Continuous Composites joins AFRL’s T3 Transition Accelerator program
Continuous Composites, an Idaho-based company specializing in Continuous Fiber 3D Printing and composite materials, has been selected to participate in the T3 Transition Accelerator program. The accelerator, led by the Wright Brothers Institute in partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and others, is made up of businesses developing products for the military and commercial markets with a focus on aircraft structures, space systems and autonomous unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
Companies selected to participate in the T3 Transition Accelerator are provided with intensive training to accelerate the development of materials and manufacturing processes aimed at low-cost, reusable and minimal maintenance structures, as well as engines, and sensors for UAS and space systems. After the accelerator program is completed, participating companies can continue onto the Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, which culminates in financial rewards of up to $1.5 million.
Understandably, Continuous Composites is excited about having the opportunity to partake in the T3 program and leverage its resources to accelerate its composite 3D printing technology and materials.
“We are at a pivotal stage in our growth and look forward to participating in the T3 Accelerator with our Continuous Fiber 3D Printing (CF3D) process,” said Tyler Alvarado, CEO of Continuous Composites. “The timing of this program is synergistic as we evaluate additional strategic partnerships specifically focused on the commercialization of our CF3D to both commercial and military applications. In addition to formalizing relationships with our strategic partners, we are now working with stakeholders to pursue non-dilutive funding—further enabling the rapid advancement of CF3D technology.”
The T3 Transition Accelerator, which is hosted in collaboration with the Air Force Small Business Innovative Research Program Office and The Entrepreneurs Center (TEC) of Dayton, marks Continuous Composites’ third engagement with the AFRL. Two years go, the company was awarded a subcontract through Lockheed Martin Skunkworks to produce a component wing-structure for a UAS as part of a Low Cost Attritable Aircraft Technology (LCAAT) program.
Jeremy Smith, VP of operations at Continuous Composites, said of the opportunity: “We already enjoy a great working relationship with the AFRL and anticipate strengthening our partnership through the focused curriculum cultivated by the T3 Transition Accelerator. We believe CF3D is a complete technology solution that will transform multiple industries, and the T3 Transition Accelerator is a highly regarded program providing specific expertise targeted at the commercialization of our technology.”
