With 2023 behind us, we look back on past achievements and offer a glimpse at Vertx Partners in 2024.
Upon launching Vertx Partners in October 2021, if you had told me all this team would accomplish in just over two years, I’d say that’s only possible by bringing together a team of extremely talented individuals. That’s exactly what we’ve done. Thanks to the ongoing support of the Academic Partnership Engagement Experiment (APEX), we will continue our work in Appalachia into 2024.
Phase III SBIRs & STTRs: A Renewed Direction
As we enter a new year, I’m thrilled to share the exciting directions Vertx Partners is taking. Building upon our achievement in helping NextGen Federal System secure its first Phase III Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) award, we’re redirecting our focus toward helping more companies achieve this coveted milestone. SBIR Phase III marks the critical juncture where technology transitions to the consumer, whether that be the warfighter or civilian. It signifies the transformation of technology into real-world capability.
Vertx is on the verge of adding more Phase III victories to our repertoire this year. We believe in the power of technology to drive meaningful change, and this commitment fuels our efforts to usher in transformative capabilities.
We are also emphasizing advancing Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) contracts and fostering partnerships between businesses and academia/research institutions. This strategic move aligns with our vision of collaborative innovation, bridging the gap between research excellence and practical application.
In the realm of STTRs and university partnerships, I am proud to announce our collaboration with Mississippi State in 2024. This partnership extends to the FAA’s ASSURE program, reinforcing our commitment to excellence in UAS research and system safety.
Kentucky: The Next Vertx Frontier
Our regional focus began with West Virginia and quickly expanded into Pennsylvania and Tennessee. Last year, we added new talent in Chris Ford, our Eastern Tennessee consultant, and recently brought on Greg Green, who focuses on development in Central and Western Kentucky.
In 2024, we’re pushing further into Kentucky, where esteemed universities like Eastern Kentucky University have partnered with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). This expansion reflects our dedication to fostering innovation across the Appalachian region.
Workforce Development in West Virginia
Vertx remains unwavering in its commitment to West Virginia workforce development. In 2024, we’ll be putting the finishing touches on a curriculum designed for the Mingo County Redevelopment Authority’s UAS education initiative, headed by our own Randy Hefner. Additionally, we’re concluding another proposal with the Keystone Space Collaborative for southern West Virginia.
These initiatives underscore our dedication to nurturing local talent, contributing to our communities’ growth, and fostering the ongoing effort to establish Advanced Air Mobility in the state as a permanent and widespread fixture.
Looking Ahead into 2024
Finally, I want to thank the Vertx Partners team for their unwavering dedication and hard work. Together, we’re creating a path to success for our partners, communities, and, ultimately, the great state of West Virginia.
I would also like to thank the many partners in the Vertx network spread out across multiple states in Appalachia. Connections build the backbone of Vertx’s work, and partners in our network enable connections far beyond our initial reach.
2024 is poised to be another successful year for Vertx Partners, and we invite you to join us on this exciting journey! I encourage you to reach out and contact us today to join our growing network.
— Sean Frisbee
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