The grants were given through the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship (FLITE), which has awarded more than 30 companies over $1 million in funds across seven rounds.
“We are proud to welcome five new companies to the FLITE program that will pilot test their technologies at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” Alex Peric, COO of the Ford International Airport Authority, said in a statement. “We appreciate the commitment of our partners in supporting companies that will shape the future of aviation.”
The five companies in this cohort will pilot their technologies at the airport through the winter and spring.
Arrow Analytics, a company that utilizes artificial intelligence and sensors to uncover new data sources, will test a camera-based system using AI to identify carry-on baggage and streamline boarding.
Commercial electric vehicle company Civilized Cycles will showcase its electric trike as a short-distance cargo mover within the airport terminal.
“We’re thrilled to be part of the FLITE program at Ford International Airport,” Marc Liu, chief revenue officer at Civilized Cycles, said in a statement. “This partnership provides a unique opportunity to showcase the capabilities of our electric cargo trikes in a real-world setting and demonstrate how they can revolutionize airport operations.”
Civil engineering and land surveying firm Metro Consulting Associates will estimate future electrical demand and propose energy infrastructure solutions for the airport.
Synaptic Aviation, a company that uses AI to monitor and optimize aviation operations, will test its capabilities to improve efficiency and accountability in ground operations.
Tubular Network, a company that uses AI-powered delivery shuttles to automate the transportation of goods, will explore logistics solutions to enhance baggage handling before and after TSA screening.
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Office of Future Mobility and Electrification provided grant funding to support the companies participating in FLITE.
Other FLITE partners include Avflight, Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines and the West Michigan Aviation Academy.
Applications for the next round of FLITE can be submitted through June 30 at michiganbusiness.org/mobility-funding.
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