Construction – Swanson Reed | Specialist R&D Tax Advisors

Solstar Space Co.’s Innovations Propel Communication in Low Earth Orbit

Solstar Space Co., based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is making strides in space technology with its recent $1.25 million Small Business Innovation Phase II research contract from AFWERX, the U.S. Air Force’s innovation arm. This contract aims to tackle critical challenges faced by the Department of Defense, particularly in the realm of space communications.

At the forefront of Solstar’s development efforts is the Continuous Spacecraft System Communications Wideband (CSSC-WB) unit, also known as the Slayton Space Communicator. Designed to revolutionize communication in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), the Slayton Space Communicator offers high-speed downlink and uplink capabilities, enhancing connectivity with spacecraft and personnel operating in this vital region of space.

The significance of Solstar’s innovation lies in its ability to minimize communication blackout periods caused by limited ground station links. With the Slayton Space Communicator, Solstar aims to provide near real-time access to large data files, including remote sensing images and video streams. Brian Barnett, CEO of Solstar Space, emphasizes the importance of such capabilities as LEO becomes increasingly congested, highlighting the need for complete situational awareness for organizations like the U.S. Space Force.

In light of recent incidents involving space debris, such as the unexpected crash of a piece of hardware from the International Space Station, the importance of effective communication and monitoring in space has become more apparent than ever. Solstar’s innovative solutions not only enhance connectivity but also contribute to improving safety and efficiency in space operations.

As Solstar Space continues its research and development efforts with the support of AFWERX and other partners, the future of space communication looks promising. With its commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology, Solstar is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of space exploration and satellite communication.

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.

Revolutionizing Building Insulation: CleanFiber’s $28M Series B Funding Round

CleanFiber Inc., a Buffalo-based materials science startup, is making waves in the construction industry with its innovative approach to building insulation. Recently, the company secured a remarkable $28 million Series B equity funding round, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards sustainable growth.

Founded on the principles of environmental stewardship and technological innovation, CleanFiber manufactures building insulation from recycled corrugated cardboard. This unique approach not only addresses the pressing need for sustainable construction materials but also offers a practical solution to waste management challenges.

Led by CEO Jonathan Strimling, CleanFiber has rapidly gained traction in the market, attracting investments from prominent sustainability-focused firms such as Spring Lane Capital, Climate Innovation Capital, AXA IM Alts, and Tokyu Construction/Global Brain. With the recent Series B round, CleanFiber’s total capital raised, including both equity and debt, has soared to over $100 million.

The company’s success story is deeply rooted in its commitment to innovation and community engagement. After winning a $500,000 prize in the 43North contest, CleanFiber relocated to Buffalo seven years ago, establishing its presence in the region’s burgeoning startup ecosystem. Over the years, the company has expanded its operations, employing approximately 95 people and transforming its factory on the former Bethlehem Steel site in Blasdell into a hub of sustainable manufacturing.

CleanFiber’s impressive growth trajectory is reflected in its year-over-year revenue, which has surged by at least 140% over the last three years. The Series B funding will further accelerate this growth by enabling the company to scale production, diversify its product portfolio, and enhance its market reach through strategic sales and marketing initiatives.

As one of the largest local raises in 2023, CleanFiber’s Series B funding underscores the growing investor interest in sustainable technologies and the company’s potential to drive positive change in the construction industry. With a clear vision and robust financial backing, CleanFiber is poised to revolutionize building insulation and set new standards for eco-friendly construction practices.

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.

OVO Venture Partners Leads $5M Seed Round in Climate-Tech Innovator Kind Designs

In an exciting development, GOVO Venture Partners, alongside M4 Investing and the Florida Opportunity Fund, is spearheading a groundbreaking $5 million seed investment round in Miami-based Kind Designs. This strategic move marks GOVO’s third portfolio company investment since the launch of its venture fund, GOVO Fund I, earlier this year in January.

Kind Designs, a climate-tech startup, is at the forefront of eco-friendly innovation, focusing on the production of 3D-printed seawalls designed to safeguard coastal communities against the rising sea levels. Utilizing proprietary technology, Kind Designs creates Living Seawalls™️ that emulate the natural structures of coral reefs and mangroves. These Living Seawalls not only provide vital protection but also serve as biodiversity hotspots, improving water quality. They are equipped with embedded sensors to collect water quality data and actively sequester carbon.

GOVO Venture Partners, headquartered in Winter Park, Florida, specializes in early-stage investments from seed rounds through series A, with a particular focus on companies where government interaction or navigating government regulations plays a pivotal role in their success.

M4 Investing, a Florida-based family office with a diverse portfolio of companies and investments in real estate, private equity funds, and venture capital, is also a key player in this endeavor.

This collaboration promises to drive forward novel solutions for climate resilience and sets a new standard for eco-conscious innovation in coastal protection. Stay tuned for the positive impact Kind Designs will make in coastal cities worldwide.

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.

Surf Internet Makes Waves in Knox, Indiana: A Fiber-Optic Revolution

In a groundbreaking moment for the City of Knox, Indiana, Surf Internet has set its sights on transforming the digital landscape. On a sunny July 20th, Surf Internet joined forces with the Starke County Economic Development Foundation and the City of Knox to kick off a monumental construction project: delivering fiber-optic internet to the heart of the city.

With an ambitious investment of nearly $2 million, Surf is on a mission to provide fiber connectivity to 1,200 addresses this year alone. But the vision doesn’t stop there – by 2024, they’re planning to extend this high-speed privilege to over 1,600 homes. This ambitious undertaking is particularly remarkable due to the rural nature of Starke County.

Leveraging strategic grant funding, Surf is determined to connect even the most remote locations. Thanks to the Indiana Connectivity Program, Surf is ensuring that 20 rural addresses become part of the digital revolution. In a recent triumph, the company secured $79,500 in the program’s latest round of funding.

Gene Crusie, the visionary CEO of Surf, emphasized the significance of this endeavor. “Surf is the first company to step up and deploy fiber-optic broadband to Knox,” he stated. This commitment resonates deeply with the community, as it promises to transform lives, businesses, and educational institutions.

Scheduled for completion by summer 2024, the project encompasses various phases that will usher in a new era of connectivity. The fiber infrastructure lays the groundwork for Surf’s future plans, including introducing multi-gig speeds – a testament to their dedication to providing top-notch service.

Mayor Dennis Estok of Knox expressed his excitement, highlighting how high-speed, affordable internet will enhance the community. “We look forward to building a long-lasting community partnership with them,” Mayor Estok stated, underscoring the potential for positive change that Surf brings to the city.

This endeavor is part of Surf Internet’s broader mission: constructing an advanced fiber-optic network that blankets rural communities across the Great Lakes Region of Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan.

Surf Internet isn’t just providing internet connectivity – they’re crafting a gateway to the future. By bridging the digital divide in underserved areas, they’re empowering communities and demonstrating the transformative power of innovation. As the world becomes increasingly connected, Surf Internet is at the forefront of ensuring no one gets left behind.

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.

Document Crunch

Michigan Patent of the Month - October 2021

Document Crunch, Inc. has recently been announced as the gold-medal prize winner of the sixth annual Construction Startup Competition, sponsored by Cemex Ventures.

The 2021 Construction Startup Competition is a global competition wherein construction startup companies around the world had the opportunity to present their projects to a jury composed of the top representatives of each organizing company as well as an audience of experts in construction, investment, and innovation.

The organizing companies included CEMEX Ventures, Dysruptek, Ferrovial, GS Futures, Hilti, VINCI Group’s Leonard and NOVA by Saint-Gobain.

Georgia-based Document Crunch is a software tech startup who has leveraged Ai powers to identify and explain critical issues in construction contracts, insurance policies, plans/drawings, specifications and more. The construction industry is risky in both the physical aspect as well as the financial investment that each project brings. Most companies employ lawyers who spend hours sifting through these contracts and policies to identify potential issues. With the AI based program, these reviews can be completed in much less time and with much more accuracy.

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.

Eco Depot Acquires Remaining Shares of Development One

Eco Depot Inc. has announced their acquisition of Development One Nanotechnologies and Energy Inc.

Development One is a Wyoming-based corporation specializing in the R&D of nano carbon atoms and polymer products within the coatings and construction industries. Eco Depot Inc has acquired all outstanding common shares of Development One.

Development One has previously developed a proven coating for the industrial space capable of increasing strength by 300% while lowering friction. It is also less abrasive and lubricating than other options. They have also developed other products like cement additives which can improve tool life and efficiency in the oil and gas industry.

Eco Depot acquires, manages, and develops eco-friendly real estate assets and consumer and industrial brand products. Development One works with industry leaders to address infrastructure issues related to corrosion. Between their R&D skills and Eco Depot’s focus on investing in green technologies, the two companies will continue to advance the future of concrete while reducing the carbon footprint of the industry.

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.

Accenture Opens New Innovation Hub

Accenture Federal Services arm has announced their plans to open a university-backed innovation hub in Huntsville, Alabama. This new Invention to Innovation Center at the University of Alabama will support collaboration across the region.

This move will provide the time and space to work on collaborative projects with industry experts and government leaders. Through funding, mentorship, and support, the center aims to help aspiring entrepreneurs develop and commercialize a variety of technology. Accenture aims to solve the biggest challenges facing the government and expand the nation’s digital transformation.

The Invention to Innovation Center (I²C) is a regional initiative that fosters, promotes, and accelerates commercialization of technology-based ventures through incubation, coworking, mentorship, funding, and strategic support. The center is open to those looking to learn about entrepreneurship, explore a technology-based venture, participate in I²C events, and be a part of the I²C entrepreneurial community.

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.

Alquist 3D to Test Additive Construction of Homes

Alquist 3D, an additive construction company, is focused on solving America’s housing shortage crisis. Their method involves designing dream homes at genuinely affordable prices. They have teamed up with the Virginia Center for Housing Research (VCHR) at Virginia Tech to design, build, and study a 3D-printed single family home – the first of its kind in the United States. This step has been made possible through a $500,000 Innovation Demonstration Grant from Virginia Housing.

The grant provided the funding to purchase a modular 3D printer – the BOD2 – which can be assembled in a matter of hours and requires just two construction workers to be present on-site during operation. This first test will be constructed using a concrete mix, but the open-source nature of the system means future homes can be constructed from more sustainable materials. This test run will print the exterior walls of a 1,550 sq ft, three-bedroom bungalow.

With the use of concrete, Alquist predicts initial savings of up to 15 percent-per-square-foot of building. Classic stick-built homes are facing massive cost increases as the pandemic has led to soaring lumber prices. The speed and efficiency of additive construction would only further reduce these costs and could produce a brand new home in 12 to 15 hours. Virginia Tech has built a proprietary Raspberry Pi-based smart home monitoring system that will be built into Alquist-built dwellings to monitor the indoor environment sensing (air quality, temperature, humidity etc.). This sensing system can contribute to long-term cost savings and efficiencies throughout owning the home.

Alquist is focused on applying this technology and these houses to build homes for people who live outside of the places where most funding for housing programs is spent. This focus is largely in rural areas, with a target construction price for similar style homes at $181,000.

Are you developing new technology for a new 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.

Blueprint Power using a First-of-its-Kind Demonstration to expand EV Capacity in New York

In a first-of-its-kind project, Blueprint Power has teamed up with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to improve energy management and enable a greater electric vehicle capacity.

Blueprint Power aims to help secure access to reliable, clean energy for cities and communities. They believe the key is to modernize the energy grids in cities and plan for resilience and efficiency on a larger scale.

Their project is set to take place in LeFrak City in New York, where it will showcase energy management technologies that could enable buildings to provide grid flexibility. By combining coordinated management of distributed energy resources like solar, batteries, flexible loads, and EV chargers with its demand responsiveness to load needs the net burden can be reduced at peak times. This in turn can allow for more efficient EV charging. In fact – the same amount of charging could be done with less infrastructure thereby reducing utility upgrade costs.

Networked buildings combined with onsite clean energy tech and EV charging can decarbonise buildings and transportation. New York City is a fantastic example for this application, as it’s building density provides a great network to build on. In addition, the project will provide an opportunity to collect data that can guide better optimization of solar, storage, and EV charger installations.

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.

Cabana Expanding their Mobile Hotels into California

Cabana has announced their expansion into Los Angeles as well as enhanced experiences for their Seattle customers. They intend to revolutionize the way people travel through the streets of Seattle – in mobile hotels. They have taken the new #vanlife trend to a new level, by providing the experience of luxury hotels on the road. They designed a campervan that could incorporate this form of luxury to make your road trips an experience to remember.

Their new options include concierge services to provide trip planning assistance for customers; van delivery to make starting a trip even more convenient; early check-in and late check-out to provide more flexibility in travel plans; and one-way rental options for travelers with itineraries that don’t accommodate a two-way trip.

These mobile hotels are great for a socially-distanced vacation. Cabana made sure the entire process is contactless by incorporating virtual methods for reservations and both van pick-up and drop-off. With the expansion into LA, Californians will soon be able to take advantage of these mobile hotels and experience the west coast in a new way.

Are you developing new technology? 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.