About MTRAC
The Michigan Translational Research and Commercialization (MTRAC) Advanced Transportation Innovation Hub, managed by the University of Michigan in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, recently awarded over $1.5 million in funding to support 15 multidisciplinary research projects. These projects, led by researchers from the University of Michigan campuses in Ann Arbor, Flint, and Dearborn, as well as faculty from Western Michigan University, Wayne State University, and Oakland University, range from offshore renewable energy advancements to virtual torque sensors for heavy-duty trucks and AI-driven fuel design software.
Beyond funding, MTRAC provides researchers with critical commercialization resources, including mentorship, industry connections, and access to an advisory board composed of experts in mobility and venture capital. The program is designed to bridge the gap between early-stage research and viable commercial products, aiming to launch new technologies in the transportation and mobility sectors.
NAMC’s Role as a Subject Matter Expert
NAMC is supporting MTRAC as a Subject Matter Expert (SME), assisting with the review of funding proposals in select focus areas. As a trusted SME, NAMC leverages its expertise to evaluate technologies with the potential to revolutionize mobility and transportation, providing insight into project viability and commercialization potential.
NAMC’s involvement focuses on early-stage projects, typically at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 2-4, helping teams develop a strategic foundation through:
- Technology milestones and product roadmaps
- Market research and commercial application planning
- Intellectual property development and licensing opportunities
- Industry connections for pilot programs and co-development
- Exploring funding pathways and business model strategies]=
Driving Innovation in Advanced Transportation
NAMC’s support aligns with MTRAC’s mission to advance innovative technologies in areas such as:
- Electrification, battery, and charging technologies
- Connected vehicles and infrastructure solutions
- Renewable energy systems
- Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
- Manufacturing and supply chain solutions
Eligible projects must originate from Michigan-based universities or nonprofit research institutions and demonstrate strong commercial viability. Technologies must also be tied to an invention disclosure and available for licensing in their respective fields.
A Unified Vision for the Future of Mobility
This partnership between NAMC and MTRAC reflects a shared vision of creating impactful, commercially viable solutions in the advanced transportation sector. By contributing expertise to proposal evaluations, NAMC plays a vital role in shaping the future of mobility and driving innovation across Michigan and beyond.
For more information about the MTRAC Advanced Transportation Innovation Hub and NAMC’s role in advancing these efforts, visit the MTRAC website.