ASBTDC client FR8relay, a Bentonville logistics technology company, has received a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation.
The Phase II award is through the Small Business Innovation Research program and will fund FR8relay’s machine learning model project, designed to improve the efficiency of the company’s relay concept for trucking.
FR8relay works to transform long-haul trucking by addressing inefficiencies, using computer modeling for trucks to relay their loads with other trucks to improve shipping times, sustainability, and profitability.
“Securing this NSF grant is a significant milestone for FR8relay, reaffirming our commitment to improving efficiencies in the trucking industry,” said Aayush Thakur, CEO. “This project will bring us one step closer to a more efficient and sustainable freight transportation system for the entire country.”
Thakur co-founded the company in 2017 in Memphis. Relocating to Bentonville in 2020, the team began work with the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center for SBIR application development services.
The ASBTDC technology team, including Catherine Corley, business and innovation consultant at the University of Arkansas ASBTDC, worked closely with the company to secure previous SBIR awards and grants.
ASBTDC Consultant’s Help Positions Company for Next Phase
NSF Phase II awards must include a robust commercialization plan to ensure the technology solution has a clear path to market.
“Catherine Corley played a pivotal role again in guiding us through the development of a compelling proposal,” said Deme Yuan, FR8relay chief operating officer. “She helped us refine and highlight our competitive advantage.”
Corley met with the FR8relay team on a weekly basis to review progress on the proposal and scheduled additional meetings to cover specific topics, such as the Commercialization Plan. Her background and expertise were helpful in shaping the strategy and narrative of the commercial opportunity and challenges.
“It is a pleasure to work with the FR8relay team,” said Corley. “They are professional, organized and appreciative of our contributions.”
Corley noted the great working relationship she has with the FR8relay team. “They are very receptive to feedback and suggestions, based on the level of trust and openness that has been built over time,” said Corley.
FR8relay and its project partners are eager to embark on the NSF Phase II work plan.
The Phase II project will focus on enhancing FR8relay’s machine learning models within its relay scheduling platform, testing the Relay Scheduling Engine in simulations, and deploying the augmented software with live trucks and drivers.
The integration of these advanced models is expected to significantly improve the accuracy of scheduling and the reliability of freight movements across the country.
This work will validate the commercial viability of the technology, paving the way for broader adoption in the industry.
Learn more about the company at fr8relay.com.