U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and U.S. Representative Joseph Morelle (D-25) today announced $1,049,186 for OLEDWorks in Rochester, a global leader in the advancement and manufacturing of organic light-emitting diode (OLED) lights. The funding was allocated through the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. Specifically, the funding will be used to further improve efficiency and lower the costs of flexible OLED lighting panels, which will help reduce energy consumption while simultaneously providing healthier, unique lighting solutions that are cost-competitive in the mainstream lighting markets.
“This federal funding is the perfect shot in the arm for the Rochester-Finger Lakes economy and for OLEDWorks, which will use it to fuel its groundbreaking research and development of cost- and energy-efficient lighting,” said Senator Schumer. “I’m proud to announce this federal funding, which will help keep the United States at the forefront of lighting production and innovation. I’ll always fight tooth and nail for investments in our Rochester-Finger Lakes small businesses, because a healthy small business community is the backbone of our economy.”
“This federal funding is great news for OLEDWorks and the entire Rochester community,” said Senator Gillibrand. “OLEDWorks is a global innovator in high-efficiency lighting, and supporting this local business will help drive economic growth throughout the region. I will do everything I can to ensure that our entrepreneurs have the resources they need to compete in the 21st century.”
“I am delighted that this funding will help support the growth of OLEDWorks, strengthening our regional economy and creating new job opportunities for Monroe County families,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “Rochester has a proud history of leadership in the high-tech lighting manufacturing industry. I applaud OLEDWorks for their dedication to our community and thank the DOE for investing in the economic future of our region.”
“OLED light is a naturally glare-free light source with no UV or blue light risk,” says Michael Boroson, Chief Technology Officer at OLEDWorks. “As Asian governments are increasing their support of companies entering the OLED lighting market, the DOE’s ongoing support is critical to increasing American high-tech manufacturing jobs and sustaining the United States leadership position in this rapidly emerging technology and market.”
The purpose of the SBIR program is to stimulate technological innovation in the private sector, strengthen the role of small business in meeting federal research, increase the commercial application of Department of Energy supported research results, and improve the return on federal investments in research for economic and social benefits to the nation.
About OLEDWorks
OLEDWorks is a global leader in the development and production of innovative organic light-emitting diode (OLED) light technology. By producing the world’s best performing OLED panels and combining rapid product innovation, OLEDWorks simplifies and enriches lighting solutions in general lighting and automotive applications. www.oledworks.com