Boosting the innovation sector in Arizona, the wearable tech horizon just expanded with a substantial investment dedicated to applied research projects. The Arizona Commerce Authority, in conjunction with industry leaders, are backing seven pioneering ventures with a substantial $4.2 million. According to a report by ABC15, the funding includes contributions of $2 million from the ACA and an additional $2.2 million from the private sector. These funds are earmarked to streamline the commercial prospects of technologies like fall detection systems for seniors, VR gloves for post-stroke rehabilitation, and cardiac plus renal disease management devices.
Moving the needle towards sustainable practices, the Partnership for Economic Innovation (PEI) also detailed the support this funding will give to projects in the semiconductor and renewable energy sectors. With an eye on accelerating sustainable tech, Phoenix Business Journal notes some standout projects like a battery management system for renewable energy and a system targeting cleaner semiconductor manufacturing. Committed to innovation, Arizona has shown serious intent in becoming a go-to state for technology development.
This newest round of funding promotes Arizona's WearTech Applied Research Center's fourth cohort. The funded projects, developed in collaboration with state universities, include Gravitrex's walking rehabilitation device, Aventyn's 'Chaperone' for cardiorenal health, and Movement Interactive’s Hiji Sense for senior facility safety. John Graham, president and CEO of Sunbelt Holdings and board chair of PEI, expressed optimism about Arizona's position in the tech sphere to the Phoenix Business Journal, saying, "These new applied research projects led by Arizona companies in collaboration with universities highlight the pioneering technologies that are setting Arizona apart."
Additionally, the WearTech Center itself has been fostering innovation since its inception in 2019, playing home to 28 projects in the wearable technology space. Drawing international attention, an advisory board member at WearTech recently secured a significant government contract poised to propel wearable health tech to the lunar orbit, as reported by the Business Journal.
Editor's Note: The headline in this article has been updated to reflect accuracy.
