Wisconsin Entrepreneur Working on Fuel Cell Technology

from the Wisconsin Entrepreneur Network

Before returning to his hometown in Colfax, Wisconsin, entrepreneur Kenny Smith worked for five years as an environmental engineer for Toyota Motor Corp. in California’s Silicon Valley and another four years as a project engineer in the high-tech industry. After returning he started Cool Science LLC to capitalize on his experience in the fuel cell industry.

“For over ten years, I’ve been trying to develop fuel cell technology. When I moved back to Wisconsin, I started Cool Science to develop and promote fuel cells here in Wisconsin,” said Smith.

Ready to move forward with his direct methane and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, in 2007 he met with Pat Dillon, Northwest Regional Director for the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Network. Dillon explained federal funding through the SBIR program to research and develop Smith’s fuel cell technology for eventual commercialization.

“Pat connected me to a couple of companies for possible joint alliances. She also helped hook me up with Clean Water Solutions to write a grant proposal to the National Science Foundation,” said Smith.

Smith obtained two grants: a Technology Assistance Grant to help write the proposal and an Early Planning Grant to write his business plan.
Dillon also helped Smith to get access to the facilities, equipment and expertise to support his research.

“Pat choreographed meetings with people from Stout, UW-Eau Claire and the Chippewa Valley Technical College,” said Smith. “The membrane technology is nanotechnology. That’s where I need the help of the UW system and CVTC.”

Smith hopes to secure funding by early 2008 to step up research and development as well as investment funding through angel and early stage investors.

Dillon continues to work with Smith on funding opportunities, connecting him to the resources he needs to grow Cool Science.

“He’s a bright, talented guy,” said Dillon. “We want to keep him in Wisconsin.”