Tag: Small Business Administration

Member Spotlight: RJ Energy Solutions

Posted on March 24, 2026 by - News

RJES Team

Bella Peterson & Russell Schell

RJ Energy Solutions (RJES) was founded with a clear mission: reduce energy waste, lower cost, improve comfort, and bring practical, innovative efficiency solutions to businesses and homeowners. After several years of experience in the corporate world, founder Russell Schell, felt called back to entrepreneurship and to his passion for advancing energy-efficient technologies.

Turning Innovation into Business

In the early stages, RJ Energy Solutions focused on executing energy-efficient solutions across a variety of sectors. Russell’s technical expertise and drive to innovate laid the groundwork for a pivotal moment in 2024, when he was connected with Bella Peterson, a UND entrepreneurship student.

As a driven and growth-focused professional, Bella helped shift the business from pure innovation to structured business execution. What had been primarily about inventing and refining solutions became a focused effort to bring those solutions to market in a scalable way. Together, Russell and Bella have built a partnership that they describe as a great crossover to execute great solutions.

Russell Schell & Bella Peterson

Solving Energy Waste with Purpose

RJES was created to address one core problem: energy waste and inefficiency. From commercial facilities to residential properties, the company works to identify where systems are underperforming and how to improve them in practical, cost-effective ways.

RJES continues to evolve, leading to the launch of a new venture, Dart Solutions. Dart Solutions is focused on providing predictive maintenance to cut down on energy waste and maintenance dollars.

Business offices represent eco-conscious and sustainable practices.

Maximizing Growth & Expansion

Growth for RJES has come through intentional development. Some of the key milestones thus far include expanding the team, investing in product and solution development, and conducting deep market research to find a niche and innovative approach to where there was a need in the market.

RJES has focused on building a strong foundation, leading to the development of an ecosystem of partnerships, refining approach, and ensuring each step taken is strategic. The launch of Dart Solutions is a great example of the thoughtful growth that takes place.

A hand holding lightbulb symbolizes sustainability and energy-efficiency.

CFI’s Impact: Strengthening the Ecosystem

Joining the UND Center For Innovation was a strategic decision for RJ Energy Solutions. The primary goal was to become more integrated with the entrepreneurial ecosystem while contributing to strong business execution.

The Center for Innovation has played an essential role in business development for RJES’s particularly by connecting the team to NSF I-Corps Hub Great Plains for in-depth market research. I-Corps also helped RJES validate assumptions, refine target markets, and strengthen the company’s value. In addition, CFI supported business planning, pitch practice and development.

Business meeting discussing sustainability and lowering environmental footprint.

Looking Ahead

As RJ Energy Solutions looks to the future, its goals are ambitious yet focused. The long-term vision is to expand across the country, delivering energy efficiency solutions to a broader market.

Through continued innovation, strategic partnerships, and disciplined execution, RJES aims to scale its impact while staying true to its purpose of helping homeowners and businesses operate more efficiently, sustainably, and cost-effectively.

Learn More

To learn more about RJ Energy Solutions, visit rjenergysolutions.com and connect with the RJES team.

De-Risking Innovation: The Power of SBIR/STTR Grants for Startups 

Posted on December 1, 2025 by - News

Written by Jeff Barta

The world is full of innovative ideas, but moving those ideas to an impactful solution is no easy task for any entrepreneur. One of the biggest hurdles innovators and start-ups face is having enough capital to support their product development efforts. That is where the SBIR/STTR program enters. The SBIR/STTR program is two federal initiatives that offer grant funding on a competitive basis to small businesses looking to move their Research and Development (R&D) into commercialization.  

Administered by the Small Business Administration, the goal of the program is not only to stimulate technological innovation, but to bring it to life and into an impactful societal use. 

A close-up photo of a computer screen displaying a webpage from an official U.S. government site. At the top of the browser window, a small American flag icon appears next to the text “An official website of the United States government.” Below it is a bright yellow banner, and further down, part of a blue section is visible featuring the National Science Foundation (NSF) logo and the text “America’s SEED FUND SBIR/STTR.
Computer screen showing the NSF America’s Seed Fund webpage with the U.S. government site header. 

SBIR: Small Business Innovation Research 

Eleven federal agencies participate in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program by listing topics specific to research and development they wish to explore and that align with the mission of their agency. Businesses are not required to collaborate with research institutions, but partnerships are allowed and encouraged.  

STTR: Small Business Technology Transfer 

The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program differs slightly from SBIRs in that it requires collaboration between small businesses and a non-profit research institution, such as a university. It focuses on technology transfer and commercialization through the collaboration of those partners. Only five federal agencies participate in the STTR program: Department of War (DOW), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and the National Science Foundation (NSF). 

America’s Seed Fund 

Labeled as “America’s Seed Fund”, SBIR/STTR is a three-phased process that moves research from concept to commercialization. Applications to the program are scored and awarded based on two things: scientific merit and the potential for commercialization. Winning an award can be a giant step forward for small businesses and academic researchers, as investors and industry partners look favorably on this process because of its progressive de-risking nature.  

Stacks of coins with growing plants on top, symbolizing financial growth. 

Typical Funding Ranges 

Phase I: Provides the smallest award for funding. The goal of Phase I is to establish feasibility, scientific and technical merit, and proof of concept. The length of the award is approximately 6-12 months. 

Phase II: Provides significantly larger awards intended to support continued R&D and creation of prototypes. The length of the award is up to 2 years. 

Phase III: No funds provided by either SBIR or STTR, and companies are expected to continue their commercialization efforts either through private investment or follow-on federal contracts.  

Range of SBIR/STTR Funding Awards by Phase 
Program Phase I Phase II Phase III 
 SBIR ~ $50,000 – $300,000 (depending on agency) $400,000 – $1,800,000 (depending on agency) No direct funding. Focus is on commercialization through private or non-SBIR federal contracts. 
 STTR ~ $50,000 – $300,000 (depending on agency) $400,000 – $1,800,000 (depending on agency) No direct funding.  Same as, SBIR commercialization support only. 

Benefits for Small Businesses and Researchers 

The benefits small businesses or academic researchers gain by participating in the SBIR/STTR program can be significant. They, 

  1. could receive non-dilutive capital to support early-stage R&D in the form of grants or contracts, without losing equity. This is ideal for high-risk, high-reward innovations that many investors shy away from. 
  1. gain access to federal agencies and their expertise. The ability to work directly with a federal agency allows their innovation to gain credibility and technical validation, both which are appealing to potential investors. 
  1. will retain the rights to their intellectual property. This ability to protect IP can be a critical factor for future commercialization. 

To learn more about the SBIR/STTR programs, visit https://www.innovators.net/sbir-sttr/ 

Member Spotlight: Vorbeck – Advanced Materials, Big Vision, and North Dakota Roots

Posted on September 25, 2025 by - News

Vorbeck team at UND's Center for Innovation
Vorbeck team at UND’s Center for Innovation, Photo by Haylee Bjork

When Tyler Sletten joined Vorbeck as the site leader for the company’s North Dakota operations, he knew he was stepping into something special. With a background as SBIR/STTR Director at the Center for Innovation and experience running his own businesses, Tyler was inspired by Vorbeck’s leadership team, Department of Defense partnerships, and potential to play a key role in North Dakota’s growing defense ecosystem.

“Vorbeck is at the right time and the right place,” Tyler said. “North Dakota—and the Red River Valley in particular—is a perfect fit for our work.”

About Vorbeck

Founded in 2006, Vorbeck has built a reputation for innovation in advanced materials for extreme environments, particularly for the Department of Defense. With more than 100 patents, much of their work is centered on printed electronics and graphene-based technologies.

Vorbeck's new facility in Grand Forks
Vorbeck’s new facility in Grand Forks, Photo by Haylee Bjork

Why North Dakota?

Vorbeck’s journey to Grand Forks began when Chairman William “Bill” Kilberg connected with Governor Doug Burgum. The welcome they received on their first visit sparked multiple return trips—and ultimately the decision to establish a long-term presence here.

“It quickly became clear that North Dakota could be a place where we could plant deep roots,” Tyler shared.

Building a Team, Building a Future

Like many expansions, Vorbeck faced challenges: assembling a new team, securing facilities, and operating across two locations 1,400 miles apart. Their solution? Invest in people.

One key step was hiring Amanda Odegard, now company-wide HR Director, whose leadership helped stabilize operations and set the foundation for growth.

From there, the team grew into a powerhouse of talent:

  • Andrew Knable and Ryan Chappell – designing and building the plant
  • Morgan LaRock – first to be brought on to the team directly from UND, now leading Logistics and Supply Chain
  • Andy Lafferty – Master Electrician, pivotal to plant construction
  • Chris Vondra and Zach Edwards – skilled technicians supporting expansion

“More than the milestones, it’s the people who make this work,” Tyler said.

Group photo taken while touring the Vorbeck Facility, Photo by Haylee Bjork

Support Along the Way

Vorbeck credits a strong ecosystem of partners for helping fuel their success:

As a former CFI staff member, Tyler has a unique perspective: “CFI has been instrumental in our growth. Amy Whitney introduced me to NSF I-Corps, which reshaped how we think about customer needs. Anthony Maher’s coaching sharpened our pitches, often with the tough advice only a trusted advisor can give. And Travis Fretheim guided us through every step of our tenancy—from a single office, to larger Skalicky spaces, and eventually to our graduation into a permanent home.

I’d also like to thank Haylee Bjork, Jeff Barta, Sona Lesmeister, Amanda Voigt, and Kevin Lunke —each played a role in making the road a little smoother. Simply put, CFI has been a partner every step of the way.”

Recent Highlights

  • Moving into a new, larger facility with the support of Russell Crary and Crary Development
  • Launching internship opportunities for UND students across engineering disciplines
  • Establishing a scholarship for excellence in electrical engineering at UND’s College of Engineering & Mines
  • Developing collaborations with UND’s EERC, Aerospace, Space Studies, and CEM

“This expansion sets the stage for our next chapter,” Tyler explained. “We can now bring all production under one roof, with room to grow.”

Andrew Knable leading a tour of Vorbeck’s new facility, Photo by Haylee Bjork

Looking Ahead

Vorbeck’s near-term focus is finishing its plant buildout this fall and growing its North Dakota team from 20 to 50+ employees. Longer term, the company envisions becoming a cornerstone of advanced manufacturing in North Dakota, known for PFAS-free firefighting foams, cutting-edge graphene applications, and deep ties to UND in research and workforce development.

“In five years, we want to be at full scale—delivering mission-critical technologies for the Department of Defense and beyond, while creating jobs and opportunities right here in Grand Forks.”

Tyler Sletten giving a product demonstration, Photo by Haylee Bjork

Advice for Fellow Innovators

When asked what advice he’d give to other entrepreneurs, Tyler pointed to the wisdom of Teddy Roosevelt, paraphrasing one of his most famous ideas:

“Think boldly; dare greatly.”

Learn more about Vorbeck and their mission to pioneer advanced materials that support national defense while creating jobs and opportunities in North Dakota by following them on LinkedIn or visiting their website.

MEDIA ADVISORY: Demonstration to show how drones can boost rural resilience

Posted on September 4, 2025 by - News, RuralReach

Gorman Field


Censys Technologies to lead live UAS demonstration for Project RuralReach at UND’s Gorman Field UAS Test Range

The UND Aerospace UAS Test Range at Gorman Field in Emerado, N.D., is a facility designed to test and train new UAS technology. At the Range, the building pictured offers office, work and hanger space for UAV testing and development. Center for Innovation photo.

What:

Project RuralReach will launch a critical use case test with advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), demonstrating the systems’ potential to enhance disaster response, situational awareness and resource mobilization in rural communities.

The live demonstration will feature multiple flight missions, including search and rescue, transmission line inspection, and data collection using RGB and LiDAR sensors, all operated by Censys Technologies. (RGB or Red, Green and Blue sensors are especially useful for creating high-resolution, color-accurate images from aerial perspectives.  LiDAR or Light Detection and Ranging sensors generate precise, three-dimensional information that can be used to develop digital and highly detailed maps.)

Flights will take place over the English Coulee Diversion area, launching from the Gorman Field UAS Test Range.

When:

Wednesday, September 10, 2025
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. (weather permitting)

Where:

Gorman Field UAS Test Range
1209 24th St NE, Emerado, N.D. 58228

Flight Details:

  • Multiple flight missions throughout the day:
    • Launch #1: Search & Rescue Mission (9:15 a.m.)
    • Launch #2: Transmission Line Flyover (~11:15 a.m., 30 minutes)
    • Launch #3: Data Collection (RGB & LiDAR) (1:30 p.m.)
  • Payload swaps and Q&A sessions after missions
  • Demonstration of real-time situational awareness, data collection and resource mobilization in rural scenarios

Why It Matters:

This demonstration highlights the growing role of UAS technology in strengthening rural resilience and supporting emergency response. Project RuralReach showcases real-world drone applications that help first responders and communities respond more efficiently to emergencies, gather critical data and improve overall safety and connectivity in sparsely populated areas.

Visual Opportunities:

  • Live drone launches and landings
  • Payload swaps and real-time data demonstrations
  • Interviews with flight operators and project stakeholders
  • Behind-the-scenes look at UAS prep and operations

Image:

Gorman Field building, 1.4MB: The UND Aerospace UAS Test Range at Gorman Field in Emerado, N.D., is a facility designed to test and train new UAS technology. At the Range, the building pictured offers office, work and hanger space for UAV testing and development. Center for Innovation photo.

Media Contact:

Haylee Bjork, Marketing Outreach Coordinator
Organization: UND Center for Innovation

Email: haylee.bjork@und.edu
Phone: 701.777.3281

From Idea to Impact: Pitching for Up to $2M in NSF Seed Funding

Posted on August 28, 2025 by - News

Learn how to pitch your innovation and compete for up to $2M in NSF seed funding.

Event Graphic for Learn how to pitch your innovation and compete for up to $2M in NSF seed funding.

Discover how to turn your innovative idea into a compelling grant proposal in this interactive session on America’s Seed Fund, powered by the U.S. National Science Foundation. Learn how to craft an effective Project Pitch—the crucial first step toward securing up to $2 million in non-dilutive funding for your startup. This session will guide you through defining a significant problem, presenting a unique solution, and highlighting the potential impact of your innovation. Come prepared to share your idea, receive practical insights, and gain the confidence to take your innovation to the next level.

We’re excited to host Elizabeth (Ela) Mirowski, NSF SBIR/STTR Program Director, who will share insights on how to:

  • Define the problem your innovation solves
  • Present your unique solution
  • Showcase your potential impact

📅 Date: September 10, 2025, 3:00 – 5:00 pm

📍 Location: Grand Farm Classroom (In-person & Virtual)

3717 153rd Ave SE, Wheatland, ND 58079

RSVP for In-Person
Register for Zoom

Project Rural Reach: Emergency Response UAS Test Launch

Posted on August 22, 2025 by - News, RuralReach

Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM
Location: Gorman Field UAS Test Range, 1209 24th St NE, Emerado, ND 58228

As part of Project RuralReach, Censys Technologies has been selected to lead a critical use case test focused on improving disaster response, real-time situational awareness, and resource mobilization through advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

This live demonstration will highlight how UAS technology can be deployed in emergency scenarios to support first responders and rural communities.

Flight Timeline:

  • 9:00 AM – Welcome & overview of Censys Technologies and Project Rural Reach
  • 9:15 AM – Launch #1: Search & Rescue Mission
  • 11:00 AM – Land & open Q&A session (payload swap)
  • 11:15 AM – Launch #2: Transmission Line Flyover (~30 min)
  • 1:00 PM – Land & payload swap
  • 1:30 PM – Launch #3: Data Collection (RGB & LiDAR)
  • 3:00 PM – Final landing & event conclusion

📢 Who’s Invited:
Media representatives, community members, and anyone interested in seeing cutting-edge UAS technology in action.

This is a unique opportunity to experience Project RuralReach in motion — testing real-world drone solutions designed to strengthen rural resilience and emergency response capabilities.

Project RuralReach Takes Flight Across North Dakota

Posted on June 24, 2025 by - News, RuralReach

Censys Technologies Drone
Photo provided by Censys Technologies

The UND Center for Innovation is thrilled to announce a major milestone for Project RuralReach, a $1 million initiative funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and led by the University of North Dakota. This groundbreaking project is entering the skies with a bold mission: to develop a statewide UAS (Uncrewed Aircraft Systems) commercialization strategy and conduct an in-depth economic impact study.

Now in the implementation phase, Project RuralReach is partnering with three innovative vendors to launch UAS demonstration projects across the state. Each company will conduct Use Case Tests to explore real-world applications of drone technology that could transform industries and strengthen rural communities.

Meet The Companies

Use Case Test #1: iSight & RPV Services – Rural Delivery Use Case

  • Location: Western North Dakota
  • Focus: Testing drone delivery of medical supplies in remote areas
  • Test Flights Begin: July 2025

Use Case Test #2: Botlink, Dunlevy Consulting & Utah State’s AggieAir – Sustainable Power Use Case

  • Location: Southeast North Dakota
  • Focus: Extending UAS operational range through sustainable technologies
  • Test Flights Begin: August 2025

Use Case Test #3: Censys Technologies – Emergency Response Use Case

  • Location: Northeast North Dakota
  • Focus: Utilizing drones for disaster response and situational awareness
  • Test Flights Begin: Mid-August 2025

These pilot projects are more than test flights; they’re bold steps toward a smarter, more connected, and more resilient North Dakota.

Supporting Rural & Coal-Impacted Communities

Project RuralReach is funded through the EDA’s American Rescue Plan and Coal Communities Commitment, a federal effort to invest in economic transformation for regions historically dependent on coal and other energy industries. North Dakota is uniquely positioned to lead this charge, thanks to Vantis, the nation’s first and only statewide BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) network for drones.

By tapping into North Dakota’s UAS infrastructure and innovation ecosystem, Project RuralReach is working to:

  • Accelerate UAS commercialization across key industries
  • Foster job creation and economic resilience
  • Expand access to advanced technologies in rural communities

Powered by Collaboration

This project wouldn’t be possible without the support of our exceptional partners:

What’s Next?

Stay tuned for:

  • Behind-the-scenes looks at the upcoming UAS flight demonstrations
  • Initial findings from the economic impact study
  • Opportunities to engage with the future of unmanned systems in North Dakota

Whether you’re a policymaker, entrepreneur, or tech enthusiast, Project RuralReach invites you to be part of the journey to revolutionize how rural America connects, responds, and thrives.

For more information – reach out to jeff.b@innovators.net

Getting to Know Adrian Luevano

Posted on March 12, 2025 by - News

Adrian serves as our Process Improvement Specialist at CFI. Whether he’s managing events, helping members and guests, or brainstorming with the team, he’s always on the go. His contributions are vital to the smooth operation of CFI, and we’re incredibly grateful to have him on board! Read on to learn more about Adrian!

Portrait of Adrian Luevano
Adrian Luevano

1. What do you typically do during a day at work?

On a typical day at work, I help manage events in our meeting rooms, assist with creating policies and processes, and help visitors at the Center for Innovation.

2. What college did you attend and what was your major?

I studied International Relations at the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León in Monterrey, Mexico, and after that, I earned my Master’s degree in Prospective and Strategic Studies at Tecnológico de Monterrey.

3. What is your favorite book or movie?

My favorite book I would say is Cloud Atlas

4. If you could drop everything and go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

My favorite city is Kyoto, but right now I would love to go to the beach.

5. What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?

My favorite thing to do in my free time is spend time with my wife and play with my dog.

6. What is your favorite part of living in Grand Forks?

My favorite part of living in Grand Forks is that it has the best of both worlds – it has the advantages of a big city, like having plenty to do, but also the perks of a small town, like no traffic, low pollution, and a really peaceful atmosphere.

7. What is your favorite part about working at CFI?

My favorite part about working at CFI is the positive and supportive work environment. I really enjoy how everyone is always willing to collaborate and help each other.

You can contact Adrian at adrian.l@innovators.net!

SBIR/STTR 101 Workshop

Posted on February 3, 2025 by - News

In-Person Federal Funding Workshop Opportunity at Emerging Praire in The Study

February 12th, 9:45 am – 10:45 am

SBIR/STTR Event Graphic

Event Description

Explore the fundamentals of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, with a special focus on fostering university collaborations. Learn how partnering with academic institutions can enhance your project’s innovation potential and increase your chances of securing federal funding. This session is ideal for small businesses and university researchers aiming to leverage combined resources for successful research and development initiatives.

Details

Date & Time: February 12th, 2025 | 9:45 am – 10:45 am after the UND Takeover StartUp Brew

Location: Emerging Praire, 118 Broadway N Suite S1, Fargo, ND 58102
Room: The Study

Register

For any questions or concerns, contact info@innovators.net