PlanetM recently awarded more than $300,000 in funding during its fourth round of grants to four mobility and technology companies addressing transportation challenges.
PlanetM is a mobility initiative of the Michigan Economic Development Corp. and is a partnership of mobility organizations, communities, educational institutions, research and development, and government agencies. It connects startups, businesses, and communities.
The PlanetM Mobility Grants provide funding to mobility companies looking to test, refine, and deploy their technologies in Michigan. Over the past two years, more than $1.5 million has been provided to 20 startup companies.
“We have an opportunity and a responsibility to improve the quality of life for our citizens by solving the transportation hurdles they face,” Charlie Tyson, technology activation manager at PlanetM, said. “Being at the forefront of the emerging mobility landscape, we’re able to see firsthand how these mobility pilots can significantly impact the lives of those in our communities.”
e-Mobility Analytics was awarded $75,000 for its electric-vehicle solar-charging-system design.
Parkofon was awarded $77,000 to deploy automated student parking on-demand technology.
PikMyKid was awarded $60,000 to expand its school traffic and safety solution in several rural schools.
Zown was awarded $95,000 for its pilot project that aims to streamline ride-hailing pick-ups.