Cascade Township, Mich. (WOOD) — Gerald R. Ford International Airport near Grand Rapids will launch a third round of FLITE companies in March, giving startups a chance to test their technology in the real world .
FLITE, or the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship program, allocates funds for airport-based programs, products and services. This year, $171,000 will be divided among five companies: Cyberworks Robotics, Deaf AI, Renu Robotics, Solartonic and UV Angel.
“During the pandemic, we’ve had a lot of companies wanting to test their cleanliness-focused innovations,” said Alex Perik, the airport’s chief operating officer. “We really see the value and impact of giving startups the opportunity to test their products in a live airport environment.”
This is the third round of the FLITE program, a partnership between the Airport Authority, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines, Stantec GenerationAV and the Western Michigan Aviation Academy.
“Following two successful rounds of financing, FLITE has proven to be a great asset to Gerald R. Ford International Airport and Michigan’s local startup ecosystem,” said Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson.
Companies and products that have continued to serve Ford Airport in the past include autonomous wheelchairs that help passengers get to their gates safely.
“One of the companies we’re working with (in this round) is AI for the Deaf,” Perik said. “That company is using artificial intelligence to help people who are hard of hearing or deaf use American Sign Language.”
Airport and tourism officials hope that, if successful, the companies will move their headquarters to West Michigan.
“We want to have an overall economic impact with these companies,” he said.
Applications for FLITE Round 4 can be submit online Until June 30th.