By Roslyn Norman, Engineering Manager, Paramium Technology
Paramium Technologies, a University of Arizona Center for Innovation (UACI) startup housed at the UA Tech Park, is gaining great momentum. Paramium’s revolutionary technology will enhance a broad spectrum of industries, especially the world’s ability to utilize the internet which is quickly becoming a vital utility for humans. The demand for satellite ground stations in communications, astronomy and architectural applications is forecasted to increase as developing countries are rapidly coming online.
Paramium’s innovative manufacturing solution unlocks rapid prototyping capabilities for antenna designers because it is faster and more versatile than traditional methods. The underlying technology was developed by researchers and faculty that stem from the University of Arizona through the College of Engineering, College of Science and College of Optical Sciences. After the invention was developed, the founders worked with Tech Launch Arizona (TLA) to license the technology. To support the launching of this business, Paramium won the University of Arizona Center for Innovation (UACI) Sponsored Launch fueled by R&A CPAs competition which provided entrance into UACI’s incubator program with resources, facilities, services and expert guidance to grow their business.
Paramium is rapidly advancing their patented electromagnetic thermoforming technology with the support of federal resources as well as community resources. Paramium has been awarded a National Science Foundation (NSF) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant for $256,000 to conduct research and development (R&D) work on efficient manufacturing methods for radio antenna reflectors. With this awarded, the technology can advance to the next level and places the company in a prominent place to secure the next round of funding with a Phase II SBIR grant, which can be up to $1.5M.
“Paramium is a ‘people-first’ company. People are at the center of innovation and Paramium values the unique minds of our workforce,” said Roslyn Norman, Principal Investigator. “With federal and local support, we plan to commercialize our patented technology, grow our business and bring more jobs to the Tucson community.” This is a big success not only for the startup, but for the Arizona entrepreneurial ecosystem. When Arizona-based startups win SBIR awards, it is a signal to government agencies that the region is equipped to support the commercialization of novel technologies.
Paramium is currently a semifinalist in Startup Tucson’s IdeaFunding pitch competition. The final round takes place April 15th, 2021. The Greater Vail Area Chamber of Commerce and TLA Commercialization Partners have provided valuable feedback on the pitch as Paramium progresses into the final round. With the help of the community, Paramium is strategically positioned for success. Within the next 5 years, Paramium plans to scale up manufacturing operations in the greater Tucson area and bring more high salary, skilled labor jobs to the community.