Two Bowling Green Firms Receive Tech Funding

Kentucky Companies Receive State Grants to Boost Technology and Job Growth

Kentucky is making significant strides in supporting its technology sector by awarding $750,000 in state matching grants to eight local companies. These funds are part of the state’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) matching funds program, which aims to stimulate economic growth by encouraging innovation and job creation.

The grants will match a total of $6.4 million in federal funding that these businesses have received. This collaborative effort between state and federal resources is designed to support high-paying jobs and strengthen the technology landscape across the Commonwealth.

Innovations Across Multiple Sectors

The selected companies are working on groundbreaking projects that span various industries, including healthcare, aerospace, and advanced materials. Their efforts reflect a commitment to solving complex challenges through technological advancement.

BumptUp Labs Inc. (Bowling Green)

BumptUp Labs is focused on improving maternal and infant health through a digital platform that promotes lifestyle changes for pregnant and postpartum women. The company aims to create a sustainable platform that offers safe, effective, and inclusive physical activity guidance for all women during this critical period.

Caza Innovations LLC (Bowling Green)

Caza Innovations is developing a portable optical light source and power meter capable of measuring power in optical fiber at multiple wavelengths. This innovative tool is intended to support the installation, testing, and operation of optical systems in terrestrial and mobile communication markets.

Space Tango LLC (Lexington)

Space Tango is working on an advanced system called the TangoBox, which is optimized for automated space manufacturing and research. This project seeks to enhance the throughput of the International Space Station (ISS) and future commercial platforms, benefiting both commercial operators and NASA as it transitions to new Low Earth Orbit (LEO) destinations.

B.A. Maze, Inc. (Louisville)

B.A. Maze, Inc. is developing the At-Home Health Station (AHS), a technology platform that organizes health monitoring tools and facilitates secure data sharing between patients and caregivers. The design incorporates feedback from individuals living with cognitive impairments, ensuring it meets the specific needs of this population.

Creosalus Inc. (Louisville)

Creosalus is addressing the urgent need for improved treatment options for glioblastoma (GBM) patients. Their project involves an innovative convection-enhanced delivery catheter that aims to increase therapeutic coverage of GBM tumors, potentially improving patient outcomes.

PGXL Technologies LLC (Louisville)

PGXL Technologies, in collaboration with the University of Louisville Research Foundation, is developing a rapid, cost-effective urine collection kit for detecting obstructive sleep apnea in children. This non-invasive test could revolutionize diagnosis and screening processes, offering a more accessible alternative to traditional overnight sleep studies.

HeXalayer LLC (Jeffersontown)

HeXalayer is advancing the production of proprietary graphene material, which has applications in lithium-ion batteries, polymers, and industrial lubricants. U.S.-based graphene manufacturing is crucial for national security and the development of next-generation technologies.

Lagrange Scientific LLC (Pewee Valley)

Lagrange Scientific is tackling a critical gap in kidney cancer care by developing a novel laboratory test that predicts metastasis risk at the time of primary tumor resection. This early detection tool could significantly improve treatment planning and patient outcomes.

Supporting Early-Stage Tech Companies

Kentucky’s SBIR/STTR program, managed by KY Innovation, plays a vital role in fostering innovation by providing non-dilutive capital to early-stage tech companies. This support helps businesses scale their operations and bring their products to market.

For more details about the SBIR/STTR matching funds program and the awarded companies, visit kyinnovation.com/sbir.