A New Era for the microAwards: Meet the Competition Winners

The Kentucky Science and Engineering Foundation (KSEF), an initiative of the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation (KSTC), has announced the four winners of its newly formatted microAwards Pitch Competition: Hexalayer, ADEM, TruDiagnostic and Align Solutions.

This year marked an exciting evolution for the microAwards program, which was reformatted into a live pitch competition for the first time. The new format gave Kentucky entrepreneurs the opportunity to present their ideas directly to a panel of judges, sharing innovative technologies and clear plans for how microAward funding will help strengthen their proposals for federal SBIR/STTR (Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer) funding.

Each of the winning companies represents the talent and innovation driving Kentucky’s technology economy forward. From advanced materials and clean energy to biotechnology and health diagnostics, these businesses demonstrate the state’s growing strength in entrepreneurship and research. Each will receive up to $5,000 in microAward funding to refine their concepts and prepare for future federal funding opportunities.

Why the microAwards Matter

The microAwards program plays a vital role in supporting early-stage innovators as they move from concept to competitive federal grant readiness. By providing targeted funding, KSEF helps small businesses validate their ideas, strengthen technical foundations and build momentum toward successful SBIR/STTR proposals.

The live pitch format adds an interactive element that allows entrepreneurs to share their work, respond to expert feedback and connect with mentors and peers who can support their growth. This experience not only prepares participants for federal competition but also strengthens Kentucky’s broader innovation ecosystem.

Through initiatives like the microAwards Pitch Competition, KSEF continues to foster growth across the commonwealth by equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, experience and confidence to turn promising ideas into impactful technologies and thriving businesses.

Congratulations to Our Winners

Congratulations to Hexalayer, ADEM, TruDiagnostic and Align Solutions on their success in the microAwards Pitch Competition. These companies exemplify the innovation and entrepreneurial talent across Kentucky.

KSEF looks forward to seeing these companies continue to grow, refine their projects and compete successfully for future SBIR/STTR funding opportunities.

Learn more about the microAwards Pitch Competition.