of bacteria and predict current and future drug resistance status. Mutational signatures are highly specific global patterns associated with mutational processes in cells. We have shown they can be indicative of past antibiotic exposure leading to an understanding of current resistance status. Additionally, we have shown specific signatures are indicative of rapid future multidrug resistance acquisition, lending to insights into the likelihood or lability of an infection to mutate and become resistant to treatment unlike any current product on the market. This approach offers two significant advantages: 1) no reliance on specific genes/mutations to identify a genotype/phenotype, enabling detection of emerging, uncharacterized resistance mechanisms, and 2) species agnosticism due to high evolutionary conservation of signatures. The current project will build upon signature analysis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa that lead to a near 100% accuracy in predicting antimicrobial susceptibility and extend the approach to Acinetobacter baumannii, the second most burdensome resistant infection. Whole genome sequences of historical clinical samples, which have undergone extended AST with known exposure and resistance profiles, will be used to identify new signatures in a new bacterial species. These will then be replicated in the lab and finally validated in the clinic by the collection of prospective clinical samples to assess the predictive utility of the newly identified signatures.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.INFRATIE SOLUTIONS, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Developing a Smart Virtual Assistant-Enabled Sewer Asset Management Tool
Contact
1201 S INNOVATION WAY STE 590
Stillwater, OK 74074--1579
NSF Award
2404975 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,627
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Parvathi Chundi
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to improve the level of service for the nation?s sewer infrastructure systems, save millions of dollars of annual spending on sewer pipe rehabilitation costs, and promote human health as the result of the reduced sewer overflows. This innovation is critical to the commercialization of the data management tool as the proposed virtual assistant can unburden data users of the required coding skills for database inquiries. The successful commercialization of the data management tool will have a significant impact on the local economy by creating jobs in sales, civil engineering, data science, and data analytics, business administration. The collaboration with academia will cultivate the future STEM workforce needed in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector. In addition, the undergraduate and graduate researchers to be hired on the project will be exposed to entrepreneurship activities, which will cultivate their business thinking and entrepreneurial spirit, leading to more startup company creation in the future.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a smart virtual assistant-enabled sewer infrastructure asset data management tool to facilitate the implementation of data-driven asset management practices in the wastewater divisions among municipalities. Several technical hurdles will be overcome by the proposed R&D activities. First, the tool should be able to map natural language queries both in text and voice (with different accents and under noisy environments) formats to the correct SQL syntax. Second, the tool should be able to interpret the natural language and precisely retrieve records from specific table/tables, and data field/fields from a large sewer database. Third, the tool needs to identify the correct analysis to present the results either in tabular or graphical formats based on data types, the number of data records, and users' personal preferences. The innovation of the proposed solution goes beyond traditional voice recognition and natural language processing techniques by designing a continuous learning framework, in which cloud large language models (LLMs) and local transformer-based models are integrated to improve the real-time responsiveness of the virtual assistant.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.INIA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
STTR Phase I: Non-invasive focused ultrasound treatment to modulate the immune system for acute and chronic kidney rejection
Contact
1209 N ORANGE ST
Wilmington, DE 19801--1120
NSF Award
2312694 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
03/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is a novel medical device therapy for improving the clinical outcomes of patients receiving organ transplants. Over 100,000 kidney transplant procedures are performed worldwide each year, with up to 20% of patients experiencing rejection. Existing drug treatments, including immunosuppressants, often entail significant side effects with a high financial cost of nearly $30,000 per year per patient. This project aims to develop an external system for reducing inflammatory responses thereby reducing adverse events associated with the transplant and extending the lifetime of the new organ. Beyond kidney organ transplantation, the technology provides potential extensibility for other organ transplants as well as addressing various chronic inflammatory diseases.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project aims to develop a novel ultrasound-based medical device therapy for reducing post-transplant organ rejection. The external system stimulates targeted nerves in the spleen to modulate the immune system through established physiologic pathways. The proposal aims to optimize various ultrasonic parameters in a transplant model to further development towards a functional prototype. The key objectives include 1) developing a pre-clinical transducer delivering the desired therapeutic ultrasonic waveform to the targeted splenic nerves, 2) optimizing the treatment parameters using an accepted preclinical skin allograft model, and 3) validating the reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines in situ in accepted preclinical models. The results of this proposal will demonstrate the safety and feasibility of this technological approach toward eventual clinical patient translation.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.INSIGNA, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Safe non-surgical alternative to spays in female cats
Contact
60 HAZELWOOD DR # 230G
Champaign, IL 61820--7460
NSF Award
2415687 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
11/01/2024 – 10/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is achieved through developing a novel non-surgical method of sterilizing female cats. Unlike traditional spays, this innovation uses a single injection of a small implant to achieve sterilization. The high costs and risks associated with surgically removing reproductive organs often lead cat owners to delay or avoid sterilization, which contributes to cat overpopulation and abandonment. This situation exacerbates the strain on animal shelters and communities, contributing to around 500,000 cats being euthanized annually and an estimated 32 million free-roaming cats across the US. This new approach may address the substantial market of over 2 million female kittens born annually in the US, offering a commercially viable solution to these widespread issues. Additionally, the proposed project is expected to enhance the understanding of reproductive endocrinology in domestic cats, paving the way for future veterinary advancements. In the long term, this product could revolutionize traditional population management approaches and improve the care of companion animals.
The proposed project addresses a critical need for a more affordable, less invasive sterilization method for female cats. The main objective of this project is to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel non-surgical method for sterilizing cats, including its effect on fertility and sexual behavior. Female kittens will be treated with three escalating doses and at two different ages to determine the optimal dose range and treatment age. Effectiveness on fertility will be assessed by measuring blood sex hormone concentration, executing histological examination of reproductive organs, and conducting breeding trials. Effectiveness on sexual behavior will be determined by monitoring their reproductive cycles and assessing their mating behaviors in the presence of proven male cats. This treatment is expected to cause infertility by irreversibly inactivating reproductive neurons in the hypothalamus that play a critical role in fertility in the female cat. The proposed study aims to accomplish two goals: refine the product to suit the unique metabolic and reproductive traits of female cats and provide evidence of its effectiveness and safety to initiate regulatory approval.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.IRONSIDES MEDICAL INC
SBIR Phase I: AI-Powered Otoscope for Ear Infection Diagnosis
Contact
1 MIFFLIN PL
Cambridge, MA 02138--4907
NSF Award
2419700 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a novel automated diagnostic medical device technology for diagnosing ear infections, a common condition affecting up to 80% of all US children by age three resulting in nearly 9 million antibiotic prescriptions each year. The diagnostic tool aims to improve ear infection diagostics in multiple settings including pediatric, urgent care, and emergency exam room, with a novel otoscope that improves diagnostic accuracy from 50-60% to in excess of 92%. The improved otoscope aims to reduce the long-term health consequences of poor or improper diagnosis including antibiotic overprescription and antibiotic resistance risks, and adverse drug reactions. The novel system will automate the otoscope access and navigation procedure, and utilize advanced adaptive algorithms to analyze digitally acquired images to improve the clinical diagnostic and prognostic measures for the nearly 500,000 physician and nurse practioners who examine ears in the United States on a routine basis. The device has an annual commercial potential of $240M.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the critical technical challenges in diagnosing ear infections by developing a guided, image analysis enabled otoscope. The Phase 1 objectives advances the steerability and maneuverability of the system, and integrates a high-resolution camera onto an active otoscope enabled with advanced Machine Learning algorithms to guide users in obtaining the optimal eardrum view. The research objectives include systems engineering and development of the prototype including hardware development and algorithm integration, followed by performance validation using a mechanical bench test model. The anticipated outcomes include demonstrating feasibility for the novel prototype otoscope and its navigational software algorithm, for enhancing clinicians and then parents ability to accurately move through the ear canal, avoid wax, and enabling eardrum access and clearer visualization. The results will enable the company?s proprietary image based algorithm for clinicians to make more accurate diagnoses.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.IRRADIANT SENSING CORPORATION
STTR Phase I: Novel Fluorescence-Based Force Sensor for High-Resolution Tactile Sensing
Contact
2281 DAILEY ST
Superior, CO 80027--8318
NSF Award
2432516 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project are in the area of tactile sensing technology for robotics and biomedical instruments. The tactile sensors enable robots and machines to perceive and interpret physical touch and texture. As the robotics technology is increasingly required to perform complex and delicate operations which requires advanced tactile sensors, it is essential to ensure safe and precise interaction of robots or robotic tools with their environment. There are, however, gaps in the current tactile sensing technology. One is concerned with recognizing textures, and another is safely interacting with soft environment such as biological tissues. The sensor to be developed in this project will enable highly effective recognition of textured surfaces, which then would allow robots to recognize objects more efficiently. Also, it will lead to a safe and precise robotic tool for medical procedures. There exists a large and fast-growing market for tactile sensors which the new technology is expected to make inroads into. The initial market segment will be robotic surgery which will be followed by other robotics market such as humanoid robots.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is designed to develop a novel tactile sensing technology with applications in robotics and biomedical instruments. As the robotics technology matures, there is a growing need for an advanced tactile sensing technology to ensure safe and precise interaction of robots or robotic tools with their environment. The current technologies, however, lack several key capabilities which include high spatial resolution and high force sensitivity. These deficiencies in turn lead to grand challenges such as texture recognition and interaction with soft environments such as biological tissues. The new sensor to be developed in this project will achieve both high spatial resolution and high force sensitivity. It can be mounted on modules with small and adaptable form factors, making it applicable to a wide array of applications. The new ability to effectively recognize textures will enable highly complex and dexterous operations of robots and robotic tools including the emerging humanoid technologies. High sensitivity can be used to ensure safe and precise interaction with biological tissues, which would then enable improved medical procedures. The initial market segment will be robotic surgery which will be followed by other robotics market such as humanoid robots.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ISLEX THERAPEUTICS, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Islet Targeted Restorative Therapy for Type 1 Diabetes
Contact
15 HOLLY CREST DR
Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093--4029
NSF Award
2432114 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact and commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lie in demonstrating the efficacy and safety of beta-cell restorative therapeutics in preclinical studies. This will foster investment and partnerships for further clinical development and eventual commercialization. The technology addresses a significant unmet need in the treatment of stage 3 type-1 diabetes (T1D) and other forms of diabetes with severe beta-cell loss. If successful, the innovation could lead to new therapeutic options for millions of patients worldwide, improving their quality of life and reducing healthcare costs associated with diabetes-related complications. Additionally, the successful commercialization of this therapy has the potential to create high-quality jobs within the biopharmaceutical industry, driving economic growth and innovation.
This phase 1 project aims to develop antibody therapeutics for the treatment of stage 3 (or clinically overt) type-1 diabetes (T1D) by harnessing the synergistic effects of autoimmune protection via a beta-cell masking antibody, insulin supplementation, and targeted delivery of mitogenic drugs to the pancreatic islet, the specific disease site of T1D. This research initiative will draw upon technical expertise in islet biology and autoimmunity, beta-cell regeneration, antibody-drug conjugation, islet-targeted drug delivery, and therapeutic evaluation in mouse models of T1D. The molecular target of this technology is ZnT8, an islet-specific autoantigen implicated in T1D pathogenesis. Insights into ZnT8 biochemistry, cell biology, and its role in T1D autoimmunity have been translated to address the critical need for beta-cell autoimmune protection and targeted delivery of beta-cell regenerative therapies for patients with stage 3 T1D, with potential applications extending to other forms of severe beta-cell loss, including latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) and insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes. The outcomes of this proposed research include the development of a novel therapeutic product that could revolutionize the treatment landscape for stage 3 T1D and future expansion to other forms of severe beta-cell loss.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.JULIA JEAN, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Novel Cold Cathode E-Beam Sources for Advancing Semiconductor Manufacturing
Contact
40 CANYON RDG
Irvine, CA 92603--3410
NSF Award
2506377 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
06/01/2025 – 05/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be in developing new solutions for semiconductor chip manufacturing for artificial intelligence (AI). Mask writers are machines that are integral to the semiconductor industry, as these create the stencils (masks) that are sandwiched together to form advanced computer chips. The number and complexity of the masks required for these chips are increasing beyond the capacity of state-of-the-art machines. The company is developing a component device that has the potential to introduce disruptive change in the fundamental design of mask writers. The project will harness this technology to tackle manufacturing bottlenecks in mask production that are caused by the accelerating demand for advanced intensive AI applications. The work will lead to a more efficient solution for producing semiconductor chips faster and with high computational power. The project has the potential to effect a financial impact of greater than $20M annually after three years, and to kickstart entry of the fundamental technology into additional market segments. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will lead to a wafer-scale process for creating controllable cold cathode electron sources that advance integrated circuit design and manufacturing. Semiconductor chip fabrication is achieved by performing photolithography through stencil masks that are themselves created using either laser- or electron-beam mask writers. The properties of these tools dictate spatial resolution, precision, and turnaround time. The multiple electron-beam (multi-beam) writer has achieved the smallest feature sizes, thus displacing the laser writer for artificial intelligence (AI) applications. The goal of this project is to help eliminate two significant bottlenecks that hinder production and advancement in multi-beam technology: (1) Beam quality and parallelization (reliability and yield) are physically limited by the industry?s dependence on thermionic (hot) electron sources; and (2) escalating processing power for implementing design code for advanced mask sets is stressing computational resources. The proposed device will provide a means to accelerate chip production using controllable electron beams for faster and higher quality mask writing. The focus of this project on solving the first bottleneck should also help address the second bottleneck, expanding the degree of complexity of the chip sets that can be designed and manufactured for AI. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
JUNIPERO THERAPEUTICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Epigenome Editing by Induced Proximity Using Oligonulcleotide-conjugates
Contact
25 MADISON AVE UNIT 3
Cambridge, MA 02140--1620
NSF Award
2451259 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to develop an entirely new class of gene therapies that can be delivered more safely, cost-effectively, and at scale for a wide range of serious genetic disorders. By harnessing existing mechanisms for turning genes on or off, this approach aims to resolve persistent shortcomings in current gene therapy methods, including delivery challenges, high manufacturing costs, and safety risks. Initial applications focus on neurodegenerative conditions such as Huntington?s disease and ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), but the same platform could be adapted to address other inherited and acquired diseases. In addition to reducing disease burden, this project has the potential to lower healthcare expenditures by offering a safer and more flexible alternative to traditional gene therapies. Broader availability of effective genetic treatments would stimulate growth in the biotechnology sector, accelerate clinical development timelines, and ultimately expand global access to lifesaving and curative therapeutics. The proposed project leverages short oligonucleotides conjugated with small molecules to induce proximity of endogenous epigenetic machinery to disease-relevant genes in a precise and reversible manner. By eliminating the need for foreign enzymes or viral vectors, this approach aims to reduce immunogenicity, enhance delivery, and simplify manufacturing of gene therapies. The research plan includes systematic optimization of these oligonucleotide conjugates, advanced cell-based assays, and genome-wide analyses to confirm targeted gene modulation with minimal off-target effects. Focused initially on severe neurological disorders such as Huntington?s disease and ALS, the resulting platform is designed to accommodate other conditions driven by dysregulated gene activity. Proof-of-concept studies will evaluate the therapeutic potential and specificity of these epigenetic interventions establishing a foundation for further preclinical development. By integrating knowledge of oligonucleotide chemistry, epigenetics, and advanced bioinformatics, the proposed project seeks to overcome barriers in current gene therapy strategies, ultimately delivering a versatile new method with broad relevance to genetic medicine. The anticipated outcome is an efficient, scalable, and clinically translatable platform. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
JUNO PROPULSION INC.
SBIR Phase I: Rotating Detonation Combustion Satellite Thruster Using Novel, Non-toxic Propellants
Contact
33530 1ST WAY S
Federal Way, WA 98003--7332
NSF Award
2415516 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,969
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Anna Brady-Estevez
Errata
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Abstract
This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop a new satellite thruster with improved performance over competing chemical propulsion solutions. The space economy is rapidly growing to a projected $1 trillion industry by 2030. Despite the strong demand for products and services offered by space providers, there remains a large barrier to accessing and operating in space. The key driver in the economics of operation in space is the performance of the propulsion systems used for transferring the satellite to its intended orbit, performing orbital maneuvers, station-keeping, and de-orbiting at the end of life. Currently, a large portion of the satellite mass must be allocated to propellant, significantly limiting the size and weight that can be allocated to revenue-generating and mission-critical functions like imaging, telecommunications, and other scientific objectives. The thruster developed under this Phase I is projected to operate with significantly higher specific impulse than the current highest-performance solution, leading to an increase in satellite lifespan on the order of 100% in low earth orbit. This new paradigm will permit improvements such as a 40% increase in camera resolution, or an increase of 40% in the amount of mass that can be moved to geostationary orbit.
The intellectual merit of this project is the development of a new in-space thruster using rotating detonation combustion (RDC) and non-toxic propellants. RDC uses detonation combustion to burn reactants at a higher pressure and extract more usable kinetic energy for the same amount of propellant mass. This SBIR effort will also innovate the use of non-toxic propellants which heretofore have not been investigated for use in an RDC. The overall objective for the NSF SBIR program is to develop a pre-flight qualification RDC satellite thruster prototype by focusing on three major goals: (1) development of a performance and detonation prediction tool, (2) demonstration of RDC for the thrust class and propellants of interest, and (3) demonstration of the performance benefit of RDC for the application. These goals will be achieved through a parallel efforts to develop an advanced computational modelling tool as well as initiatives for production and hot-fire testing of the first prototype. By the end of the Phase I program, the goal is to advance the technology to a higher state of feasibility: demonstration of the prototype?s performance in a relevant, vacuum environment.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.KAI TECH LLC
SBIR Phase I: ECG-AID: Electrocardiogram with Advanced Interpretation and Diagnosis
Contact
2224 AHA NIU PL
Honolulu, HI 96821--1009
NSF Award
2432686 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Alastair Monk
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact / commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to develop an advanced software system for automated electrocardiogram (ECG) analysis. By integrating a large dataset with a clear delineation of normal and abnormal values and innovative machine-learning models, this technology could improve the accuracy and accessibility of ECG interpretation. The ECG-AID software is an inexpensive and user-friendly solution that provides accurate and reproducible automated ECG interpretation that may lead to timely diagnosis of heart disease. The market for this innovation is significant, given that over 300 million ECGs are performed annually in the United States alone. The commercial potential is projected revenues of $25 million by the third year of operation. ECG-AID aims to promote national health and welfare by prioritizing rural healthcare facilities.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project targets a pressing issue in the medical field: the potential inaccuracy of the diagnoses of heart conditions due to 1) a lack of specialized medical expertise leading to highly variable and inaccurate ECG interpretation and 2) outdated automated systems with poor predictive values. The project proposes to develop an innovative software prototype that significantly enhances ECG diagnostic capabilities by integrating a comprehensive ECG database, Z-score-based assessments, and novel machine-learning techniques. This project aims to facilitate the detection of subtle cardiac conditions that are often overlooked, resulting in earlier and more accurate clinical decisions. Through a structured approach involving the design of algorithm sequences, user-friendly interpretations, and automated data extraction, the anticipated technical results in a state-of-the-art ECG analytic system could improve the overall diagnostic accuracy of ECG. This prototype adds tremendous value to an inexpensive and fast test: allowing the development of large-scale high-throughput screenings, it will transform the role of ECGs in standard practice. By fulfilling these objectives, the ECG-AID project is positioned to revolutionize cardiovascular diagnostics, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and a substantial societal impact.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.KAYA FERTILIZERS, LLC
STTR Phase I: Vacuum Stripping and Absorption (VaSA) to Recover Wastewater Ammonia and Treat Digestate
Contact
272 LORRAINE AVE APT 4
Syracuse, NY 13210-
NSF Award
2448907 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I project is advancing efficiency of wastewater infrastructure by filling the gap of scalable technologies to cost-effectively recover ammonia in wastewater. Nitrogen is one of the primary nutrients that are essential for the normal growth of plants. Nitrogen in the fertilizers applied for food production ends up largely in wastewater. This project is to translate the innovative Vacuum Stripping and Absorption (VaSA) process into a cost-effective, scalable technology for recovery of ammonia in wastewater while upgrading the biosolids in the treated wastewater and increasing production of renewable natural gas. The proposed technology promotes efficiency by turning wastewater pollutants like ammonia into high-purity nitrogen fertilizers. It holds a great promise to substantially reduce the operational costs for water resource recovery facilities and concentrated animal feeding operations to meet regulatory requirements for discharge of treated wastewater and land application of animal manure. The recovered fertilizers and upgraded biosolids generate revenues for the facilities and operations. The VaSA process brings wastewater to boiling under vacuum at a temperature much below the normal boiling point, under which ammonia is effectively stripped out of wastewater, separated from water vapor in a demister, and absorbed to an acidic solution to form ammonium sulfate crystals. Through pilot tests using a 3-pool VaSA prototype, this project will for the first time explore the regulation of vapor-liquid equilibrium profile from the complex boiling wastewater to the water-ammonia binary system in the stripper head and demister. When scaling up the VaSA technology, vapor-liquid equilibrium evolves from the multi-pool boiling stripper throughout the demister and varies with the number of vertically mounted pools and demister configuration. Understanding the vapor-liquid equilibrium profile will derisk the multi-pool scaling-up design approach and inline production of solid fertilizers. By controlling the factors that regulate vapor-liquid equilibrium, the technology can be scaled up for continuous operation without compromise of its high efficiency for ammonia recovery while maintaining minimal energy consumption. Moreover, it is expected to prove the high efficiency of anaerobic digestion under alkaline conditions and elucidate the mechanisms of alkaline anaerobic digestion through laboratory digestion experiments coupled with a single-pool VaSA prototype. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
Kompass Diagnostics Inc
SBIR Phase I: Portable Blood Diagnostic Technology Enabling Care Delivery Beyond Hospital Walls
Contact
1354 N KOSTNER AVE BLDG A
Chicago, IL 60651--1605
NSF Award
2507280 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,966
Start / end date
05/01/2025 – 10/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be the advancement of a portable, cost-effective rapid point of care diagnostic device that utilizes high sensitivity biosensors for detecting multiple blood-based biomarkers. Starting with reproductive hormones, this technology empowers clinicians to obtain rapid hormone level results to support time-sensitive clinical decisions in fertility treatments such as in-vitro fertilization and cryopreservation. This project aims to address capacity constraints in reproductive care, reduce cost of care, and enhance patient-centric treatment models. This project will lay the foundation to expand into other point of care applications, including the quantitative detection of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin and Alzheimer?s disease-related small proteins, improving clinical outcomes of chronic diseases. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project develops a point-of-care immunoassay system designed for use by lay users with minimal laboratory training to obtain simultaneous, quantitative measurements of three reproductive hormones. The research objectives include: (1) developing an integrated cartridge/analyzer system that automates serum separation and buffer dilution, ensuring high-sensitivity biomarker detection upon sample insertion, (2) optimizing the system for high accuracy and reproducibility, and (3) validating the system in human samples. If successful, this project will result in the first rapid diagnostic platform capable of demonstrating lab-comparable hormone quantification at the point of care. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
LASER GRAPHICTRONICS LLC
STTR Phase I: DigitFoal: An Early Labor Warning System for Safe and Successful Foal Delivery
Contact
3605 BLUE CEDAR LN
Columbia, MO 65203--6614
NSF Award
2335352 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Mara Schindelholz
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this STTR Phase I project is reflected in the innovation of DigitFoal, a sophisticated early labor warning system tailored for the equine industry. By leveraging state-of-the-art dual wearable photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors and a pre-trained deep learning algorithm, this system is poised to greatly mitigate the foal mortality due to dystocia. It is projected to reduce foal deaths by 30%, translating to a substantial economic benefit of over $82.5 million annually. The broader implications extend beyond economic savings, promising enhancements in scientific understanding and livestock management. This technology could revolutionize not only equine breeding practices but also be adaptable for monitoring other livestock and wildlife, thereby contributing to broader societal, environmental, and educational advancements.
The intellectual merit of this project is anchored in the integration of innovative PPG sensor technology with a robust echo state network model to monitor and analyze critical physiological signals of horses, which are predictive of foaling stages. This approach is designed to fill a significant void in current market offerings that largely depend on manual monitoring and are plagued by high rates of inaccuracy and labor intensity. The research will further refine the predictive capabilities of the technology, facilitating real-time, accurate assessments of foaling risks. This project is expected to yield significant advancements in non-invasive, real-time animal monitoring systems, contributing invaluable knowledge to the field of precision livestock farming and enhancing the technological landscape of animal health monitoring.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.LATTICE THERAPEUTICS INC
SBIR Phase I: Proof-of-concept of a customizable, next-generation RNA delivery particle
Contact
7144 13TH PL NW
Washington, DC 20012--2358
NSF Award
2413714 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,947
Start / end date
07/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is the creation of a novel RNA drug delivery platform with implications for treatment of cancer and other various diseases with unmet medical need. Current delivery technologies fail to realize the potential of nucleic acid drugs because of limitations like target specificity, toxicity, and administration. Next generation delivery technologies are ultimately required to achieve the full therapeutic potential of nucleic acid drugs. The technology being developed in this project is designed to address the limitations of existing delivery modalities, resulting in a flexible platform with target- and cargo-customization ready for progression to evaluate multiple clinical disease targets. This will expand treatment options, initially for oncology targets, with further applications in gene editing and vaccines, and continue to address existing patient needs. The technology developed in this project has the potential to expand the nucleic acid delivery market and result in improvements to length and quality of life for individuals facing life-threatening diseases in multiple therapeutic areas in both the United States and globally.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will address the proof-of-concept milestones required to validate delivery of RNA cargoes to target cells using an engineerable protein nanoparticle. The particle platform has several key attributes incorporated that enable efficient and targeted delivery, and which are required for full platform functionality: 1) the ability to package nucleic acid, 2) display of targeting moiety, and 3) the ability to disassemble within the intracellular environment and release nucleic acid cargoes. In this project, particles engineered to target specific cancer cell surface markers will be 1) in vitro loaded with mRNA cargoes, 2) evaluated in vitro for delivery of RNA cargoes to specific cancer cells, 3) evaluated in vivo for delivery of RNA cargoes to target tumors with exceptional specificity, and 4) evaluated in vivo for efficacy of therapeutic RNA delivery. The result of this project will be a validated customizable delivery platform positioned for clinical development against multiple targets.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.LENSGUIDE IMAGING TECHNOLOGY INC
SBIR Phase I: A nano-optical imaging microendoscope for in vivo Imaging
Contact
707 ANDERSON AVE
Rockville, MD 20850--2104
NSF Award
2432611 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will enable researchers to visualize the dynamics of the biological events in live animals. The product, the miniaturized optical imaging micro-endoscope, will change researchers? current paradigm of only visualizing and exploring the superficial layers of tissue at a subcellular level. Visualizing the deeper layers of tissue in >1 mm depth at the subcellular level using the miniaturized optical imaging micro-endoscope will enable a range of discoveries in different areas of biomedical research. In the long term, the developed product can be utilized by physicians to improve the current standards of care in various medical applications.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is developing a nanophotonic imaging microendoscope for in vivo imaging with minimal damage. Current optical microscopy imaging cannot be used for imaging beyond 1 mm depth. The current microendoscopes have a diameter larger than 0.5-1 mm, so they cause severe damage to the tissue when inserted into the tissue. The current microendoscopes cannot provide images in >1 mm depth since the damage to the tissue changes the whole tissue structure. Miniaturized microendoscopic tools with subcellular resolution are vital for deep tissue imaging (>1 mm). The product of this SBIR project will be 100 µm diameter, a hair-size micro-endoscope allowing researchers and scientists to conduct their studies at >3 mm depth in a live animal. The state of the art of optical design and nanofabrication techniques will be utilized to make the miniaturized microendoscope. This project will lead to derisking the risks associated with the miniaturization of the optical microendoscope and enabling its usage for in vivo imaging.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.LIFE SEAL VASCULAR, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Aneurysm Sealing Device (ASD) for Endovascular Applications
Contact
2744 GANNET DR
Costa Mesa, CA 92626--4755
NSF Award
2407378 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,547
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lies in its revolutionary approach to treating abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), a significant health concern especially prevalent among the elderly. This project aims to introduce a novel device that promises to significantly lower the rates of aneurysm related complications and reduce the need for repeat invasive procedures, which are common with current treatments. By potentially saving significant healthcare costs and reducing the frequency of medical interventions, the device presents a transformative solution that could ease the financial burden on healthcare systems and patients alike. Moreover, the project has the potential to expand access to life-saving treatments in underserved and remote areas, thus leveling the playing field in healthcare accessibility. The commercial and societal implications of this innovation could spur economic growth through intellectual property generation and job creation, thereby contributing to the advancement of the biomedical engineering sector.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to address the limitations of current endovascular treatments for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) by developing a new device that aims to completely seal the aneurysm sac, eliminating the risk of post-procedure endoleaks. The research objectives include validating the device's adaptability to different aneurysm profiles and its compatibility with various aortic locations, ensuring broad patient applicability. The technical approach involves a compressible body unit designed for precision deployment and a dual function that allows for drug delivery post-deployment. The anticipated technical results include demonstrating the device's effectiveness in sealing aneurysms in a benchtop flow model, thereby setting the stage for potential regulatory approval. This project represents a significant leap forward in the treatment of AAAs, offering a more reliable and versatile solution compared to existing methods.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.LIGHT RESEARCH INC
STTR Phase I: Snapshot, on-machine metrology system for high-precision optical manufacturing
Contact
4815 N ROCK CANYON RD
Tucson, AZ 85750--6064
NSF Award
2322208 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,524
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project advances precision manufacturing. The on-machine metrology system will have a transformative effect on highly efficient and precise optical manufacturing, additive manufacturing, and precision machining. These industries currently face a shared technical challenge: the lack of real-time quality control during fabrication. The on-machine metrology tool's real-time quality control capabilities will not only drive efficiency in high-precision manufacturing but also contribute to reduced manufacturing costs and enhanced product quality. Overall, the project's anticipated outcomes include an efficient high throughput manufacturing process with on-machine metrology, the development of a compact, snapshot, multi-wavelength on-machine metrology system, and the establishment of a next-generation innovation and entrepreneurship training program.
This STTR project seeks to develop a compact, snapshot, dual-mode, multi-wavelength interferometric system for in situ metrology in high precision manufacturing. The lack of real-time quality control during fabrication is a critical hurdle, leading to delays and manufacturing errors. This system integrates unique techniques to overcome this challenge and enhance throughput and accuracy. The technology utilizes a polarization-based, multi-wavelength, snapshot technique providing real-time measurements of machined surfaces with minimal environmental impacts. By offering instant feedback on surface quality, reducing iterations for diamond tool centering, and improving throughput and accuracy, the system becomes the smallest interferometric system suitable for integration into existing equipment for in situ metrology. The project's goal is to develop a market-ready, on-machine metrology system through prototyping, software development, and performance validation. This real-time, in-situ metrology process is estimated to achieve efficiency improvements of 30% or more in diamond-tool alignment and 50% or more in surface metrology. Successful development and commercialization of this system will hold significant intellectual merit, overcoming a critical hurdle in high-precision manufacturing and enabling real-time quality control.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.LOOMIA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Development of the thinnest, most flexible, sustainable and cost-efficient hands-off-detection sensor and steering wheel heating insert for autonomous vehicles
Contact
67 35TH STREET
Brookly, NY 11232--2245
NSF Award
2404987 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Ben Schrag
Errata
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Abstract
This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project aims to develop a Hands-Off-Detection (HOD) system for the vehicle steering wheel with integrated heating functionality, addressing the performance and implementation issues of current solutions, and replacing traditional, more cumbersome systems with a simplified design and the use of proprietary electronic textiles. The broad impact of this project is helping to mitigate human errors that cause driving accidents, significantly reducing the economic costs associated with motor vehicle accidents, and ultimately, helping to save lives. Additionally, the innovation promotes sustainability by minimizing waste and material consumption through the integration of electronic components directly into fabric. This eco-friendly approach will not only enhance fuel efficiency in transportation applications but also offers streamlined manufacturing processes and ease of recycling, addressing the challenge of electronic waste. Furthermore, the project supports the advancement of flexible circuit technology, potentially benefiting other sectors such as medical devices, robotics, and smart clothing. Hands-Off-Detection is a crucial and mandatory element of any steering assistance system. Specifically, all cars with Line-Keeping-Assistance are required to have Hands-Off-Detection. The global market size for this component is estimated to reach $721 million by 2030.
The intellectual merit of this project lies in its innovative approach to integrating a Hands-Off-Detection system with heating functionality within a vehicle steering wheel using special electronic textile technology. The core innovation replaces the traditional, bulky two-electrode capacitive touch sensors with a single antenna system, enhancing reliability and reducing material use. The primary research objectives are to demonstrate the feasibility of this new Hands-Off-Detection and Heating component by ensuring it meets critical technical parameters, performs consistently across the full automotive interior temperature range, and achieves a reduced carbon footprint. The research will involve building and testing a functional prototype in a controlled lab environment, focusing on minimizing false readings and interference, optimizing sensor response time, and achieving uniform heating performance. Anticipated technical results include a thinner, more flexible, and easier-to-integrate Hands-Off-Detection & Heating component that not only meets but exceeds the performance standards of existing solutions. Additionally, this project aims to validate the environmental benefits of the proprietary electronic textile technology used to build this automotive component, ensuring it provides a sustainable alternative to current market leaders. This project is expected to advance the field of electronic textiles, providing a robust, scalable solution for automotive and potentially other applications.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.LUCA AI, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Adaptive Phonetic Analysis for Personalized Dyslexia Reading Support
Contact
123 SUMMER PL
Gibsonia, PA 15044--8907
NSF Award
2451062 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,935
Start / end date
02/01/2025 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project lies in addressing dyslexia, a condition affecting millions that creates significant educational, economic, and social barriers. Learners with dyslexia often struggle to develop foundational reading skills, leading to disparities in academic achievement and limited opportunities. This project addresses these challenges by developing an innovative, technology-driven solution that enhances decoding ability through customized reading practice. By integrating advanced speech recognition technology with evidence-based teaching methods, the solution provides personalized, scalable, and affordable learning experiences tailored to the needs of dyslexic learners. The technology identifies reading errors with unprecedented granularity, generating adaptive learning content to empower learners to overcome obstacles and build fluency. This initiative has the potential to improve decoding skills for hundreds of thousands of at-risk readers, helping to close educational gaps and create equitable opportunities. Beyond individual benefits, the societal impact includes fostering academic confidence, increasing graduation rates, and enhancing employability, contributing to the well-being of communities. Commercially, this project positions itself as an innovative educational solution, offering tools to help learners and institutions address one of the most pervasive barriers to literacy and lifelong success. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project brings reading error identification to an unprecedentedly fine granularity and generates engaging practice contents on an adaptive difficulty level to improve dyslexic readers? decoding ability. Dyslexia often causes reading errors including insertions, deletions, substitutions in phonemes, which are mostly autocorrected by traditional word-level automatic speech recognition (ASR) technology. Additionally, personalized reading contents for dyslexic readers is expensive to generate on a scale. Therefore, to achieve ideal error tracking accuracy and provide affordable, accessible and personalized reading contents to dyslexic population, this project proposes to: (a) build a grapheme-phoneme extension of existing phoneme-only pronunciation dictionary, (b) train an accurate phonetic ASR specifically devoted to transcribing dyslexic readers? utterances that preserves reading errors, (c) refine the downstream error tracking solutions to identify decoding challenges down to grapheme-phoneme level, and (4) complete a customized story generation pipeline to create easily decodable and interest-infused reading contents. At its accomplishment, this project will achieve above 97% coverage of the original pronunciation dictionary, below 15% phonetic error rate for its phonetic ASR component, below 10% false alarm rate for its error tracking model, and above 95% success rate for its customized story generation pipeline. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
LYOWAVE, INC
SBIR Phase I: Scaling Up Tunable High-Frequency Microwave Heating for Pharmaceutical and Biologics Manufacturing
Contact
615 CARROLTON BLVD
W Lafayette, IN 47906--2337
NSF Award
2451630 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,436
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will result in fundamental knowledge needed to solve the scale-up problem for fast, uniform, volumetric heating during manufacturing of freeze-dried medicines, diagnostics, preservative-free foods, and other high-value sensitive materials. The findings will facilitate a significant improvement in manufacturing capacity for most freeze-dried goods and ultimately provide a pathway towards addressing recurring shortages and securing long-term availability. This SBIR research will produce data critical for process understanding as well as new quality control methodologies necessary for regulatory acceptance of microwave drying. The technology will be initially marketed to research and development units or organizations having a clear and viable downstream pathway towards manufacturing. The key competitive advantages offered by the technology are its ability to be noninvasively retrofitted to both new and legacy freeze-drying systems and its capability of producing uniform high-frequency electromagnetic fields specifically targeted towards frozen materials. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to improve manufacturing performance of high-value freeze-dried materials having limited shelf life using high-frequency microwave heating. The overall goal of the project is to gain the fundamental knowledge required to effectively scale the technology from laboratory to large-volume manufacturing freeze-drying systems. Key research objectives to be addressed include developing new experimental methods for estimating the effective dielectric properties of frozen aqueous solutions and primary packaging, identifying appropriate physics-based models and parameters for system modeling, and implementing model-based closed-loop control strategies to drive the freeze-drying process at optimal rates. To accomplish these tasks, multiple microwave sources will be fabricated and installed on a modified laboratory freeze-dryer together with a suite of temperature sensing technologies. Experimental measurements will provide the data necessary to develop the coupled unsteady electromagnetic and heat and mass transfer simulations for identifying the scale-up characteristics, microwave source interaction, and volumetric heating performance. Free radical production in the vacuum environment and material compatibility with the electric fields over the system bandwidth will also be assessed either explicitly using appropriate probes or implicitly via bioindicators. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
LuxNour Technologies Inc
SBIR Phase I: Efficient Transfer Technology for Ultra-Thin Dies (UTD) in Advanced Semiconductor Chip Packaging
Contact
1055 NE 25TH AVE STE E1
Hillsboro, OR 97124--4901
NSF Award
2505353 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,507
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase-I project is in increasing the USA footprint in the advanced semiconductor chip assembly and package equipment market. The Ultra-thin die (UTD) semiconductor chip devices are building blocks for a wide range of mobile and flexible electronics applications. These UTD chips are very fragile and their handling during manufacturing is substantially different from traditional chips. The handling and transfer of UTD chips is a major contributor to the package cost and yield, which are critical for new technologies. In this project, an innovative technology will be developed for fast and precise transfer of UTD chips during semiconductor chip manufacturing. Customers for this technology are the world-wide original device manufacturers and semiconductor foundries, for use in a wide range of consumer products. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase-I project focuses on the introduction of a transfer technology capable of collectively transferring UTDs from the dicing tape to another substrate without the risk for die cracking, chipping or warpage. The ?one-die-at-a-time? vacuum-based transfer that dominates today?s equipment market utilizes vacuum and a needle to push the die away from the tape while the pickup tool lifts the die off of the needle and places it into the appropriate output carrier. This technology is a major contributor to die stress and cracking, especially for UTDs. As high-performance chips trend to increase in area and decrease in thickness (< 50 microns), the task of reliable peeling of UTDs from the dicing tape becomes more challenging. To address this challenge, this project introduces two innovative methodologies / hardware components; the first of which is a Vacuum-Activated, Patterned Stage (VAPS) essential for initiating the collective delamination of all dice placed on a UV-sensitive dicing tape substrate, while the second is a pattern-sensitive individually addressable head for the electromagnetic pick and place of released dice. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
M3D, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Gamma Camera Design Studies for Intraoperative Imaging
Contact
812 AVIS DR
Ann Arbor, MI 48108--9649
NSF Award
2404776 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact and commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a novel capital medical imaging system enabling new 3-Dimensional (3D) image capture and analysis for real-time guidance of surgical cancer biopsy and resection procedures. The system aims to significantly improve radio-guided surgical procedures with a novel means of rapidly and accurately detecting gamma-ray emitting radiotracers used to identify the location of lymph nodes (LN) and drainage of lymphatic fluids from tumors to be biopsied for determination of whether the primary cancers have spread. The overall benefits include shorter durations and more accurate sentinel lymph node biopsy procedures. If successful, the system represents a new standard of care versus current non-imaging technologies including Geiger pens, and targets a $3B initial opportunity for an initial target market of skin cancer accounting for 1.5M annual new US cases per year. The system provides potential to impact other similar performed procedures used to assess suspected breast, pelvic and head and neck cancers.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop the company?s proprietary gamma ray radiation imager suitable for use for image guided tumor diagnostics. The project will include individual and grouped characterization of the design parameters and their effect on diagnostic sensitivity for acquiring images, and whether convolutional mathematical approaches to iterative image reconstruction can reduce the time needed to produce the final image of a medical radiotracer. The final objective is to determine the optimal collimation design parameters and image reconstruction techniques, followed by validation. The end result will be to demonstrate proof-of-principle that the novel gamma imager can produce fast, high-resolution images adequate for radio-guided lymph node biopsy and resection surgeries. The result will demonstrate superiority to current gamma camera approaches that utilize parallel-hole, pinhole, or coded-aperture collimation allowing them to produce either 1) low-resolution images rapidly or 2) high-resolution images slowly, but not the fast and high-resolution imaging needed for surgical guidance.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.MAGNIFY BIOSCIENCES INC.
SBIR Phase I: Unlocking the Full Potential of Next-Generation Expansion Microscopy through Automation
Contact
1632 NORMAN DR
Sewickley, PA 15143--8557
NSF Award
2415004 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,998
Start / end date
06/15/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project stems from addressing critical barriers in nanoscale bioimaging?specifically, the prohibitive costs, technical complexities, and specialized expertise required for super-resolution and electron microscopes, which range from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars with sample preparation costs up to thousands and processing times exceeding a week. This project introduces a transformative solution by automating Magnify Expansion Microscopy into a cost-effective device, enabling conventional optical microscopes to achieve detailed biological insights at the nanoscale. By reducing sample preparation costs to under $10 and cutting processing times to less than a day, this technology will democratize nanoscale imaging, expanding research capabilities across various scientific domains. It enables researchers in labs without advanced microscopes to explore molecular and structural changes in diseases, discover new biomarkers, and develop diagnostic and prognostic tests. Societal benefits include pioneering discoveries in untapped territories, innovative diagnostic and prognostic tools, and significant healthcare cost reductions. Commercially, equipping existing microscopes with the AutoMagnify device is set to revolutionize the high-end microscopy market, potentially creating a billion-dollar industry by dramatically enhancing speed, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use, paralleling the transformative advancements seen in next-generation sequencing in genomics.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop an automated AutoMagnify device that physically expands biological specimens up to 1000 times in isotropically in 3-dimensions, while preserving their spatial and molecular integrity. This advancement will enable conventional light microscopes to achieve imaging resolutions down to 25 nm, capabilities typically reserved for super-resolution and electron microscopy. By shifting the focus from costly optical enhancements to physical specimen magnification, this project offers a practical, scalable solution for widespread nanoscale bioimaging. The AutoMagnify system reduces the sample preparation time from traditionally over a week to less than 24 hours, dramatically lowering both the financial and technical thresholds for super-resolution imaging. This project builds upon foundational Magnify Expansion Microscopy techniques to develop new rapid protocols and leverage durable gel compositions that address machine handling and reliability issues. The expected result is a fully functional prototype that standardizes sample preparation and staining protocols, enabling researchers in academia and pharmaceutical companies using conventional microscopes to access super-resolution quality images for their discovery needs. This pivotal innovation not only makes advanced imaging techniques more accessible but also significantly extends the research capabilities of scientific laboratories globally, potentially redefining the landscape of nanoscale imaging.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.MAGNOLIA ELECTRONICS INC
SBIR Phase I: Machine-Learning Enabled Analog-to-Digital Converter
Contact
221 N BROAD ST
Middletown, DE 19709--1070
NSF Award
2507707 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,900
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project are in developing electronic components called analog to digital converters (ADCs). Physical phenomena like light waves exist in analog domain, whereas chip circuits require digital values. ADCs turn real world analog measurements into digital values that are used in computers. This project enhances scientific and technological understanding of the ADC process by demonstrating a new approach based on machine learning (ML). Computer models suggest that this new, patent-pending approach can measure much denser signals than traditional ADCs, meaning more information can be captured and processed. The first market opportunity will be computer chips that send data over networks, enabling faster data center and internet connections. The devices using this technology will have significant higher speeds and have cost advantages over traditional devices. The existing data center ADC market is close to $1 billion annually and growing. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project advances the design of ADCs. The ML ADC decomposes an analog signal into multiple channels, each containing only a portion of the signal?s total information. Each channel is sampled separately, slower than the input signal?s Nyquist rate, producing aliased and complicated digital outputs. A neural network, trained to approximate the inverse transfer function of the analog front-end, maps those digital outputs to the standard Shannon-Nyquist signal representation. This project implements one half of a common communication device, a Serializer/Deserializer receiver, using a ML ADC in printed circuit board prototype form. This project will examine the ability of the physical prototype to capture complete information in gigahertz-range pulse amplitude modulated (PAM) signals. This project expects to replicate computer simulations indicating high accuracy of the ML ADC when driven by a jittery and phase-drifting clock running below the Nyquist rate. The project will produce neural network models trained on the receiver?s data and report the error rates achieved by the models in decoding PAM-4 signals recorded by the receiver. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
MAGSORBEO BIOMEDICAL CORP
STTR Phase I: Bioabsorbable Magnesium with a Tailorable Absorption Profile for Maxillofacial Fixation
Contact
435 LODGE DR
Detroit, MI 48214--4160
NSF Award
2451737 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impacts and commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project lie in developing a magnesium (Mg) alloy for implants that support healing by temporarily fixating bones or stabilizing tissues. These implants provide mechanical support during recovery and are gradually absorbed by the body, restoring the implant site without requiring removal surgeries. Specifically, this project will develop a bioabsorbable magnesium alloy for maxillofacial fixation. This innovation aims to improve healthcare outcomes by eliminating secondary hardware removal surgeries, which occur in 5-20% of maxillofacial fixation cases and cost the U.S. healthcare system $1.72 billion annually. Permanent metal implants often lead to ongoing risks and expenses, while resorbable polymers, an alternative, are limited by limited strength, unreliable healing, and complex surgical procedures. A bioabsorbable metal implant with superior mechanical robustness and controlled absorption addresses these challenges and offers the potential to capture market share from both titanium and polymer implants. With 19% of the maxillofacial fixation market already using resorbable polymers, a superior bioabsorbable alloy would significantly improve clinical outcomes while reducing healthcare costs. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will demonstrate the feasibility of a bioabsorbable alloy with a customizable absorption profile tailored for maxillofacial fixation. Intellectual merit includes (1) developing a bioabsorbable alloy with tunable absorption profiles, (2) understanding how processing affects absorption behavior, and (3) validating a large-animal preclinical model for novel bioabsorbable implants. Technical challenges addressed in this project include the impact of processing on microstructure and absorption (TC1), correlation between in vitro and in vivo absorption profiles (TC2), anatomical variations in absorption (TC3), absorption effects on the bone-implant interface (TC4), and gas evolution's impact on bone density (TC5). This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
MAIN ENGINEERING LLC
SBIR Phase I: High-Precision Timing Devices for Research and Industry
Contact
8070 GEORGIA AVE STE 304
Silver Spring, MD 20910--4971
NSF Award
2507531 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 06/30/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in developing timing devices with increased performance and capability. These timing devices, capable of picosecond accuracy (a trillionth of a second), enable nuclear physics research, light detection and ranging, and medical imaging. This project will develop a time-to-digital converter (TDC) with unique features and the capability to operate in harsh environments. A TDC is an electronic device that measures time intervals with extremely high precision and converts the measured time into a digital value. TDCs are widely used in applications requiring precise timing, such as LIDAR, high-energy physics, medical imaging, and communications. The market opportunities and the competitive advantage are secured through an architecture that overcomes the limitations of current TDC implementations. The developed TDCs will be semiconductor chip based that will be fabricated domestically and introduced to three primary markets: nuclear physics, spacecraft instrumentation, and medical imaging devices. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a high-availability TDC that features zero dead-time, unlimited multi-hits, picosecond accuracy, and a dedicated calibration circuit. A proof-of-concept already exists, and a prototype application-specific integrated circuit is ready for fabrication. Phase I addresses research and development of hardware and software and overall robustness to withstand high radiation and cryogenic temperatures. This will be achieved through an iterative design methodology between logic design, transistor design, and transistor layout, each in their respective software environment. At the conclusion to Phase I, the primary goal is to have a second prototype ready to send to a chip fabrication facility. This prototype will include new features of the design, as well as radiation hardening. The radiation hardening will allow the prototype to operate in a more extreme environment, dictated by the operational constraints of the end users. The secondary goal will analyze the extreme temperature and radiation environments of the particle physics community and determine if and how to migrate the design to a chip fabrication process that includes radiation hardening and cryogenic models for a potential Phase II follow on. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
MARK O'NEILL, LLC
SBIR Phase I: New Traffic Stripe 1,000 Times Brighter than Current Technology
Contact
9500 RAY WHITE RD
Ft. Worth, TX 76244--9105
NSF Award
2432539 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,524
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be a substantial reduction in fatalities from vehicle crashes at nighttime by using a new ultra-bright traffic stripe. Brighter road stripes reduce crashes, and the new stripe is 1,000 times brighter. By enabling the development of the new traffic stripe from an environmentally friendly polymer, this project will also help eliminate a major source of environmental damage. When fully adopted, the new traffic stripe will reduce the tons of arsenic and lead dumped onto American highways each year when applying conventional traffic stripes composed of glass beads dropped into white paint. Considering only the white edge lines on U.S. interstate highways, the market for the new traffic stripe is $3.6 billion at $3 per foot installed cost and over 1,300 lives could be saved per year. Economic analysis of the new stripe shows a huge benefit to cost ratio due to the economic value of American lives saved.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will attempt to advance a unique ultra-bright traffic stripe technology from the laboratory toward the highway. The new stripe uses prismatic structures on both top and bottom surfaces of a thin polymer film to retroreflect incident light from distant headlights back toward the driver and sensors of the vehicle. The new stripe has already been shown in certified retroreflectivity testing of early prototypes to be 968 times brighter than the 2022 Federal Highway Administration standard of 50 mcd/m2-lux. Under the NSF SBIR program, a radical new approach to master tooling will be attempted, using gray scale lithography to cost-effectively provide millions of microscopic cube-corner prisms on the bottom surface of the film. Two sets of light-turning prisms for dry and wet conditions will be molded onto the top surface of the same thin film of transparent polymer. In Phase I, small building blocks will be tooled, molded, and assembled into testable prototype stripes, with retroreflectivity measured in a certified laboratory. In Phase II, a mass-production process will be implemented, and on-road qualification testing will be done. These critical results will enable the technology to be licensed to an established manufacturer.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.MARWELL BIO INC.
SBIR Phase I: Advanced Deep Learning Technologies for Designing Humanized Antibody
Contact
470 NOOR AVE #1011
South San Francisco, CA 94080--5957
NSF Award
2304624 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,822
Start / end date
09/01/2023 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact / commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to accelerate antibody design and engineering through the development of proprietary computational approaches. Compared to conventional antibody drug development approaches that are often lengthy, costly, and inefficient, this innovation may offer a more efficient and cost-effective alternative. The proposed approach aims to create better therapeutic-grade antibodies while unlocking novel antibody design possibilities. The market opportunity addressed by the proposed technology is significant, as the global therapeutic antibody market for cancer and infectious diseases is projected to reach $235 billion by 2028. This project has the potential to transform the field of antibody discovery and provide new therapeutic options for patients.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based platform that efficiently designs novel antibody drug candidates with possible lower toxicity and immunogenicity risks. The research will involve developing novel and proprietary AI based models to create best-in-class antibody therapeutics and validate them through state-of the-art in-silico experiments. To successfully complete this Phase I project the company plans to: a) develop a novel computational model to design antibody hit sequences, b) demonstrate the scalability of the proposed computational model in designing antibody hit sequences against diverse targets, c) assess biological values of the antibody hit sequences predicted by the computational model. The expected technical outcomes involve a more rapid and efficient process for designing therapeutic antibodies, resulting in lower development expenses and a quicker path to market. The AI technologies have the potential to design the most promising therapeutic antibodies to treat infectious diseases and cancer in months rather than years, reducing the time and resources needed for the pre-clinical development of therapeutic antibodies.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.MATERIALIZE BIO, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Bioengineered Next-Generation Tympanostomy Tubes to Improve Patient Outcomes
Contact
7 COLLEGE HILL RD
Somerville, MA 02144--1219
NSF Award
2423477 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,999
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is the advancement of implantable medical devices through innovative use of natural biopolymers, specifically silk and chitosan. Through the development of a novel manufacturing approach optimized for biopolymers, this project addresses significant limitations in traditional manufacturing methods and unlocks the potential of biopolymers for complex medical applications. The anticipated commercial impact includes reducing healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes, particularly for the millions of children requiring tympanostomy tubes annually. This project aims to eliminate the need for surgical removal of tympanostomy tubes by creating degradable, biocompatible, and antimicrobial alternatives, ultimately enhancing the quality of pediatric care and expanding market opportunities for advanced biomaterials in medical devices.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on a groundbreaking method to manufacture biopolymer-based implants using 3D printed molds, centrifugation, and polymerization. Unlike traditional manufacturing techniques, this approach ensures high fidelity to intricate geometries, minimizes waste, and allows for rapid prototyping. The project aims to develop degrade on-demand tympanostomy tubes from natural biopolymers with inherent antimicrobial properties. The research objectives include optimizing the manufacturing process, testing mechanical properties, and ensuring consistent quality. Anticipated technical results include demonstrating scalable production of complex 3D structures with superior mechanical integrity and biocompatibility, paving the way for broader application of natural biopolymers in various medical fields.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.MATHINVESTMENTS, INC.
STTR Phase I: A Technology for Learning to Infer from Unlabeled Financial Data
Contact
3120 LEEMAN FERRY RD SW
Huntsville, AL 35801--5325
NSF Award
2343777 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,936
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Directors
Parvathi Chundi
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is to enable long-term, above-average profit returns from investing into the U.S. stock market. Currently, investors rely on the financial models that can forecast the future business performance of company only by looking through a rear-view mirror, and, consequently, create risks for the speculative stock trading that does not deliver any actual goods or services. If successful, this STTR project will make an important social impact that is controlling speculation by discouraging stock trading of company without material changes to its valuation. The research and educational impact of the current project is that selected results from the proposed studies beneficial to the fundamental research will be made available to the U.S research community for analysis, data mining, and search and will be also used to enhance contents of undergraduate and graduate courses. The economic impact is that the proposed efforts will create new financial technology related jobs in the North Alabama region.
This Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I project will develop and validate innovative technology capable of learning to infer from time series financial data in a resource-scarce environment. This technology will address the following technical hurdles: (a) well-documented deficiencies of machine reasoning of the qualitative parts of financial reports and earning call transcripts containing information that is much richer than just the financial ratios; (b) current reliance of the language-based models including ChatGPT on human annotation in resource-scarce environment, (c) difficulties with transfer learning for extensive, specialized documents, and (d) scarcity of labeled financial text. The technology will be based on innovative algorithms that use language-based models to augment original unlabeled data and utilize such augmented data for predicting the company valuation far ahead of the existing models. The feasibility of the proposed technology will be conducted in collaboration with academic and industrial partners.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.MEMBRANEX, LLC
STTR Phase I: Three Dimensional (3D) Printed Mixed Matrix Membranes for Biogas Upgrading
Contact
119 LAWLOR RD
Tolland, CT 06084--3716
NSF Award
2223083 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
01/01/2023 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Directors
Rajesh Mehta
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact /commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is to derisk a new membrane manufacturing technology for biogas upgrading. Renewable natural gas (RNG) is attractive as a carbon neutral energy source as it is derived from organic wastes such as food waste, agricultural waste, and municipal biosolids. RNG is part of biogas and requires cost- and energy-effective separation from carbon dioxide. The company has developed an additive manufacturing technology that enables the fabrication of high performance membranes to enable lower cost biogas upgrading. These membranes offer energy and system design benefits over more traditional separations technologies for the production of RNG. The membrane printing approach may lead to the production of best-in-class membranes for RNG production and could enable carbon capture and utilization from biogas sources.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project seeks to demonstrate the production of mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) comprised of polyether block amide polymer and zif8 zeolite. The proposed method uses electrospray based additive manufacturing to precisely control membrane thickness and zeolite loading, allowing customized membrane properties for biogas upgrading. Furthermore, the additive manufacturing, or printing, method enables increased loading of the zeolite over conventional casting techniques without the formation of defects that would lessen selectivity. The goals of the project include quantification of the maximum zeolite loading while avoiding loss of selectivity. The company will produce small membrane leaves up to 1 ft2 in area and demonstrate consistent performance across the leaf using mixed gas testing.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.METEORA3D, INCORPORATED
SBIR Phase I: Rapid Lift-Based Peel Separation Masked Inverted Stereolithography 3D Printing for Urgent Procedural Planning
Contact
2515 BURNET AVE APT 1114
Cincinnati, OH 45219--2521
NSF Award
2430557 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
12/01/2024 – 11/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be a major contribution to both the scientific understanding and the technological advance of desktop inverted vat photopolymerization 3D printing. First, the theoretical analysis of the peel process will enhance scientific understanding. Second, the experimental validation will demonstrate industry readiness of the technology. These advances will inspire other innovations in healthcare and 3D printing. High throughput 3D printing will enable trauma surgeons to benefit from 3D printed anatomic models in their planning whereas current technologies are unable to address urgent surgeries due to slow throughput. The project aims to improve the surgical outcomes of 2.5 million patients who undergo urgent procedures in the US every year. The proposed lift-based peel separation technology will provide 6X the throughput of commercial 3D printing and provide a durable competitive advantage. The business model includes the sale of the 3D printer, consumables, spare parts, and service contracts to hospitals, medical device companies, and industry. The patent-pending lift-based peel separation innovation will be at the core of commercial success. The first target customers are trauma and urgent care hospitals across the US. Current desktop inverted vat photopolymerization 3D printing suffers low throughput, which prevents its adoption in planning urgent surgeries. The four project objectives are centered around the development of the core technology, the Lift-Based Peel Separation system, which aims to print 6X faster than the standard. First, application of fracture mechanics and control theory to a theoretical analysis of the peel process will provide foundational understanding. Second, incorporation of force feedback and peel detection into the peel control model, together with a firmware implementation, will bring the theoretical understanding into the real world. Third, experimentation will fine-tune and validate compatibility with medical-grade resin and membrane materials. Lastly, assessment of print quality via 3D surface scanning, caliper measurements, and optical microscopy will ensure dimensional accuracy within 1 mm and satisfactory surface quality for clinical application. It is anticipated that 6X throughput will be achieved as evidenced by print times for 10 anatomic models printed using the proposed technology. Further, it is anticipated that model accuracy will be within 0.5 mm for successful application to diagnostic use. Ultimately, it is expected that the technology will be versatile as demonstrated by its compatibility with many membrane and resin materials. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
MIXTA RE, INC
SBIR Phase I: Education and Training for an AI Integrated Future: Mixed-Reality, Competency Based Learning
Contact
695 FOREST RD
West Haven, CT 06516--7932
NSF Award
2451139 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,200
Start / end date
01/01/2025 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project leverages adaptive and personalized mixed-reality training solutions to address the critical challenge of workforce displacement due to artificial intelligence (AI). AI and automation technologies will displace between 400 million and 800 million individuals globally by 2030, requiring up to 375 million workers to switch occupational categories and learn new skills. An adaptive learning platform will democratize access to high-quality, personalized training experiences, serving displaced workers, older persons, economically disadvantaged youth, and vocational learners. The platform accelerates the acquisition of essential competencies in AI literacy, data science, healthcare technical roles, and vocational skills through immersive, evidence-based learning experiences. This technology bridges the growing skills gap by validating existing competencies while developing new ones, enabling faster workforce transitions and creating new pathways to employment in an AI-integrated economy. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project develops a novel adaptive learning platform through three core technological innovations: a skills engine, an authoring tool, and an extended reality (XR) player. The skills engine uses Generative AI and RAG to identify and map key competencies, creating personalized learning pathways based on individual skill profiles. The authoring tool transforms the creation of adaptive learning content through AI-assisted scenario generation, automated asset creation, and integrated assessment tools, reducing development time and costs while maintaining high educational standards. The XR player delivers these experiences through augmented and virtual reality, adapting in real-time to learner performance and capturing analytics for competency validation. The platform architecture integrates these components seamlessly while maintaining compliance with IEEE standards and RAMP certification requirements, establishing new benchmark for evidence-based, adaptive learning in mixed reality environments. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
MOLECULAR INTERFACES, LLC
SBIR Phase I: High Light-Throughput Electrodes for Top-Emitting and Transparent OLED Displays
Contact
200 W MADISON ST STE 3300
Chicago, IL 60606--3607
NSF Award
2433105 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,953
Start / end date
01/01/2025 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project is the generation of more efficient and brighter organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) which are the individual lighting emitting elements within the displays of our cell phones, tablets, and smart watches. This project seeks to provide the same quality of OLED display but at 1.5? higher efficiency, thereby allowing a phone, for example, to run at 11% less power, with potential savings as high as 19%. If one considers the power used by the 4.9 billion cell phones worldwide (equivalent to the power generation for the state of Delaware) the cumulative saved power provides a significant effect in aggregate. Beyond large aggregate energy savings, this project provides other benefits to the end consumer. These include better brightness for outdoor usage of phones/watches/tablets, better viewing in augmented reality or virtual reality headsets, and even potential improvements in see-through display applications.
The efficient and brighter OLEDs are enabled by the project?s ultra-thin chemical adlayer which is placed on top of the materials in the OLED stack, resulting in superior transparency of the top-laying metal electrode. This circumvents the problem that has long vexed OLED display manufacturers, specifically, that the thin metal electrode providing electrical current to the materials in the OLED stack needs to be both transparent and conductive. Normally, reducing the thickness of the electrode improves transparency, but severely diminishes conductivity. As such, this thin metal cannot be reduced any further, and still limits the amount of light that can pass from the OLED. The project avoids this issue by making the metal a more uniform (continuous) layer by reducing self-aggregation of the metal, allowing the metal to retain high conductivity at a much lower thickness. This effect is enabled by the project?s technology, which is an unusually effective nucleation inducer. The project validates the effectiveness of the chemical adlayer in OLED pixels and then optimizes chemical structure for increased effectiveness. The resultant chemical treatment is then capable of reaching the targeted metric of 1.5? more efficient/brightness OLED pixel.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.MVMNT-X, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Optical methods for improving productivity of microalgae cultivation
Contact
563 ENCINA AVE
Menlo Park, CA 94025--1822
NSF Award
2415744 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
08/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in removing carbon dioxide and other pollutants generated by agriculture. Concentrated animal feeding operations are an integral element in the American economy and food system. Today, manure from dairy and swine operations is stored in lagoons where it festers for months before eventually being spread as fertilizer. Lagoon runoff contaminates the environment and endangers public health downstream, causing hundreds of billions of dollars in losses; methane and nitrous oxide gases pollute and warm the atmosphere; and valuable nutrients are lost. Rather than being in conflict with our environmental, health, and resource stewardship priorities, this project will help empower animal farms to be climate positive. This project creates that connection, enabling animal farm wastes today to efficiently, cleanly, and easily become fertilizer or animal feed for farms tomorrow. And because the technology captures carbon, farmers can verifiably store the carbon in soil, thereby empowering large farms and small farms alike to sell into the burgeoning carbon economy.
This project develops a new class of illumination methods that will enable an ultra-high density, high efficiency microalgae hybrid-photobioreactor scrubber for reactive carbon capture at the source in agriculture waste management systems. Algae bioreactors under development in this SBIR Phase I project may bridge the productivity gap between low-cost manure ponds and expensive algal biofuel photobioreactors. Productivity of microalgae reactors is generally limited by light distribution, as the algae nearest the surface consume all the light. New low-cost optical methods in optics and reactor management will allow natural sunlight to be delivered within the algae volume rather than at the surface, thus vastly accelerating carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus capture during wastewater processing, at no extra energy cost.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.MYANIML
SBIR Phase I: Early Disease Prediction with Cattle Muzzles Using Artificial Intelligence, Facial Recognition, and Camera Capturing Technology
Contact
14305 OUTLOOK ST
Overland Park, KS 66223--1253
NSF Award
2330500 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,866
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Directors
Parvathi Chundi
Peter Atherton
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the need for technologies that can benefit the production, protection, and health of agricultural animals, like cattle. The profit margins for cattle owners are very thin. Treating a disease costs cattle owners on average about $80 per head. By the time an owner can tell their cattle are infected, it is typically too late to prevent infection and the spread of the disease in the pen and feedlot. With the successful implementation of the proposed technology, cattle owners will save on average about $80 per head. For an average 500-head owner, pinkeye can impact 90% of the individual cattle herd if one individual animal is infected, costing over $15k to treat in the case of an outbreak. The proposed technology aims to reduce the cost to only the cost of one vaccine since the proposed system should alert the owner about this risk early, allowing early isolation before the disease is able to spread. The proposed solution would enable early disease detection, help to secure the US food supply chain, reduce the emission of greenhouse gasses, and benefit the US economy by preventing cattle loss.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes to demonstrate the feasibility of a novel artificial intelligence (AI) technology to detect Bovine Respiratory Disease early on in a small pilot study. The company will develop an app (beta-version) that can automatically take pictures of cattle, use AI to analyze the muzzle, and then immediately send a notification of infected cattle to the cattle owner. When new calves that are sick enter a feedlot setting, they typically are not as active as healthy calves. There are also visible symptoms such as droopy ears, nasal discharge, and watery eyes. However, since the calves might be stressed due to travel, these symptoms do not necessarily mean the calf is sick, making it challenging to identify sick cattle. If successful, the proposed solution would reliably identify sick cattle and thereby enable early, targeted treatment.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.NANORES LLC
SBIR Phase I: User-Centric Super Resolution Imaging System Dissecting Molecular Composition and Ultrastructure in Cells and Tissues
Contact
3032 DECATUR ST
West Lafayette, IN 47906--1132
NSF Award
2451418 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lies in its ability to revolutionize biomedical research by enabling advanced fluorescence imaging of biological tissues at unprecedented depth and resolution. The technology's ability to provide precise three-dimensional imaging of molecular structures in thick tissue samples offers significant advancements in drug discovery, disease diagnostics, basic biological research, and biological education. This innovation has the potential to fill a major gap in the high-end microscopy market, providing researchers with tools that surpass the limitations of current imaging systems, fostering breakthroughs in life sciences. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a compact, multi-color super-resolution imaging system capable of imaging thick biological tissues with nanoscale precision. The project addresses the limitations of existing imaging technologies, which are restricted in depth and resolution, by incorporating advanced features such as adaptive optics and spinning disk technology to minimize optical aberrations and scattering. The research objectives include optimizing the system for imaging up to 250 micrometers in depth with a resolution of 10?20 nanometers and demonstrating its capability to visualize multiple molecular targets simultaneously. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
NATIONAL RESOURCE CONSULTANTS, LLC
SBIR Phase I: A Carbon Capture System for Algae Cultivation and Biochemicals Production using Hybrid Solar Lighting
Contact
1603 BARRINGTON DR
Manhattan, KS 66503--8661
NSF Award
2324850 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
10/01/2023 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to mitigate CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions into the atmosphere from point sources by developing a cost-effective carbon capture technology using a hybrid solar algae cultivation system. The team seeks to develop a method to use algae to produce biochemicals and biofuels. The algae cultivation system will utilize deep photobioreactors operated under controlled environmental conditions so as to obtain high area biomass productivities at a low land footprint. An algal biorefinery approach will be used to produce organic chemicals from the carbohydrate fraction, biodiesel from the lipids fraction, and end use for the residue. The adverse effects of CO2 accumulation include the frequent incidences of wildfires, flooding, intense hurricanes, and the acidification of the marine environment. The annual cost of wildfires alone in the U.S. in terms of damage to human health and the ecosystems is estimated to range from $71 to $348 billion. Growth rates of algae and the ability to absorb CO2 are about ten times that of terrestrial plants. This project will provide a
sustainable carbon capture technology as it primarily relies on solar energy to capture CO2 and produce high value bioproduct. Implementation of this technology would also provide significant employment opportunities in diverse areas.
The project will develop a hybrid solar/Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting system within a photobioreactor to obtain high algal productivity and carbon dioxide capture from point emission sources. The novel hybrid solar lighting system will provide internal illumination at optimal intensity and temperature conditions to maximize carbohydrate productivity. The carbohydrate fraction of the algae will be processed to obtain high value platform organic acids using a proprietary low pH fermentation process. The goal of this project is to a obtain proof-of-concept for a photobioreactor design that will maximize volume per unit surface area so as to obtain high areal carbohydrate productivity with a small land area footprint and low external energy input. Fiber optic lighting will be used to provide internal illumination. The project scope also includes the feasibility of converting algae via acid hydrolysis to sugars and subsequent fermentation of these sugars to high value organic acids.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ND-DIAGENOMIX, INC.
STTR Phase I: Design a Just-In-Time Formative Assessment Algorithm for an Adaptive Education Platform
Contact
1400 E ANGELA BLVD
South Bend, IN 46617--1364
NSF Award
2451599 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
02/01/2025 – 04/30/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will be achieved by developing and validating cutting edge assessment technology to address two critical problems in math education: a) student learning deficiencies and b) teacher overload and attrition. At the high school level, the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) reported that the math scores of U.S. students in 2022 ranked 28th among 37 participating countries, posing substantial risk to the nation?s competitiveness in STEM fields. This occurs while educators? burnout and attrition is at an all time high. Such significant learning deficiencies in math will cost an estimated $1.1T in GDP due to the loss of workforce productivity and innovation. Meanwhile, available tools and innovations for high school math are drastically low, in comparison to tools available for their K-8 counterparts. In response, this STTR project will develop a web-based system providing highly efficient, personalized, formative assessments that are easily customizable by teachers themselves. By addressing critical classroom and market needs, the project will help improve student math learning, cultivate a competitive and diverse STEM workforce, and contribute to high-tech innovation in a Federal Opportunity Zone in the heart of Midwest. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will develop a web-based formative assessment system providing highly efficient and personalized assessments that are easily customizable by teachers themselves, empowering teachers to do their work more effectively and efficiently. Unlike traditional adaptive assessment systems that often reduce the teacher?s role, this platform leverages cognitive diagnostic modeling to identify students? strengths and weaknesses in high school math in real time, both individually and collectively. An innovative machine learning algorithm clusters students for targeted instruction based on their mathematical competencies and current understanding, while also tracking their progress to enable timely interventions. Teachers can regularly and flexibly regroup students based on updated assessments, ensuring that instruction remains tailored to each class?s needs. Additionally, advancements in large language models (LLMs) will be utilized to expand the item bank, supporting the platform?s scalability and meeting ongoing assessment demands in diverse classroom environments. The system?s usability and effectiveness will be validated through a comprehensive pilot study, demonstrating its potential to enhance educational outcomes and streamline teaching processes. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
NEARABL INC.
STTR Phase I: Handheld Mobile-based Dynamic 4D Mapping and Indoor Space Reconstruction
Contact
33 WEST END AVENUE
New York, NY 10023--7820
NSF Award
2416474 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Parvathi Chundi
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project includes enabling infrastructure owners, real estate developers and trade workers to optimize their operations and reduce rework, leading to a reduction in their environmental footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future. Furthermore, the project aims to decrease costs associated with digitizing infrastructure by 40-60% and lower socioeconomic workforce barriers for knowledge workers, facilitating increased construction and renovation, ultimately transforming buildings into "smart buildings" in a cost-effective manner. Additionally, the project will make indoor spaces more inclusive and accessible for individuals with disabilities by including customizable wayfinding and accessibility options; increase the safety and efficiency of construction and maintenance workers with on-ground mixed reality based work instructions; and educate the first responders and provide essential navigation to speed up the evacuation.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project focuses on innovating mobile-based 4D progression of indoor places - with a dynamic three-dimensional (3D) mapping and reconstruction process over the time dimension, capable of augmenting the physical structure of buildings. The proposed research will develop an attention-based modeling and reconstruction mechanism to enhance 3D reconstruction, coupled with a user-friendly AI-enhanced Mixed Reality guide to improve data collection by users, aiming to achieve precise 3D modeling with data collected from mobile devices, despite their inherently low quality. To minimize the required rescan work, given the ever-changing nature of construction and maintenance projects, a knowledge-based dynamic updates mechanism will be introduced, leveraging prior knowledge of the physical infrastructure to be modeled.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.NEURALTRAK, INC
SBIR Phase I: AI-Powered Low-dose, Low-cost, High-Quality CT imaging
Contact
511 LASSEN ST
Los Altos, CA 94022--3911
NSF Award
2433137 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to enable local (and global) access to high-quality, low-cost, and low-radiation exposure three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) imaging using existing 2D equipment. Examples include walk-in clinics, lung cancer screening centers, rapid stroke assessment centers, mobile platforms (e.g., ambulances), battlefield hospitals, and clinics in rural and underserved areas. This advance will result in greater public access to advanced healthcare and should result in substantially lower healthcare costs. For example, moving complex spine surgeries from hospitals to local ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) can save payors $10B in costs annually. The ASCs will also benefit; a relatively low percentage of complex monthly procedures can double their profits. Patient satisfaction should improve by moving more complicated spine surgical procedures to smaller ASCs closer to home with fewer infection risks. The useful life of legacy X-ray systems will be extended following conversion to 3D, thereby reducing waste and landfill space. Beyond medicine, the project technology has widespread applications in nondestructive testing, from manufacturing to failure analysis/prevention to archaeology and art! All these advantages will enhance US competitiveness.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will enable simple, small-footprint, mobile, two-dimensional (2D) X-ray imaging systems to generate three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) images at low cost, with one-third of the X-ray dose of a conventional CT scan. The project combines recent advances in imaging physics with artificial intelligence (AI) to overcome the limitations of current CT image acquisition. This contrasts with conventional AI-based CT de-noising (image cleaning) algorithms that function only in the image domain with no physics input. The project has three primary research objectives. First, enhance deep learning-based image reconstruction's ability to produce high-quality images from limited data. Second, devise real-time geometric calibration methods to overcome mechanical instabilities inherent to simple X-ray systems. Third, develop high speed and high image fidelity data transfer methods to interface existing hospital imaging systems to the project computing platform while maintaining FDA and HIPPA compliance and avoiding disruption of hospital workflow. Successful development of the three core technologies described will be used to create a minimum viable product (MVP). Medical practitioners will use the MVP to evaluate the technology and refine the features needed for a clinical product.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.NEXTGENEDU INC
SBIR Phase I: An Adaptive AI-Driven Career Exploration Platform
Contact
826 SE 36TH LN
Ocala, FL 34471--8714
NSF Award
2507751 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,993
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 07/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project is to ensure all Americans have access to 21st century careers while addressing a gap in workforce development through an adaptive, AI-driven career exploration platform which provides personalized career guidance for students in secondary and post-secondary education. This unique approach to career readiness will reduce unemployment and skill mismatches across the nation by addressing critical stages in career lifecycle of awareness, interest, and readiness. By enhancing the technological infrastructure supporting career development and fostering a more adaptive, skilled, and competitive workforce, the project aligns with national interests towards accelerated access to meaningful career choices and lower rates of unemployment in critical . The market opportunity for this project focuses on educational institutions and workforce development agencies, with the first market segment being high schools and post-secondary institutions. By year three of deployment, this solution is projected to improve career readiness for thousands of individuals, improving labor market alignment, which will create significant economic value by creating a more engaged and aligned workforce. This project will advance scientific understanding by developing and applying advanced learning theories and data-driven models to support open-field decision-making processes, fostering better career outcomes for all. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on developing a data-driven platform to address the challenge of career discovery and decision-making in complex and evolving job markets. The project integrates advanced learning theories to design state-of-the-art artificial intelligence and data visualization technologies to design and validate a novel system to contextualizes large datasets inclusive of such as labor market trends, job qualifications, and career pathways, into actionable insights for users. The approach leverages principles of machine learning, hierarchical reinforcement learning, and retrieval-augmented generation to create an adaptive platform capable of personalizing recommendations and guiding users through informed decision-making towards career identification, readiness, and success. Anticipated technical results include the development of scalable algorithms for hierarchical data modeling, a robust user-interface prototype, and pilot-tested outcomes demonstrating improved alignment between user preferences and career engagement. The research will provide foundational advancements in integrating educational, psychological, and data science principles, with implications for creating more effective, scalable solutions in career discovery and workforce development. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
NEXUMA L.L.C.
SBIR Phase I: Microbially-Driven Underground Barrier to Reduce Flooding in Coastal Communities
Contact
17105 N BAY RD APT B610
Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160--4089
NSF Award
2450954 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,988
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to develop a microbially-driven method to reduce flooding in coastal communities built on highly permeable coral limestone soil formations, such as those found in South Florida. With sea levels projected to rise 10-12 inches by 2050 along the U.S. coasts, barriers to prevent flooding are needed. Currently proposed methods rely on building extensive infrastructure both above and below land or moving residents to higher elevations, all of which are intrusive to the day-to-day lives of Americans. This project aims to prevent flooding in communities built on limestone soil by modifying the permeability of limestone using naturally occurring bacteria. Reducing the permeability of limestone will prevent underground water from rising into communities. The approach is less invasive than existing technologies, does not require excessive excavation, and may allow citizens to remain in their homes despite the sea level rise. It addresses NSF?s mission to ensure the prosperity of the average American citizen. It also involves stakeholders across multiple industries, including industrial microbiology, geochemistry, and construction, and can be applied to large areas of the US, thus potentially creating jobs and tax revenues from many sources. Microbially-induced carbonate precipitation (MICP), a process that uses naturally occurring bacteria to create calcium carbonate crystals on surfaces, will be employed to reduce the permeability of limestone to water. Upon optimizing and scaling this process, MICP will be used to modify in-ground limestone structures to reduce flooding in coastal communities. With this long-term goal in mind, and within the scope of an SBIR Phase I project, the goals of this proposal are to optimize the growth and MICP capabilities of naturally occurring bacterial strains in conditions that mimic the underground limestone environment and to test the structure, strength, and permeability of the MICP-modified limestone. The above will be accomplished using a suite of microbial growth and urease assays, biochemical and microscopy assessments of calcium carbonate deposits, and physio-chemical assessment of limestone porosity and bond strength. Together, the work proposed will establish the preferred conditions for MICP on limestone in environmentally relevant experimental conditions. This represents the first critical step towards using MICP in coastal communities to reduce or eliminate groundwater flooding as sea level waters rise. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
NONA TECHNOLOGIES
SBIR Phase I: Maintenance-Free Water Treatment using Ion Concentration Polarization
Contact
286 VASSAR ST APT F1
Cambridge, MA 02139--4957
NSF Award
2422906 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,994
Start / end date
08/01/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in addressing the critical issue of water scarcity through an innovative membrane-free, chemical-free, more particle tolerant desalination technology. The project aims to make desalination more accessible and affordable, thereby providing communities facing water shortages with new water sources and enhanced water recycling. The technology is designed to be energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable, reducing the barriers to widespread adoption of desalination and water recycling. By advancing the field of water treatment, the project aligns with NSF?s mission to promote the progress of science and advance national health and welfare. The successful commercialization of this technology has the potential to generate significant economic benefits, including job creation and increased tax revenue, while also addressing a pressing environmental challenge.
This project proposes a groundbreaking innovation in desalination technology through the development of an Ion Concentration Polarization system. Unlike traditional methods, the ICP system requires significantly less energy and eliminates the need for harmful chemical pre-treatments. The primary innovation lies in the scalable design of the Ion Concentration Polarization system, which can effectively transition from small-scale to large-scale applications. The research aims to optimize the internal flow architecture and electric current distribution to achieve a production capacity of 1,000 liters per hour from an initial 10 liters per hour at bench scale. The methodology includes rigorous experimentation and prototype development to ensure the technology's efficiency and reliability at larger scales. This advancement holds the promise of revolutionizing the desalination process, making it more viable for widespread use and significantly impacting water treatment practices.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.NOVAURUM BIOSCIENCES INCORPORATED
SBIR Phase I: Development of a Novel Mammalian Cell-Based Nano-Biological Coating for Implantable Medical Devices.
Contact
42 MEDFORD ST
Somerville, MA 02143--4233
NSF Award
2449177 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to address the critical health and economic burden associated with implant-related infections by reducing or eliminating them with a novel biocompatible and antimicrobial nano-biological coating on implants. Infections related to implanted medical devices are shockingly common, as one million implant-related infections occur each year in the United States. These infections are usually treated with antibiotics. Unfortunately, overuse of antibiotics can cause multi-drug resistance, leading to more severe infections, making them harder to treat. There is a higher five-year mortality rate for prosthetic joint infections than for breast cancer. These infections not only present significant treatment challenges due to a biofilm formed by colonizing bacteria, but they also impose a massive financial burden on the healthcare system, costing more than $8.6 billion annually. This proposal addresses this critical issue by creating a novel nano-biological coating designed to inhibit biofilm formation and protect against all types of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains, while ensuring high biocompatibility. As such, the primary target market for this technology is medical device manufacturers, particularly in the orthopedic implant sector, anticipating $8 million in revenues by the third year of commercialization. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will focus on the development of a novel mammalian cell-based nano-biological coating when applied to orthopedic implants and demonstrate that the nanoparticles that can limit infection and inflammation while promoting bone growth. Nanoparticles are well known to reduce infection but how they are coated on medical devices remain problematic and undescribed. This proposal will establish an innovative approach to treat medical devices with nanoparticles to inhibit bacteria via cell stimulation. Several technical challenges that arise from stimulating cells to produce nanoparticles on medical implants, include optimizing nanoparticle synthesis, in vitro characterization and validation, and in vivo proof-of-concept studies. Commercialization of this technology depends on establishing a controlled production system, scaling up production, obtaining regulatory approvals, and achieving market launch. The specific technical objectives of this SBIR Phase I are: (1) Characterization of nanoparticles produced by different cells on Ti6Al4V and stainless-steel orthopedic implants, (2) Determination of the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of such coated surfaces, (3) Determination of bone and fibroblast cell proliferation on such coated implants, and (4) Determination of the performance of nanoparticles produced by the cells as the active ingredient from such coated surfaces. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
NOVOTHELIUM, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Novel Scaffold for Nipple Areolar Regeneration
Contact
2509 KENNEDY CIR BLDG 125 FL 4
San Antonio, TX 78235--5116
NSF Award
2429456 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,194
Start / end date
08/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be the ability to regenerate the nipple areolar complex after mastectomy. Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women and many must undergo mastectomy, which results in the loss of the breast including the nipple. Patients report not feeling whole or complete after the loss of their nipples and this can have a devastating psychological impact on quality of life. Current nipple areolar reconstructive techniques use a surgical skin flap, where skin on the reconstructed breast is cut and sutured together to recreate the appearance of a nipple, and then tattooed for desired pigmentation. After reconstruction, only 13% of patients report being totally satisfied with their nipple reconstruction, flattening being the most common reason for dissatisfaction. Instead of just recreating the appearance of a nipple, this project enables patients to regenerate the nipple areolar complex using an acellular nipple areolar graft. The broader impact of this project would be transforming the clinical standard of care, resulting in improved outcomes and quality of life for women during their cancer survivorship. Additionally, this project further advances the understanding of extracellular matrix grafts for complex soft tissue reconstruction.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will focus on investigating cellular ingrowth into the acellular nipple areolar graft through in vivo studies. The graft is created through a patented technique, in which the DNA and cellular components are removed from donor nipple areolar tissue, leaving behind an acellular extracellular matrix scaffold. The key challenges in bringing this technology to market center on demonstrating feasibility of cellular infiltration to the entirety of the graft and maintained nipple projection. The experiments proposed in this project investigate the graft cellular infiltration, biocompatibility, nipple projection, and pigmentation in vivo. The successful completion of the proposed studies in this project will facilitate advancement of this research and support studies for clinical application.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.NUCLEON POWER INC
SBIR Phase I: Hyper-Compact Neutron Generator for Advanced Detection
Contact
78 MITCHELL RD
Oak Ridge, TN 37830--7953
NSF Award
2419140 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$273,834
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ben Schrag
Errata
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Abstract
This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project aims to transform spectroscopy systems that identify materials by detecting a specific signature of gamma radiation. Such nondestructive detection technology is used in agriculture, mining, defense, oil and gas, border security, and other industries. The proposed innovation is a novel ultra-compact neutron generator, which is an essential component of material analysis systems used for a wide range of elements. Advantages of the proposed neutron generator are its ultra-low size, weight, and power consumption, which will enable portable detection applications, reduce costs, and greatly expand the potential to adopt this detection technology in more applications and enable its use in tight spaces, such as on board small aircraft or space vehicles. The improved neutron generator will significantly enhance security by improving detection capabilities in applications such as the identification of explosives, hazardous chemicals, and special nuclear material. It will also enable wide-field surveys for agricultural, natural resource exploration, and geological applications. With the neutron-activation analysis industry valued at over $100 million domestically, this breakthrough has the potential to increase this market size by at least $14 million. Thus, the project promises substantial technical, economic, and national security benefits.
The intellectual merit of this project lies in its innovative use of lithium niobate piezoelectric transformers (PTs) arranged in a novel antiphase configuration to accelerate deuterium and tritium atoms for a nuclear fusion-based neutron generator. This approach uses resonance drive technology to leverage the high gain of the PTs and achieve acceleration potentials that maximize the fusion reaction rate without magnetic or voltage multiplier components. Furthermore, the unique in-vacuum operation eliminates the bulky and expensive high-voltage hermetic feedthroughs. This resulting neutron generator will produce 300 million neutrons per second with a weight of under 5 pounds, a power draw of less than 10 watts, and a volume of less than 90 cubic inches. The research objectives of this project are to develop an in-vacuum mounting strategy to enable the high gain of the PT, develop antiphase resonance drive circuitry, develop a target and ion source that are integral to the PTs, and design a field-forming geometry for the vacuum chamber. Combined, these advancements will result in a neutron generator that surpasses the performance of existing systems, in multiple metrics, by more than an order of magnitude, marking a significant leap in neutron generator technology.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.OBLIVIOUS LABS INC.
SBIR Phase I: The Encore Oblivious Computation Framework
Contact
508 LLOYD ST
Pittsburgh, PA 15208--2831
NSF Award
2423358 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,988
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to provide a fast, universal, and easy-to-program technology called Encore, that enables privacy-preserving computation on sensitive data. Users are becoming increasingly aware of the privacy risks of giving up private data to online services and sending sensitive queries to Large Language Models (LLMs). Further, there is a recent push by big players in industry (e.g., Google, Apple, Signal) to roll out new privacy-preserving services. The proposed Encore framework will allow businesses to ?switch on? privacy for their existing services with minimum migration cost and runtime overhead. Further, it will help companies with existing privacy offerings to scale up their privacy-preserving services to big data and save computational cost. Through the company?s open-source efforts, the proposed project will make confidential computing techniques accessible to even non-expert programmers. This will in turn encourage wider adoption of confidential computing techniques, and pave the way for a private data economy where users are in full control of their data and may choose to contribute them to data analytics tasks (e.g., clinical or population-wide studies).
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop oblivious computation techniques that allow provably secure obfuscation of access patterns to sensitive data, while minimizing the overhead. Encryption at rest is a standard technique for protecting confidential data. However, encryption alone fails to hide the access patterns to data, which can completely reveal the users? queries or intentions in many applications such as contact discovery, database search, and queries to Large Language Models. Oblivious computation relies on algorithmic techniques to ?randomize? the access patterns such that they leak nothing. Earlier, the team proposed simple and practical oblivious computation techniques which have already gained large-scale adoption, e.g., by the encrypted messenger Signal. The proposed project will build on the team?s prior expertise and develop a new family of oblivious algorithms specifically optimized for hardware enclaves. Further, this project will develop new algorithmic techniques for parallelizing oblivious computation, as well as compilation techniques for converting insecure legacy code into oblivious implementations. The team plans to open source an Oblivious STL library which contains oblivious counterparts of common data structures and utility algorithms, and can be viewed as a privacy-preserving counterpart of the standard STL library for popular languages.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.OM THERAPEUTICS INC.
SBIR Phase I: Massive, empirical, scalable generation of small molecule and protein interaction data to enable the discovery of medicines at scale with machine learning
Contact
3570 CARMEL MOUNTAIN RD
San Diego, CA 92130--6765
NSF Award
2415314 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
12/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be to enable the discovery of new medicines at an unprecedented rate, by empowering researchers across the globe to launch discovery programs in weeks at a dramatically reduced entry price. This is in contrast to the status quo of launching a drug discovery program, which costs hundreds of thousands of dollars, requires expensive company resources, and several months of time prior to an initial readout on progress. The outcome of this new ability may be an increased number of therapeutics that are able to make it through clinical trials and ultimately to patients. The innovation could provide data of interactions between billions of unique small molecules and the entire human proteome. This could enable the creation of sophisticated and predictive machine learning based models to predict novel interactions between small molecules and protein sequences. The validation and expansion of this approach would allow for continuous improvement of the ability to predict new medicines for emerging diseases. The proposed project will seek to demonstrate the ability to encapsulate proteins and small molecules in millions of molecular barcoded pico-scale compartments and identify the specific interactions between the proteins and small molecules contained within each of them. The Intellectual Merit of the activity is in the construction of the materials and methods that enable this capability, which reduces the cost of a single protein and small molecule library screen by over 100X. Current methodologies are limited to screening in much larger formats, leading to higher costs, limited parallelization, and large quantities of material required for the screen to be used. In contrast, the innovation herein could allow for a dramatic reduction in the amount of materials required, enabling the screening of proteins in high parallelization through miniaturization, and consequently reducing cost and time required to generate a comparable sized dataset by orders of magnitude. The project goals will be to (1) determine with control systems the ability to identify known interactions in the pico-scale format, (2) determine if non-control protein interactions are able to be identified in at 10-plex format, (3) and to determine if protein selective molecules are able to be identified in a single screen. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
ONCOBLAZE LLC
STTR Phase I: Preventing Tumor Recurrence by Heat-Triggered Drug Delivery
Contact
8 FOREST CREEK CT
Charleston, SC 29414--7328
NSF Award
2415653 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
08/01/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project relates to a novel cancer therapy that addresses cancer regrowth after surgical therapy. Surgical removal of cancerous tumors is the first-line therapy for many cancers. In 30-40% of patients for certain cancers, cancerous cells remain after surgery that result in tumor recurrence. Such tumor recurrence is associated with worse prognosis and these patients often have limited treatment options. This project will develop technology that can deliver a large amount of chemotherapy precisely to the tissue where remnant cancer cells are anticipated after surgical tumor removal. The approach is based on heat-sensitive lipid particles that encapsulate the chemotherapy. When exposed to temperatures in the fever range, the lipid particles release the chemotherapy in the heated tissue regions. This approach enables the precisely targeted delivery of chemotherapy drugs to tissue with remnant cancer cells. If successful, this technology could cure many of those patients that would otherwise face tumor recurrence. Furthermore, the often-costly follow-up treatments will be avoided, making the approach cost-effective.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will develop a novel device for the targeted delivery of chemotherapy agents to tissue surrounding surgically removed tumors. The device is based on an infrared laser which can be precisely targeted to the intended tissue region. The laser will be computer controlled to heat the tissue indicated by a physician to accurately controlled temperatures, triggering drug release in this tissue region. Furthermore, drug release will be monitored by an imaging technology that will be developed as part of this project. This imaging technology will provide feedback on amount of chemotherapy delivered, and location of delivery. The research objectives are: (1) Build and test a device prototype. The testing procedures will ensure that a targeted region can be heated to accurate temperatures. The imaging system component will be evaluated in terms of accuracy and sensitivity. (2) Large animal studies. These studies will confirm prototype operation in living organisms, where mock surgeries will be performed. The animal studies will confirm that adequate chemotherapy amount can be delivered to tissue surrounding a surgically removed specimen. Furthermore, the animal studies will ensure that no unintended organ damage occurs before transition to studies in human patients.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ONE SPOT LEARNING, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Holistic System for Comprehensive Student Assessment
Contact
741 CONESTOGA RD
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010--1039
NSF Award
2423635 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$256,800
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to help educators meet the needs of all their students by leveraging AI and Natural Language Processing (NLP) tools to examine robust sets of student learning data including quantitative and qualitative samples such as essays, written assignments, lab reports, and reflections, to determine student progress based on specific standards and competencies for more holistic and comprehensive assessment of student learning. The real-time, detailed analysis of student learning through qualitative and quantitative data analysis enables educators and administrators to understand how each learner, class, grade, and school is progressing in their learning. By contrast to more summative, end-of-course or end-of-year assessments which offer limited or delayed insights on student learning, this project provides educators and learners with access to deep analysis of student learning to make systemic course corrections and enable teachers to identify which standards and skills student's have been mastered and which need additional support in support of a more holistic approach to assessment and learning in primary and secondary education.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will investigate the effects targeted large language model (LLM) fine-tuning using parameter-efficient fine-tuning (PEFT) and natural language processing (NLP) and infinite-context LLM based natural language generation (NLG) on qualitative and quantitative assessments of learners in grades 5-12. This research goal addresses, first, the problem that NLG is being used to generate feedback and content without targeted fine-tuning. There is an opportunity to use PEFT to allow for rapid, individualized NLG. Second, assessment relies on grades and tests that may not capture learning as robustly as necessary for a more holistic assessment mechanisms to make rapid and real-time shifts and provide comprehsive feedback. The technological innovation will use infinite context LLM pipelines and NLP techniques to allow teachers and administrators to gain a more complete view of students? learning over time. This technical innovation will be paired with discourse analysis of collaborating educators and administrators to investigate effects of these novel NLP and NLG technologies on student learning over time. It is anticipated the intervention will provide educators with much greater visibility into distinct learning paths and provide timely feedback to improve K12 education.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.OPAL THERAPEUTICS INC
SBIR Phase I: AI-driven PROTAC drug discovery - Pioneering non-hormonal therapeutic targets for uterine fibroids and endometriosis
Contact
2789 GOLDEN GATE AVE
San Francisco, CA 94118--4108
NSF Award
2423337 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact /commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lies in potentially developing new therapeutic options for women suffering from chronic gynecological conditions such as uterine fibroids and endometriosis. These conditions affect millions of women, causing chronic pelvic pain, painful menstruation, and infertility. Traditional drug discovery often overlooks female biology, leading to a lack of effective treatments and often necessitating surgical interventions. This project aims to develop a uterus-in-a-dish platform technology that rapidly identifies relevant disease mechanisms and possible new therapeutics specifically for fibroids and endometriosis. By focusing exclusively on female biology, this project seeks to discover innovative therapeutic solutions that significantly improve the quality of life for women, alleviating the physical, financial, and emotional burdens associated with these debilitating conditions.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop an advanced screening platform that utilizes patient-derived uterine organoids to accurately capture disease pathology and identify therapeutic proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTAC) degraders for treating uterine fibroids and endometriosis. Despite the high prevalence and significant disability caused by these gynecological conditions, there has been a notable lack of non surgical therapeutic options from the pharmaceutical industry. In the past 15 years, only one drug has been developed for endometriosis-associated pain, and no new drugs have been developed for fibroids. To address this unmet need and create new therapeutic modalities for women?s reproductive health, the project goals include building a comprehensive gynecological biobank of patient samples, training AI algorithms to identify disease-relevant phenotypes in cell and organoid models from high-content images, employing in silico predictive molecular modeling to propose PROTAC structures to target disease phenotypes, and high-throughput screening of curated chemical libraries on organoid assays. Achieving these research objectives will yield new PROTAC structures with the potential to treat fibroids and endometriosis in patients.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.OPTICALX, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Space-Time Projection Optical Tomography (SPOT)
Contact
20654 ALDER AVE
Tracy, CA 95304--8404
NSF Award
2404362 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,996
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Anna Brady-Estevez
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project is to understand how to harness the power of Graphical Processing Unit (GPU)-computing to detect and track small space debris. The last decade has seen rapid growth in satellite launches as well as space explosions which profoundly worsen the space debris environment, particularly in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Debris smaller than 5 cm is not detectable by current radar and optical techniques, remains in orbit for many years, travels at 5 miles per second and, therefore, poses serious collisional hazards to operational spacecraft and the inhabitants of the International Space Station (ISS). Ultimately, the concern is that the number of space objects beyond a certain threshold will trigger an unintended exponentially growing avalanche of fragments making LEO unusuable.The only option then is orbit maneuvering and it requires knowing the orbits of each of the debris pieces hours or days ahead of time. The proposed technology is a step toward a comprehensive space surveillance system to ensure sustainable use of the Earth?s orbits.
This SBIR Phase I project proposes to develop an optical solution for space debris detection using a small array of telescopes and algorithms implemented on GPU-based parallel computing platforms. If successful, the proposed technology transforms arrays of inexpensive small, wide field-of-view cameras into powerful computational telescopes with sensitivities enough to potentially detect objects smaller than 1 cm. Also known as synthetic tracking, the technology has been successfully utilized to detect large numbers of near-Earth asteroids for planetary protection. The same method is likely to benefit detection of small objects in LEO. However, it is computationally more challenging because the LEO objects move across the camera view much more rapidly. This requires taking 100x more picture frames per second, requiring the analysis of petabytes of data. More importantly, processing of these many frames is computationally more demanding. On the other hand, the sensitivity gain is significantly more, potentially allowing the detection of sub-cm objects. In contrast to building massive and expensive radar and optical telescopes, this project aims to provide a sustainable and low-cost solution to track millions of particles to provide protection for space assets now and eventually for human inhabitation of space.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ORTHOMECHANICA, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Tendon-Implant Integration in a Tendon-Mounted Implant for Reconstructive Surgery
Contact
3635 SE MIDVALE DR
Corvallis, OR 97333--3229
NSF Award
2406646 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a novel medical device approach for restoring movement and recovery during reconstructive surgery. The surgically implanted system integrates a differentiated mechanical approach for redirecting internal forces and movement transmission of the tendons and ligaments in order to restore articulation and strength. The overall objective is to develop an implatable system capable of chronically integrating lateral movement from a tendon-mounted implant and two tendons, to reroute movement from a single tendon to multiple tendons. If successful, the system will provide greater restorative function to grip strength and rehabilitative compensation of arm movements following reconstructive surgeries due to a vatiery of neuromuscular conditions including but not limited to spinal cord injury or nerve trauma. The new implantable approach aims to improve surgical functional outcomes for over 100,000 patients each year through improved manual dexterity and recovery.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project advances the design engineering and preclinical evidence validation for a small implantable medical device with an integrated passive swiveling mechanism using biological tendons. The first stage will complete design and fabrication of the prototype incorporating biomechanical grooves and pores to facilitate tendon in-growth. The second stage will validate the design with a chronic lapine study of lateral integration between a tendon-mounted implant and two tendons in order to reroute movement from a single tendon to multiple tendons. Upon surgical implantation, the device-tendon construct aims to distributes movement from one muscle across multiple output tendons, while allowing each tendon to reach its own tension equilibrium. A histological and mechanical evaluation to will be performed on the tendon-implant attachment to demonstrate chronic feasibility. It is expected the implant will significantly improve function, integrate with the tendons, and not adversely impact tendon health. Upon completion, the design and preclinical evidence will be integrated into a product design plan to reach human use during the subsequent stage.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.OSMOSES INC.
SBIR Phase I: Optimization and scaling of ladder polymers for membrane-based gas separations
Contact
750 MAIN ST
Cambridge, MA 02139--3544
NSF Award
2151444 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$253,815
Start / end date
08/15/2023 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Rajesh Mehta
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
This broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop membrane solutions to address opportunities in the gas and vapor separation market. Today, this market is dominated by energy-intensive thermal processes that have large carbon footprints, such as distillation and absorption/stripping. The current membrane solutions often lack the flux, recovery, and stability required for many applications. The membranes that will be developed in this project are formed from novel polymeric materials that have the highest combinations of permeability and selectivity out of all polymers reported in the open literature. If deployed commercially for renewable and/or traditional natural gas purification, these membranes could reduce energy consumption and product loss by over 40% and over 80%, respectively, compared to current commercial membranes. In this way, the advanced membranes being developed could save up to $2 million per day in product loss that is currently flared from commercial membrane systems, resulting in both savings for the customer and a reduced environmental footprint. Related opportunities in other gas and vapor separation markets could also be enabled by this research.
The intellectual merit of this project is to develop gas separation membranes from a novel class of polymers with record performance. To this end, this effort aims to scale polymer synthesis, form thin films, test developed membranes using complex gas mixtures, and develop an optimized techno-economic model for market applications. These objectives are of practical importance for manufacturing and commercialization, but they are likewise important for scientific and technical innovation in polymer science and thin-film formation. Moreover, testing these materials in thin film form under complex gas mixtures will provide data on stability under relevant conditions. The research on polymer scaleup and thin film formation is critical for refining technoeconomic assumptions for capital costs, and the testing of complex gas mixtures is critical for refining assumptions on process energy costs and cost savings from product recovery. Accomplishment of these objectives will enable new innovations related to the formation of membrane modules that can be tested and evaluated with industrial gas mixtures.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.OmnEcoil Instruments, Inc.
SBIR Phase I: Prostate cancer diagnosis with an integrated endorectal MRI and targeted transrectal biopsy
Contact
2936 LAKEVIEW BLVD
Lake Oswego, OR 97035--3648
NSF Award
2037190 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$255,787
Start / end date
12/15/2020 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to improve detection of prostate cancer, a highly prevalent fatal cancer in men. Approximately one million prostate biopsies are performed annually in the U.S. Unfortunately the standard diagnostic method is imprecise and inefficient. The proposed project will advance a new method that uses Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to target biopsies for improved detection.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will advance diagnosis of prostate cancer by developing a system that combines an endorectal MRI coil and a multichannel array of transrectal biopsy needle guides and allows for endorectal MRI with in-bore biopsy as a single rapid integrated procedure. The project will advance a procedure that optimally combines endorectal MRI and MRI-targeted biopsy.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.PALENA THERAPEUTICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Novel Peptide Immunomodulators for Treatment of Autoimmune and Inflammatory Disorders
Contact
500 W BOYLSTON ST STE 7
Worcester, MA 01606--2058
NSF Award
2451399 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in developing a novel class of compounds capable of treating autoimmune and inflammatory conditions safely and effectively. With the constant threat of new COVID variants, influenza, and RSV, there is an unmet medical need for therapeutics that can effectively treat autoimmune diseases especially in pediatric patients without compromising the immune system to respond to infections. This problem has been overcome with the discovery of novel compositions that demonstrate efficacy equal or superior to many of the first line therapies used to treat immune diseases. The improved safety, efficacy and lower cost of these therapeutics should provide a significant benefit to patients by overall contributing to their quality of life as compared to current medications, as well as marketing and partnering advantage in its commercialization efforts, which will focus on rare diseases, such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis and pediatric Crohn?s disease among others. In the era of socio-economic disparities, these affordable drugs will become available to the historically neglected low-income communities. If executed successfully, this proposal would validate the platform technology and demonstrate the feasibility of identifying candidates for further development into life-changing treatments. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will demonstrate the unique design of novel compounds to augment and re-program the immune responses from pro- to anti-inflammatory, based on the binding to MHC class II molecules that leads to immunomodulation. The technical complexities of understanding the effects of peptide sequences on the outcomes of cellular interactions present challenges related to selecting the appropriate amino acids both for the random and specific components of these compositions. These hurdles will be addressed by design of several candidate compounds for each target condition, juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis and pediatric Crohn?s disease, that will take into account the structure of autoantigenic peptides known to interact with both the MHC class II and T cell receptor (TCR). These candidate compounds will be initially tested in vitro in human macrophages to assess their potential to inhibit secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Of these compounds, the most efficient ones will be tested for activity in relevant animal models. This approach will allow identifying and selecting the best drug candidates for further development into therapies for pediatric conditions as outlined above. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
PARALLEL PIPES, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Generative Physics-Informed AI for Computational Physics and Model-Based Engineering Development
Contact
31 PARKER ST
Quincy, MA 02169--5009
NSF Award
2335626 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,970
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Parvathi Chundi
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be the democratization and enhancement of physics-based simulation models in product engineering. By developing a Generative Bayesian Physics-Informed Classifier (B-PIC) network, this project aims to make advanced simulation tools more accessible, reducing the need for specialized analysts. This innovation has the potential to significantly lower development costs and time, enabling earlier and more frequent simulations in the product design process. The resulting sustainable engineering practices will lead to longer-lasting, higher-performing products, benefiting various industries and contributing to economic growth. Additionally, this technology will foster broader scientific and technological understanding by integrating recent advances in generative artificial intelligence into physical sciences, paralleling the impact seen in computer vision and natural language processing.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project proposes to address the challenges of mastering and setting up analyst-caliber physics simulations. The current process is complex, time-consuming, and requires extensive training. By incorporating strategies from Physics-Informed Gaussian Process (PIGP) and Bayesian Physics-Informed Neural Network (BPINN) architectures, the B-PIC network will integrate physics into its architecture, loss, and error functions. This approach aims to minimize the need for package-specific expertise and promote efficient, accurate simulations. The research objectives include developing the B-PIC network, optimizing the setup process for partial differential equations (PDEs), and demonstrating the system's effectiveness in reducing simulation time and cost. The anticipated technical results will showcase the network's ability to transform physics simulation from a validation tool to a crucial development driver in product engineering.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.PATHFLOW INC.
SBIR Phase I: Enhancing Pathology Efficiency with On-Chip Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Imaging Technology
Contact
224 EAST ST
Lexington, MA 02420--1934
NSF Award
2423517 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
08/01/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project are to revolutionize pathology diagnostics through the development of an advanced imaging technology. This project aims to introduce a silicon chip based system that will provide fast, accurate, cellular-level resolution imaging. By improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing diagnosis times, this technology will enhance patient care, reduce the workload in pathology labs, and lower diagnostic costs. The project supports the NSF's mission to promote scientific progress and improve national health, prosperity, and welfare by providing a technological solution with substantial commercial and societal impact. The innovation will enhance scientific and technological understanding, address a significant market opportunity, and provide a durable competitive advantage. The proposed business model targets pathology laboratories as the initial market segment, with projected substantial annual revenues by the third year of production.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on developing a silicon photonic optical coherence tomography (OCT) imager for pathology diagnostics. The primary objective is to create a high-performance, portable, and cost-effective imaging solution by integrating all optical components onto a single silicon chip. The research will address key technical challenges, such as achieving high resolution and speed while maintaining a compact size. The project involves designing, prototyping, and testing the OCT imager to ensure its effectiveness in accurately identifying diagnostic tissues. The anticipated technical results include demonstrating the imager's capability to provide real-time, 3D cellular-level visualization of tissues, thereby significantly improving the pathology grossing process. This technology is expected to set a new standard in pathology diagnostics and enable broader applications in medical imaging.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.PERCEPT BIOSCIENCES INC.
SBIR Phase I: Percept Development Plan Agent: Accelerate drug repurposing research and development
Contact
1889 BACON ST STE 11
San Diego, CA 92107--3083
NSF Award
2410320 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,947
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to allow companies to be able to efficiently lead drug repurposing initiatives by automating the formulation and writing of drug repurposing development plans. Addressing the needs of underserved disease communities presents both a societal imperative and a unique business opportunity. While repurposing allows companies to build off of existing safety and efficacy data for already approved drugs, companies frequently depend on external consultants to support such development, which can be slow, expensive, and error-prone. This project?s primary benefits would be: (1) enabling smaller, more streamlined teams to spearhead drug repurposing development, significantly reducing associated costs, and (2) catalyzing significant growth in the market for drugs targeting orphan diseases via the adoption of a more competitive cost structure. It could improve efficiency in the regulatory process by integrating knowledge across publicly available data sources, optimizing drug targets and candidates, and assembling this information into a coherent development plan with a high probability of scientific and regulatory success. Such increased efficiency may lead to a greater throughput of repurposing discovery, expansive growth of the market, and increased availability of repurposed drugs.
The proposed project addresses the problem that drug repurposing development plans mandated by the FDA require significant time and effort in searching multiple databases to mitigate biological, regulatory, and legal risks. Automating this process using software systems could accelerate drug discovery and reduce development costs but is complicated by the heterogeneity of the knowledge organization of data required to create such plans. This project proposes a tool which, given a drug target and the current list of FDA-approved drugs, will generate a repurposing development plan. The tools developed in this project are based on recent advances in automated reasoning and knowledge extraction using Natural Language Processing. The project will extend these advances in novel ways to make them radically more useful and trustworthy, and a natural fit to heterogeneous biological data. This includes ways to provide references in support of a given claim of knowledge made by the system across multiple knowledge sources and ways to create a cogent narrative from a list of claims and create a report from the narrative. The resulting tool will create referenced and cross-checked reports for drug candidates, ready for review and submission to the FDA.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.PERCEPTRA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
SBIR Phase I: High-Performance Integrated Photonic Raman Analyzers
Contact
8000 EDGEWATER DR STE 200
Oakland, CA 94621--2042
NSF Award
2433138 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to demonstrate the technical feasibility of optical sensors that make on-demand and realtime chemical analysis accessible to everyone. Currently, most reliable chemical analyses and tests require expensive, bulky equipment that are only available in centralized laboratories. The lack of access to on-demand chemical analysis has negatively impacted both society and industries; for instance, the absence of quick chemical screening contributed to loss of life from fentanyl overdoses, and lack of realtime chemical data has led to inefficiencies in manufacturing industries. This SBIR project focuses on addressing chemical analysis needs of the industrial sector, which urgently requires sensor technology to advance research and development and improve manufacturing. While the optical sensors proposed in this project have demonstrated the ability to provide reliable chemical measurements, their high cost and large size have limited their widespread accessibility. This SBIR project proposes a novel approach that leverages advanced chip manufacturing technology to reduce the cost and size of these sensors, making them broadly accessible. This will not only ensure the commercial success of this technology but also its broader impact on society and manufacturing industries.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is focused on the design, optimization, modeling, and initial validation of a high-sensitivity integrated photonic Raman spectrometer. The large size and high cost of existing Raman systems have limited their broader impact, and the goal of this SBIR project is to demonstrate the feasibility of achieving the performance of large Raman spectrometers in a compact form-factor. This project employs a novel approach called swept-source Raman spectroscopy, where a tunable laser is used instead of a dispersive spectrometer for scanning the Raman spectrum. This new architecture is more amenable to miniaturization, as photonic integration of the tunable laser does not impact light-collection and sensitivity -- unlike the miniaturization of dispersive spectrometers. Nevertheless, this architecture requires widely tunable lasers, which are challenging to implement on-chip. A wide tuning range is required to build a generalized Raman spectrometer capable of covering the entire fingerprint region of the spectrum. This SBIR project explores novel integrated photonic architectures for implementing the tunable laser, as well as wavelength tracking devices to address the challenges of on-chip lasers. This project also studies the impact of fabrication tolerances to ensure that the proposed designs are robust for mass production.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.PHAGE REFINERY LLC
STTR Phase I: A Platform for Systematic Acceleration of Phage-based Therapy Development for Multi-drug Resistant Bacterial Infections
Contact
2603 TRINITY PASS
San Antonio, TX 78261--2343
NSF Award
2409676 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$273,652
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is to help accelerate the opening of a second line of attack against bacterial infections that can be used in concert with or instead of traditional chemical-based antibiotics, particularly against multi-drug resistant infections. Since the discovery of penicillin, chemical-based antibiotics have been the almost exclusive choice to treat bacterial infections, but are becoming increasingly ineffective, even against infection types that were considered easily treatable twenty years ago. The traditional antibiotics global market represents almost $50 billion annually, and their use avoids trillions of dollars of potential healthcare costs, attendant suffering and loss of life. But this market is under growing threat that may reach 10 million global deaths and over one trillion dollars of healthcare expense by 2050. This project develops ways to accelerate the development of one of the only known effective alternatives to chemical-based antibiotics: bacteriophages. These micro-organisms are all around us, the most abundant form of life on the planet, and are highly evolved to eliminate specific bacteria. But this abundance, and our own immune systems, also make them challenging to achieve effectiveness at scale. This project tackles some of these challenges.
The proposed project has the goal of developing a rapid and efficient parametric model for predicting the likelihood that a given phage will be able to survive sufficiently long in the presence of an active immune system that they may be effective as a treatment against their target bacterial infection. The basis for this project was the recent discovery that phage thought to be broadly similar could have vastly different average lifetimes in the blood of mice. Review of the literature revealed that very little prior work had been done to attempt to characterize phages based on this in-blood lifetime, or persistence. While persistence can be measured for a given phage by using animal models, this is a time-consuming and expensive approach that is difficult to scale. This project will simultaneously gather physical parameters and in-vivo persistence measures using mice models for 400 phage. The resultant data will then be analyzed to develop a parametric, predictive, statistical model that can be applied to a broad category of phage to obtain persistence likelihood without the time, effort, and expense of using animal models.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.PINWHEEL SOLAR LLC
STTR Phase I: Perovskite Photovoltaic Cells with ALD Buffer Layers for Enhanced Durability
Contact
2433 HIGH AVE
Vestal, NY 13850--2711
NSF Award
2432832 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Mara Schindelholz
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project is to produce durable, flexible, and high-efficiency perovskite solar panels. These panels offer a power conversion efficiency of 20% and lower manufacturing costs compared to existing technologies. The global market for perovskite solar cells is expected to reach approximately $3 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 56.5%. The key metric for the success of the perovskite solar market is its stability. With a projected lifespan exceeding 25 years, a global market share of at least 1% is projected in the short term, resulting in annual revenue of $30 million by 2030, which is expected to grow significantly. Investment in the manufacturing of this type of technology is important for achieving energy security and independence for the United States. The intellectual merit of this project lies in manufacturing high-performance mixed halide-based perovskite solar cells with long-term stability. To address the limitations of previous perovskite-based technologies, the focus is on improving stability by tackling both extrinsic factors (such as moisture and heat) and intrinsic factors (like halide ion movement within the perovskite material) that contribute to cell degradation. The more severe internal degradation is prevented through two-dimensional perovskites and ultra-thin atomic layer deposition (ALD) coated buffer layers, significantly mitigating ion migration. Additionally, the buffer layers serve as suitable moisture barriers, enhancing protection against extrinsic degradation factors. This technology is unique because it addresses instability challenges from the inside out, leveraging novel buffer layers and encapsulation methods to provide the superior durability needed for mainstream commercialization. Compared to conventional solar cells, perovskites can be manufactured using simple, solution-based, and low-temperature processing techniques (approximately 100-150°C versus around 1400°C for silicon), which reduces costs. Project objectives include: 1) Enhancing stability of the perovskite material to support a 30-year solar cell lifetime, 2) Constructing perovskite-based cells on flexible substrates, enabling application across a broad range of markets, and 3) Demonstrating roll-to-roll manufacturability, validating ease of scaleup and implementation. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
PITCH AERONAUTICS INC.
STTR Phase I: Drone Localization Near and Manipulation Control in Contact with Power Lines
Contact
6323 S FEDERAL WAY UNIT 17
Boise, ID 83716--9134
NSF Award
2414567 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,853
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Elizabeth Mirowski
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I project is to alleviate the 2TW backlog of renewable energy projects desiring to connect to the power grid by installing and replacing dynamic-line rating (DLR) sensors on power lines with a novel cyclorotor drone. Currently, such (un)installation tasks are being performed manually with the help of helicopters, cranes, scaffolding, and/or rope access. Such manipulations are dangerous since, for example, a helicopter would be at low altitude where it would be impossible to recover from an engine failure and would have substantial risk of colliding with the line. On the other hand, conventional multicopter drones cannot perform heavy sensor installations. Specifically, they move by first pitching or rolling (underactuated motion), which hampers their ability to counter wind disturbances. This project will develop (i) techniques for localizing the drone with respect to power lines and (ii) control strategies that enable installation, removal, and maintenance of DLR sensors.
The work proposed in this project is to use innovative algorithms to navigate a cyclorotor-based drone to a power line based on the measurements of the electric and magnetic fields around power lines. This state-estimation technique around power lines is robust, using only the root-mean square (rms) electric/magnetic field that is present around the power lines naturally due to the flow of power through them. In parallel, a control system will be developed to bring the drone stably into contact with a power line to install and uninstall dynamic-line rating (DLR) sensors, bird-diverters, and other line products. This control system will be designed to seamlessly handle any abrupt transitions from free-flight to contact with a power line. Upon successful completion, the project will provide an efficient method of installing and replacing power line sensors, bird diverters, and other line components. The IoT line sensors can help alleviate transmission congestion, allow increased penetration of renewable energy, and decrease wildfire risk.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.PLATFORM TECHNOLOGY VENTURES LLC
SBIR Phase I: Exploration and Development of Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) for Diverse Industries
Contact
21 PINE PLAIN RD
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481--1143
NSF Award
2337771 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Anna Brady-Estevez
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to advance Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) as a novel form of digital collaboration and governance systems that can be utilized to advance new commercial value propositions. DAOs, which leverage distributed ledger technologies, allow for democratic decision-making and coordination without a centralized authority, something that enables new business collaborations amongst trusted and untrusted entities alike. This innovative structure can potentially enhance various sectors of society, paving the way for novel commercial applications. DAOs offer a dynamic and adaptable approach that can benefit various sectors, including finance, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and more. This project aims to investigate the application of DAOs initially in the high-value field of voluntary carbon credits, which is anticipated to reach up to $40B in 2030, to enable enhanced environmental sustainability and accountability. It will rely on commercial transactions across a wide range of diverse participants of varying levels of trust who need to be able to verify the credits and their chain of custody and sustainability, integrated from a wide range of external data sources. Moreover, the DAO platform, a core product of this initiative, will be a versatile commercial "sandbox" adaptable to developing commercial products for various markets that demand decentralized participation. This will include input and transactability across varying DAO participants, including commercial partners, expert networks, customers, regulators, and broader stakeholders, such as water rights allocation, healthcare, carbon credit marketplaces, and more. By leveraging the power of DAOs, it may be possible to enhance operational efficiency, drive the growth of new technologies, and create more democratic and inclusive systems.
This SBIR Phase I project aims to pioneer the development of a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) as a platform for value creation in various sectors, starting with carbon credits. The research will investigate the innovative integration of off-chain data consensus protocols within DAOs, a largely unexplored and complex area. The proposed R&D involves deploying smart contracts for trustless verification of off-chain data via on-chain incentives, a process that demands a sophisticated blend of cryptographic techniques, game-theoretic mechanisms, and decentralized network design. This design has to be robust against malicious actors, ensuring fairness, incentive compatibility, and resilience to Sybil attacks. Crafting a decentralized smart contract for off-chain consensus requires balancing fairness, compensation, sufficient voting thresholds, and ground truth comparisons. This equilibrium mitigates malicious influences and encourages truth in adversarial environments. Despite these significant technical challenges, this work represents an innovative stride toward understanding the future potential of DAO technology across diverse sectors. In addition to exploring the benefits and successes of DAOs, it will also enable the identification of key risks and potential failure modes across various use cases to allow exploration and development of improved future alternatives and DAO designs.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.PRJCT B CO.
SBIR Phase I: End-to-End Platform to Generate Custom-Fitted Garments Via Body Scanning, Shape Analysis and Fit Algorithms, and On-Demand 3D Knitting
Contact
2 W LOOP RD
New York, NY 10044--1501
NSF Award
2451586 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
05/01/2025 – 04/30/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to accelerate a novel AI-driven mass-customization technology for producing custom-fit garments. This project utilizes a proprietary AI-driven technology to translate phone-based body scans into 3D knitting instructions that can be individually produced. This technology is scalable and can be integrated into standard 3D knitting workflows, make use of knitting as a low-waste, additive manufacturing technique. Many markets and garments require customization including prosthetic interface garments, undergarments for breast cancer survivors or mastectomy patients, and post-surgical or custom compression-fitted pieces that form to the unique contours of a patient?s body. By offering an individualized custom-fit with full workflow from body-scan to 3D knit, this technology is well-positioned to bring manufacturing local and reduce waste and high rate of returns common in today?s garment and fashion e-commerce industries. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop a novel AI-driven technology to automate the generation of custom-fitted garments for superior fit. Phase I will streamline the translation of body scan data into 3D knitting instructions for an optimal fit while ensuring compatibility with industry-standard knitting machines for rapid prototype and acceleration to market. Objective 1 will focus on automating the process of translating body scans into ready-to-print instructions for the knitting machine. Objective 2 focuses on developing a user-friendly interface for seamless body scanning, including optimizing the capture and processing capabilities of the platform, precision tracking of 3D reconstruction, and improving instructions for the customer. The platform?s usability will be assessed through testing with a broad sample population, including those with garment fit challenges. In Objective 3, validation of the superior fit of custom-made garments will be assessed. Users will provide feedback on the scanning process and the fit of their custom-fabricated garments versus an off-the-shelf brand, and iterative refinements to the fit algorithm will be made based on both their feedback and insights from an expert fit consultant. Together, this work will de-risk the technological aspects critical to mass customization and the user experience priming the company for commercialization at scale. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
PROTEIN DESIGN SOLUTIONS LLC
SBIR Phase I: A computational framework to mitigate protein aggregation
Contact
2440 PEACHTREE RD
Allentown, PA 18104--8903
NSF Award
2418194 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,640
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
Phase I project addresses the significant and persistent challenge of protein aggregation in the
development of protein therapeutics, which can impede therapeutic efficacy and increase
manufacturing costs. Protein-based therapies hold immense promise for treating a wide range
of diseases due to their specificity and potency. However, their development is frequently
hampered by aberrant aggregation, which can lead to loss of function and immunogenic
responses. This project proposes a novel computational platform that predicts aggregation-prone
sites and, critically, suggest specific mutational mitigation strategies to stabilize proteins
without altering their therapeutic function. The successful development of this technology has
the potential to significantly reduce the time and possible cost associated with drug development,
enhancing the availability of effective treatments and supporting the health and welfare of the
population.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will focus on advancing a
computational platform that leverages state-of-the-art simulations and a modern
understanding of the physics of protein hydration to identify and mitigate problematic
aggregation sites in therapeutic proteins. The project aims to validate and enhance the
platform's predictive capabilities through a comprehensive analysis involving a diverse dataset
of proteins. In particular, this project will focus on developing the abilities of the technology to
identify transient protein interfaces likely to mediate aggregation and to suggest rigorous
mutational strategies to mitigate aggregation without disrupting biological function and
therapeutic efficacy. The expected outcomes include a scientifically validated tool that can
reliably predict and correct aggregation issues early in the drug development process. By
improving the stability and efficacy of biologic therapeutics, this technology has the potential to
have a significant commercial impact on the fast-growing biopharmaceutical market.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.QUANTUM COPPER, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Polymer Based Current Collectors for Enhancing the Fire-Safety of Electric Vehicle Batteries
Contact
8400 W SUNSET RD
Las Vegas, NV 89113--2283
NSF Award
2414894 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,610
Start / end date
12/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is safer and greener batteries. Batteries have become one of the most essential tools in our daily life. Batteries are found in toys, cell phones, watches, machinery tools, portable gadgets and lights, e-bikes, electric energy storages, cars and not too far in the future airplanes. However, one of the biggest problems with batteries is fire and how to prevent it. Advances in research are progressing to find alternative materials for use in batteries to minimize and lower the possibility of fire to zero. This project is to develop and confirm a new material, which can be used outside and inside the battery to prevent fire and lower the possibility of fire. It can prevent a fire from starting or stop the fire from spreading. The material can be used outside, as a casing for the battery, and inside to replace some of the components inside the battery. A secondary characteristic of the material for this project is, it is also not hazardous but friendly to the environment. This is in line with providing a greener environment. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a new material needed to increase the safety of lithium-ion batteries including replacing some components with fire extinguishing polymer and polymer composites. Due to their power density and reactive components, damaged and abused batteries can ignite and burn. These fires are difficult to extinguish. The proposed work will replace one of the battery components to decrease the weight of the battery and increase the fire safety of the battery. By replacing the metallic current collector with a metalized, thermally responsive, self-extinguishing, polymer based charge collector, a lighter weight battery will now have a fire retardant material inside the battery. With this thermally responsive material, the conductivity of the collector decreases as the battery temperature approaches the thermal runaway temperature, therefore decreasing discharge and heat generation. If this mechanism does not stop the thermal runaway, any fire will be suppressed by the collector?s flame retardant polymer core. The net result of this proposed work will be lighter and safer batteries. With these new safer and lighter batteries, the electric vehicle market can grow with the knowledge that there will be fewer fire and enhanced range. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
QUANTUM METROLOGY
SBIR Phase I: Quantum Metrology for Subsurface Defect Detection in Semiconductor Manufacturing
Contact
15885 NW RAYWOOD LN
Portland, OR 97229--7430
NSF Award
2507903 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
06/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lie in the development of a novel, non-destructive, in-line inspection technology to improve the quality and efficiency of semiconductor manufacturing. As semiconductor devices become smaller and more complex, defects hidden beneath surfaces can reduce production yields and product reliability. This project aims to address this challenge by using quantum-based sensing to detect these hidden defects during manufacturing. The technology is expected to reduce manufacturing waste, lower production costs, and enhance the competitiveness of the U.S. semiconductor industry. Commercialization of this innovation is anticipated to support semiconductor manufacturers and suppliers, with projected annual revenues exceeding $10 million by the third year of production. The project will also support workforce development by creating high-tech jobs and training opportunities. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on developing an advanced inspection tool that uses quantum effects to identify defects in semiconductor chips without damaging them. Current inspection methods struggle to detect certain types of defects in complex chip designs. This project will develop a non-destructive, in-line metrology system that leverages quantum sensing techniques to identify these hidden defects quickly and accurately during production. The research will focus on building and testing this new inspection tool, with the goal of improving quality control and production efficiency in semiconductor manufacturing. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
QUARKSEN LLC
SBIR Phase I: eQuanta's Next-Gen STI Diagnostic Device: Unveiling the Power of Graphene-Based
Contact
241 FRANCIS AVE
Mansfield, MA 02048--1548
NSF Award
2409808 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to provide rapid, effective, affordable, non-invasive, and easy-to-use diagnosis of viral and non-viral sexually transmitted infections (STI), such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, hepatitis C, and trichomoniasis. STI are estimated to be present in one out of five people in the U.S. and the estimated direct medical cost associated to their treatment is approximately $16B. While early diagnosis will ultimately contribute to better public health outcomes and economy, the principal barrier in seeking a diagnosis is the lack of available health services, cost, long clinic waiting times, invasive sample collection methods and the negative social stigma associated with looking for STI testing. This project will develop an affordable and point-of-care diagnostic device for STI, that will not only reduce diagnostic time but also lower healthcare costs.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project advances an innovative STI diagnostic device. This project leverages self-assembled chemistry to form tailored cavities, which are sensitive and selective to the biomarkers of interest. The project aims to validate preliminary studies indicating the device's capability to detect viruses, opioids, and biomarkers for STI diseases, enabling early disease diagnosis and quantification of viral or bacterial loads in exhaled breath or urine. Phase I of this project will be focused on the fabrication of a device composed of an array of sensors to detect biomarkers of viral and non-viral STIs with high selectivity and sensitivity from day one of contagion. Detection of hepatitis C, HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis biomarkers from cervical mucus discharge/swabs will be evaluated. Additionally, user testing on a clinical research environment will be undertaken at Ragon Institute.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.RAINBOW HOSPITALITY LLC
SBIR Phase I: Turmeric Assisted Pressure Sterilization
Contact
1127 MCINTYRE ST
Ann Arbor, MI 48105--2404
NSF Award
2507388 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$302,965
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project would be two-fold: potential reduction of packaged Ready-to-Eat (RTE) food waste, and broader availability of packaged food in its original taste, flavor, and nutrients. The amount of food wasted in the U.S. annually is equivalent to 130 billion meals, with an approximate value of nearly $218 billion. A significant percentage of this food waste happens in the fresh/produce section of the supermarkets due to the shorter shelf-life of various food items from 10 to 30 days. These foods are typically processed via retort cooking at 250-degree F, or freezing, or making food acidic (below Ph 4.6). These technologies are energy consuming, expensive, and lead to loss of most of the nutrients. The proposed Turmeric Assisted Pressure Sterilization (TAPS) is aiming to be the first technology that can extend this shelf-life to over 180 days without compromising on original taste, flavor and nutrient of food items with the goal of bringing RTE food items from the colder sections of the supermarket (below 40-degree F) to the shelf-stable section (about 70-degree F). By doing so, the company aspires to reduce RTE food waste by 20% in the next 10 years. This SBIR Phase I project aims to lay the groundwork for establishing TAPS as a breakthrough pressure sterilization technology. Traditional pressure sterilization is carried out at pressures around 6000 bars and 40-degree F. This project intends to show that in the presence of natural antioxidants such as turmeric, the same level of sterilization can be achieved at pressures close to 3000 bar and 70-degree F. The project, therefore, will focus on preparing and testing a variety of RTE foods under the TAPS conditions and assessing their efficacy by third-party for shelf life, nutrient preservation, and risks to food safety and quality when challenged with common microorganisms. Besides turmeric, the experiments will also involve the use of other natural antioxidants, including a commercially available curcuminoid extract that has enhanced bioavailability and stability compared to standard curcumin and is colorless, odorless and tasteless, further expanding the potential applicability of TAPS to a much wider range of cuisines. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
REBORNC LLC
SBIR Phase I: Polyolefin-derived carbon Joule heater for enabling decarbonized synthesis
Contact
66 BRIDGEFIELD TURN
Hattiesburg, MS 39402--8395
NSF Award
2423301 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to improve public health and local economies by developing technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption associated with industrial heating processes. Currently, industrial heating processes are a major contributor to global emissions. The technology developed through this project will enhance the efficiency of established processes in the chemical industry and beyond, significantly reducing energy consumption for heat production compared to conventional technologies. The underlying technology of this project provides a significant competitive advantage over current competitors in Joule heater production by reducing production costs, improving manufacturing efficiency, increasing heating performance, and offering greater product customizability. This will enable widespread adoption across multiple markets. Targeting the rapidly growing alternative fuels market, the technology developed through this project is projected to generate substantial revenue over the next three years, serving as a critical pathway for the associated company success. Overall, this SBIR project will enable robust technologies of high-performance Joule heat production, leading industrial decarbonization efforts through and ensuring the success of a burgeoning small business.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will enable the development and scaled production of novel additively manufactured, plastic-derived carbon materials as Joule heaters for decarbonizing critical industrial processes, such as large-scale chemical syntheses. Producing heat for these reactions is one of the largest contributors to CO2 emissions in the industrial sector. Electrifying these processes with high-performance Joule heaters significantly reduces energy consumption and CO2 emissions, and allows for the use of renewable energy sources. Traditional Joule heaters, typically made from metal alloys, are difficult to manufacture into complex geometries optimal for chemical reactions and offer limited energy savings. This project will investigate the effects of various parameters during the chemical treatment and pyrolysis processes that convert additively manufactured plastic precursors into structured carbon products. This research aims to provide critical insights into controlling pore textures, material properties, and reproducibility of the carbon products, ultimately translating this technology into market-ready products. By optimizing these processes, the project seeks to develop high-performance carbon Joule heaters that offer superior heating efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and increased durability, thus supporting the transition to more sustainable industrial practices and contributing to environmental sustainability and economic growth.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.REHABNETICS MEDICAL LLC
SBIR Phase I: A robotic system for the physical therapy of the wrist and hand.
Contact
2330 STINSON BLVD
Minneapolis, MN 55418--4041
NSF Award
2331128 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a novel robotic technology training aid enabling restoration of impaired wrist and hand function. Diseases of the nervous system including stroke, traumatic brain injury, and Parkinson's disease often result in sensory and motor deficits. Nearly 50% of patients that suffer from stroke, and 70-90% from Parkinson?s disease, suffer motor deficits associated with dysfunction in body awareness (proprioception), impairing daily living activity. The technology proposed aims to enable prolonged and greater intensity restorative training to improve function and enable more rapid recovery for 1.6-1.8 million US patients each year that suffer from upper limb motor deficits.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to complete a prototype for a robotic wrist-hand exoskeleton device that provides tailored physical rehabilitative exercises based on quantified measures of therapeutic progress. The technical milestones to be completed include 1) developing objective diagnostic markers on human motor function of the wrist and hand, 2) developing an adaptive robot-aided rehabilitation therapy program based on individual patient?s rehabilitation plans and goals and 3) developing a therapist-friendly user interface for clinical use. Upon completion, a minimum viable prototype will be completed enabling patient use in the rehabilitation setting. The system will enable conducting large sample clinical trials to evaluate clinical efficacy at a future stage
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.RELAI, INC.
SBIR Phase I: RELAI: Enhancing Reliability of Large Language Models
Contact
7600 NEWMARKET DR
Bethesda, MD 20817--6624
NSF Award
2432702 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Parvathi Chundi
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project are significant and multifaceted. By improving the reliability of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) models such as Large Language Models (LLMs), this project will contribute to safer and more effective AI implementations across various industries, thereby enhancing economic competitiveness and fostering public trust in AI technologies. This project not only contributes to the foundational understanding of LLM reliability but also provides practical solutions that can be widely adopted in the industry. Additionally, the enhancements in AI reliability will have far-reaching impacts on sectors like healthcare, finance, and customer service, where accurate and unbiased decision-making is crucial. For instance, in healthcare, reliable LLMs can lead to better diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. In finance, these models can enhance risk assessment and fraud detection, providing more secure and efficient financial services. The project?s integration with academic and industry partners ensures that the developed technologies are not only cutting-edge but also grounded in real-world applicability. Furthermore, the project includes a strong educational component aimed at training the next generation of AI practitioners in ethical AI practices.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project introduces innovative methodologies to enhance the reliability of large language models (LLMs). In particular, the project presents methodologies to inspect and mitigate jailbreaking issues of LLMs, where adversarial prompts can circumvent their alignment, methodologies to inspect and mitigate LLM hallucinations, where models can generate non-factual responses, and methodologies to inspect and mitigate LLM biases. In particular, the development of methodologies to inspect and mitigate jailbreaking in LLMs represents a significant advancement in adversarial machine learning. This work not only identifies the vulnerabilities in current LLMs but also proposes robust countermeasures to fortify these models against sophisticated attacks. Moreover, the methodologies to inspect and mitigate hallucinations in LLMs involves sophisticated analysis of model outputs to identify when and why hallucinations occur, providing deeper insights into the internal workings of LLMs. Finally, addressing biases in LLMs is a critical component of ensuring ethical and fair artificial intelligence (AI). By integrating these advanced tools into a comprehensive, user-friendly, and unified platform, this project establishes a new benchmark for the development and deployment of reliable AI applications.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.RESONANTIA DIAGNOSTICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Acoustic Sensor Based Point of Care Diagnostic Platform for Rapid Identification and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing
Contact
701 W MAIN ST STE 200
Durham, NC 27701--5012
NSF Award
2451554 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lies in addressing the growing global burden of antibiotic-resistant urinary tract infections (UTIs), which affect an estimated 150 million people annually. Current diagnostic methods are slow, requiring days to deliver results, which delays effective treatment and contributes to antibiotic misuse. This project seeks to develop a transformative diagnostic platform capable of identifying pathogens and determining their antimicrobial susceptibility within 60 minutes directly from unprocessed patient samples. By enabling rapid, evidence-based treatment decisions at the point of care, this technology has the potential to improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and combat the rise of antibiotic resistance. Beyond healthcare, the platform?s adoption could enhance public health preparedness by providing scalable diagnostic solutions in various clinical settings. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on advancing a next-generation diagnostic platform that integrates novel acoustic sensing technology. The project will achieve three technical objectives: (1) demonstrate accurate antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) at pathogen loads as low as 10^3 colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL), (2) validate AST against one antibiotic from six major classes, and (3) expand testing to include a diverse range of pathogens (Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungal species). Meeting these objectives will establish the technical feasibility of a point-of-care diagnostic capable of rapid and reliable pathogen identification and AST. This innovation aims to address a critical unmet need in diagnostics, providing actionable results within 60 minutes at the point-of-care. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
RETRN BIOWORKS INC.
STTR Phase I: High-performance biopolymer platform for sustainable, safe packaging
Contact
1029 LANCASTER AVE
Syracuse, NY 13210--3029
NSF Award
2414139 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impacts of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project are rooted in the reduction of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and plastics such as polyethylene (PE) as barrier coatings for paper-based packaging. The industry is seeking to phase such plastics out as they are non-renewable, non-degradable, carry health risks via ingestion of microplastics, and are energy-intensive to produce and poorly recyclable, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. With PFAS linked to reproductive and developmental abnormalities, immunotoxicity, carcinogenicity, thyroid damage, and many other health risks, upcoming legislative bans on its use in the food packaging industry have left suppliers without adequate replacements. Biodegradable bioplastics are among the most sought-after technologies to replace conventional plastics but are hampered by their use of food crops as the primary raw material, which adversely affects product sustainability and limits commercial feasibility. The proposed biodegradable bioplastic technology 1) uses abundant agro-industrial wastes as the raw material to drive down costs while supporting sustainability and 2) has significant technical performance advantages (i.e., mechanical properties, tunability, scalability) over current bioplastics. This innovation is poised to advance the market for commercially viable, biodegradable bioplastics, enabling the replacement of both PE-based plastic coatings and PFAS-based coatings.
The proposed project seeks to develop and validate a platform to deliver biodegradable coating solutions for the packaging industry. Customer discovery has revealed an unmet need for sustainable coatings with the properties needed for mechanical processability at scale (melting temperature, flexibility) and barrier performance of the coated fiber-based product (water vapor, liquid holdout, melting temperature, flexibility). While industry experts point to advanced polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) bioplastics as a potential technical solution, the scalable production of PHAs with medium-chain length (MCL) comonomers that improve processability and range of applications has remained out of reach. A fermentative process has been developed to overcome this hurdle in which sugars obtained from hydrolysis of lignocellulosic waste are fermented using inhibitor-resistant recombinant microorganisms with modifications that direct feed components toward P4HB (poly-4-hydroxybutyrate)-based MCL copolymer synthesis. This novel technology enables the production of high-performance, fully biodegradable, and tunable P4HB-co-MCL copolymers fit for a range of applications. Phase I objectives are: 1) Create a process for producing P4HB-co-MCL copolymers from non-structurally related feedstocks and 2) Demonstrate industry-relevant mechanical and barrier properties of developed copolymers. This will establish commercial viability of the platform to transform waste feedstocks into P4HBs with desirable and tunable mechanical properties amenable for commercial adoption.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.RETURN TO VENDOR, CO
SBIR Phase I: Innovative recyclable nylon textile yarns
Contact
423 W 43RD ST
New York, NY 10036--5321
NSF Award
2423551 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
08/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project includes reducing textile waste entering the landfills, which is nearly 28 billions pounds a year in the US alone. The project focuses on new and disruptive ways of manufacturing novel nylon fibers for the textile industry in such a way that less pollutive monomaterial clothing can be realized. The modified nylon fibers will significantly improve the material properties of the fibers, particularly their elasticity and recovery enabling it to replace pollutive elastic polyurethane based fibers such as elastane (lycra). The improvement in these properties makes the use of the modified nylon fibers 100% recyclable while maintaining their comfort and stretch. The main beneficiaries of the technology are consumer apparel companies that will incorporate the improved fibers into their textile products. Reuse of the raw material rather than disposing them at landfill means 100% of these materials are regenerated into fresh new products with zero environmental impact with a nylon that has nearly 5x lower carbon footprint. The company has developed the chemistry concept behind the project to enable creation of nylon yarns and accessories used in apparel creation that mimic the performance of blended fibers (such as nylon/elastane) to enable creation of monomaterial clothing. The estimated total addressable market size for the modified nylon is $7B. The company intends to commercialize its products initially for consumer textile manufacturers, including athleisure apparel and fashion brands.
This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project aims to create a nylon fiber with built-in stretch/recovery. This will enable replacement of pollutive spandex (elastane) fibers from performance apparel. The modification of nylon with proprietary additives with a potential 20% increase in stretch and recovery respect to the unmodified Nylon fibers will enable removal of spandex (elastane) from blended yarns. This monomaterial approach will negate the need for disassembly of blended fibers during recycling with a target of 100% recyclability. With the current chemistry modifications, the company has already achieved an enhanced nylon fiber that has >20% stretch and ~100% recovery compared to unmodified Nylon. This project aims to understand the stretch/recovery performance of fibers and whole fabrics that use the modified Nylon monofiber. Multiple material characterization techniques will be used during the project to characterize the materials, including X-ray diffraction and scanning calorimetry to assess crystallinity; thermogravimetric analysis for degradation and other techniques to measure tensile properties. The company will develop a set of fibers and yarns with varying degrees of modification of the nylon.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.REVIVBIO, INC
SBIR Phase I: Enzymatic bioremediation of poly and perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs), a class of toxic and bioaccumulating per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
Contact
750 MAIN ST
Cambridge, MA 02139--3544
NSF Award
2423538 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lies in the development of a cost-effective and environmentally benign PFAS bioremediation strategy. This strategy aims to harness microbial enzymes that are capable of breaking strong chemical bonds in these molecules under mild conditions, offering a systematic approach to detoxify per- and polyfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs). These PFCAs belong to a class of toxic and bioaccumulating per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). While exposure to these toxic molecules is associated with cancer, thyroid disease, childhood obesity and other medical conditions resulting in an estimated economic burden of $5.5-63 billion in the US, current energy intensive PFAS remediation technologies are costly, environmentally unsustainable, significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, the proposed bioremediation technology may provide a scalable and systematic solution to degrade PFAS of varying lengths, effectively remediating environmental contamination. Additionally, adopting this technology allows the US advanced manufacturing sector to continue essential PFAS use for strategically important advanced materials while preventing new PFAS from entering the environment.
The proposed project aims to harness cutting-edge protein engineering techniques to design fluoroacetate dehalogenase enzymes (FADs) capable of fully degrading PFCA (perfluorocarboxylic acids). While existing FADs can break carbon-fluoride bonds in simple fluorinated compounds, no natural FAD has been identified for PFAS degradation. To achieve this, an ultra-efficient protein engineering platform will be leveraged. Initially, generative AI and quantum mechanics/molecular dynamics (QMD) guide the creation of extensive FAD gene libraries, exploring sequence space to identify variants with enhanced catalytic activity, stability, and broad substrate specificity for C2-C8 PFCA. These large gene libraries are screened on a proprietary droplet microfluidic platform. Subsequently, AI models will be trained based on screening data to design new starting libraries for identifying improved variants with enhanced C2-C8 PFCA activity under industrial conditions. After iterative cycles of design and screening, it is anticipated that highly active enzyme variantswill be identified, which will be characterized to ensure benign reaction products. The enzymes will be assessed for stability in diverse industrial wastewater conditions, expected temperature ranges, and expression levels in a production host. Successful demonstration of complete enzymatic PFCA degradation through this NSF-SBIR phase I project, would be compelling for industry partners to enter into pilot studies that is required for adoption of this technology.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ROWLAND ROBERT REEVES
SBIR Phase I: The Pulsar Rocket Engine; A Valve-Pulsed Detonation Rocket Engine
Contact
1934 DELGADO WAY
Sacramento, CA 95833--1415
NSF Award
2404698 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Anna Brady-Estevez
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project will be substantial. This new advanced rocket engine with its increased thrust, efficiency, and simple design will significantly increase spaceship launch to orbit capabilities and reduce kilogram to orbit costs. Spaceship launch sizes in terms of cargo weight and volume will be significantly increased compared to the current most advanced rocket engines. The commercial impacts will be significant. For the first time space tourism on a large scale will be made possible. The general public can realistically expect to participate in the great space adventure that only a relatively few astronauts and other adventurers have experienced to date. Dreamers, entrepreneurs, scientists, and the space industry in general using this rocket engine will be able to plan and actually build orbiting artificial gravity structures providing multiple uses. For example, the enabled space infrastructure can be utilized as orbiting factories, habitats, science platforms, bases for asteroid mining, and tourism opportunities to name a few. The power and efficiency of this innovative rocket engine will enable launch to orbit efficiencies that will stimulate rapidly expanding space based commercial activity for decades to come.
This SBIR Phase I project proposes to demonstrate the advantages of using pulsed reactant detonations as a means to increase engine thrust via the detonation of the fuel and to use those same reactant detonations to temporarily vacate a combustion chamber between detonations. In a vacated/partial vacuum condition backflow pressure to the turbo pumps from the combustion chambers is greatly reduced enabling significant increases in mass flow rates. For all current rocket engines backflow pressure is a significant impedance to the turbo pump?s ability to inject reactants into the chamber. Thus, the insight gained here is that the thrust from reactant detonation is not the primary benefit of pulsed detonation engines. The primary benefit of detonation of reactants is in the momentary partial vacuum that occurs within the combustion chamber that is created between each detonation cycle. Because of the momentary partial vacuum and resulting lack of back pressure within the combustion chamber far greater volumes of reactants per second can be injected into the chamber by the turbo pumps. Mass flow rates are greatly increased resulting in increased thrust and engine efficiency. The engine generates added thrust by detonating the reactants and by greatly increasing the mass flow rate.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.RT MICRODX INC.
SBIR Phase I: Development of a Molecular Diagnostic Platform for Use at Home without an Expensive Table-top Device
Contact
71 MASON TER
Brookline, MA 02446--2602
NSF Award
2423045 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,362
Start / end date
01/15/2025 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a novel molecular diagnostic platform for detecting respiratory diseases including strep throat. The innovation aims to provide the equivalent accuracy of laboratory-based tests for use by non-health care professionals in non-clinical settings. By enabling rapid and reliable pathogen detection at home, the platform aims to reduce the burden on healthcare facilities, offer convenience to patients, and improve timely access to treatment including rural or underserved areas where traditional healthcare access is limited. The anticipated technical outcomes include a disposable, user-friendly test that provides highly specific and sensitive results comparable to laboratory tests, thereby positioning this platform as a novel solution for in home-based molecular diagnostics for the total at-home molecular testing market, estimated to be worth $10B. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on developing a molecular diagnostic platform that leverages a novel combination of isothermal amplification and pH-sensitive polymers to detect specific bacterial DNA in saliva samples. The company?s molecular-based DNA test uses Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification successfully utilized for other diagnostic applications, with the company?s proprietary pH-sensitive polymer formulation to operate effectively under a variety of conditions. The specific technology development objectives include optimizing the diagnostic sensitivity of the platform's polymer-based detection mechanism and ensuring robust performance at room temperature and elevated temperatures necessary for the molecular reactions. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
RUSHNU INC
SBIR Phase I: System for High Efficiency Continuous Single-step Carbon Capture and Mineralization
Contact
5495 BLACK AVE, UNIT 2
Pleasanton, CA 94566--5971
NSF Award
2423576 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Rajesh Mehta
Samir Iqbal
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be enabling the cost-effective capture of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the emission point source and its transformation into value-added products, thereby helping the industrial sector achieve net-zero CO2 emissions. The net-zero emissions target is aimed at combating pollution and mitigating the effects of climate change. The industrial sector currently has few financial incentives to sequester CO2. The technology will address this gap by reducing the energy and associated costs required for capture and conversion of CO2 generating revenue through the production of sustainable by-products. The ability to produce valuable co-products will be particularly beneficial to industries reliant on raw materials, such as the chemical sector, glass manufacturing, and wastewater treatment plants. The technology will be offered to these industries, as well as to businesses seeking economically viable decarbonization solutions, through a business-to-business model. The model is projected to generate significant annual revenue through the sale of green chemicals to end-users and distributors upon commercialization.
This SBIR Phase I project will adapt a single-step carbon capture and mineralization process, integrated with a thermocatalytic system for solvent recovery, into a commercially viable design featuring continuous operation (as opposed to batch). The thermochemical process has already yielded promising results regarding capture, mineralization and solvent recovery. However, it has not demonstrated high capture rates at scale or been applied in different use cases. In this project, the process will be improved by increasing the single pass capture and mineralization rate and by optimizing the post-mineralization units for efficient recovery of the solvent to be reused in the capture and mineralization step. This will first involve evaluating operating conditions and reactor design to determine the optimal temperature, reactor configuration, gas flow rate, and solvent flow rate for maximizing CO2 capture and mineralization. For solvent recovery, different aspects of the system will be tested to enhance the efficiency, including temperature, catalyst size, gas flow rate, and reactor height. Finally, different mixing methods and catalysts will be evaluated to maximize catalyst regeneration and extend its durability and lifespan.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SABER THERAPEUTICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Cell-Mediated Delivery of Targeted Protein Degraders
Contact
4706 SW BEDINGFIELD ST
Bentonville, AR 72713--3033
NSF Award
2404721 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,991
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will serve as the proof-of-concept for a new approach to deliver cancer-cell killing proteins specifically to Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) cells while sparing healthy cells. The data that emerges from this grant will serve as the foundational demonstration that this new technology has the potential as a cancer therapy. Results are anticipated to be sufficient to attract subsequent public/private funding to continue drug development. A better way to treat AML would benefit patients, enabling them to live longer healthier lives, reduce the strain on limited healthcare resources, and advance the health and welfare of the American Public. Development will be executed as a biotechnology start-up, an approach many believe is the fastest and most capital efficient path to the market. This endeavor will generate a considerable economic impact in the US and enhance the scientific competitiveness of the county as it will create dozens of well-paying Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) jobs. Many such roles will require partnership with top graduate programs to recruit candidates and a special emphasis will be placed on hiring traditionally underrepresented groups by working with empowerment organizations.
The proposed project combines the best of, and complements the limitations of chimeric antigen T-cells (CAR-Ts), the late-line standard of care in certain blood cancers; and targeted protein degraders (TPDs), a potentially revolutionary therapeutic modality. If successful, this work could lay the foundation for a new generation of anti-cancer medicines. While CAR-Ts can provide a durable remission in select tumors, they face multiple efficacy-limiting technical hurdles. This proposal circumvents such shortcoming by instead using Natural Killer (NK) cells engineered with TPDs against cancer-driver proteins. NK cells are anticipated to be less vulnerable to a tumor?s antigen escape as they don?t rely on a single targeting antigen, and should contain more oncolytic potential due to the addition of TPDs. Tumor targeted delivery of the TPDs could also address the observed toxicity of naked TPDs brought on by non-specific uptake of both target and bystander cells. The goal of this project is to develop NK cells equipped with TPDs against three common AML drivers using well-described methods from the literature. The resulting cells will be tested against numerous AML lines for cell killing via flow cytometry. In parallel, several aspects of the platform?s limitations and potential will be assessed.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SAKURA SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS, LLC
STTR Phase I: A digital engineering tool for integrated software and hardware reliability
Contact
828 HEATHERTON DR
Naperville, IL 60563--2221
NSF Award
2348264 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,880
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Parvathi Chundi
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project aims to streamline system reliability analysis, catering to industries such as healthcare, telecommunications, and transportation, where system failures can be life-threatening. With a projected $20.8 billion software quality assurance market by 2030, the project's impact can be substantial. The proposed solution employs automation and advanced data analytics to revolutionize system reliability. It introduces data-driven reliability analysis, offering automated, collaborative, cloud-based, and visually intuitive tools to enhance system dependability. Positioned at the convergence of Software-as-a-Service, software quality assurance, and data analytics markets, the solution holds significant commercial potential. Given the critical role of system reliability across industries, the successful implementation of this project will be a key enabler for Industry 4.0.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project focuses on the domain of system quality assurance. In this domain, the state-of-the-art approach focuses on either hardware reliability or software reliability before deployment. However, in practice, the most critical part of the system lifecycle is during software operation, and failure depends on both software and hardware. Therefore, the project introduces a pioneering system-level reliability model to merge software and hardware reliability. It also aims to create advanced analytics algorithms for estimating failure intensity and pinpointing critical system flaws. Additionally, the project plans to design, implement, evaluate, and deploy quantitative models for system reliability within a cloud-based software-as-a-service platform. This platform will facilitate collaborative analysis, offering descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analytics on integrated software and hardware reliability. Through interactive reliability block diagrams, the platform democratizes system reliability assessment, lessening reliance on manual expertise for the first time.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SALIENT PREDICTIONS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: A physically informed machine learning model for subseasonal forecasting of extreme temperatures
Contact
39 GULL RD
Falmouth, MA 02540--2676
NSF Award
2428903 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,912
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in helping industries such as energy and agriculture increase protective measures and improve resiliency in the face of extreme temperature events. Sub-seasonal predictions on extreme weather should help customers optimize performance, mitigate risk, improve resiliency, and plan initiatives up to a month in advance. Although instruments like satellite and radar are highly accurate in detecting these extreme events at short time horizons, not enough time is given for businesses and communities to take action to ensure their survival. For a community that might be impacted by extreme heat or cold, this is not enough time to take action to mitigate crop damage, protect power generation facilities, etc. For example, extreme cold in Texas brought on by the ice storm Uri placed immense pressure on power grids, costing >$100 billion over several days. The company believes that the opportunity for increased knowledge and greater lead time to make strategic business decisions like such as advanced contracting with maintenance crews, foliage management, stockpiling replacement parts, insulating critical components, or installing de-icing equipment will drive customer adoption of the sub-seasonal model over current models.
The combination of a changing climate, a chaotic atmosphere and the relative rarity of extreme events makes forecasting extreme heat and cold events at a sub-seasonal timescale a particularly challenging problem. This project focuses on developing a machine learning model to improve forecasting extreme heat or cold 1-month out. There are three significant problems with current forecasting systems: 1) historical analogs that are used to develop these models are becoming increasingly irrelevant, (2) day to one-week timeframes do not allow enough time for communities to prepare for extreme events, and (3) lack of operational products. This project aims to build a proprietary model that combines the technologies underlying current weather forecasting tools with improved machine-learning powered models and the ocean, land, and atmospheric data that highly influence extreme heat or cold. Such a model may enable more accurate weather predictions 1-month out. A predictive model capable of delivering precise forecasts over a sub-seasonal timeframe, integrating the constantly shifting dynamics of the atmosphere attributed to climate change, would empower industry (namely energy and agriculture) to effectively prepare for extreme temperature events to best serve and protect citizens.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SAVIMBO INC.
SBIR Phase I: Biodiversity credits for Indigenous and local communities
Contact
37 LOST VALLEY DR
Orinda, CA 94563--3928
NSF Award
2423048 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in addressing the need for innovative financing mechanisms to meet Global Biodiversity Framework targets, the aims of the Convention on Biological Diversity, and the Kunming-Montreal Accords. The global biodiversity market is projected to value $180 billion by 2050. But the market is in its infancy, lacking clear rigorous science that is market-tested and acceptable to all stakeholders who work in biodiverse regions. This project aims to deliver market-tested public protocols, peer-reviewed scientific methodologies, transparent tracking, clear unitized accountability for biodiversity gains and losses (conservation, restoration, and impact accounting), and provide fair, direct, funding mechanisms to Indigenous Peoples and local communities for their global contributions to planet health. Gains in these components of a fair and functional biodiversity credit market will not only benefit biodiversity frameworks but all nature-based accounting frameworks and broader human health, generating tax revenue, jobs, and sustainable commerce both for US citizens and for global citizens.
This project provides a breakthrough approach to biodiversity crediting based on a combination of Indigenous knowledge, high-tech efficiency, and modern scientific understanding of complex adaptive systems. The methodology monitors impact via ex-post crediting of indicator species observations done by locals themselves (game cameras, audio recordings, photos). The novel unit equates to one hectare, over one month, of intact ecosystem where all ecological niches are available to, and filled by, native species. Observations are typically rare, threatened, endangered animals on conserved land which have no other source of conservation funding. Biodiversity credits are then auto-calculated with open-source computer code and released for certification as biodiversity credit commodities to the international market. A highly qualified interdisciplinary team of biodiversity scientists, Indigenous rights experts, and economists are collaborating to commercialize this solution. They address the planet-wide dual-need to: 1) Reward the populations who are actually preserving biodiversity on the ground, and 2) Target high-biodiverse zones without conservation funding. This proposal aims to bring this solution across the rocky terrain of an international frontier market for biodiversity credits, for the benefit of Indigenous Peoples and the continued protection of 80% of the world?s biodiversity and 30% of the intact planet.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SCORPIDO PHOTONICS
SBIR Phase I: Instant non-invasive diagnostics of cancer with plasmonic nanobubbles
Contact
1536 W 25TH ST
San Pedro, CA 90732--4415
NSF Award
2417093 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,990
Start / end date
10/01/2024 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a novel optical method of detecting microscopic tumors for more rapid and accurate point of care cancer diagnoses. The system aims to improve cancer biopsy diagnostic procedures through a novel plasmonic nanobubble mode of action for detecting and destroying microscopic tumors that may otherwise remain undetectable using current direct access and iterative surgical means. By integrating the proposed photonic sensor diagnostic technology into current clinical tools including endoscopes, assessments can be performed without the need to physically extract the sample tissues in question and perform laboratory testing. The system aims to supplement existing invasive surgical diagnostic procedures to capture a portion of the $25.5 billion annual cancer biopsy market.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a prototype endoscope diagnostic cancer sensor using laser-activated plasmonic nanobubbles (PNB). The project integrates plasmonic nanobubbles sensors into a component medical device platform and onto a standard sized clinical endoscope, for performing lung cancer diagnostic procedures. The objective to develop a universal tiny fiber optical probe, the critical component, for enabling a mininally invasive optically based diagnostic system. This flexible probe, administered to a patient through a standard endoscope, will noninvasively generate and detect plasmonic nanobubbles in the tissue, connected to an external system via optical fibers. The probe aims to achieve diagnostic sensitivity and speed sufficient for the instant direct detection of microscopic tumors in patients using a standard endoscope, matching invasive diagnostic performance measures for assessing lung cancer.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SCRIPT BIOSCIENCES INC
SBIR Phase I: CasPlus: A safer, more efficient, and targeted method of deploying CRISPR in vivo
Contact
29 LUDLOW ROAD
Yardley, PA 19067--2751
NSF Award
2335124 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,438
Start / end date
06/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be to decrease the risks associated with current gene editing practices. Gene editing offers significant promise for a wide variety of difficult to treat and currently untreatable conditions. Examples include cancers such as leukemia and multiple myeloma, muscular dystrophy, and cystic fibrosis. Last year, the FDA approved the first gene editing treatment for sickle cell anemia. Progress in gene editing has been slow due to unwanted side effects, which can delete the incorrect gene, insert a gene in the wrong location, etc., leading to undesirable impacts and ineffective treatment. The innovation is a platform technology that significantly reduces the potential inaccuracy of current gene editing technology. This leap forward in gene editing targets the desired gene, increasing the safety of gene editing, which is critical to the success of the technology. The innovation is a platform that could be used to advance promising therapies that are, in their current form, unsafe for patients and develop new therapies for disease unmet treatment needs.
The proposed project will examine the feasibility of the platform technology by targeting the use of the technology in myotonic dystrophy type 1. The disease affects skeletal and smooth muscle, heart, endocrine system, and central nervous system in a progressive, age-dependent manner, with death resulting from pulmonary or cardiac complications. There are no current treatments for this disease. A potential cause for the disease is misfiring by genes that repair DNA. When this gene is not present, there is no known associated loss of function in the biological species. This project will deploy the innovation to: 1) Optimize the formulation in vitro to target the problem gene. This task requires using the formulations in the target cell, sequencing the cells after editing to determine editing efficiency and understand if there are unwanted effects; 2) Determine the delivery dose required for testing in a mouse model using the optimized formulation from first task; 3) Use an in vivo study to determine the feasibility of using the innovation in a mouse model. This study will use the optimal formulation and dose to study the impact on the target genes and potential effects.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SEA-GAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
SBIR Phase I: High Data-Rate Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) Underwater Acoustic Communications
Contact
4141 ROSS RD
Bethlehem, PA 18020--7685
NSF Award
2451589 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,999
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project is on ocean technologies and the blue economy. From an environmental and societal perspective, the proposed high-frequency Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) acoustic communication technology minimizes noise pollution in marine environments, operating at frequencies outside the range of marine mammal communication, thus reducing the impact on ecosystems. The project will help develop new products that will enhance environmental monitoring capabilities, allowing researchers and agencies to gather real-time data from underwater ecosystems, improving our understanding and management of marine resources. Additionally, it will provide safer and more efficient communication for underwater rescue and military operations, reducing reliance on tethered systems. From a commercial perspective, the successful development and commercialization of this technology will position the U.S. as a leader in the underwater communication market. The innovation is expected to capture significant market share in sectors such as offshore energy, environmental monitoring, and scientific research, providing a robust alternative to existing communication systems. By reducing operational costs and improving efficiency, the product will address a growing market need and drive sustainable business growth with long-term potential for expansion into new applications and industries. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to address technical hurdles associated with real-time, high-data-rate wireless underwater communication. The current acoustic communication systems face significant limitations due to low data rates, high power consumption, and environmental impacts, particularly interference with marine life. The technical objective of this project is to develop a communication system that operates in frequencies at or above 200 kHz, enabling efficient data transmission while minimizing interference with marine mammals. The proposed acoustic communication system utilizes the MIMO technology and Turbo equalization to achieve high data rates, low power consumption, and scalable transmission over distances of up to 1 km. The research plan includes evaluating the prototypes developed in a lab setting through real-world ocean and lake experiments, reducing the computational complexity of the MIMO Turbo equalization algorithms, and validating their suitability for hardware implementation on Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs). This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
SEABIRD LIFESCIENCES LLC
SBIR Phase I: Microfluidic 3D Bioprinting of Dacron-Recombinant Human Collagen Double-Network Crosslinked Biomimetic Vascular Conduits
Contact
27 HORTON PL
Milton, MA 02186--4760
NSF Award
2507229 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,906
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 10/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project lies in the development of a next-generation vascular graft that improves outcomes for patients undergoing vascular surgeries. Vascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and there is a critical need for small-diameter vascular grafts that provide better durability, bioactivity, and mechanical compliance. Current graft options, including autologous vessels and synthetic alternatives, suffer from limitations such as poor long-term success rates, risk of blood clots, and mismatched mechanical properties that contribute to complications. This project addresses these challenges by developing a novel fabrication method that produces vascular grafts using a combination of synthetic and bioactive materials. The approach aims to enhance tissue integration, improve long-term performance, and reduce the need for repeat interventions. The potential commercial impact of this project is significant, as it aims to meet the growing demand for improved outcomes in both peripheral artery disease and coronary bypass procedures. Success in this work could lead to new medical solutions that lower healthcare costs, reduce patient complications, and provide a scalable alternative to current standards of care. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project focuses on developing an innovative bioprinting approach for creating vascular grafts that closely mimic the properties of natural blood vessels. The project seeks to overcome the limitations of current synthetic and biological grafts by utilizing a specialized bioprinting process that integrates a double-network hydrogel made from a Dacron synthetic polymer and recombinant human collagen. This combination allows for precise control over mechanical properties, including elasticity and compliance, while promoting cell adhesion and integration with native tissue. The research objectives include optimizing a custom bioprinting system for the Darcon blend, fine-tuning material compositions to achieve the desired mechanical properties, and evaluating the grafts for structural integrity and performance. The anticipated results include the successful production of vascular conduits with controlled dimensions, improved mechanical compatibility with native arteries, and enhanced biofunctionality for long-term graft success. If successful, this project will establish the foundation for a scalable, high-performance vascular graft technology that can address critical gaps in vascular and cardiovascular medicine. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
SEIA BIO INC
SBIR Phase I: Protecting beneficial microbes from harmful stressors to enable their widespread use
Contact
24 PLYMOUTH ST
Cambridge, MA 02141--1914
NSF Award
2335482 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
11/01/2024 – 10/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to enable the widespread adoption of beneficial microbes. Microbes are highly efficient, sustainable, and can replace chemical products when they?re able to be delivered in a live, viable form. In agriculture for example, switching from chemical fertilizers to biological fertilizers can reduce a significant amount (>500Mt) of CO2 emissions, while also reducing chemical fertilizer costs that can ultimately help reduce food prices to consumers. Beyond microbial fertilizers, there are many other applications ranging from cosmetics to healthcare that are ready to use either newly identified or already developed microbes, but only if they can be produced in a consistent and reliable manner. Unlocking microbial products will enable consumers to switch from chemically produced products to microbial products as a lower cost, more sustainable alternative.
The proposed project aims to address the problem of microbial stability when exposed to stressors through a fundamental understanding of how the ingredients form and how they contribute to increases in microbial survival. The proposed R&D work will advance the understanding of these formulations to be used generally across any microbe, while also pushing the boundaries of physical protection to understand protection against common stressors such as heat, UV-light, shock and humidity by simulating real-world conditions. This will be accomplished by measuring a variety of physicochemical properties as well as viability using both established and newly developed tests. Furthermore, this work will explore the formation properties both on the small and large-scale of production to understand the fundamental dynamics of coating assembly. This innovative work will result in 1) a generalized process for formulating any microbe for protection and 2) an understanding of engineering parameters required to scale-up microbial production to enable the widespread adoption of beneficial microbes.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SENSVITA INC.
STTR Phase I: Motion Tolerant Near-field Radio Frequency Sensors for Non-invasive Monitoring of Chronic Health Conditions
Contact
111 LENA ST APT 215
Ithaca, NY 14850--6901
NSF Award
2450958 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 02/28/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project lies in its potential to transform how chronic cardiopulmonary conditions are monitored and managed outside clinical settings. Chronic illnesses, such as heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, affect millions of people in the United States and account for significant healthcare costs due to frequent hospitalizations. Further, low-income Americans are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses and often lack reliable access to healthcare. This project proposes a novel technology that enables cost-effective, continuous, and convenient monitoring of critical cardiopulmonary metrics in the home. By providing a low-cost, comfortable, and maintenance-free alternative to existing monitoring tools, this technology has the potential to reduce hospitalizations, improve quality of life, and decrease healthcare costs. The ability to offer a scalable remote patient monitoring solution to incentive value-based care and address the growing demand for innovative, patient-centric health technologies creates a novel commercial opportunity from the Phase I STTR work. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project focuses on developing a non-invasive radiofrequency sensing technology for home-based monitoring of heart and lung function. The proposed system uses advanced sensing methods to measure critical physiological parameters without the need for skin contact or maintenance, improving the convenience, scalability, and accuracy of existing methods. The research objectives include designing improved antennas for ambulatory use, improving signal processing techniques to mitigate interference, and validating the system?s accuracy against clinical benchmarks. The anticipated results include a robust and reliable sensor design capable of delivering clinically relevant data in real-world conditions, bringing the current technology status closer to its commercial success. This work lays the foundation for next-generation health monitoring tools that can integrate seamlessly into existing remote patient monitoring programs and help manage chronic diseases more effectively. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
SENTEC, LLC
STTR Phase I: High Temperature Pressure Sensor for Process Monitoring
Contact
22 FORT DR
Simpsonville, SC 29681--8308
NSF Award
2507745 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
06/15/2025 – 05/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is in a range of fields, which includes electric vehicle technology, advancing geolocation capability, and improving efficiency of industrial processes. A high temperature pressure sensor will be developed. The sensor?s material layers will be designed to optimize sensitivity, refine the device and manufacturing process to enhance performance, and develop a durable package capable of withstanding high temperatures. Once fabricated, the sensors will undergo rigorous testing under varying pressure and temperature conditions to ensure reliability and effectiveness. This design can directly replace current silicon-based sensors. These new sensors will be packaged and tested at industrial partner?s high-temperature facility. The project activities will create extensive training opportunities for PhD students and internship opportunities for students visiting from the university partner and other nearby colleges/ universities. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project focuses on the unmet market need for reliable pressure sensors operating at high temperatures, where traditional silicon (Si) piezoresistive pressure sensors are unsuitable. To meet this market need, a circular membrane-based pressure sensor made of wide bandgap semiconductors, will be developed, which can operate at high temperature due to their wide bandgap suppressing thermal carrier generation. This will enable the realization of a highly sensitive deflection transducer that can be integrated at the periphery of the pressure sensor element. The intellectual merit of the proposed project is in the development of novel wide bandgap based high temperature pressure sensors with much improved device performance compared to the state-of-the-art Si based piezoresistive sensors, due to several unique design aspects that include: (i) usage of wide bandgap and inert semiconductors that are capable of operating at high temperature and harsh environment, (ii) usage of a novel sensor element with depleted carrier density to maximize deflection sensitivity, (iii) usage of optimized surface passivation layer to reduce charge instability and (iv) usage of bridge network of sensors to reduce instability due to temperature changes or vibrational noise in the sensor output. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
SHARON WASHINGTON
SBIR Phase I: Multilingual Adaptive School for Youth (MASY)
Contact
3730 KIRBY DR STE 904
Houston, TX 77098--3994
NSF Award
2431924 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,576
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project addresses significant educational disparities faced by over 200 million young people with no access to schooling and an additional 600 million struggling with basic literacy and numeracy skills despite being enrolled. The United Nations projects that the number of out-of-school children will increase by 84 million by 2030. This project aims to solve this problem by developing a universal platform for delivering educational content in multiple languages and cultural contexts. Education and language translation technologies rarely engage in cross-field research, yet they are deeply interconnected. Unlike existing digital education programs, this innovation is designed specifically for low-resourced language communities, where digital education is most needed. Low-resourced languages typically lack extensive digital data, comprehensive dictionaries, and detailed linguistic analysis, making it impossible for current natural language processing (NLP) models. Consequently, no comprehensive or high-quality educational content exists in these low-resource languages. This project aims to merge these fields by developing a global comprehensive PreK-grade 12 school platform that employs advanced language translation in its educational content delivery system, to exponentially increase access to high-quality education across linguistic barriers in regions where education in local languages is severely limited or completely absent.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a core universal natural language processing (NLP) model specifically designed for low-resourced languages. The primary technical objective is to create a model capable of handling the unique linguistic features of low-resourced languages, leveraging limited data, and incorporating cultural and contextual nuances to reduce language barriers as well as increase access to high-quality education globally while simultaneously extending the current ability of extant NLP models. The research will involve selecting and fine-tuning pre-trained models and adapting them to low-resourced languages through transfer learning, cross-linguistic techniques, and generating synthetic data to enrich training datasets. The project will also develop specialized layers for morphological analysis, tonal recognition, and flexible syntax parsing. Data collection and preprocessing pipelines will be established to ensure high-quality training data, while bias detection and mitigation techniques will be integrated to promote fairness and accuracy. The anticipated technical results include a highly adaptable NLP model that can deliver educational content in multiple low-resourced languages with high accuracy and cultural relevance. This project has the potential to significantly advance the field of NLP while providing a scalable and effective solution for the delivery of high-quality educational content globally.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SHROOM-E CO., LLC
SBIR Phase I: BlockSI: Shroom-E Co's Specialty Cultivated Mushroom Fruiting Block Production System
Contact
1106 HARBOR TRACE CIR
Charleston, SC 29412--4967
NSF Award
2423596 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Alastair Monk
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact /commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to potentially improve the production of specialty cultivated mushrooms (SCM) with the proposed SCM fruiting block (FB) production system by increasing production speed while reducing labor, energy, and contamination risk; this system will also create opportunities to eliminate single-use plastics in SCM production. The global SCM market is ~$29.2 billion currently and is expected to grow to $41.2 billion in five years. According to the USDA, 2022-2023 sales on SCM produced domestically were $90.4M, but ~40% of the SCM consumed by the US were imported. The proposed system will be deployed in an SCM production network and rapidly scaled with a franchise or co-op business model. The system?s improved efficiency over conventional methods will be a key factor driving the success of the SCM production network, which will in turn support greater production of SCM in America, and thereby reduce US imports of SCM, which pose health risks to consumers, reduce food security, and increase pollution. Within the three years of production, the annual revenues derived from capitalization of the system are expected to approach $1 million.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to complete the development of the proposed system prototype and conduct two experiments to test its performance. The conventional production of SCM fruiting blocks (FB) requires substantial time, energy, labor, and space. This system will automate the steps of FB production ? sterilization, inoculation, and packaging of substrate ? and introduce innovative processes to further improve efficiency of FB production. To prove the technical feasibility of the proposed system, its sterilization efficacy will be evaluated against a robust mold, Aspergillus niger. To prove commercial feasibility of the system, its SCM production outcomes, at varying sterilization doses, will be compared to outcomes from a conventional process. These experiments are expected to identify parameters that result in a 10-4 reduction in microbial load within 30 minutes and demonstrate faster colonization with comparable or greater yields, respectively. Compared to conventional methods, it is estimated that the system will produce FB 2-20x faster, reduce energy consumption by 40-95%, eliminate the need for lab technicians along with the contamination risk they introduce, and consolidate production space from several large rooms into a single space about the area of an office cubicle.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SIRENOPT INC
SBIR Phase I: Cold Atmospheric Plasma Sensor for In-Line Metrology of Battery Electrode Manufacturing
Contact
8000 EDGEWATER DR STE 200
Oakland, CA 94621--2042
NSF Award
2420602 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,770
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Mara Schindelholz
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to enable more sustainable, scalable, and cost-effective lithium-ion battery (LIB) production. The team is developing a novel sensor that can be readily integrated into the LIB electrode manufacturing processes to provide real-time measurements of multiple battery electrode properties. Such a sensor is essential for detecting electrode defects and process changes. The average battery factory loses up to $275 million per year from scrapping defective electrodes and overbuilding battery packs to compensate for variability in electrodes, leading to global annual losses of up to $26 billion by 2030. This sensor can transform current LIB manufacturing practices by creating opportunities for intelligent decision-making capabilities, that can significantly reduce the economic cost and environmental footprint of battery manufacturing by enhancing the efficient use of raw materials, energy, and capital resources. The sensor will also serve as a key enabling technology to provide critical information to accelerate process development for scalable and cost-effective manufacturing of next-generation batteries.
The intellectual merit of this project stems from using cold atmospheric plasmas (i.e., atmospheric pressure, weakly ionized gases near room temperature) interacting with materials for non-destructive measurement of multiple lithium-ion battery electrode properties. Current electrode metrology solutions rely on separate, specific, and often destructive measurement techniques for LIB electrode properties. This plasma sensor uses the information-rich electrical, thermal, and chemical interactions of plasma with an incident material, combined with the expressive power of physics-based artificial intelligence (AI) models, to predict multiple critical electrode properties in parallel and in real-time. To enable integration of the plasma sensor into high-volume electrode production lines, this project seeks to design and integrate an array of plasma sensors into a pilot electrode coating process for real-time measurement of multiple electrode properties at various spatial resolutions and develop an advanced multivariable control system to ensure reliable sensor performance in view of exogenous and environmental variabilities and disturbances in high-volume manufacturing processes.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SIXLINE SEMICONDUCTOR, INC.
STTR Phase I: Next-Gen Radiofrequency Transistors on Silicon via Aligned, Residue-Free Carbon Nanotubes
Contact
5262 BISHOPS BAY PKWY, UNIT 214
Middleton, WI 53597--8829
NSF Award
2322200 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,503
Start / end date
09/01/2023 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project seeks to overcome the highest risks facing the commercialization of a novel semiconductor for wireless communications devices. As the demand for wireless communication increases (e.g., cell phones, WiFi, Internet of Things devices), wireless component suppliers and manufacturers must utilize new materials and integration methods to yield necessary increases in data bandwidth, energy efficiency, and functionality, while shrinking component footprint. Carbon nanotubes offer a solution to this problem. A carbon nanotube is comprised of an atomically thin layer of carbon rolled into a seamless tube. Carbon nanotubes act like tiny semiconducting wires that can significantly outperform current semiconductors such as silicon and gallium arsenide. When aligned into dense arrays, nanotubes offer superior wireless characteristics including high frequency and linearity, which are vital for next-gen communication technologies. Importantly, carbon nanotubes can be deposited onto existing semiconductors (such as silicon), enabling the previously unfeasible integration of multiple types of high-performance circuits on the same chip, allowing for more functionality in less space. By addressing problems related to wireless communication, this project will have widespread societal impact and underpin the wireless radiofrequency technologies of tomorrow, while bolstering American competitiveness in this important sector.
The project will leverage recently developed carbon nanotube alignment technology that overcomes the materials and manufacturing challenges that have limited previous nanotube research and development. The room-temperature alignment technology is fast, cost-effective, and area-scalable ? enabling seamless industry integration. The technical innovations of this project will be to: (1) develop approaches to remove organic processing residues that coat the surfaces and interfaces of nanotube arrays and decrease the performance of nanotube-based wireless communications transistors; and (2) fabricate and demonstrate wireless communications transistors based on aligned nanotubes that do not suffer from the effects of such impurities. Spectroscopic measurements of residues, electrical measurements sensitive to impurities, and additional high frequency transistor characterization will be used in a feedback loop to inform residue removal process development. Specific activities will focus on: (1) systematically studying the effect of different treatments to selectively remove residues; (2) determining how the treatments depend on array density; and (3) fabricating and testing wireless communications transistors. The project will provide a database of impurity removal rates for a library of treatments, a demonstration of transistors free of performance loss from residues; and a demonstration of nanotube-based transistors integrated on silicon.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SKILLSGAPP LLC
SBIR Phase I: Place-Based Platform for STEM Career Discovery
Contact
102 E SHALLOWSTONE RD
Greer, SC 29650--3311
NSF Award
2423615 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,428
Start / end date
07/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project aims to address the persistent global skilled workforce shortage in STEM-based careers by facilitating corresponding career discovery in priority youth populations, outside of traditional K12 settings, using mobile gamification with a personalized, AI-generated career recommendation engine. Building on the foundation of game-based pedagogy that inspires and engages a diverse population, the AI-enhanced gaming platform will educate and guide youth toward local, meaningful career paths in advanced manufacturing relevant to their in-game proficiencies, personal preferences, and location. This geo-specificity is imperative in breaking cycles of poverty and keeping communities thriving. The core of this innovation lies in a synergistic combination of key AI technologies to provide unbiased, personally relevant learning experiences with actionable career guidance and mentorship through engaging and adaptive game mechanics. The insights gleaned from this endeavor will extend the project?s impact beyond advanced manufacturing careers to additional STEM industries in an effort to close social equity and knowledge gaps and foster a more diverse workforce around the world.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project utilizes the integration of an LLM (Large Language Model) and RAG (Retrieval Augmented Generation) framework into a career gaming platform that carefully selects and provides context from controlled sources of information that the AI uses to generate personalized career guidance. Included in this innovation is the development of benchmarks where an AI-Judge, fine-tuned on the relevant data from a vector database, is leveraged to determine efficacy of the LLM to utilize knowledge in the RAG pipeline. The development of benchmarks and analytics layers around this environment creates a performance-driven closed loop system that allows for continuous improvement. Additionally, by controlling the datasets from which the AI retrieves information, this approach mitigates the risk of replicating biases and stereotypes and ensures diverse perspectives and data specifically relevant to the target. This method will also reduce computational demands, accelerate content updates, and is significantly less costly than fine-tuning a pre-trained LLM, allowing for easy adaptations of the knowledge it has access to. The combination of these adaptive technologies is poised to scale early career discovery across all STEM industries, for all youth, no matter where they live or what they look like.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SOARCE, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Multifunctional, low carbon nanocomposite fibers derived from seaweed
Contact
6555 SANGER RD
Orlando, FL 32827--7584
NSF Award
2409680 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to phase-out fossil fuel-based textiles with sustainable, non-toxic fabric alternatives with enhanced properties. Currently, fabrics for high performance applications require toxic additives or coatings that may pollute air and water systems; additionally, most of them come from fossil fuels, contributing to global warming. If successful, the proposed project will produce novel seaweed-based textiles with enhanced properties like fire and ultraviolet blocking and infrared shielding properties. These properties are inherent to the material; thus, no further treatment will be needed, simplifying the manufacturing process. The material will be attractive to US work apparel and outdoor activewear manufacturers seeking to increase the sustainability of their products. The business model will be commercialization of the raw material and licensing the technology so manufacturers can fabricate the textiles to their needs. By doing so, the company requires less operational investment, easing its introduction to the market.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project uses seaweed biopolymers combined with nanomaterials to create fibers and fabrics. The enhanced properties like fire resistance, ultraviolet protection and heat shielding, as well as the mechanical properties of the fibers, can be finetuned depending on the formulation and the production method. The aim is to develop a formula that will produce flexible fibers capable of being woven into fabrics with high performance characteristics. The team will vary the formulation chemistry, the spinning process and will test how it affects the mechanical and chemical characteristics. The project will focus on obtaining a fully plastic-free knitted yarn where UV protection, heat shielding, and fire resistance are achieved without adding plastic binders, coatings, or films.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SOL ROBOTICS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: A Robotic Arm Architecture for Affordable Robots with Enhanced Reach and Payload
Contact
2424 HASTINGS DR
Belmont, CA 94002--3320
NSF Award
2449557 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$304,952
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Elizabeth Mirowski
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project lies in its potential to revolutionize automation in critical U.S. industries, including agriculture, construction, and warehousing. Traditional robot arms are often prohibitively expensive and lack the performance capabilities required for many real-world applications, such as tasks involving high reach and heavy payloads, including fruit picking, painting, and shelf loading. This project will result in a novel robotic arm technology designed to overcome these limitations by providing significantly improved reach, payload capacity, and affordability. By enabling automation of physically demanding and hazardous tasks, this innovation aims to reduce workplace injuries, lower insurance costs, and enhance worker safety. Moreover, automating these roles will create opportunities for higher-paying, skilled positions, fostering economic growth and improving job quality. The resulting advancements in automation will also help lower costs associated with food production, construction, and consumer goods, benefiting the broader U.S. economy. Additionally, the novel robotic arm technology will open new avenues for research and innovation, enabling robotics educators and researchers to explore applications previously constrained by the limitations of existing technology. This project will develop a robotic arm architecture featuring proprietary linear actuation technology to achieve commercial performance in reach, payload, and cost-efficiency. The technology innovates on lightweight, high-extension actuators in a parallel truss configuration to reduce bending stress and maintain precision over extended distances. Research tasks include developing simulation tools to model robot dynamics and environmental interactions, and integrating sensory modules for real-time feedback and collision detection. The project will deliver a fully integrated prototype capable of demonstrating its performance in industrial conditions. This work addresses limitations of traditional robot architectures and provides a scalable, cost-effective automation solution for industries such as agriculture, construction, and warehousing. The resulting technology will support increased commercial adoption of robotics in these fields and offer a high-performance platform for further research and development. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
SONOGEN MEDICAL, INC.
STTR Phase I: Ultrasonic Fracture Healing Assessment
Contact
3710 WILLIAMS LN
Chevy Chase, MD 20815--4950
NSF Award
2335462 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
06/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is a novel medical device algorithm for assessing the status of bone fracture healing using ultrasound measures. The system aims to provide advantages to current X-ray based paradigms by reducing cost and radiation exposure, and by enabling portability. An estimated 130 million X-Ray procedures are performed in the US each year, at a cost of $16 billion with as much as 25% redone due to quality issues. Furthermore, 2.8 million patients are considered at risk for delayed/non-union fractures. The combined market potential is $1.3B/year as a software solution to ultrasound equipment vendors and $1.4B/year for at home monitoring.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project aims to develop the company?s proprietary fracture healing algorithm utilizing ultrasound data. During the first phase the company will acquire, analyze, and compare in-vivo ultrasound, X-ray, and micro-CT data in a lapine model across the healing cycle of surgically induced tibial diaphysis fractures. The company aims to de-risk their fracture healing to monitor the stage of orthopedic healing versus X-rays with 90% statistical confidence. The risks to be addressed include signal characterization versus noise ratio, back-scattering, and fracture healing classification. The results of the Phase 1 study will provide a working algorithm suitable to begin human feasibility testing.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SONOVANCE, INC.
STTR Phase I: Novel signal estimation methods for low-cost diagnostic ultrasound acquisition by non-expert operators.
Contact
4203 SOMERSET PLACE
Baltimore, MD 21210--2708
NSF Award
2409639 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
06/15/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project can shape advances in health and welfare, national defense, and in science. The overall product simplifies image acquisition. It is an application for remote tele-health and enables any ultrasound device to take images without the operator needing to see the images acquired. Any physician, any nurse, and/or novice can acquire images, which can then be made available for experts, human or artificial, to examine. This opens up the bottleneck of high-cost trained sonographers to enable more rapid growth of the market, and can scale rapidly on any of the devices of large ultrasound device manufacturers. The technology can reduce costs associated with training and reduce variability in hospitals and health systems, reach patients in their homes, in primary care or retail clinics, and in urgent and remote care centers. Other needs that can be met include the Veterans Administration in its community-based outpatient clinics currently lacking imaging facilities; and in the Army in battlefield situations where ultrasound in the front lines can now be used due to obviating lengthy training requirements. Scientifically, other coherent imaging methods such as optical, photoacoustic, and thermoacoustic would also benefit.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project develops low-cost
hardware and software for the acquisition of ultrasound images so that no anatomic training is needed, instead guiding even a lay operator with easily learned graphical clues until data acquisition is complete and can be passed, for example, to an examining physician in a format familiar to her from other radiological images. The central innovation is in signal and image processing that will allow accurate image reconstruction from freehand 2D ultrasound signal data with imperfect information on the position of the probe that comes from low-cost sensors. This is an essential element that enables the low-cost solution envisaged. Instead of the conventional approach of registering two image sets by comparing overlapping images, new methods are proposed so that different scan planes which do not have overlapping sets of images can be co-registered accurately. The key objectives of the research are to implement and test the algorithms for improved localization of an ultrasonic echo return, and then to determine whether these improvements are sufficient to obtain images of clinical quality as deemed by a qualified radiologist. Success allows a prototype satisfying the overall goal of the first sentence above.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SONOVOICE, INC.
STTR Phase I: The SonoVoice Voice Evaluation and Monitoring System
Contact
2640 FARLOW GAP LANE
Raleigh, NC 27603--5945
NSF Award
2416498 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/15/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Alastair Monk
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project lies in its potential to improve the diagnosis and treatment of voice disorders. Voice disorders affect an estimated one in eight adults in the United States annually, costing nearly $15 billion in healthcare expenses. This proposal focuses on a portable digital device and smartphone application for voice health evaluations to potentially enhance our understanding of vocal health. The potential societal impact of the innovation could be to improve the quality of life for millions of individuals with voice disorders. The commercial potential of the system derives from its potential large user base: it is designed to meet the needs of both voice-specialized clinicians and the primary care workforce, addressing a substantial market opportunity. The proposed technology employs a unique combination of modern digital electronics and machine learning that provides a durable competitive advantage centered on affordability, portability and precision.
This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project proposes to develop a novel system for voice health evaluation. The problem being addressed is the current lack of accessible, precise, and affordable tools for diagnosing voice disorders. The research objectives are to conduct iterative prototyping and calibration of a digital device and smartphone application, followed by their rigorous validation with human subjects to ensure accuracy and reliability in voice health evaluations. The proposed research will involve initial concept design, feasibility testing, iterative prototyping, calibration, and extensive validation with human subjects to ensure the precision, reliability, and user-friendliness of the multimodal voice assessment tool. The anticipated technical result is the successful development of an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use device for voice health evaluation that captures and classifies differential vocal performance over a range of vocal tract resistances, thereby providing a comprehensive picture of vocal function. This project's intellectual merit lies in its potential to advance knowledge in the field of vocal health assessment, providing a solution that is not only technologically advanced but also broadly accessible.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SPEARSTONE SOLUTIONS, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Separation of Clean Gypsum from Phosphate Ore Processing Waste
Contact
1500 1ST AVE N
Birmingham, AL 35203--1865
NSF Award
2437985 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
03/01/2025 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in safe and economic isolation and disposal of radioactive components of phosphogypsum (PG), a problematic waste byproduct of fertilizer production, and converting the remainder waste into economically viable chemicals such as calcium carbonate & ammonium sulfate while recovering rare earth elements (REE). Currently, over 70 million tons of PG are produced each year, with over 1 billion tons stored in Florida alone. Improper storage risks contaminating groundwater and harming nearby communities by allowing radioactive elements and heavy metals to leach into aquifers. Moreover, radium in PG can decay into radon, a carcinogenic gas. The proposed innovation aims to address those environmental risks directly and offers substantial commercial opportunity by generating up to $50 million in annual revenue per processing facility, cleaning and converting over 200,000 tons of PG per year. Thus, this innovation addresses a pressing need for sustainable waste management, mitigates groundwater contamination risks, and transforms problematic waste into economically viable resource. PG is a byproduct of phosphoric acid production and includes naturally occurring radionuclides, making the material radioactive. These radionuclides are found in phosphate rock and are mostly uranium, thorium, and radium. This project focuses on developing an innovative, eco-friendly process technology that employs double salt formation using one or more ionic salt solutions to release all the contaminants from the gypsum crystal structure. After separating the double salt from those contaminants, gypsum is regenerated and converted into ammonium sulfate and calcium carbonate through the company?s proprietary process that uses flue gas as a source of CO2. The contaminants can be either separated or disposed of safely. The project aims develop process conditions that achieve consistently high separation efficiency for broad range of PG feedstocks. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
SPECTACULAR LABS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Automated AI-supported sample preparation and enrichment technology for rapid detection of food pathogens
Contact
79 HARBOR VIEW DR
Richmond, CA 94804--7496
NSF Award
2402679 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Directors
Parvathi Chundi
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to provide the food industry with a fully automated platform for rapid detection of food pathogens. In the U.S., foodborne diseases cost ~$60.9B in medical care, lost productivity, and lives lost, rising to $90.2B when taking quality of life losses into account. Food pathogens also lead to greatly increased costs for food producers, both due to food safety testing itself and recalls caused by contaminated food, which average $10M in direct costs. The proposed food pathogen detection system will meet the food industry?s large unaddressed need for portable, affordable, accurate and time-sensitive testing that can be performed by non-specialists. Critically, an affordable onsite system will lower direct costs and increase testing capacity?the increased volume of testing will reduce the risk of contaminated food entering the marketplace with the associated costs to both businesses and the U.S. economy. Further, data collected by the proposed system will provide insights into the food safety landscape resulting in a safer food supply chain and reduced food producer liability.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop an end-to-end, affordable, fully automated, easy-to-operate, portable system for accurate and rapid detection of food pathogens across a broad range of food types. The system uses adaptive design of experiments to optimize the platform hardware and protocols, enabling rapid testing and allowing for earlier detection of food pathogens than currently possible. The proposed technology will provide the same value as traditional third-party laboratories, yet faster and at a fraction of the cost with the ability to test in-house, thus meeting the needs of small to medium-sized food producers and food processing plants. In Phase I, the company aims to 1) Build an automatic sample preparation module and explore its ability to enhance enrichment across food groups; 2) Develop an automated experimental design workflow to speed up the optimization of enrichment time; and 3) Using experimental data, develop an algorithm to quantify the microbial concentrations in food samples. Successful completion of this work will lay a foundation for future Phase II commercialization activities where the platform will be scaled to additional use cases.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.STEADI SYSTEMS, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Steadi-scores: Translating Balance Science into Clinical Action for Proactive Balance Training
Contact
28349 DOUGLAS PARK RD
Evergreen, CO 80439--8381
NSF Award
2450981 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
01/01/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project is to improve balance health across the population through the development of an innovative and accessible solution for balance training and assessment. Balance declines naturally with age, often beginning around 40, and can go unnoticed until a fall highlights the issue. Falls frequently result in significant physical, emotional, and social challenges, underscoring the need for proactive tools to address balance health. This project aims to design a portable and affordable platform that individuals of all ages could use at home or in clinics to practice and improve their balance. The platform would offer engaging exercises while providing insights on balance progress that could help individuals better understand their balance health and take steps to mitigate fall risks. This innovation has the potential to fill a critical gap in the market by offering an accessible, cost-effective, and scalable approach to balance health. It could enhance scientific and technological understanding by leveraging new methods to measure and support balance. By addressing a widespread issue, this platform could meet a large market need in home and clinic-based healthcare, establishing a foundation for future commercial success while advancing health, mobility, and independence for a diverse population. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the challenge of integrating biomechanical balance metrics, such as center-of-pressure and sway data, with functional clinical assessments like the Mini-BESTest, which are commonly used to evaluate balance capabilities. Clinical assessments often rely on subjective ratings that can introduce bias and may fail to capture subtle improvements in individuals with higher balance abilities. On the other hand, biomechanical metrics provide objective, quantitative measures but lack a direct, clinically validated connection to functional outcomes. This project seeks to bridge this gap by investigating how biomechanical data from interactive balance activities can be aligned with clinically relevant measures. Using advanced machine learning techniques, the project will develop models to map biomechanical metrics to outcomes derived from the Mini-BESTest framework. These models will enable the creation of a clinically grounded balance score that reflects patient progress with greater specificity and sensitivity. The anticipated results include a robust framework for integrating biomechanical and clinical approaches, advancing balance assessment methodologies, and enhancing the accuracy of balance evaluations through data-driven tools. This work could provide clinicians with a scientifically validated method for tracking balance improvement and guiding interventions with greater precision. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
STELLAR ENGIINE
SBIR Phase I: Advanced PEALD Processing Technology using Nanosecond Pulse Power
Contact
439 KNOLL DR
Los Altos, CA 94024--4732
NSF Award
2451318 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) phase I project is in advancing semiconductor processing by providing cutting-edge technology to produce super thin coatings for advanced chips manufacturing. This technology uses tiniest controlled bursts of electricity to significantly enhance coating quality, eliminate processing steps, lowering costs, and reducing energy usage. The product will consist of a unique type of power generator, new to semiconductor processing, integrated to an applicator for energizing the gases used in the coating process. The product protected by strong patents and trade secrets will be sold to leading semiconductor process equipment companies for use on their existing systems, with company?s product market opportunity projected to be $200 million in year three of production. Beyond this first thin coating application, the technology can be extended to other advanced semiconductor applications, further growing company?s market opportunity to over $500M. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the limitations of current plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition to cost-effectively deposit hydrogen free, conformal oxide and nitride films. A new solution to semiconductor plasma processing is proposed using an array of micro-plasma dielectric barrier discharge applicators, powered by nanosecond scale high voltage pulses, capable of breaking down non-hydrogen containing reactants such as nitrogen thus avoiding hydrogen containing reactants such as ammonia, and achieve improved film conformality by eliminating ion bias induced anisotropic deposition. Research objectives are, firstly, characterize set of 5 applicators over a range of physical electrode configurations, gas types, flow rates and pressure, and electrical pulse parameters, to determine optimum conditions for producing desired radicals and active species, whilst avoiding undesirable plasma breakdown regimes. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and spectrometry will be used to measure gas breakdown effectiveness, with photoresist removal by oxygen used to determine surface reaction rates. Secondly, data gathered from an existing nanosecond high voltage pulsed generator will define Phase 2 generator specifications. Thirdly, 75 mm diameter ceramic-metal arrays containing multiple applicators, capable of scale up to 300 mm wafer processing size, will be tested. Data will be basis of seeking PEALD demonstration on customer?s test chambers. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
SUBMARINE SCIENTIFIC LLC
SBIR Phase I: Automatically Configurable Graphical Processing Unit Optimized Ocean Carbon Modeling Platform
Contact
4184 CESAR CHAVEZ ST
San Francisco, CA 94131--1921
NSF Award
2507717 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$294,759
Start / end date
05/01/2025 – 04/30/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to enhance trust, transparency, and accuracy in the emerging marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR) industry by developing a scientifically rigorous ocean modeling platform that is easy to use. Accurate verification of carbon removal is critical for generating high-integrity carbon credits, which are essential for building a credible carbon market. This project will help standardize and automate the verification process, reducing costs for project developers and lowering barriers to entry across the mCDR sector. By ensuring that carbon credit reflects true, measurable carbon removal, the platform will foster confidence among investors, verifiers, and policymakers, encouraging greater market participation and sustainable growth. As the mCDR sector scales, this project has the potential to drive job creation in environmental science, data technology, and sustainable marine industries, contributing to U.S. tax revenue and economic resilience. In addition to supporting the development of a trustworthy and effective carbon removal industry, this project will help protect marine ecosystems, and strengthen coastal economies, contributing to long-term societal and environmental well-being. This project proposes the development of an advanced ocean modeling platform that integrates Graphical Processing Unit (GPU)-optimized modeling software with artificial intelligence (AI) tools to automate the configuration, validation, and analysis of regional ocean models for marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR). The core innovation lies in leveraging Oceananigans, a cutting-edge ocean simulation framework, and integrating it with AI-driven automation to streamline traditionally complex modeling workflows. This approach aims to make high-resolution, scientifically rigorous ocean modeling easy to use by non-expert users. Key research objectives include automating the retrieval and processing of ocean data, developing tools for automated model validation, and testing the feasibility of real-time adaptive domain boundaries to enhance computational efficiency. The project will also explore using large language models (LLMs) to simplify model setup and gradient-based methods for optimizing mCDR project parameters and uncertainty quantification. If successful, this work will significantly reduce the cost and complexity of ocean modeling, providing a scalable solution to support the verification and reporting of carbon removal in the emerging mCDR sector. The outcome will be a more efficient, user-friendly modeling platform that can be applied to a wide range of marine environmental challenges. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
SYNTHETIC VECTOR DESIGNS, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Directed evolution of site-specific bacterial transposase genes to alter specificity and efficiency of insertion of large DNA segments into restorable gene fusions
Contact
4340 DUNCAN AVE STE 252
Saint Louis, MO 63110--1110
NSF Award
2234291 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,999
Start / end date
08/01/2023 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be to develop methods to facilitate the efficient, reproducible insertion of large DNA segments into stable locations on bacterial vectors, viral and non-viral shuttle vectors, and the chromosomes of prokaryotic and eukaryotic host cells comprising novel target sequences plus helper and donor vectors that could impact many areas of synthetic biology. Directed evolution experiments will be carried out to recover genes encoding bacterial transposase variants that have altered specificity or increased efficiency of transposition, compared to those recovered by products encoded by the wild-type transposase genes. Homologues of the bacterial target site will be used to recover genes encoding variant transposases that should function efficiently in eukaryotic cells. Modified helper and donor vectors will also be constructed with promoters and genes having optimized codon preferences to facilitate the efficient, direct generation of composite vectors harbored in eukaryotic cells, and eventually, the efficient, reproducible generation of cells harboring large DNA insertions at one or more specific stable sites within a host cell chromosome.
The proposed project will exploit the key properties of the bacterial Tn7 transposon system for much broader utilization in many aspects of systems biology. Genes encoding transposases and accessory proteins will be mutagenized to alter the specificity and enhance the efficiency of insertion events in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. This platform could have advantages over other gene transfer approaches by allowing stable, precise insertion events without the subsequent remobilization or the creation of indels/rearrangements at the target site. The ability to move large segments of DNA in such a manner would benefit many fields of synthetic biology.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.SYZYGY OPTICS LLC
STTR Phase I: Curved Volume Phase Holographic Gratings: Efficient and High-Resolution Hyperspectral Imaging
Contact
536 MEADOW RUN
Chapel Hill, NC 27517--8022
NSF Award
2233096 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/15/2023 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Ben Schrag
Errata
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Abstract
This Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I project will develop a completely new class of spectrometer, the spherical transmission grating spectrometer (STGS), which utilizes curved volume phase holographic (VPH) gratings coupled with a spherical mirror to deliver aberration-corrected spectral images over the full field of view. The market is projected to reach $35.8 billion by 2026, at an annual growth rate of 18.4%. End-users range from astronomy to agriculture, manufactures, and third-party integrators (e.g., drone companies). Current technologies are too costly or do not possess the size, weight, and power (SWAP) properties required for practical value delivery. Furthermore, in low light conditions or in applications that require aberration-free high-resolution images (e.g., defense-based imaging), current technologies on the market cannot meet customer requirements. This solution promises to solve these issues. Agriculture and defense are the two leading market applications and represent the primary entry points for this technology.
The intellectual merit of this project will enable a transformation in the spectroscopy and the hyperspectral imaging (HSI) market by enabling low-cost, superior image quality spectrographs. The product will be a novel spherical transmission grating spectrometer (STGS) for hyperspectral imaging. Preliminary STGS designs, invented in a collaboration with astronomers at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and Southern African Large Telescope employ a combination of a spherical mirror and a spherically-curved transmission grating to deliver fully aberration-corrected spectral images with no field distortion. Challenges to their production are the design, fabrication, and testing of this spherical volume phase holographic (VPH) grating. These spectrographs represent a new paradigm in optical spectrometer design, and the team has developed a suite of STGS designs that will allow them to build a new generation of distortion and aberration free spectrographs that are simple, small, and lightweight. The key objectives for this project are: 1) to develop a curved grating manufacturing processes to match design and market goals, 2) to design and fabricate a prototype testbed HSI for design validation and high-throughput quality testing, and 3) to create finalized optical designs for STGSs in the F/2 to F/2.5 range.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.T33 DENTAL, INC.
SBIR Phase I: A Platform for Penetrative Drug Delivery to Teeth
Contact
100 MEMORIAL DR APT 11-1C
Cambridge, MA 02142--1332
NSF Award
2423532 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
01/15/2025 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a novel medical device and dental approach for enabling rapid and more effective dental treatments by improving the permeability of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics into teeth. The system aims to augment the delivery of specific compounds for treating tooth decay resulting in over 175 million cavities drilled and filled and $45 billion costs per year in the US, with nearly 15 million requiring root canal therapy resulting in $15 billion costs to remove the underlying infection which topical or systemic antibiotics are unable to effectively treat. In the short term, the system aims to provide an augmentative method for the cosmetic dentistry market by improving teeth whitening treatments currently performed by nearly 80% of Americans, a $7 billion market when combining both the professional and over-the-counter whitening treatment markets. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project seeks to validate a novel device and approach for controlling electrically-mediated electrokinetic flow for enhancing the delivery of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics into whole human teeth. The novel system is based on experimental results demonstrating electrical voltage, current, time of application, pressure, with an additive for maintaining conductivity improves permeability of specific chemical formulations. These parameters will be validated on the speed and depth of delivery and their effects characterized using several commonly topically applied dental agents including fluoride and hydrogen peroxide bleach. Isolated invitro testing will then be completed to expand the potential for several relevant molecules including antimicrobial and regenerative agents. A prototype device will then be fabricated for enabling first in-human testing at a latter stage. The successful completion of this project therefore aims to demonstrate the technical feasibility of a novel approach for enabling deeper and more rapid delivery of several clinically relevant molecules into human teeth in an invitro setting, and completion of a prototype device suitable for experimental use. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
TALK COACHES INC
SBIR Phase I: AI-Enhanced Feedback to Accelerate Literacy, Creativity, and Student Engagement
Contact
515 CRYSTAL CREEK DR
Austin, TX 78746--4727
NSF Award
2507435 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will significantly improve student literacy and creativity skills through our AI powered feedback system for creativity and ultimately prepare our students in the US for future job challenges. Inspire Reading will transform English language learning experience for students in grades 3-8, leading to greater impact on students' reading and writing skills. There are hundreds of products in the market but none of them have addressed the poor reading and writing outcomes we are seeing through national testing like NAEP with only 33% of students being proficient in 4th grade. Through providing immediate AI-powered feedback on reading comprehension, writing and creativity skills, Inspire Reading will help prepare students for future challenges and the workforce. Positioned at the intersection of educational technology, cognitive science, and AI-driven assessment, Inspire Reading targets the $8 billion reading intervention market. By year three we aim to reach 500,000 students. The AI Feedback for Creativity (AIFC) auto feedback system, alignment to state standards, and focus on creativity provide a durable competitive advantage, making it a key driver of commercial success in the fast-growing AI-powered learning market with the goal of improving literacy for the two-thirds of the nation's 4th- and 8th-grade students scoring below levels of proficiency. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project centers on the development of an AI-powered feedback system for creativity (AIFC) designed to enhance literacy and creative thinking skills within the context of ELA learning. This addresses the pressing need for improved reading and writing outcomes as highlighted by national assessments. The technical challenges lie in fine-tuning and prompt engineering Large Language Models (LLMs) to accurately evaluate and provide constructive feedback on creative writing across diverse ELA activities, age groups, and proficiency levels. The research objectives include developing and validating proprietary AI algorithms aligned to the unique literacy fluency, comprehension, and creativity-based project while ensuring data integrity and privacy and conducting field data collection and usability studies. The anticipated technical results include a robust AI feedback system capable of providing real-time, personalized feedback that fosters both creativity and literacy skills, thereby enhancing ELA education through improved literacy rates and improving long-term student outcomes. The primary technical risks stem from fine-tuning and prompt engineering challenges unique to maintaining educationally valid and reliable outcomes, to ensure model effectiveness across varying ELA standards, age groups, and proficiency levels. These risks will be mitigated through extensive research, iterative development, and rigorous evaluation to ensure the AI model's efficacy and reliability. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
TAU OPTICS INC.
STTR Phase I: Development of Compact, High-Precision Volume Grating-Based Spectrometers
Contact
3139 CAMBRIA CT
Orlando, FL 32825--7114
NSF Award
2507882 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 06/30/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial impacts of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project involve developing a new technology for analyzing light spectrum with small and affordable device. Traditional spectrometers, which are used to study light for applications like health monitoring and environmental testing, are often large, expensive, and shock sensitive. These typically rely on special components called surface gratings, which make it difficult to create compact and affordable spectrometers without sacrificing the accuracy. This project introduces a new spectrometer design with smaller size and lower complexity while maintaining high precision. By making light spectral analysis more accessible and portable, this technology could benefit many industries like healthcare and agriculture. This design can ultimately be built directly into semiconductor chips. This would bring highly precise light analysis to gadgets like smartphones, wearable health monitors, and other consumer electronics. This can create a wide range of new applications, from personal health tracking to food safety testing. This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project focuses on the development of a proof-of-principle prototype for a high-precision spectrometer based on rotated chirped Bragg gratings (r-CBGs). The project will focus on enhancing the performance of r-CBGs, including broadening the operational bandwidth and improving spectral resolution to match industry standards for color measurements and Raman spectroscopy. This entails enabling on-demand control over internal parameters of r-CBGs, such as refractive index contrast and chirp rate, to achieve target performance specifications, consequently, modifying the holographic recording mechanism to produce r-CBGs with desired specifications. The STTR project will develop a theoretical model to comprehensively study light diffraction within an r-CBG, which will be crucial for optimizing the design of the prototype, including the light coupling mechanism, placement geometry of the r-CBG and the placement of the detector. The anticipated technical results will serve as a validation of the r-CBG-based spectrometer? capabilities in both performance and compactness. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
TEARDX, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Point-of-Care Detection of HSV-1 Keratitis using Minimally Invasive Ocular Inserts
Contact
15 W 61ST ST APT 21A
New York, NY 10023--0183
NSF Award
2423595 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to develop a cost-effective, rapid point-of-care diagnostic test to differentiate ocular herpes infections from other types of eye infections. Ocular herpes is the leading cause of infectious blindness in the United States. Current diagnostic methods are often inaccurate and cumbersome, leading to frequent misdiagnoses and inappropriate treatments that exacerbate symptoms and cause further ocular damage. A rapid and minimally invasive ocular herpes test would ensure patients receive proper treatment, improve patient outcomes, and reduce total healthcare costs associated with misdiagnosis. With approximately 7 million annual visits to eye specialists, urgent care centers, and primary care physicians for eye infections potentially linked to ocular herpes, this test holds substantial commercial potential. By equipping clinicians with an effective tool to quickly screen for the herpes virus and monitor recurrent cases, the test addresses a crucial need. Additionally, this project will lay the groundwork for developing further point-of-care tests to accurately diagnose other major causes of infectious blindness.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will focus on creating a point-of-care diagnostic test for eye specialists and urgent care clinicians to quickly and accurately identify ocular herpes infections. This project will consist of the development, fabrication, and analysis of an ocular sampling tool and point-of-care assay to detect active herpes infections. The objectives of this project are to (i) reformat a previously developed laboratory test that has successfully detected ocular herpes infections in animal models into a user-friendly, accurate diagnostic tool suitable for urgent care settings, (ii) optimize the test to meet the necessary detection limits required for high diagnostic accuracy, and (iii) validate the test can accurately detect active herpes infections in mice models over the typical infection timeline. If successful, the project will yield the first rapid diagnostic test prototype capable of accurately detecting ocular herpes infections at the point of care.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.TERRA AI, INC
SBIR Phase I: AI Systems and Methods for Critical Natural Resource Development
Contact
440 N WOLFE RD # 148
Sunnyvale, CA 94085--3869
NSF Award
2415734 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,361
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Parvathi Chundi
Peter Atherton
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be to accelerate the development of mineral and energy resources critical to the US economy and electrification of global energy. Improved mineral targeting and screening will increase the effectiveness of each dollar spent on exploration for copper, nickel, cobalt, and critical rare-earth minerals. More effective drill-targeting can shorten the time required to measure a deposit by several years, helping to get critical supply into the market sooner. Applying AI to the design of carbon storage and geothermal reservoirs will help generate more energy and store more CO2 while ensuring critical safety requirements can be met with confidence.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will advance the capabilities of several key AI methods to address challenges for the geosciences and natural resources. Generative and autonomous decision-making AI have radically changed several important industries from vehicles to biotechnology. They have the potential to do the same for the geosciences and industries like materials and energy by making it easier to interpret large, high dimensional data and design complex systems for underground resources. These methods, however, cannot be directly applied without modifications to address the size of geological problems and the significant diversity of data and relatively small amount available. The company?s approach focuses on improving neural network architecture to improve sample efficiency and to utilize foundation model approaches to reduce training data volume requirements. The company anticipates that this research will result in a class of state-of-the-art AI methods for geological resources and scientific applications.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.TERRAFERMA FOODS, INC.
SBIR Phase I: A novel platform for accelerated strain development for precision fermentation
Contact
953 INDIANA ST
San Francisco, CA 94107--3007
NSF Award
2429344 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
01/15/2025 – 12/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a food protein production platform aimed at reducing the environmental impact of livestock farming. Current livestock farming practices have a significant negative impact on the environment, human health, and sustainability, contributing 15% of human-driven greenhouse gas emissions and consuming one-third of all agricultural water and land for livestock feed crops. Additional negative consequences of animal agriculture include pesticide runoff, eutrophication, water resource contamination, and the propagation of antibiotic resistance. This project seeks to mitigate these effects by enhancing an alternative means of food production, precision fermentation, or the process of using microbial hosts as cellular factories for the production of specific proteins. The platform proposed in this project will enhance precision fermentation methods by accelerating the development of new strains, enabling the high-yield production of a range of food proteins. The proposed project leverages machine learning and experimental biology to accelerate the industrial-scale production of animal protein in yeast. The current discovery and development process for yeast production strains is expensive (>$50 million) and slow (6-8 years), constrained by the limitations of existing technology in predicting strain performance. The proposed platform overcomes this limitation using a high-throughput approach for screening millions of signal sequences and target protein combinations, and a novel application of machine learning for the rapid prediction and design of signal sequences with high secretion potential. The insights derived from these analyses may guide genetic engineering efforts for the development of custom, optimized, and efficient strains for specific applications in precision fermentation. This project is aimed at demonstrating the feasibility of this approach by 1) developing a high-throughput sequence screen for high-expression proteins and signal peptides, 2) training an artificial intelligence model to predict high-performing signal peptides and signal peptide-target protein pairs, and 3) constructing high-yield strains. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
TERRAFORMA CARBON LLC
SBIR Phase I: Geologic Biosolid Sequestration using Preexisting Wastewater Disposal Wells
Contact
119 S BURROWES ST
State College, PA 16801--3864
NSF Award
2423575 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is in creating a new carbon sequestration method that requires significantly less energy, water, land use, and cost per ton of carbon removed. By addressing technical challenges posed by geologically sequestering biowastes such as human biosolids and agricultural manure, this project attempts to turn a waste problem into a revenue opportunity that also mitigates climate change. It is not yet known if geologic biowaste sequestration can be performed safely, and this lack of known feasibility keeps regulation from being introduced to allow it to be generally permitted. The commercial impact of the project, however, is significant. Current carbon removal credits cost over $800/ton. The proposed project could pave the way to removal of as much as 7 billion tons of CO2e in biowastes alone each year at costs as low as $10 - $20/ton. The technology has the potential to create about 400,000 high-quality jobs in the US and save local governments almost $1 billion in wastewater treatment costs per year that could be reallocated for additional social benefits.
This project aims to overcome the high-risk technical challenges associated with commissioning new injection well classes, or modifying existing ones, that are focused on geologic sequestration of biowastes. The goal is to demonstrate that biowastes can be injected into the subsurface safely without inducing earthquakes, clogging reservoirs, or creating unsafe pressure buildup. Critically, it will also determine that over long periods, microbially produced greenhouse gases (CO2, methane, and nitrous oxides) emitted from the biosolids do not migrate out of the reservoir and into overlying freshwater aquifers. Other contaminants including bacteria, toxins, and other harmful chemicals will also be monitored to show that they remain permanently sequestered. Furthermore, there is currently no credible protocol for generating carbon removal credits for biowaste sequestration. This project could develop scientific basis for carbon accounting?including CO2e from methane and nitrous oxides?that generates accurate removal and offsetting credits. Thus, the project will attempt to address the unknowns associated with storing solid carbon in the subsurface and the associated carbon accounting.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.THERACEA PHARMA LC
SBIR Phase I: Development of 18F-radiotracer kits for detection of biomarkers by Positron Emission Tomography
Contact
6196 N CORTE SAN BELLA
Tucson, AZ 85741--3691
NSF Award
2423679 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact and commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project extend to several key areas. Firstly, it aims to enhance the quality of healthcare and improve the health outcomes of the American public by offering cutting-edge diagnostic tools for the detection and assessment of various diseases. These advanced diagnostics will provide clinicians with precise and reliable information, thereby improving disease management and patient care. Secondly, the project will create valuable opportunities to train a skilled STEM workforce in the United States. By hiring individuals with expertise in chemistry and biology, it will contribute to the advancement of scientific frontiers and support participation in the technology-driven economy. Thirdly, the project fosters the integration of research through collaboration between industry and academia. By leveraging the expertise of non-profit research institutions, it will expand the practical applications of scientific discoveries to industry settings. Lastly, the development of a globally demanded product is expected to enhance the economic competitiveness of the United States on the international stage.
This Small Business Innovation Research SBIR Phase I project focuses on harnessing recent advancements in the basic sciences, particularly in chemistry and biology, to design innovative diagnostic products. These products have applications in both preclinical research and clinical diagnostics, particularly in the field of disease detection and treatment. The proposed diagnostic agents, designed for use with Positron Emission Tomography (PET), will assist researchers and physicians specializing in oncology. These tools will enable more precise selection of appropriate therapies for cancer patients, providing critical data on the early assessment of immunotherapy, which is considered a breakthrough treatment in oncology. The project not only advances scientific knowledge and techniques but also addresses technical challenges in developing novel PET diagnostic agents. A multidisciplinary team, renowned for their expertise in nuclear chemistry, medical imaging, and immunology, is collaborating to ensure the successful completion of the project?s objectives. Their combined efforts will propel the development of these innovative products and technologies, ultimately facilitating their use in human healthcare.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.THERAFLUOR, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Research and Development of a Multi-mode Instrument for Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment in Companion Animals
Contact
4023 NE HANCOCK ST
Portland, OR 97212--5324
NSF Award
2335292 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,999
Start / end date
07/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Ed Chinchoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is a novel therapeutic approach for detecting and treating cancer in companion animals. The project aims to develop a medical instrument when utilized with a novel proprietary molecular therapeutic compound, will visualize, target and effectively eliminate cancerous cells. The system aims to become a standard approach for the $3B companion pet cancer diagnostics and treatment annual market and create a new diagnostic and therapeutic approach.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a low-cost instrument for use in standard veterinary clinics that will visualize and monitor the delivery and effectiveness of the photosensitive compound molecule silicon naphthalocyanine nanoparticle (SiNc-NP), for targeting and eliminating cancer cells in an animal model. Preliminary invitro evidence indicates SiNc-NP differentiates cancerous tissue from non-cancerous, and can identify and kill the cancerous tissue upon an evoked response. This project proposes to yield a cost effective, manufacturable and robust multimodal instrument enabling veterinarians to utilize SiNc-NP as a cancer treatment in a standard clinic. The technology development to be completed during this phase includes integration of light optics, mechanical and electronics design, and software engineering to develop an instrument capable of imaging both the visible spectrum (400-700nm) and near infrared (~800nm) and present the user with an integrated and aligned single video stream that differentiates cancerous and non-cancerous tissues. The instrument also directs high intensity radiation onto the SiNc-enabled cancerous tissue and measure the tissue temperature to indicate when the temperature and exceeded the targeted temperature (5-50C) for the minimum duration (~>10 minutes) sufficient for killing the cancerous tissue.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.THERAPEUTIC BANDAGE PRODUCTS LLC
SBIR Phase I: Microneedle Bandage for Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Contact
7 GRANGE DR
Willington, CT 06279--2214
NSF Award
2451089 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/01/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is an advanced wound care product that speeds healing of diabetic foot ulcers. These ulcers afflict millions of Americans, causing pain, loss of mobility, amputations, and potentially life-threatening infections. The average annual expenditure for diabetic foot care is $8,659 per patient resulting in cumulative costs of $9 to $13 billion in the United States alone. Foot ulceration often progresses to chronic infection, osteitis, and severe gangrene, resulting in over 100,000 amputations per year. The patented microneedle technology to be developed has significant commercial potential as a low-cost alternative for treating stalled wounds. By rapidly clearing the infections that block proper wound healing, the product will garner significant market share based on its ability to speed healing. The initial target market will generate approximately $4.2 M per year and is expected to accelerate rapidly when implemented nationwide. This will further increase as the product is adopted into adjacent markets. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop an advanced wound care product that disinfects diabetic foot ulcers using a patented microneedle patch design that delivers three potent therapeutic agents, each of which participates in different aspects of wound healing. These agents are time-released to further enhance their function. Once the microneedle patch is applied to a recently debrided diabetic foot ulcer, a powerful antibiotic will be released to establish a bacterial killing zone in the dermal tissue of the wound. A second agent will prevent the re-formation of a bacterial biofilm, and a third agent known as a chemokine will attract and activate white blood cells to rapidly clean-up the infected area and kill any residual bacteria. Once the microneedle tips dissolve, a channel will open which facilitates wound drainage. Initial work will be performed using skin tissue cultures, followed by testing using diabetic pigs. The microneedles are expected to kill the bacteria including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). It will also prevent any surviving bacteria from forming biofilms, and mop-up any remaining bacteria by activating the innate immune system. Once these wounds have been disinfected the wound will resume normal healing over the ensuing weeks. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
TISSUEFORM, INC.
SBIR Phase I: NatruGel: Next-Generation and Granular Tissue Bioinks for 3D Bioprinting
Contact
2147 KINCAID PL
Boulder, CO 80304--1900
NSF Award
2423489 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,822
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Henry Ahn
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project achieves several NSF broader impacts outcomes. First, it will advance a new granulated bioink technology to advance the rapidly growing 3D cell culture, 3D bioprinting and organ-on-chip markets, and position the United States to maintain and increase economic competitiveness in these markets on a global stage. Second, the proposed granulated bioink library will accelerate healthcare developments in drug discovery by providing realistic 3D tissue models for human disease, health, and toxicity, thereby improving the screening of drug candidates that may succeed in human trials. Finally, the team is committed to hiring and maintaining a diverse group of employees at all levels of the company and is committed to prioritizing partnerships with companies that follow the same philosophy.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to provide new materials and knowledge to the extrusion bioprinting and 3D cell culture community, including (1) first-of-its-kind bioinks with granulated structure based on human tissue, (2) foundational evidence linking gene activation of cells to the microenvironment defined by granulated bioinks, and (3) a platform technology to more broadly develop tissue and disease models, miniaturized organ systems, or 3D cell culture to benefit drug discovery. Structural complexity and hierarchy are hallmarks of tissues of the body. For most tissues, the extracellular matrix is organized into specific domains, together with specialized cells and signaling molecules that define tissue-specific and unique structure-function relationships. Unfortunately, few realistic models of tissue mimics, and therefore realistic human disease models are available, and current 3D bioprinting materials and technologies are limited in their ability to mimic tissue structural complexity and hierarchy. This proposal will develop a library of human based bioinks for cartilage, bone, skin, liver, and kidney. Additionally, the work will overcome the hurdle of viable cell incorporation in granular bioinks, including maintaining viability throughout a print. This work will establish new granulated bioinks as foundational biomaterials to accelerate 3D bioprinting research, drug discovery, and organ-on-chip markets.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.TOWARD A BETTER HUMANITY, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Development of the Institutional Accountability Network
Contact
138 S DALLAS AVE
Pittsburgh, PA 15208--2624
NSF Award
2429361 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project is the successful addressing of longstanding institutional problems that have historically plagued American society. Data is clear in showing that American institutions perpetuate a myriad of problems that have not been successfully addressed (e.g., inequitable wages and access to resources; harmful climates including bullying and harassment, abuse of vulnerable populations). These problems impact the health and well-being of institutions and the individuals within them. These problems also have slowed the evolution of science and the ability of the United States and its citizens to thrive into the future. This project involves the creation of an online platform (informed by research in social and organizational psychology) that will address institutional problems on a far-reaching scale to promote a better humanity. This platform is aimed at eliminating destructive institutional behaviors, and aimed toward increasing integrity, equity, inclusion, community, and honor in institutions. It will promote institutional accountability and will address institutional problems with greater permanency than has been achieved in the past. It will positively impact all American outcomes (e.g., increase economic competitiveness and healthcare access, improve military institutions and national defense, improve educational institutions, and increase the happiness of all citizens).
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will create a novel multi-component platform that is designed to integrate and analyze data provided by users regarding their institutional affiliations. It will be designed (based in research in social and organizational psychology) to have a positive impact on humanity by addressing institutional problems that have not heretofore been addressed successfully. The deep technical complexity includes the creation of a multi-component and multi-function platform that has web-based applications and is scalable across multiple devices. The technology will incorporate complex statistical analysis of institutional data that is provided by users who are institutional members or affiliates. The technology will integrate and summarize accumulated data and will yield an institutional score that represents each institution. Constructing this platform will be a cyclic, iterative process: (1) The design stage involves considerations of human behavior, eliciting information from targeted users and then incorporating results into the design. (2) The implementation stage involves programming and rapid prototyping. (3) The evaluation stage involves empirical research aimed at usability testing. The technical goal is to create a human-centered software, service, and system that improves lives through the innovative technology and the societal issues it aims to address.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.TRIANGLE ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVE LLC
SBIR Phase I: Selective Ion Separation and Recovery for Wastewater Treatment
Contact
105 HOOD ST STE 3
Durham, NC 27701--3794
NSF Award
2432982 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Rajesh Mehta
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impacts of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project are in water management and resource recovery. Conventional wastewater treatment methods lack solute selectivity, leading to costly and energy-intensive inefficiencies and thwarting efforts to mitigate emerging contaminants. Waste streams may also contain valuable resources that could generate revenue if recovered. Further, improved water reuse operations are needed to address the growing demand for clean water. The technology presented in this project transcends the existing paradigm by offering a method for the highly selective separation of target solutes from water sources, creating multiple, distinct ionic products and substantially dewatering the feed source. In result, this technology may be used to simultaneously remove unwanted contaminants, recover valuable byproducts, and produce clean water for non-potable reuse. Various industries would benefit from this technology, but the ultimate aim is to lower the financial and infrastructural barriers to advanced treatment and reuse for economically disadvantaged communities. By significantly reducing the energy and maintenance costs of wastewater treatment and disposal, and enabling further cost-recuperation through resource recovery, this innovation is poised to greatly enhance the viability of water reuse, ensuring that all communities have equitable access to clean water and healthy ecosystems.
The core technical innovation of the proposed technology lies in its ability to selectively separate specific ions from heterogeneous waste or raw water sources; such selectivity does not exist in current water treatment practice. The technology functions through the strategic implementation of energy-efficient electrochemical processes. This approach surpasses existing treatment conventions by not only performing selective exclusion, but by simultaneously generating four distinct, highly concentrated product streams that are differentiated by ion charge and valence, as well as an additional clean water stream that emerges during product concentration. This NSF SBIR Phase I project will focus on three main tasks: optimizing technical design for maximum solute selectivity and concentration, evaluating separation performance with representative wastewaters from three key industries, and scaling up the system for future pilot testing. Experimentation will validate total concentration and dewatering capacities, but initial estimates suggest products may be concentrated up to 10x their starting values and feed volume may be reduced by up to 88%. Evaluation with different waste effluents will determine the technology?s adaptability and marketability in different contexts. The successful completion of Phase I testing will lay the foundation for further commercial development of this innovative concept.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.UBIQUITX, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Chimeric Ligands for Induced Proximity (CLIPs) for Targeted Proteome Editing
Contact
160 W 87TH ST
New York, NY 10024--2934
NSF Award
2405853 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
07/15/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be to foster the economic competitiveness of the United States, advance the health and welfare of the American pubic and enhance partnerships between academia and industry. Drug discovery is hindered by high costs and lengthy development time, with costs often passed onto consumers. To alleviate these burdens, the private sector has invested in new research to discover faster, more cost-effective drug development methods. The platform in this Phase I effort may offer an answer to drug discovery challenges through rapid and inexpensive development of post-translational protein-editing therapeutics. The commercialization of the technology detailed here also may support the drug discovery field and advance America?s influence in the pharmaceutical production space, specifically for the generation of a novel therapy promoting liver regeneration in alcoholic hepatitis. The platform may also advance the health of Americans by offering a method to program the localization and activation of disease-relevant proteins currently considered undruggable and advancing therapeutics for alcoholic hepatitis as an initial focus. Further, the protein-editing platform was developed by members with pharmaceutical industry background as well as academic professions, thus demonstrating the importance of partnerships across these sectors.
The proposed project will advance a programmable, modular therapeutic platform for the direct modification of proteins of interest (POIs) via artificial intelligence, protein engineering and mRNA as a therapeutic entity. Proteins are a logical avenue for the development of novel therapies, but the current drug discovery pipeline requires targeting proteins with drug binding pockets and involves extensive, time-consuming screening to identify lead candidates. The platform described here leverages engineered enzymes to recognize and edit POIs by removing/installing post-translational modifications rapidly and precisely. The protein editors, chimeric ligands for induced proximity (CLIPs), feature a targeted recognition domain and protein modification enzyme component tailored to the POI. Following successful demonstration of targeted degradation of specific CLIPs in previous studies, the platform has also successfully achieved target POI stabilization, demonstrating platform modularity. This Phase I project seeks to expand the applications of the platform by designing and implementing CLIPs for other post-translational modifications by conjugating computationally derived peptides to various enzymes targeted to the POI. In vivo target engagement studies will also be conducted on CLIPs generated to extend the platform and demonstrate applicability in stabilizing ?-catenin and subsequently initiating liver regeneration.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ULTINAT, INC.
SBIR Phase I: Biodegradable Microencapsulation for Agrochemicals
Contact
134 GRAHAM RD APT 2B6
Ithaca, NY 14850--1129
NSF Award
2449802 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$305,000
Start / end date
04/15/2025 – 03/31/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to develop biodegradable microencapsulation technology for agrochemicals. Microencapsulation technology is used for dispersion and controlled-delivery in certain agrochemicals. However, traditional microencapsulation materials in these products made from non-biodegradable polymers can cause microplastic pollution, which has become a critical environmental concern. The agrochemical sector has an urgent need for new microencapsulation technology with biodegradable materials. This project explores using plant-based materials to replace the plastic-based materials in traditional process, and expands the capability to encapsulate a broader range of agrochemicals with different properties. Compared to other emerging solutions, the proposed technology provides competitive cost and environmentally-friendly procedure. In addition to meeting the regulatory requirement, it can benefit a large potential market by reducing the degradation and runoff of agrochemicals in the field to ensure high efficiency. By using microencapsulation to extend the retention time and enable the slow-release process, the proposed technology can make more effective use of agrochemicals while substantially mitigating their impact. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project involves creating microencapsulation methods with plant-based biodegradable materials to encapsulate both hydrophobic and hydrophilic agrochemical ingredients. Conventional technologies for encapsulating oil-based ingredients use interfacial polymerization mechanism. Given that a limited number of chemical reactions can form a polymer layer at water/oil interface, the resulting shell materials are prevalently non-biodegradable polymers. The proposed technology is based on a new mechanism with an amphiphilic polymer crosslinked in situ to form the shell. The materials are derived from natural materials such as polysaccharides and fatty acids that have intrinsic biodegradability. To encapsulate hydrophilic compounds, this project will explore bilayer shell structure and coacervation methods. The encapsulation will be based on the factors of electrical charge, polarity or steric effect of the molecules. In order to control the release profile, the thickness of the shell will be adjusted by tuning the materials ratio and polymer structure. The stability of the microcapsule materials will be studied to ensure adequate shelf life. This project provides new scientific insights to develop microencapsulation technology with natural materials, with direct impact to address critical challenges for current agrochemical industry. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
ULTROPIA CORP
SBIR Phase I: Development of a Modular Ultrasound Transducer Array for Efficient Washing and Drying of Textiles
Contact
10015 LAKE CITY WAY NE
Seattle, WA 98125--7773
NSF Award
2335611 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,831
Start / end date
08/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Ben Schrag
Errata
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Abstract
This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project focuses on the development and qualification of a modular ultrasound transducer used for both cleaning and drying textiles to enhance the energy efficiency, performance, and volume of throughput for commercial laundry systems. The 2022 San Diego Regional Decarbonization Framework?s Technical Report states, ?Commercial laundry systems face higher barriers to the adoption of electric options than do residential. Running many large electric dryers, as in a laundromat, could require substantial upgrades to a building?s electrical system if it is transitioning from gas equipment. The slower speed of heat pump dryers is also more of a challenge in throughput-limited commercial laundry systems than in residential applications?. This project aims to produce an easily integrable laundry-specific ultrasound array to support the electrification of the $5.3 billion commercial laundry market. The benefits align with laundry facility operators' needs by reducing energy costs by as much 80% and improving processing times by as much as 50%. The resulting cost savings for facilities helps promote the use of reusable linens and shifts demand from disposables.
The intellectual merit of this project includes a demonstration of a robust, highly efficient ultrasound transducer that easily integrates into arrays for use in laundry equipment. State-of-the-art laundry systems rely on mechanical agitation and evaporative drying. Power ultrasound enables efficient energy transfer for the washing and drying processes, reducing energy usage by as much as 80% while increasing linen throughput. The primary deliverable for Phase 1 is a proof of concept for a linen-specific ultrasound transducer array for commercial laundry that performs the task rapidly and significantly reduces energy usage. The proprietary design employed in this work enables a low-cost, durable, and configurable method of integrating ultrasound into commercial laundry processing equipment. These benefits ultimately reduce processing time and energy costs for operators. The key objectives for this project are: 1) manufacturing, refining, and validating the washing subsystem via standardized tests, 2) adding drying functionality to the array and independently validating the drying performance of the fabricated transducers; and 3) verification of the performance of the combined subsystems for both washing and drying, including an evaluation of the energy efficiency and processing time in lab-scale tests.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.UNLAB LLC
SBIR Phase I: Fluctuation Flow Propulsion
Contact
5407 REYNOLDS ST
Savannah, GA 31405--5480
NSF Award
2432831 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
08/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Anna Brady-Estevez
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact/commercial potential of this Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project is based on a new type of space vehicle propulsion (the initial product will be a reaction control system) that operates with fluctuation flow based propulsion and has a long operation lifetime with a compact and lightweight form factor. It enables orders of magnitude greater maneuver capability than current state-of-the-art electric or chemical propulsion. Space vehicles will be able to operate longer on station and will have the freedom to change inclinations and altitudes to optimize mission performance. It will significantly increase the US leadership in the space industry, speeding the deployment of space-based services that will greatly help society and the American public. Fluctuation flow propulsion supports the national defense of the United States by enabling rapid redeployment and tasking of space assets to respond to current requirements and potential threats. The breakthrough improvement in propulsion performance will also enable efficient and high-speed interplanetary travel, opening opportunities for deep space exploration missions, asteroid mining ventures, and scientific expeditions. The innovation will enhance our understanding of how quantum vacuum fluctuations interact with and can be controlled by asymmetric nanostructures and potentials.
This SBIR Phase I project proposes to develop a new type of propulsion based on the motive forces predicted to be generated from the interaction between quantum vacuum fluctuations and asymmetric nanostructures and potentials such are found in Resonant Tunneling Diodes. Asymmetric nanostructure devices will be fabricated on micron-scale cantilevers. The cantilevers will be deflected by the force generated. The amount of defection will be measured using white-light interferometry and the associated force will be determined. A parametric series of device configurations will be measured, and steps will be taken to ensure that that there are no outside factors (such as vibrational, thermal, and electromagnetic effects) influencing the results. The devices will be measured in both up and down orientations which will change the direction of the force, making it readily discernible from other factors and the influence of gravity. The proposed experiments will be the first measurements of vacuum fluctuation based motive forces. The experimental results will enhance our understanding of the quantum vacuum and will be the first-time broken symmetry has been proven to control vacuum fluctuation behavior.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.VARIABLES MACHINES COMPANY
SBIR Phase I: Variable Machines
Contact
34 MADISON ST
Somerville, MA 02143--1209
NSF Award
2415303 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,579
Start / end date
08/15/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to drastically reduce the cost, lead time, and material waste associated with large format additive manufacturing. This is achieved through the development of a reconfigurable print bed composed of an array of linear actuators, which can be individually adjusted in height thereby eliminating the need for a printed support structure. Additive manufacturing plays a critical role in R&D, and small volume manufacturing across the aerospace, renewable energy, automotive, and maritime industries. This technology will be instrumental in stirring innovation across these industries by enabling faster, more efficient rapid prototyping, and unlocking additive manufacturing as a viable mass manufacturing process. This technology is estimated to save manufacturers on the order of $1.1M in material costs per year, while requiring only 30% of the capital expenditure of existing large format additive manufacturing technologies.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project entails the design of a reconfigurable additive manufacturing print bed composed of an array of linear actuators, where each actuator is capable of sub 10 micron closed loop position feedback, and a pneumatic end effector capable of contact detection. A pair of these actuator arrays will be built, including the development of the embedded and front-end control software necessary to program them for a variety of tasks such as additive manufacturing and dynamic work holding. These actuator arrays will then be integrated with existing large format additive and subtractive manufacturing platforms, as well as an internally developed hybrid additive CNC tool. Particular research and development efforts will focus on early layer print process, where bridging between actuator end effectors will require non-planar slicing and control algorithms. Parts printed with this technology will be characterized to adjust process parameters and improve their final mechanical and thermal material properties.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.VITRO3D INC.
SBIR Phase I: Parallax Manufacturing
Contact
4800 OSAGE DR APT 26
Boulder, CO 80303--3932
NSF Award
2420671 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to commercialize parallax manufacturing, a new polymer structuring method with unprecedented speed, choice of materials and manufacturing integration. Parallax manufacturing fabricates parts over 100x faster than current layer-by-layer additive manufacturing and eliminates resin injection, reducing typical manufacturing time from hours to seconds. This prototype will be applied in the initial markets of orthodontics and electronic connectors. The former will result in better patient care at lower cost, while the latter will remove the cost barrier to low volume, high bandwidth electronics packaging. Beyond these initial markets, PM has the potential for broad societal impact via sustainable, point-of-use manufacturing of bespoke high-performance products in fields such as personalized medicine, automotive and aerospace. The PM machines will be sold directly to manufacturers to embed systems into their manufacturing lines. A recurring revenue model tailored to customers' high value needs will utilize Hardware as a service payment structures to maximize the commercial revenue potential.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project develops parallax manufacturing, a new form of contact-free additive manufacturing with record-breaking throughput, part size and resolution. PM rapidly moves an optical toolhead above a flat cartridge containing components in photo-sensitive resin, similar to computer numerically controlled milling. The light projected from the toolhead continuously changes shape to fabricate arbitrary objects around the components immersed within the resin. This unprecedented capability enables hybrid assemblies using high viscosity resins with critical properties such as low creep or flame retardance that cannot be fabricated by other AM techniques. The primary goal of this project is to answer critical questions that will enable an alpha product prototype. The technical hurdles to be addressed are 1) understanding the requirements on the optical toolhead, 2) developing optimal post-processing methods, and 3) establishing the limits of manufacturing speed. The first will be answered by incorporating the Zemax OpticStudio application programming interface into an existing parallax manufacturing modeling framework to simulate performance. The second will be answered by combining solvents of varying molecular weight, temperature, sonication, and optical flood exposure. The third will be answered by establishing how toolhead trajectory, resin sensitivity and object complexity influence fabrication time.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.VIVOSPHERE LLC
STTR Phase I: A Novel Tissue-Engineered Platform for Cancer Modeling and Drug Screening
Contact
540 DEVALL DR STE 101
Auburn, AL 36832--5986
NSF Award
2432785 – STTR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
05/01/2025 – 04/30/2026 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I project lies primarily in providing more effective drug screening models to eliminate ineffective drug candidates at an early stage. This may expedite the anti-cancer drug development process and reduce excessive expenses during clinical trials, which may increase the R&D returns for pharmaceutical companies and reduce healthcare costs for the customers. Furthermore, the sooner that an efficacious anti-cancer drug can be brought to the market, the sooner that patients can directly experience improved health outcomes. Cancer has been one of the leading causes of death in the United States and worldwide. Development of safer and more effective anticancer drugs can provide patients the opportunity for both a longer and potentially better quality of life. The proposed technology may also have immense value for pharmaceutical companies. In drug development, researchers screen numerous compounds to understand drug efficacy and discard ineffective ones. 90% of drug candidates in the pipeline will fail, in part due to poor clinical translation. The product aims to help companies eliminate inefficacious drugs earlier before millions of dollars are spent on their development. The proposed project will develop a more physiologically relevant, consistent, and versatile high-throughput screening (HTS) model to improve the translation rate between preclinical and clinical testing. Current drug screening approaches, which rely on two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures and three-dimensional (3D) cell aggregates, fail to provide the necessary microenvironmental cues for accurately replicating human patient drug responses. Therefore, the proposed technology has been developed, aiming to strike a balance between throughput, which includes scalability and uniformity, and physiological relevance, such as the ability to modulate key attributes of the tumor microenvironment. Utilizing a tissue engineering toolset, the 3D hydrogel scaffold offers a more physiologically pertinent microenvironment for cell growth and drug response. Meanwhile, a patented microfluidic cell encapsulation platform allows for the rapid and consistent production of the products, which are essential for HTS applications. This project aims to 1) test additional cancer cell types to demonstrate the platform's broad applicability, 2) explore cryopreservation to reduce response time, and 3) transition to commercially available GMP-grade hydrogel precursors to improve reproducibility and scalability. These R&D efforts are crucial for developing assay-ready kits and services for more efficient drug screening. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
VOLTA ENERGY INC
SBIR Phase I: A Novel High Voltage, All-Solution, All-Iron Flow Battery (AIFB) for Long-Duration Energy Storage
Contact
3 RUTLAND TER
Worcester, MA 01609--1659
NSF Award
2421998 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Mara Schindelholz
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is the potential development of a cost-effective and long-lasting all-iron flow battery (AIFB) suitable for long-duration energy storage (LDES). This type of battery is needed to facilitate the world-wide transition from a grid principally powered by fossil-fueled electricity generators to one powered by renewable electricity generators, solar cells, and wind turbines. Cost effective LDES would be a key enabler in this transition, since solar/wind generators are variable and, unlike fossil-fueled power plants, cannot be turned on or off to meet peak demand. In fact, the U.S. grid would need 225-465 gigawatts of LDES capacity by 2050, with a net investment of $ 330 billion. For short-term (? 10h) energy storage, the rapidly improving lithium-ion batteries are already practical, but flow batteries are needed for longer-term (? 10h) energy storage. The state-of-the-art flow battery technology is the vanadium redox-flow battery (VRFB), but the high cost and limited supply of vanadium restricts its application to shorter durations. The AIFB is based instead on iron as the active material, which is substantially cheaper and more Earth-abundant, thus offering the potential to approach more closely the levelized cost of storage (LCOS) target of $0.05/kWh that is needed to realize this vision.
The intellectual merit of this project is the scientific and technological development of an all-iron, all soluble, high voltage, and cost-effective flow battery that would attain the LCOS target for long-duration energy storage. The development of such a flow battery is challenging because, unlike vanadium, which has four different oxidation states allowing for its use at both electrodes, soluble iron species come in only two oxidation states. Competing commercial all-iron-based batteries are typically hybrid batteries rather than flow batteries, requiring a large footprint, and providing a low cell voltage in an effort to avoid gas evolution. These scientific challenges are overcome in AIFB by suitable choice of ligands that form the soluble iron complexes for the posolyte and the negolyte, and by fine-tuning the pH, thus providing a large cell capacity via high solubility along with a high voltage. The specific objectives of this project include finalizing the electrolyte chemistry for a cell voltage exceeding the 1.5 V limits of aqueous batteries to avoid gas evolution, reducing the cell resistance to ensure a high round-trip efficiency, and establishing stable cyclic performance to ensure a long lifetime.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.WEKA BIOSCIENCES LLC
SBIR Phase I: Developing a Microbial Process for Creating a New Type of Natural Polymer
Contact
322 PASEO DE PERALTA
Santa Fe, NM 87501--1861
NSF Award
2406036 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,727
Start / end date
08/01/2024 – 07/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project involves the development of a novel sugar polymer designed specifically to improve chromatography, a technique used by scientists to separate and analyze mixtures. This project focuses on chiral chromatography, which is crucial for distinguishing between molecules that are mirror images of each other but behave differently in the body. This capability is especially important in pharmaceutical manufacturing, where the safety and effectiveness of drugs often depend on these molecular distinctions. By creating a stable, synthetic sugar polymer through a microbial process, this project aims to provide a more reliable and efficient alternative for chiral chromatography. This innovation will not only enhance the precision of drug manufacturing but also contribute to safer and more effective medications, aligning with broader public health goals.
The proposed project will focus on engineering a microbial process to produce a novel sugar polymer that meets the specific demands of chiral chromatography. By optimizing the production of this polymer in microorganisms, the project seeks to enhance the properties of chromatography materials, such as increased durability and improved ability to separate molecular mirror images. The research will involve refining genetic pathways for maximum yield, scaling up fermentation processes, and establishing purification protocols to ensure that the polymer adheres to high industry standards.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.WESTWOOD AEROGEL CO.
SBIR Phase I: Advanced Manufacturing for Aerogels for Low and Zero-Emission Applications
Contact
555 PIERCE ST APT 1531
Albany, CA 94706--1010
NSF Award
2401627 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,855
Start / end date
07/01/2024 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
Please report errors in award information by writing to awardsearch@nsf.gov.
Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will be to develop and optimize an advanced manufacturing process for aerogel insulation materials. Aerogels are a class of lightweight thermal super-insulators that are challenging and costly to manufacture due to a high-heat, high-pressure drying process in the final stages of production. To address this, a new method for drying aerogels using ambient pressure and ambient temperature has been developed. This process enables low-cost, high volume production and reduces aerogel production costs by up to 90%. This process will first be used to develop thermal insulation for batteries in electric vehicles, where aerogels are critical as a lightweight, high-temperature material for maintaining stable temperatures. The market for aerogels in EV batteries is rapidly growing, and has a balance of price sensitivity and demand that makes it suitable as a first market using this new production process. Once this process is scaled and optimized, aerogels may become viable for other critical markets including building insulation, energy storage and aviation.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop a low-cost, scalable manufacturing process for aerogel insulation materials. Aerogels are a class of super-insulating materials known for their light weight and superior insulating properties, but are extremely expensive and scarce due to inefficiencies in the production process. The current manufacturing involves using specialized pressure chambers to dry aerogels under high heat and pressure, resulting in high energy costs and low production volumes. This project proposes a novel aerogel production process that dries the aerogels under ambient pressures and temperatures in a continuous process that resembles window glass manufacturing. This ambient drying process dries aerogels by saturating wet gels in a gas atmosphere, slowly drying the gels without causing stresses that can crack the gel. This reduces costs and energy consumption, and allows for a continuous, linear production process without the use of specialized pressure chambers. By enabling scalable production of high-quality aerogel insulation, this innovation could make aerogels more accessible and affordable, transforming insulation across a variety of modern industries. The project aims to use this manufacturing method to develop thermal separators for electric vehicle battery insulation to enhance safety and performance in extreme temperatures.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.WILD MICROBES CO
SBIR Phase I: Developing new bacterial hosts for productive secretion of difficult-to-express proteins by precision fermentation
Contact
750 MAIN STREET
Cambridge, MA 02139--3544
NSF Award
2432898 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
12/15/2024 – 11/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Erik Pierstorff
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to develop more cost-effective ways to produce proteins. By engineering improved bacterial strains to manufacture proteins like those found in detergents, personal care products and dairy, better products can be made with a lower environmental impact. Enzymes in detergents remove the need for petrochemical-based ingredients, proteins found in shampoos improve their quality also replacing chemical ingredients, and the direct production of dairy proteins by fermentation will reduce the carbon footprint of the food industry and our overreliance on industrial agriculture. This production of proteins by bacterial fermentation has gained significant market traction and momentum and it is expected to continue to grow at a CAGR of 44%, attaining an expected market size of $36B in 2030. The proposed project aims to identify superior bacterial protein production hosts and to develop the genetic tools and methodologies that will allow these bacterial hosts to be converted into efficient protein factories. It is an outstanding problem in the field of precision fermentation of proteins that yield, titers, and productivity are often much lower than would be necessary for the successful commercialization of many highly desired categories of protein. Identifying additional protein production strains will help to alleviate this industry challenge, allowing for the manufacture of more varied protein targets at competitive economics. The superior production hosts developed in this work will be fully characterized and matched to proteins for which they are well-suited production hosts. The advanced genetic engineering tools pioneered in this work will be later used to modify these bacteria to maximize their potential for producing proteins relevant to the dairy and personal care industries. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
WUI-GO, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Testing computational feasibility and effectiveness of real time traffic nearcast for wildfire evacuation at the wildland urban interface
Contact
16192 COASTAL HIGHWAY
Lewes, DE 19958--3608
NSF Award
2322210 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$274,963
Start / end date
12/15/2023 – 06/30/2025
NSF Program Director
Elizabeth Mirowski
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to reduce the time for residents to evacuate to safe destinations by providing personalized evacuation guidance, resulting in lower risk to life and smoother government operations during a wildfire. Wildfires are an increasingly prevalent disaster; 50 million U.S. homes are currently in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas. This project aims to empower residents in WUI communities by developing services that provide real-time information and personalized evacuation guidance during wildfires. Such services also supplement the actions of emergency response agencies that are often overloaded during wildfires due to resource and workforce constraints. The lessons learned through this project can be applied to other natural or man-made disasters, benefiting many more U.S. citizens. This technology will create highly skilled jobs and increase partnerships between academia, industry, government, and wildland-urban interface communities.
This technology innovation searches for the best evacuation strategies on digital replicates of the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) using real-time traffic nearcast simulations that are dynamic and adaptive. These strategies are then be provided to evacuees as real-time, individualized routing guidance to safe destinations. The technology will also provide communications abilities, situational awareness, and an optimization platform for emergency response agencies. The project adopts the latest digital twin (DT) technology to revolutionize static planning methods and evacuation plan information distributed in leaflets. Specifically, for wildfire evacuation, the DT framework involves versatile simulations of the fire, communications, and traffic flow; Is designed to incorporate infrastructural parameters such as the road network, environmental parameters, as well as behavioral parameters of both the evacuees and the emergency managing agencies. The technical scope of this project focuses on the development and demonstration of a real-time solution based on DT simulation technology that improves a series of emergency evacuation metrics, including the total evacuation times, fire exposure times, and traffic congestion. Numerical validation against observed data and computational speed testing will be carried out to quantify the effectiveness and computational efficiency in order to build a baseline understanding of the performance of the solution, and subsequently establish confidence in real-life implementation.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.XMIZE LLC
SBIR Phase I: Scalable optimization-based wire routing software for custom circuit design
Contact
8220 CRESTWOOD HEIGHTS DR
Mclean, VA 22102--3125
NSF Award
2432498 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 08/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Directors
Elizabeth Mirowski
Samir Iqbal
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project is in increasing competitiveness of the United States in electronic design automation (EDA) of custom circuits comprising analog/mixed-signal integrated circuits, micro-electro-mechanical systems, and opto-electronics. As opposed to the mature design automation standards of digital circuits, the design workflows of custom circuits remain highly manual due to a wider range of electromagnetic sensitivities and signal couplings that must be accommodated. Despite the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and abundance of compute power, many commercial EDA tools of the multibillion-dollar custom circuit industry still rely on heuristics and procedural routing approaches that require several days of human efforts to provide wire blueprints of a layout. This project develops an AI-powered software tailored for custom circuits that may alleviate days of routing trial and error and guarantees performance of the finalized wired circuit. The proposed technology allows for producing custom chips and devices faster and at a fraction of the cost, enhances circuit security as it incentivizes small businesses to complete circuit routing within the nation, and additionally lowers the skill and experience barrier for the American workforce to enter the electronic design profession.
The proposed project will capitalize on techniques from graph theory, operations research, and AI to arrive at an automated wire routing software that supports the wide variety of complex design rules prevalent in custom integrated circuits with thousands of devices. The crux of this technology is based on three proposed innovations: The first innovation is in application of graph search methodologies to succinctly identify all routable regions of a layout. The second innovation is the development of comprehensive and accurate mathematical models of design rules that, if satisfied, guarantees the performance of the resulting circuit. The third innovation is the devise of an AI-powered solver to find realizable wire routes satisfying all bespoke design rules without requiring manual and time-consuming human expert interventions. The inherent structure of custom circuits such as symmetry and paired wirings are embedded as algorithmic guidance into the AI-powered solver to expeditiously calculate feasible routes for each circuit. The software is created with fabrication cost optimizations in mind and excels in applications that minimize routing layers to maximize signal to noise ratios. The software will be shipped with input and output interfaces to commonly used EDA tools to facilitate its adoption by the community.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.YEBOAH, AMY
SBIR Phase I: World of Hello: Using artificial intelligence (AI) for an interactive language-learning process designed for young children
Contact
12511 RUSTIC ROCK LN
Beltsville, MD 20705--1326
NSF Award
2451489 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$303,226
Start / end date
01/15/2025 – 09/30/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Lindsay Portnoy
Errata
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Abstract
The broader commercial impact of this SBIR Phase I project lies in its potential to revolutionize early speech development tools, addressing the critical need for accessible and personalized support for children with communication delays. This project aims to create an innovative platform that combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design to assist families and educators in fostering language growth. By tailoring learning activities to individual progress and incorporating adaptive learning models, this solution will empower caregivers to actively participate in their child's developmental journey, bridging the gap between therapy sessions and home practice. The anticipated commercial potential includes licensing to educational institutions and healthcare providers, as well as direct subscriptions for families, making the platform scalable and sustainable. In its third year, the platform is projected to serve over 500,000 users nationwide, improving outcomes for children and reducing the need for costly, resource-intensive interventions. This innovation aligns with NSF?s mission to advance national health and welfare by creating a durable, inclusive solution that enhances scientific understanding and promotes equitable access to educational resources. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project addresses the challenge of providing effective, scalable support for children with communication delays through advanced technology. The research aims to develop an adaptive AI-driven platform that personalizes language learning activities based on the phonetic and linguistic needs of each child. The core innovation lies in the integration of phoneme recognition algorithms and adaptive learning models to track, assess, and respond to language progress. The project will focus on developing a robust framework for speech pattern analysis using machine learning techniques, ensuring accurate and inclusive recognition across diverse linguistic and cultural contexts. Research objectives include achieving high accuracy in speech recognition, implementing real-time progress tracking, and designing intuitive user interfaces to maximize accessibility for caregivers and educators. Anticipated results include a fully functional prototype demonstrating 90% phoneme recognition accuracy and seamless integration of adaptive learning pathways. The outcomes of this research will lay the foundation for a transformative solution that bridges gaps in speech support services, ultimately contributing to the scientific understanding of language development while fostering practical, societal impact. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
Z-POLYMERS, LLC
SBIR Phase I: Conquering 3D FDM Printing's Achilles Heel, Inter-Layer Adhesion, to Print Engineering Grade Products on Consumer 3D Printers.
Contact
61 COUNTRY CLUB LN
North Andover, MA 01845--2047
NSF Award
2421903 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
09/01/2024 – 05/31/2025
NSF Program Director
Vincent Lee
Errata
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Abstract
The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase 1 project lies in its potential to revolutionize the nation?s 3D printing industry by introducing Tullomer, a proprietary liquid crystal polymer (LCP) that offers unparalleled strength, lightweight properties, radio transparency, inertness, and non-flammability using sustainable non-toxic materials. Eliminating lower performance, difficult-to-print polymers like PEEK, which require fluorobenzene processing and annealing, the project's innovative approach to improving as-printed tensile strength shall establish Tullomer as a superior alternative to existing FDM filaments. Tullomer also has the potential to greatly expand the $1B high-performance 3D printing market by democratizing engineering-grade printing on consumer printers. The company?s business model involves strategic partnerships with major industry players, ensuring strong market entry and scalability. The initial market segment will target applications where lightweight, high-strength materials are critical, such as automotive, defense, and aerospace industries. Tullomer?s potential to replace both metals and certain unsustainable high-performance polymers is key to Z-Polymers' commercial success, innovation, and economic growth.
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase 1 project addresses significant limitations in fused deposition modeling 3D printing by developing a novel liquid crystal polymer known as Tullomer, derived from 4-hydroxybenzoic acid. Traditional fused deposition modeling materials suffer from inadequate inter-layer adhesion, leading to weak and inconsistent parts. This project aims to enhance the mechanical properties and environmental compatibility of these materials by optimizing monomer ratios, integrating nucleation additives, controlling mesogenic state formation, and tuning molecular weight and viscosity. The technical approach involves developing methods for surface activation and incorporating cross-linking additives to improve inter-layer bonding and rheological properties. Distinctive attributes of this liquid crystal polymer include its melt-processability, lack of per-fluorinated compounds, and absence of Bisphenol A in processing, which contributes to its superior environmental compatibility. The anticipated results are a high-strength, eco-friendly filament that can be processed on standard 3D printers (~300°C). This filament is expected to outperform existing materials in terms of both mechanical strength and sustainability. Validation will include performance testing against industry standards and comparison with current filaments. The project aligns with global trends, positioning Tullomer as a disruptive force in the 3D printing market, particularly for applications in electric vehicles, defense, automotive, and aerospace industries.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.ZEBRAMD INC.
SBIR Phase I: A Clinical Decision Making tool to improve diagnosis, management and research in rare and genetic disease
Contact
423 TAFT FAMILY RD 1302
Quechee, VT 05059--3070
NSF Award
2403838 – SBIR Phase I
Award amount to date
$275,000
Start / end date
11/01/2024 – 10/31/2025 (Estimated)
NSF Program Director
Alastair Monk
Errata
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Abstract
The broader impact of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to potentially improve the diagnosis and management of patients with rare diseases by developing an Electronic Health System integrated artificial intelligence Clinical Decision Support Tool. 1 in 10 people are affected by a rare disease worldwide, half of them are children, and 30% of them will die within the first 5 years of their life due to their disease. On average, it takes 12-15 years from the onset of symptoms to be diagnosed with one of the >10,000 currently known rare and genetic diseases, much longer for patients who reside in rural and underserved communities. Patients with a rare disease are seen by all medical specialties, but it is not possible for any physician, not even a specialist, to be and remain an expert in the over 10,000 currently known rare diseases, leading to preventable adverse patient outcomes. It costs approximately $28,000 more a year to treat a patient with a rare disease in comparison to a patient with a common chronic disease. 70% of this excess medical cost is carried by governmental single payors such as the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project aims to develop an Electronic Health Record (EHR) integrated artificial intelligence system that can predict rare diseases in undiagnosed patients based on their patient data alone and give evidence-based, personalized treatment recommendations of already diagnosed patients relevant to the department specialty. With improved and earlier precision management this system can reduce diagnostic delays and prevent adverse outcomes while leading to significant cost savings per patient of up to $28,000 a year, totaling nearly $1 Billion dollars of direct medical cost savings in the US alone per year. The project utilizes diverse EHR data from various institutions across the US enriched by published data sources such as NIH databases to create predictive algorithms for undiagnosed patients and evidence-based management algorithms for already diagnosed patients using virtual pooling technology; This eliminates the need for patient-level data sharing across institutions and enables wide scalability to any rare disease. This point-of-care EHR-integrated app can be used in any setting worldwide with any patient population as it continuously self-updates locally and globally through bidirectional algorithm sharing.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.Company Profile
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