Vertx works with the High Technology Foundation in Fairmont and TechConnect West Virginia in Charleston . Frisbee also reaches these tech-savvy entrepreneurs through social media so Vertx can begin a dialogue explaining the government ’ s interest in their products and companies .
Iconic Air , a startup up out of WVU ’ s Vantage Ventures , was founded in 2018 , well before Vertx Partners . Frisbee introduced the environmental software company — which helps track , analyze and reduce an organization ’ s emissions footprint — to Ohio ’ s Parallax Advanced Research , and the duo secured its first of three rounds of Small Business Innovation Research funding .
“ The Iconic Air founders never considered working with the federal government ,” Frisbee says . “ However , they have continued to grow and be successful in the Air Force , which is a great example of the benefits of working with those startups and looking at how those technologies can make a bigger impact than first estimated .”
Frisbee says the DOD can dig into the state ’ s coal supply for much-needed materials in advanced carbon manufacturing . In fact , AmeriCarbon , a small business in Morgantown and a Vertx partner , is doing just that with coal byproducts .
“ As our nation and the world shift toward cleaner energy , we ’ re seeing less of a focus on coal as a fuel source , but that doesn ’ t mean it doesn ’ t have its uses ,” he says . “ That ’ s where advanced carbon manufacturing comes into play . Graphene , graphite , carbon fiber , carbon composites : these materials are highly sought after by manufacturing entities , especially big defense firms . I believe West Virginia is a natural spot to convert this resource into something less pollutive and highly versatile .”
Vertx Partners is also looking for technology to solve problems in the areas of advanced air mobility and unmanned flight . Frisbee says West Virginia has a golden opportunity to take the lead in a field that NASA believes will generate thousands of jobs and billions in revenue .
“ NASA is looking into how we can integrate these unmanned systems into the national airspace in a safe and efficient way ,” Frisbee says . “ These high mountains and valleys , various states of broadband and communication as well as the weather make West Virginia the perfect location
Ziebart Morgantown
VETERAN OWNED AND OPERATED
( 304 ) 322-4361 500 Fort Pierpont Drive
Morgantown , WV
Get back that new car look and feel at Ziebart !
We provide premium automotive appearance and protection services to extend the life of the vehicle you love so you can keep it like new for as long as you own it . Clean , disinfect , enhance , and protect with the highest quality products and services .
We want to support your pride in vehicle ownership and protect your investment with the highest quality products and services , exceptional workmanship and a knowledgeable staff that provides solutions for extending the life of all vehicles .
Services
Ceramic Coatings Auto Detailing Paint Correction Rust Protection Window Tint
Rhino Linings ® Spray-On Bed Liner
WWW . WVEXECUTIVE . COM FALL 2022 57