Latest news with #SBIR
Miami Herald
2 days ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
Vaya Space Selected for $1.2M AFWERX Phase II Contract to Advance Hypersonic Propulsion
Hybrid-Fueled Ramjet to Enable Throttleable, Restartable Missile Systems for Enhanced A2/AD Penetration COCOA, FLORIDA / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Vaya Space announces it has been selected by AFWERX for a SBIR Phase II in the amount of $1,236,406 focused on the development of the Hybrid-Fueled Ramjet, a throttleable and restartable hypersonic missile propulsion system, to address the most pressing challenges in the Department of the Air Force (DAF). The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and eliminating bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018, which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded, and now on July 9, 2025, Vaya Space will start its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America. "This Phase II award represents a significant advancement in hypersonic propulsion and a strong vote of confidence in Vaya's hybrid technology. Our Hybrid-Fueled Ramjet introduces a new class of adaptable missile propulsion; combining throttleability, restart capability, and mission-tailorable thrust to meet the dynamic demands of modern defense. We're proud to help shape the future of strategic capability for the United States," stated Vaya Space Chief Executive Officer Kevin Lowdermilk. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense or the U.S. government. About Vaya Space Vaya Space is a privately owned company based on the Space Coast and leveraging patented Vortex-Hybrid engine technology to disrupt both the Space and Defense markets. Visit for more information. About AFRL The Air Force Research Laboratory, or AFRL, is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace forces. With a workforce spanning across nine technology areas and 40 other operations around the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit AFWERX As the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 320 military, civilian and contractor personnel at four hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has awarded over 10,400 contracts worth more than $7.24 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit SOURCE: Vaya Space press release
Associated Press
3 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Martensen IP Offers Valuable Insights on Best Practices for Protecting Your IP from Hidden Risks in Government Contracts
07/28/2025, Colorado Springs, CO // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // Your SBIR Phase proposal and how (or by whom) your IP is crafted might grant the government more rights than intended. Learn how specific language and developmental approaches can jeopardize your intellectual property and future commercialization efforts. The Hidden Risk in Government Contracts Securing a Phase II or III SBIR award is a significant achievement. However, many companies unknowingly jeopardize their intellectual property (IP) rights through the language used in their proposals and how they produce their deliverables. What seems like standard, or 'boilerplate' text can inadvertently grant the government extensive rights, potentially diminish the value of your innovations, and deter future investors or acquirers. And managing risk using 1099s or independent contractors can lead to a loss of control of future opportunities. Understanding Government IP Rights In government contracts, the rights the government obtains to IP depend largely on prior assertions of your rights, what you have agreed to deliver, and the specific terms outlined in the contract. The primary categories of government rights include: Unlimited rights. The government can use, disclose, reproduce, and distribute technical data or software in any manner and for any purpose. This typically applies when the government fully funds development (DoD) or development was accomplished in performance of the contract (non-DoD)*. Government purpose rights. The government can use, disclose, reproduce, and distribute the technical data or software within the government without restriction and can share it with other contractors but only for government purposes. This applies when development is funded by a mix of government and private funds under defense contracts (DoD). Limited/Restricted rights. The government can use the technical data or software within the government but cannot disclose it to third parties without permission. This usually applies when the development is entirely funded at private expense (DoD) or developed not in performance of the contract. (non-DoD) SBIR data rights. Under a SBIR/STTR award, the government gains limited and restricted rights in the data and software delivered. These rights last for 20 years, after which the government's rights become unlimited. The Proposal Becomes the Contract A critical aspect often overlooked is that the proposal you submit can become an integral part of the contract. Terms and descriptions used in the proposal are often incorporated by reference or copied directly into the contract, making them legally binding. Simply put, the government contract usually accepts exactly what is offered. Common Pitfalls in Proposal Language Overly broad descriptions. Providing detailed technical data without appropriate restrictions can lead to unintended rights being granted. Lack of proper markings. Failing to assert and mark proprietary information correctly can result in the government assuming broader rights than intended. Inconsistent terminology. All the words used in a proposal should be selected carefully, but in the world of IP certain terms are particularly important. Government rights in IP are tied to the use of these words. Using terms like 'develop' or 'create' in a proposal without understanding their contractual implications can be detrimental. Recognize that Phase III refers to work that derives from, extends, or completes an effort made under prior SBIR/STTR Funding Agreements. Matching prior terminology on prior SBIR/STTR grants on a Phase III proposal ensures IP rights are maintained. Subcontractor Missteps A common mistake is taking steps to minimize cost that increases risk. Small companies are typically cash-poor. To be efficient, hirings are minimized, and contractual help is maximized. Resources are engaged on an 'as needed' basis, and independent contractors and 1099s are common. The government, however, looks at independent contractors and 1099s differently. From the government's perspective, an independent contractor or 1099 is a subcontractor, and a subcontractor, not the prime, possesses (owns) the IP. Lacking correct wording in everyone's working agreement, the company may not actually control the IP. And the government may be looking at awarding a Phase III contract to your independent contractor, not you. Best Practices for Protecting Your IP Safeguard Your Innovation The language used in your SBIR proposal and worker agreements is not just a formality; it's a critical component that can define the future of your intellectual property and the value of your company. By understanding the implications and taking proactive steps, you can protect your innovations and maintain their commercial value. Ready To Ensure Your IP Is Protected? Schedule a free 30-minute consultation with our experienced IP attorneys to review your proposal and safeguard your intellectual property rights. Book Your Free Consultation! Martensen specializes in intellectual property (IP) strategies for the identification, protection, and monetization of IP, particularly with respect to government contracts, providing deep expertise in SBIR/STTR programs, defense tech, and dual-use commercialization. *Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Department of Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) govern non-DoD and DoD rights, respectively. About Martensen IP At the intersection of business, law and technology, Martensen understands the tools of IP. Martensen knows the business of IP. We understand the tech market, especially when the government is a customer, and we know how to plan, assess, and adjust. Patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, licenses are our tools. Martensen IP Media Contact Source: Release ID: 1682734
Business Wire
6 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Venova Technologies Awarded $2.23M SBIR Phase II Grant From NIH For Novel Contraceptive Device
CAMBRIDGE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Venova Technologies, Inc., a women-led startup developing a novel long-acting, hormone-free and copper-free female birth control device, has been awarded a $2.23M Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II Grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The SBIR program is a highly competitive, awards-based program designed to stimulate technological innovations developed by U.S. small businesses on a path to commercialization. This Phase II award accelerates the preclinical development of Venova's innovative cervical barrier device toward first-in-human clinical studies and brings the company's total funding to over $5M. According to a UCLA survey, 73% of women want a birth control method that is very effective and has limited side effects, but this does not currently exist. A 2023 study found that half of women will stop or switch their birth control method because of unwanted or adverse side effects. 'This award is a pivotal milestone that brings us one step closer to offering a new birth control option for women that is designed to be side-effect-free and addresses concerns of pain from IUD insertion,' said Emily Man, Co-Founder & CEO of Venova. 'Validation from the scientific community highlights the growing momentum and critical need for innovation in women's health.' 'It's more important than ever to provide a wide range of choices for contraception that can meet the needs of more patients,' said Dr. Katharine White, Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology for the Boston Medical Center Health System. Dr. White is also the Chief Medical Advisor at Venova. 'Offering more affordable options that address a variety of preferences will enable more women to achieve the family size that they truly desire.' About Venova Technologies Venova Technologies, Inc., is a women-led startup dedicated to empowering women to take full control over their reproductive health. The company is developing a novel long-acting female contraceptive barrier device. Headquartered in Cambridge, Mass., at The Engine built by MIT, Venova participates in this premier ecosystem for high-potential, Tough Tech startups. For more information, visit Follow Venova on LinkedIn at
Cision Canada
21-07-2025
- Automotive
- Cision Canada
CENTURY LITHIUM REPORTS BATTERY-GRADE LITHIUM METAL ANODES PRODUCED FROM ANGEL ISLAND LITHIUM CARBONATE
VANCOUVER, BC, July 21, 2025 /CNW/ - Century Lithium Corp. (TSXV: LCE) (OTCQX: CYDVF) (Frankfurt: C1Z) ("Century Lithium" or "the Company") is pleased to report progress by Alpha-En Corporation of Hopewell Junction, New York, on its successful conversion of Century Lithium's lithium carbonate (Li 2 CO 3) into battery-grade lithium-metal anodes ("Li-MA"). The Li-MA was produced using lithium carbonate derived from Century Lithium's wholly owned lithium project, Angel Island in Esmeralda County, Nevada and the associated Demonstration Plant in Nye County, Nevada. "We are proud that Century Lithium was selected as a domestic source of lithium for Alpha-En's program to produce lithium-metal anodes," said Bill Willoughby, Century Lithium President and CEO. "This collaboration reflects the quality of our material and the strength of our technical capabilities as we continue to support innovation across the US battery materials supply chain." Century Lithium provided Alpha-En with a sample of 99.8% pure lithium carbonate from Angel Island. The sample was converted by Alpha-En into lithium metal using Alpha-En's patented room-temperature conversion process, resulting in Li-MA with a high areal capacity and extraction efficiency. In the pilot test, Century Lithium material exceeded the quality of battery-grade lithium carbonate from a commercial non-domestic source. "We are very pleased with the performance of the lithium metal produced from Century Lithium's lithium carbonate. Its purity and consistency translated directly into high-quality lithium-metal anodes," said Landon Oakes, Chief Technology Officer of Alpha-En Corporation. "We look forward to continued collaboration with Century Lithium as they advance Angel Island." Century Lithium is progressing Angel Island through ongoing permitting, engineering, and technical development at its Demonstration Plant. The Company maintains a positive long-term outlook on lithium-based batteries, which it believes will play a critical role in the growth of the electric vehicle ("EV") and stationary energy storage markets. Century Lithium looks forward to further supporting Alpha-En's efforts to develop a domestic lithium supply chain. ABOUT ALPHA-EN CORPORATION Alpha-En Corporation is an advanced materials company enabling next-generation battery technologies through the development of ultra-pure lithium metal and engineered anode materials. Its patented process converts raw lithium salts directly into thin-film lithium metal at room temperature, eliminating traditional high-temperature refining and foil coating steps. Alpha-En's platform is designed to be deployed inside battery manufacturing lines, enabling just-in-time production of high-purity lithium metal anodes and reducing reliance on external suppliers. Alpha-En has received funding from the U.S. Department of Energy and Department of Defense through competitive Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) programs, and is building a resilient, domestic lithium supply chain to power the energy transition. ABOUT CENTURY LITHIUM CORP. Century Lithium Corp. is an advanced-stage lithium company, focused on developing its wholly owned Angel Island project in Esmeralda County, Nevada, which hosts one of the largest sedimentary lithium deposits in the United States. The Company has utilized its patent-pending process for chloride leaching, combined with direct lithium extraction, to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate product samples from Angel Island's lithium-bearing claystone on-site at its Demonstration Plant in Amargosa Valley, Nevada. Angel Island is one of the few advanced lithium projects in development in the United States to provide an end-to-end process to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate for the growing electric vehicle and battery storage market. Angel Island is currently in the permitting stage for a three-phase feasibility-level production plan expected to yield an estimated life-of-mine average of 34,000 tonnes per year of carbonate over a 40-year mine-life. To learn more, please visit ON BEHALF OF CENTURY LITHIUM CORP. WILLIAM WILLOUGHBY, PhD., PE President & Chief Executive Officer NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THE CONTENT OF THIS NEWS RELEASE. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. Forward-looking statements relate to any matters that are not historical facts and statements of our beliefs, intentions and expectations about developments, results and events which will or may occur in the future, without limitation, statements with respect to the potential development and value of the Project and benefits associated therewith, statements with respect to the expected project economics for the Project, such as estimates of life of mine, lithium prices, production and recoveries, capital and operating costs, IRR, NPV and cash flows, any projections outlined in the Feasibility Study in respect of the Project, the permitting status of the Project and the Company's future development plans. These and other forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to control or predict, that may cause their actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein. These risks include those described under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's most recent annual information form and its other public filings, copies of which can be under the Company's profile at
Business Wire
17-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Hyliion Awarded U.S. Navy Contract to Advance Multi-Unit KARNO Power Module
AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Hyliion Holdings Corp. (NYSE American: HYLN), a leading provider of innovative KARNO TM Power Modules, today announced it has been awarded a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract in the amount of $1.5 million from the U.S. Navy to further develop and refine its scalable multi-megawatt platform for shipboard and stationary military applications. The newly awarded Phase II contract builds on the successful completion of Phase I, during which Hyliion completed the initial concept design and architectural planning for a multi-megawatt naval-compliant power generator system. Phase II will focus on key enabling technologies for the multi-KARNO Core architecture, including the development of integrated software and power electronics, motion control improvements, and communications systems essential for scaled system operation. Hyliion expects Phase II to commence immediately and continue for a period of 18 months. 'Advancing the scalability and operational control of the KARNO Modules is critical to meeting the Navy's future energy needs,' said Thomas Healy, Founder and CEO of Hyliion. 'This award allows us to lay the groundwork for a highly resilient and efficient power solution that can adapt to mission requirements across both stationary and mobile defense operations.' During Phase II, Hyliion will focus on the software required to manage and synchronize multiple KARNO Cores, ensuring they can deliver stable, dynamic power in high-demand environments. Additional work includes refining the integrated drive electronics to meet size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) targets, and aligning control schemes with naval operating standards. These innovations are designed to accelerate Hyliion's timeline to deploy a full multi-megawatt shipboard generator system. Hyliion's KARNO Power Module is a linear generator powered by heat rather than combustion. Its external heat generation architecture, enabled by additive manufacturing, is designed to support operation on more than 20 fuel types and produce electricity with high efficiency, low maintenance requirements, and minimal acoustic and thermal signatures—making it well-suited for naval applications. Phase II development efforts will also align with Hyliion's commercial 2 MW product roadmap, allowing for shared learnings between defense and civilian applications. For more information about Hyliion and its modular power generation solutions, please visit For additional details on the SBIR, please visit About Hyliion Hyliion is committed to creating innovative solutions that enable clean, flexible and affordable electricity production. The Company's primary focus is to provide distributed power generators that can operate on various fuel sources to future-proof against an ever-changing energy economy. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, and with research and development in Cincinnati, Ohio, Hyliion is initially targeting the commercial and waste management industries with a locally deployable generator that can offer prime power as well as energy arbitrage opportunities. Beyond stationary power, Hyliion will address mobile applications such as vehicles and marine. The Company aims to offer innovative, yet practical solutions that contribute positively to the environment in the energy economy. For further information, please visit Forward Looking Statements The information in this press release includes 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of present or historical fact included in this press release, regarding Hyliion and its future financial and operational performance, as well as its strategy, future operations, estimated financial position, estimated revenues, and losses, projected costs, prospects, plans and objectives of management are forward looking statements. When used in this press release, including any oral statements made in connection therewith, the words 'could,' 'should,' 'will,' 'may,' 'believe,' 'anticipate,' 'intend,' 'estimate,' 'expect,' 'project,' the negative of such terms and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward- looking statements contain such identifying words. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and assumptions about future events and are based on currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. Except as otherwise required by applicable law, Hyliion expressly disclaims any duty to update any forward-looking statements, all of which are expressly qualified by the statements herein, to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release. Hyliion cautions you that these forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of Hyliion. These risks include, but are not limited to, our status as an early stage Company with a history of losses; our expectation of incurring significant expenses and continuing losses for the foreseeable future; our ability to develop key commercial relationships with suppliers and customers; our ability to retain the services of Thomas Healy, our Chief Executive Officer; the expected performance of the KARNO generator and system; the execution of the strategic shift from our powertrain business to our KARNO business, and the other risks and uncertainties described under the heading 'Risk Factors' in our SEC filings including in our Annual Report (See item 1A. Risk Factors) on Form 10- K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the 'SEC') on February 25, 2025 for the year ended December 31, 2024. Given these risks and uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described in this press release occur, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and plans could differ materially from those expressed in any forward- looking statements. Additional information concerning these and other factors that may impact Hyliion's operations and projections can be found in its filings with the SEC. Hyliion's SEC Filings are available publicly on the SEC's website at and readers are urged to carefully review and consider the various disclosures made in such filings.
