NRV Companies Receive $300,000 to Fund Research & Development

Montgomery County, VA – Four Blacksburg companies were recently awarded incentive grants through the Commonwealth Research Commercialization Fund (CRCF) to fund research in unmanned systems, life sciences, and clean energy. Governor Ralph Northam announced in Junethat the businesses were among 26 across the Commonwealth to receive the awards. According to the governor’s press release, “The [CRCF] accelerates innovation and economic growth in Virginia by advancing solutions to important state, national, and international challenges through technology research, development, and commercialization.”

Read more about the grant winners from Blacksburg below:

Commercialization Program
Cowden Technologies, LLC | Mr. Mickey Cowden
A Smart Docking Station for Drones, $75,000, Unmanned Systems, Blacksburg

Eksdyne Inc. | Mr. Joshua Eckstein
A Magnetohydrodynamic Actuator System for Robotics, $74,915, Unmanned Systems, Blacksburg

Techulon Inc. | Dr. Nrusingh Mohapatra
PPNA-Based Antimicrobial Therapeutics Against Multi-Drug-Resistant Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter, $75,000, Life Sciences, Blacksburg

Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Matching Funds Programs
Li Industries, Inc. | Mr. Nolan Schmidt
Effective Materials Separation for Low-Cost Lithium Ion Battery Direct Recycling, $75,000, Clean Energy, Blacksburg

Read the governor’s full press release here.

Read more about the Commonwealth Research Commercialization Fund here.

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.