HeXalayer: How Access to Strategic Resources Builds Momentum for Kentucky Startups

Dr. Tereza Paronyan, Co-Founder and President of HeXalayer, came from academia with groundbreaking ideas but limited experience in business. She had little knowledge of SBIR/STTR grants or funding opportunities in Kentucky and was seeking guidance to turn her research into a growing startup.

Founded in 2017, HeXalayer develops graphene and lithium-ion battery technologies with a focus on improving energy density. The startup specializes in graphene-based materials for energy storage applications, offering rotated multilayer graphene in forms such as powder and foil to enhance battery performance.

To help innovators like Paronyan, the Kentucky Science and Engineering Foundation (KSEF), an initiative of the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation (KSTC), connects startups with funding opportunities and strategic guidance.

“I didn’t know anything about SBIR/STTR grants,” Paronyan recalls. Coming from a research background, she was used to designing experiments but not to raising funds, developing prototypes or navigating federal grant programs. Early on, she realized she needed guidance to take her technology from the lab to the market.

“Meeting KSEF showed me I wasn’t alone. That I have people who can really help me.” - Dr. Tereza Paronyan, Co-Founder & President, HeXalayer

Through workshops, writing clinics and one-on-one guidance, Dr. Paronyan learned how to write and manage grants and how to accelerate her technology development. Even small contributions made a significant difference, giving her the confidence and resources to move forward.

“Even a $100 microgrant is incredibly important for a startup. KSEF has always been there when I needed help." - Dr. Tereza Paronyan, Co-Founder & President, HeXalayer

KSEF also supported HeXalayer’s early technical progress through its microAwards program, which provided critical funding to generate preliminary data for SBIR submissions. This support enabled the team to advance prototype development for Army Phase I projects using existing national lab collaborations, without relying on costly local infrastructure. Beyond the microAward, KSEF consultants reviewed proposals, offered guidance and helped Dr. Paronyan identify funding opportunities she had not known existed while in academia.

Turning Early Support into Lasting Momentum

With KSEF’s assistance, HeXalayer was able to accelerate technology development, establish efficient R&D processes and gather data and resources needed to pursue larger projects. Dr. Paronyan gained confidence navigating the broader landscape of federal and state grants, knowing she had access to experienced advisors.

“KSEF helped me build my R&D properly and find the right funding opportunities to keep my technology moving forward.” - Dr. Tereza Paronyan, Co-Founder & President, HeXalayer

For early-stage technology companies, Paronyan recommends starting with KSEF.

“When startups ask where to begin, I always tell them to contact KSEF. It was the most efficient starting point for me. They feel like my backup family. I reach out when I need help and always get the support I need.” - Dr. Tereza Paronyan, Co-Founder & President, HeXalayer

The Journey Continues

HeXalayer’s story highlights how emerging companies can leverage guidance and support to overcome early challenges.

“Startups like HeXalayer remind us that early support, sometimes even small amounts, can make a critical difference. KSEF is committed to ensuring innovators in Kentucky do not have to navigate that journey alone.” - Maria Labreveux, Executive Director, KSEF

Dr. Paronyan’s experience with HeXalayer shows that with the right mentorship, access to resources and strategic connections, startups can take complex research from the lab and make it viable in the marketplace. KSEF’s role was to provide that support and connect HeXalayer to opportunities that helped the team consistently move forward.

Learn more about funding opportunities.