EPA Announces $800,000 for Small Businesses Developing Environmental Technologies in Colorado, Wyoming

DENVER – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced $800,000 in funding to two recipients to develop and commercialize environmental technologies through EPA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. EPA is one of 11 federal agencies participating in the SBIR program, which is a competitive, award-based initiative that helps small businesses explore technological solutions with the goal of bringing successful innovations to market. These awards will support solutions to complex environmental challenges, including monitoring water quality, addressing PFAS contamination, reducing indoor air toxins and pathogens, enhancing recycling systems, and developing safer chemicals.   

“Congratulations to these small businesses for their dedication to driving innovation and tackling today’s environmental challenges. Their groundbreaking ideas not only address critical needs but also pave the way for a healthier planet and a stronger, more sustainable economy,” said Teresa Booeshaghi, Associate Administrator for EPA’s Office of Applied Science and Environmental Solutions.  

“Small businesses are driving the next generation of environmental technologies, and these Region 8 awardees are leading that effort,” said Regional Administrator Cyrus Western. “These grants recognize innovation and help advance technologies that address real-world environmental challenges while supporting jobs, American ingenuity and long-term economic growth throughout our region.” 

Acadian Research & Development, LLC, based in Laramie, Wyoming, will use the $400,000 Phase II grant to increase the strength, durability and longevity of concrete using biochar-derived from graphene oxide (GO) additives. Their synthesis method uses a single reagent to convert biochar to graphene oxide products, resulting in a low-cost concrete additive derived by renewable resources that can reduce concrete CO2 emissions. According to the company, this technology will improve economic efficiency, durability, concrete performance and production capacity. 

PAGE Technologies, Inc., based in Boulder, Colorado, will use the $400,000 Phase II grant to improve the accuracy of its electrochemical nitrate sensor technology to address contamination in wastewater treatment plants. This technology provides a compact, cost-effective alternative to current technology designed for long-term in-situ deployment with real-time monitoring capabilities. 

Background 

For more than 40 years, EPA's SBIR program has funded small businesses to develop environmental technologies and bring them to market. Funding is awarded in phases: in Phase I, EPA provides $100,000 over six months to support "proof of concept" for the proposed technology. Small businesses that complete a Phase I award can then compete for a Phase II award of $400,000 to further develop and commercialize the technology — with the potential for up to $100,000 in additional matching funds if the recipient secures an equivalent third-party investment during the project period.  

To see the full list of SBIR Phase II Awardees, please visit our webpage. 

Learn more about EPA’s SBIR program.