Authority Board Releases Funds to Empower Research and the Disabled

Monday, Sep 24, 2007

In its fourth meeting of 2007, the Arkansas Science & Technology Authority’s (Authority)
Board of Directors approved the release of funds from a major federal grant, benefiting three universities in the state.

As part of a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, the amount totaling 3.7 million dollars will provide research funds for the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, University of Arkansas – Fayetteville, and Arkansas State University. The funded research will focus on two areas: plant based bio-production, and wireless non-sensor technology. The goal of the research is two-fold: to advance scientific research and to create high-tech high-paying jobs in the state. Another $267,873 will be competitively awarded as seed grants to support bioproduction researchers.

In addition, the Authority’s Board approved a Technology Development grant to Invotek, Incorporated of Alma. The company specializes in tech-based products that aid the disabled. The monies will be used to market Invotek’s groundbreaking technology, including a device that allows paraplegics to type on a computer by guiding a laser with their teeth across a virtual keypad.

In addition, the board approved the release of Seed Capital Investments to two Authority clients: NanoMech/Duralor and Infinite Enzymes, both of Fayetteville.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for November 16, 2007.