The National Science Foundation awarded Algoma Algal Biotechnology, LLC (AABT) $225,000 for its recent project, "Carbon Capture and High-Value Isoprene Production by Fast-Growing Cyanobacteria," as part of its Small Business Technology Transfer program.
Wisconsin-based startup AABT focuses on research and development of microbial systems for the production of specialty chemicals and biofuels. Lead investigators are Toivo Kallas, of UW-Oshkosh, Matthew Nelson and Eric Singsaas, of UW-Stevens Point. Their expertise in cyanobacterial growth conditions and chemically reduced product yield led them to the project, which aims to create isoprene—an organic type of natural rubber—out of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae.
AABT is a faculty startup that assigned its core technology to WiSys and is working toward commercializing it. This technology has the benefit of replacing isoprene production that relies on fossil fuels, therefore reducing harmful emissions, as well as reducing the cost of separating key chemicals from reagents.
The NSF SBIR/STTR program assists nearly 400 early-stage companies each year in further development and commercialization of innovative and high-risk technologies. In addition to funding, recipients are also trained in key business areas, mentored by experienced Program Directors and connected with other small companies focused on innovative research and development.
The STTR grant is awarded in phases, and this first phase—for proof of concept and feasibility—could be followed by a Phase II grant, totaling $750,000, for longer development. AABT plans to apply for the Phase II grant later this year to produce a pilot scale algal photo-bioreactor for capturing CO2 and producing value-added isoprenoids.
As follow-on funding from the NSF STTR grant, AABT were recently successful in securing a further $75K through the Center for Technology Commercialization's (CTC) SBIR Advance Phase 1 Matching Grant. AABT were awarded the first tranche of funding in June and began the Lean Startup training program to help them prepare their Phase II STTR proposal, and in particular the required Commercialization Plan.
Dave Linz, CTC's Associate Director says "Companies utilize the SBIR Advance Match Grant to accelerate the commercialization of their technology and the development of their business. Companies who have completed the program report that the Lean Startup training was critical to preparing a strong commercialization plan. One company reported they 'made more progress advancing their business in the last 3 months [of SBIR Advance Program] than they had the previous 4 years."