Aviation News International – The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority has announced $200,000 in grant funds will be awarded to three companies for technology innovation.
Multiple organizations and companies collaborated in the effort, including the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines, and the West Michigan Aviation Academy.
Funding is granted through the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship, or FLITE.
FLITE focuses on the advancement of aviation by granting funds for pilot testing opportunities to emerging companies that develop air travel technology, officials said.
Companies participating in this round of funding include:
- Cybernet Systems Corporation – Advancing operational efficiencies through military and commercial products, prototypes, and services
- Prospect Airport Services – Provides air transportation and mobility assistance to partners and passengers
- Snowbotix – Develops electronic robots that assist in outdoor tasks like snow removal, sidewalk cleaning, vegetation control and more
The companies will also test their aviation technology at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport from February to April of this year.
