The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $3,089,894 in funding to 30 American small businesses to develop novel technologies to address pressing environmental and public health problems. These companies are employing innovative approaches like an automated waste sorting system at the point of disposal; a system that employs technology to capture and destroy airborne bacteria and viruses; and a monitoring system that can map methane concentrations and emissions over large areas.
"As emerging technologies continue to rapidly change the world, our nation's small businesses are at the forefront of harnessing these technologies to address today's environmental challenges," said Wayne Cascio, Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator in EPA's Office of Research and Development. "We are excited to watch these small companies bring innovative ideas to the marketplace and help revolutionize improving our environment, public health and the economy."
EPA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program runs an annual, two-phase competition for funding. The 30 small businesses are receiving up to $100,000 of Phase I funding for six months for "proof of concept" of their proposed technology. Companies that complete Phase I can then apply to receive Phase II funding of up to $400,000 to further develop and commercialize their technology.
The following small business received EPA funds for Sustainable Materials Management
- Rheaply, Inc. (Chicago, Ill.) For a software technology to empower material reuse with construction stakeholders and decarbonization efforts related to each transaction of reclaimed materials.
EPA is one of 11 federal agencies that participate in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program, a competitive program that supports small businesses in the development and commercialization of technological solutions. This program stimulates high-tech innovation while encouraging small businesses to meet the country's research and development needs.
Categories: Illinois, Business