Espira Advances Public Health with STTR Funding for PFAS Detection Technology
Espira Inc. has been awarded a $2 million federal Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase II grant from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) for its project, ”Fluorescence-solid phase Extraction Microfluidic Platform for Rapid, Onsite Detection and Identification of PFAS with Machine Learning.”
This funding is a pivotal step in the development of its innovative technology designed to combat one of the most pervasive and harmful classes of pollutants: per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. These man-made chemicals, often referred to as "forever chemicals," are found in a wide range of products, including non-stick cookware, food packaging, and firefighting foams. Their robust chemical structure enables them to resist degradation, which can lead to widespread contamination of soil, air, and drinking water sources. Long-term health consequences of PFAS exposure are a major public health concern.
Currently, detecting PFAS contamination requires sending water samples to off-site laboratories, a process that can be slow, expensive, and impractical for widespread monitoring. Espira’s Phase II project is focused on perfecting a novel, field-portable system for the rapid, on-site detection of PFAS in water. It would allow public utilities, environmental agencies, and even community members to quickly and accurately test for contaminants, providing real-time data to protect drinking water supplies and respond to potential threats more effectively.
Espira received a Utah Technology Innovation Funding (UTIF) non-recourse loan from Nucleus Grow. The program fills the funding gap that often exists between SBIR/STTR Phase I and Phase II
"Nucleus Grow has provided critical programmatic support and gap funding via the UTIF nonrecourse loan program," said Himanshu Sant, Espira Vice President. “Their support has been instrumental in advancing this work.”
Companies interested in pursuing non-dilutive research and development funding through the federal SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs can contact the Nucleus Institute at Grow@Nucleusutah.org.