Synaptek Utilizes Kentucky’s SBIR Match Program to Revolutionize Post-Concussion Medical Care

Synaptek is innovating concussion assessment by making it easier, more effective, and accessible. The technology it is developing will provide clinicians with a more accurate and sensitive method to track their patients’ concussion symptoms and improve recovery trajectories

With 3.8 million sports-related concussions occurring each year, Synaptek’s technology has significant potential to help clinicians and vastly improve athlete healthcare.

The technology’s development is made possible through the federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant program, which Kentucky matches. Kentucky – through KY Innovation – will also assist in the application process and provide needed resources to help founders get started.

“The support provided by Kentucky to companies creating innovative technology is a critical ingredient,” Synaptek said. “Not only are there resources to help write a compelling grant proposal but the matching funds provide a unique opportunity for companies as they move into their phase II application/award.”
Synaptek’s technology aims to increase the accuracy of symptom tracking – a crucial component for treating concussions. This technology will provide a clinically feasible tool for increasing objectivity, reducing bias, and accounting for individual differences in symptom evaluation.
This technology was developed in Kentucky in part because of KY Innovation’s ability to connect resources with need.

“The community of founders and innovators in Kentucky make it a great place to innovate and pursue SBIR grants,” Synaptek said. “Fellow founders are always willing to meet and discuss their experiences and learnings. This translation of knowledge is extremely helpful to founders starting their SBIR journeys.
“Additionally, the matching funds and grant writing resources provided by Kentucky not only help companies write compelling grants but increase the odds of moving their Phase I work into a Phase II award and eventually commercialization.

Without question, it would have been much more difficult to reach where we are at now without the SBIR-focused resources provided by Launch Blue (in Lexington) and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development.”