The latest awardees for the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) Matching Funds (Matching Funds) program have been announced. Created to strengthen the power of the SBIR/STTR awards, the Matching Funds program fosters job creation and economic development in Maryland by promoting the commercialization of research, facilitating technology transfer and encouraging SBIR/STTR program applications.

Ruchika Nijhara was one of 51 individuals chosen by a committee to complete the eight-month hands-on Leadership Maryland Executive Program. The class participated in an orientation and closing retreat that bookended five, two-day sessions focused on Maryland’s five main geographic regions and the most vital issues impacting economic development, education, health and human services, criminal justice, the environment and multi-culturalism/diversity across the state.

Natáur is working to provide bio-based solutions for ingredient production. Taurine is used extensively in the nutrition, food, feed and personal care sectors. Currently, the market is primarily filled with synthetic taurine made from petrochemicals, posing risks to humans, animals and the environment.

Pirl Technology aims to create the next generation of EV chargers. With a patented field-upgradable capability and an innovative design, Pirl Technology aims to offer the lowest cost of ownership to allow EV network operators to achieve profitability. By delivering a versatile solution for all EV types and installation locations, it aims to reduce barriers and spur EV charging uptake for residential and commercial customers

TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announced a recent $250,000 Pre-Seed Builder Fund investment in NasaClip, a woman- and minority-led startup which created a new device to assist in a painless, hands-free method for stopping nosebleeds. The Pre-Seed Builder Fund is housed under the umbrella of TEDCO’s Social Impact Funds.