Aircraft Data Fusion
Utilizing web-based cloud solutions to provide real-time passenger forecasting.
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FLITE
The Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship
About Our Program
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines®, AvFlight Grand Rapids and the West Michigan Aviation Academy, oversees the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship, or FLITE, which provides grants and pilot-testing opportunities to companies focused on bringing emerging air travel technology solutions to market. This is one of the first airport-based initiatives in the nation that provides funding to encourage the testing and validation of new products and services in a live airport environment.
Official Partners
How does it work?
The Ford International Airport has identified five core focus areas for new technology advancements through FLITE:
- Automation & Analytics: Improving operational efficiency and optimization of workforce and other resources through automation and analysis of data.
- Electrification & Sustainability: Switching fossil fuel vehicles and infrastructure to electrics and other decarbonization projects.
- Safety & Security: Strengthening passenger and worker safety and security throughout the airport campus.
- Door-to-Door & Terminal Guest Experience: Improving the efficiency of getting to and from the airport and improving the pre-boarding experience.
- Advancing Aviation: Exploring the enabling infrastructure and implications of emerging commercial aviation use cases.
How can I apply?
Applications are now being accepted through June 30, 2025 and can be submitted HERE.
Evaluation criteria includes, but is not limited to, partners, location, budget, timeline and metrics. FLITE will typically schedule calls with applicants who received a high review score, before selecting and notifying the final grant recipients. FLITE is supported by The Michigan Economic Development Corporation's Office of Future Mobility and Electrification. Visit MEDC to learn more.
Sponsor Opportunities
Interested in becoming involved with FLITE? Partner with us as we support companies pioneering the future of air travel technology. Sponsors gain access to industry insights, connect with regional and national leaders in innovation, inform and follow projects in the aviation mobility space, and more.
Companies We've Worked With
Airtrek Robotics
Enhances air travel safety through autonomous robots that detect debris on airport ramp space and more.
Antrum
Specializes in demand-controlled ventilation to promote safety and sustainability in commercial buildings.
Blueberry Technology
Specializes in customer-centric solutions for autonomous personal mobility.
Cybernet Systems Corporation
Advances operational efficiencies through military and commercial products, prototypes and services.
Dataspeed Inc.
Revolutionizing aviation operations with the Kinetic360 Autonomous Service Vehicle.
DD DANNAR
A mobile power station with a multi-functional, zero-emissions, configurable platform for maintenance and emergency response needs
Deaf AI
Training machines with artificial intelligence to use sign language to improve the experience of communicating with those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Enspired Solutions
Implements technology to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water.
IonDynamics Energy
Utilizes hardware and AI-powered software solutions to deliver efficient and sustainable energy ecosystems.
EVA
Retooling EVA’s drone infrastructure to provide airport services to revolutionize baggage delivery.
Flox Robotics
Develops and deploys autonomous solutions designed to mitigate bird and wildlife strikes, enhancing aircraft safety.
Metro Consulting Associates
Offers civil engineering and land surveying solutions for energy, community development, and infrastructure.
Numina
Computer vision system that applies a privacy-by-design framework.
Prospect Airport Services
Provides air transportation services and mobility assistance to partners and passengers.
Renu Robotics
Revolutionizing the way aviation facilities conduct vegetation management with autonomous lawnmowers.
Signapse
AI technology that automatically translates written text to sign language via video.
Snowbotix
Develops electric robots designed for various outdoor tasks like snow removal, sidewalk cleaning, vegetation control and more.
Solartonic
Enhancing security resilience with autonomous smart solar-powered lighting and camera systems with reduced operating costs.
Spotter
Developing innovative sensor technology to help travelers identify open parking spots.
Synaptic Aviation
Leverages AI to monitor and optimize apron operations while enhancing safety protocols and fuel efficiency.
Tiami Networks
Advances wireless communication through Integrated Sensing and Communications (ISAC), generative AI and resilient communication systems.
Tubular Network
Automates the movement of goods in tubes using AI-driven delivery shuttles, providing safe, eco-friendly, and efficient logistics.
UV Angel
Using first-of-its-kind software to reduce bacteria, viruses and molds on frequently touched surfaces and in the air.
Volair Technologies Inc.
Flight perception technologies to support aviation operations and expand aerial mobility options.
