Alaska – Swanson Reed | Specialist R&D Tax Advisors

Alaska Airlines and UP.Labs Launch First Startup

Odysee, a software platform, is the flagship startup launched by UP.Labs in partnership with Alaska Airlines in 2023. The startup launched with $5 million in seed funding led by UP.Partners.

The startup is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize flight schedules. The company is able to run hundreds of simulations in seconds, performing stress-tests for future schedules. The idea is that the system could enable airlines to make informed real-time tradeoff decisions to improve operational logistics. The platform will ensure the best use of each aircraft asset and the interconnections between them, empowering teams to more effectively optimize one of the most complex areas of an airline’s business.

This AI-powered flight schedule optimization solution marks a significant milestone in the journey that began at last year’s UP.Summit. Last year, the two companies announced their partnership and set a vision to solve core strategic challenges for the aviation industry with new companies that help unlock the future in transportation and mobility.

“What sets Odysee apart is its ability to help airline schedulers assess the various tradeoffs that come with certain schedule changes, allowing them to make more informed choices in building comprehensive flight schedules,” says Odysee Chief Executive Officer, Steve Casley. “Our team is excited about the power and efficiency this technology will provide to Alaska Airlines and all future customers and the opportunity to continue building out its functionality.”

Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’ largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.

Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.

Alaska Airlines Invests in JetZero

Stratodynamics Shows Pomise in Unmanned Aerial Turbulence Detection

JetZero has secured new investment funding from Alaska Airlines. The aircraft engineering startup is developing a blended-wing aircraft design to reduce carbon emissions and fuel burn by as much as 50%.

The investment came through Alaska Airlines’ venture capital subsidiary Alaska Star Ventures includes options for future aircraft orders. The total value of the investment has not been revealed.

The blended-wing design combines the winds with the fuselage, creating a smoother overall shape which reduces drag and weight. The design also affords extra width in the fuselage which opens up possibilities for cabin layouts.

“At Alaska, we are always looking for ways to innovate and shape the future of air travel for our guests, employees, and industry,” said senior vice president of public affairs and sustainability Diana Birkett Rakow. “We are proud to invest in JetZero’s development of this innovative next-generation aircraft, with a significant step-change in fuel efficiency.”

Long Beach-based JetZero was founded in 2021 by Mark Page, who led the first NASA-funded blended-wing design initiative, and by Tom O’Leary, former COO of electric air taxi startup Beta Technologies. JetZero is targeting a 2030 launch for its aircraft.

Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’ largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.

Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.

An Arctic Oil Frontier: The History and Uncertainty of the Liberty Field Project

BP Exploration Alaska Inc is an oil exploration company that has had a significant impact on Alaska’s oil industry, particularly through the Liberty project. The Liberty Field was discovered by Royal Dutch Shell in the 1980s and is located entirely in the federally controlled Outer Continental Shelf, in the Beaufort Sea. The field is estimated to have around 150 million barrels of recoverable oil, and BP Exploration Alaska pursued the project for two decades. Despite having an ambitious plan to develop the project by producing oil from the shore using ultra-extended-reach drilling, the company withdrew the development plan four years after sanctioning it.

The Liberty project has a long history, and its current owner, Hilcorp, is yet to decide if it will pursue the project. In late 2018, a Hilcorp development and production plan was approved by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM). Still, the approval was overturned by the federal 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in December 2020. The suspension of the three leases comprising the Liberty prospect is in effect for three years and stops the clock from ticking toward lease expiration, according to BOEM.

Despite the uncertainties surrounding the Liberty project, BP Exploration has had a significant impact on Alaska’s oil industry. The company’s ambitious plan to produce oil from the shore using ultra-extended-reach drilling was an example of “exploration through technology,” according to Doug Suttles, BP Alaska Exploration. President at the time. However, the plan was criticized by Mark Myers, a former Alaska Department of Natural Resources commissioner and a geologist who serves on the U.S. Arctic Research Commission.

The uncertainties surrounding the Liberty project provide a cautionary tale about the uncertainties of oil development projects. As state officials pin high hopes on ConocoPhillips’ Willow project and the revenues and jobs it will generate, the history at Liberty should be a warning to policymakers and the public about the uncertainties of oil development projects.

Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’ largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.

Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.

Ocean Renewable Power Company announces plans to generate renewable energy in Alaska with Tidal Generators

Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC) – who planned to build a tidal generator in Nikiski – has announced their interest in a second tidal site. The company hopes this second site can harness the strong tides in the inlet to power machinery at Port MacKenzie, across Knik Arm from Anchorage.

ORPC is familiar with Alaska’s tides and their ability to create power as they already have a freshwater hydrokinetic generator in Igiugig on the Alaska Peninsula. However, this new development will be the first generator in saltwater in Alaska.

Merrick Jackinsky, ORPC Development Director, who’s based in Anchorage, said the generator could fully power the machine that keeps the dock at Port MacKenzie from corroding into the inlet – called a cathodic protection system. He estimates the project could create 80 kW of power for that machine.

Saltwater poses its own challenges for tidal tech and will require some extensive R&D to get it functioning as needed. The mechanisms will be similar, using the in and out motion of the tide to spin turbines which are connected to an underwater generator. This energy source could be more dependable as the tides are much more predictable than solar and wind.

Jackinsky said ORPC looked at Port MacKenzie as a project site a while ago. But at the time, there wasn’t a lot of information about the Cook Inlet belugas in the upper inlet, which is why the company turned its focus to the site in Nikiski.

Since then, he said, there’s been more research about the belugas there and more interest in renewables from the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, which owns the port.

Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’ largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.

Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.

Astra Reaches Orbit

California-based Astra has successfully launched their rocket into orbit from the Pacific Spaceport Complex on Alaska’s Kodiak Island. This launch was performed with a dummy payload as a test flight for the US military.

Astra is striving to secure a large portion of the small-satellite launch market with their line rockets. These rockets have been designed to be both responsive and flexible. Astra further sets themselves apart with a launch system which can be transported in just a few standard shipping containers.

This launch was Astra’s fourth orbital test flight, and the first to successfully reach orbit. Prior iterations on the design saw complications in the guidance system, fuel capacity, and engine stability. Between each design, the company returned to the design to make modifications and improve structural integrity and chance at success.

The company plans on ramping up spaceflight action to the tune of daily launches by 2025. Astra’s ambitions extend beyond building and launching rockets. For example, the company is also developing its own satellite bus, which will allow customers to integrate their payloads into a spacecraft they don’t have to build themselves.

Are you developing new software for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’ largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.

Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.

Alaska SBDC Announces Opening of SBIR Phase 0 Applications

The Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has announced the opening of their 2021 Phase 0 program applications. The Alaska SBDC is home to the TREND program -Technology Research and Development Center of Alaska – which aims to help innovators and entrepreneurs through grants and funding to commercialize scalable technology.

The Phase 0 program is operated by TREND with the University of Alaska Fairbanks Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR). They provide funding for four companies whose ideas could have the potential to succeed.

TREND will provide technical assistance and proposal writing instructions to help create a businesses commercialization plans. The Phase 0 grant of $10,000 will be awarded to the top four applicants. These top four applicants are then welcome to continue on to applying for SBIR Phase 1 and 2 grants to further their products lifeline.

Barati Medical, LLC was one of the four winners in 2020. Their product plan involved the development of the first wireless near infrared spectroscopy device for use in preclinical monitoring of cerebral oxygenation. After receiving the Phase 0 grant and assistance from Trend, they have advanced to Phase 1 SBIR funding.

Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’ largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.

Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.

The Launch Company Aims to Increase Access to Space

A small Alaska startup, The Launch Company, has not only contributed to space technology – they have also obtained an acquisition from Colorado-based Voyager Space. They will remain in Alaska while experiencing the benefits of resources from the other companies under Voyager’s umbrella.

The Launch Company is redesigning launchers and lowering the cost of access to space using process and automation technologies. They have successfully developed standardized hardware connections, ground support equipment, and processes that launch rockets into space. Their work continues as they try to help overcome the logistical hurdles associated with launching a vehicle into space. They specifically want to get them into orbit faster with improved launch sites.

Ben Kellie, CEO of The Launch Company, is excited to showcase the importance of Alaska, “I want to have a lot of interesting opportunities for us to work on. And I want people to be excited about Alaska’s future.”

Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’ largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.

Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.

Test Article by QA

[mk_blog]

biotech

Cordova Electric Cooperative Continues to Optimize their Remote Microgrid

Cordova Electric Cooperative (CEC) just optimized the remote microgrid they developed and implemented to power the town of Cordova back in 1907. This remote community is not connected by roads or electricity to surrounding communities. They have a population of 2,300 residents in the winter time. The population boom during their thriving fishing season, putting triple the strain on the electricity demands.

CEC decided to address this issue by developing a hydropower facility with power lines running below ground and invested in energy storage. With these methods, they hoped to reduce power outages due to inclimate weather and line contacts and produce effective and reliable electricity even in the busiest of seasons. CEC knew they could improve this design and implemented a battery energy storage system (BESS) to regulate the electrical system and maximize the use of the locally produced electricity. The use of BESS will help to reduce dependence on diesel, propelling Cordova towards their sustainability goals.

Are you adapting technology for a new purpose? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’ largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.

Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.

Aerospace Partnership Could Mean Commercial Satellite Rocket Test Launches by 2022

Alaska Aerospace Corporation and India-based AgniKul Cosmos have partnered to launch test rockets from the Pacific Spaceport Complex in Alaska (PSCA).

Agnikul Cosmos is developing a small rocket, called Agnibaan, that has the ability to carry 100kg satellites into low earth orbit. Currently, small satellites are carried as ‘piggyback luggage’ by bigger rockets, and thus there is significant wait time for them to be put into orbit. The Agnibaan rocket is three-engine and 18m tall, with a plug-and-play engine configuration that’s customizable for clients’ needs. The company’s idea is to move the small satellite launch market towards a customer-centric business model. It aims to be able to build a rocket in two weeks, and it be launchable from any launch site around the world; thanks to its size, it’s transportable on an 18-wheeler, and comes with a unique launch pedestal. If it’s accomplished, the end result would be easier commercial space access for everyone.

Agnikul Cosmos and Alaska Aerospace Corporation will work to secure regulatory approvals (e.g. launch licensing from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), U.S. export control, and the necessary clearances from Indian authorities). The aim is to explore launch vehicle-spaceport interfaces and procedures, and conduct test launches from PSCA. These launches are anticipated to occur from 2022 and onwards.

Are you developing a new invention? Did you know your R&D experiments could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’s largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms, offering tax credibility assessments, claim preparation, and advisory services. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.

Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs and CFPs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.