The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced funding of $2,500,000 to support 25 small businesses in developing technologies aimed at addressing public health and environmental challenges. These businesses are exploring innovative solutions such as treating PFAS in biosolids, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from building materials, and creating safer chemical alternatives.
"Congratulations to these small businesses for their dedication to driving innovation and tackling today’s environmental challenges," stated Maureen Gwinn, Acting Assistant Administrator in EPA's Office of Research and Development. "Their groundbreaking ideas not only address critical needs but also pave the way for a healthier planet and a stronger, more sustainable economy."
The funding is part of the EPA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This annual competition consists of two phases where small businesses develop and commercialize environmental technologies that align with the agency's mission to protect human health and the environment. Each selected business receives $100,000 in Phase I funding over six months for proof of concept. Successful companies can apply for Phase II funding up to $400,000 to further develop their technology.
Seven out of the 25 selected companies are based in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The projects from these SBIR Phase I winners include:
- AxNano, LLC from Greensboro, North Carolina: Developing a field-deployable treatment process for removing PFAS from biosolids.
- Design Interactive Inc., Orlando, Florida: Creating an AI-powered training simulation for disaster response preparedness.
- EcoaTEX, LLC., Hull, Georgia: Converting agricultural waste into biodegradable fibers.
- Mainstream Engineering Corporation, Rockledge, Florida: Developing a scalable water treatment system targeting cyanobacteria.
- Nativo Inc., Pompano Beach, Florida: Innovating a method to remove ceramic tiles without damage using vibration technology.
- Tetramer Technologies LLC., Pendleton, South Carolina: Creating a bio-renewable tire rubber additive as an alternative to 6PPD.
- VerdeTerra LLC., Atlanta Georgia: Developing an air purification system utilizing microbes to reduce CO2 indoors.
Further details about these winning companies can be accessed through EPA resources.