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Press Release

Nāmaka Algae, Inc.  Awarded Prestigious Grant from U.S. National Science Foundation

R&D funding to accelerate Nāmaka’s algae cultivation technology.

Kailua-Kona, HI, June 26, 2025 – Nāmaka Algae, Inc., has been awarded a U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant for $304,541 to conduct research and development (R&D) on patentable technology to improve light utilization in algae cultures. With the new technology Nāmaka will produce aquaculture feed ingredients cost effectively. Nāmaka’s first markets are in Hawai’i, where Nāmaka will contribute to local food production with ingredients for aquaculture and livestock feeds.  The vision is to expand the manufacturing technology globally, locating facilities near key markets. Nāmaka’s NSF work will expand their patent portfolio through continued innovative engineering to decrease algal costs.

Picture of Valerie Harmon, CEO of Namaka Algae, outside of laboratory in Hawaii.

Valerie Harmon, CEO Nāmaka Algae, Inc.

All proposals submitted to the NSF SBIR/STTR program, also known as America’s Seed Fund powered by NSF, undergo a rigorous merit-based review process. Once a small business is awarded a Phase I grant, it becomes eligible to apply for Phase II funding and additional supplements totaling up to $2 million.

“NSF accelerates the translation of emerging technologies into transformative new products and services,” said Erwin Gianchandani, NSF Assistant Director for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships. “We take great pride in funding deep-technology startups and small businesses that will shape science and engineering results into meaningful solutions for today and tomorrow.”

“Nāmaka Algae is honored to receive NSF funding to support our technology development, and our product commercialization via the NSF I-Corp program,” said Valerie Harmon, Founder and CEO. “This funding marks a pivotal moment for Nāmaka Algae, validating our vision and scientific integrity while propelling us forward. With this funding and our support network we can now focus on executing with excellence.”