University of Maryland Secures $2.3M in State Funding

UMDPhoto byRufina

Which UMD projects received state grants?

Four innovative projects associated with the University of Maryland have been awarded more than $2.3 million in state grants aimed at bolstering the region's innovation infrastructure, as announced by Governor Wes Moore on Tuesday. These grants were part of the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program, which awarded a total of $9 million to 11 projects statewide.

What projects were funded?

Among the UMD-affiliated recipients, two companies founded on university research secured significant funding. InventWood, established by Distinguished University Professor Liangbing Hu, received $1 million to develop a pilot manufacturing and innovation center at its Frederick County facility. InventWood's MettleWood, a 100% wood material touted as 50% stronger than steel and an effective carbon sequestration solution, stands to revolutionize the use of wood in construction.

How is battery research being supported?

Similarly, Ion Storage Systems, created by Distinguished University Professor Eric Wachsman, was awarded $1 million to enhance its solid-state battery research and development facility in Beltsville. This company is advancing battery technology with its ceramic solid-state electrolyte structure, which aims to replace the current generation of lithium-ion batteries.

How is quantum technology being advanced?

The funding also extends to quantum technology projects, further cementing UMD and Maryland's status as a hub for quantum research. The Quantum Startup Foundry at UMD received $118,600 to implement a “shared lab” concept for quantum technology startups. This project, named the University of Maryland Advanced Quantum-Centered Experience for Startups and Students (AQCESS), will provide necessary equipment, platforms, and training for emerging quantum tech companies.

What are the plans for photonics research?

In addition, QC82, another resident of the Quantum Startup Foundry, garnered $200,000 to build a 1,000 square-foot integrated photonics testing and packaging facility. This facility will support the development of room-temperature photonic chips, essential for scalable universal quantum computing.

University officials says:

Gregory F. Ball, UMD's vice president for research, expressed his enthusiasm for the state’s investment in these pioneering fields. “I’m so pleased to see that the Maryland Department of Commerce is using these grants to help accelerate innovation and discovery in areas where Maryland is already poised to be a leader and to spur significant economic development,”

Ball said. “This support will undoubtedly help us continue our momentum in areas such as quantum technology, battery research and manufacturing, as well as the development of innovative new materials.”

What is the Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program?

The Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program, part of the Governor’s Innovation Economy Infrastructure Act of 2023, offers grants up to $2 million to private companies, nonprofit entities, local governments, or educational institutions. The program targets a variety of sectors, including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, agriculture, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, blue technology, cybersecurity, defense, energy and sustainability, life sciences, quantum, and sensors and robotics.