(Honolulu, August 12, 2014) Koa Technologies LLC, a Honolulu-based research and development startup, was recently awarded a grant from the US government’s National Science Foundation (NSF). The grant of over $215,000 supports the development of an innovative, electronically controlled suspension system for prosthetic devices.

“We are honored that our invention is receiving recognition from such a prestigious organization as the NSF,” said Kaione R. Newton, President and CEO of Koa Technologies. “The grant process is extremely rigorous and highly competitive. We believe that our device will be a significant advancement for amputees who require high performance from their prosthetic devices.” 

Koa Technologies will be working with the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s  Department of Mechanical Engineering to develop a prototype of the new prosthetic device. “It has been very rewarding to work with the University and Dr. Scott Miller’s Biomedical Engineering program,” said Newton. “We believe that the resources available through the program will greatly assist us in developing our invention.” 

Hawaii Firm Awarded NSF Grant

Supports Research in Prosthetics

(L to R) Dr. Timothy Roe, Kai Newton

and Dr. Scott Miller

Koa Technologies Awarded Grant

Hawaii HTDC Supports Prosthetic Research

(Honolulu, October 24, 2014) Koa Technologies LLC, a Honolulu-based research and development startup, has been awarded a Phase 1B research grant from the Hawaii High Technology Development Corporation (HTDC). The grant was awarded as a matching grant in support of Koa's Phase 1B proposal to the National Science Foundation to further fund research in the design of innovative prosthetic devices.

HTDC is a state agency established by the Hawaii State Legislature in 1983 to facilitate the development and growth of Hawaii's commercial high technology industry. The State views high technology as an important driver in the diversification of Hawaii's economy and one that provides quality, high-paying jobs for Hawaii residents.