Tubular Network Secures $75,000 FLITE Grant to Drive Logistics Innovation at Gerald R. Ford International Airport

Grand Rapids, Michigan – January, 23rd 2025 – Tubular Network, a clean-tech robotics startup specializing in tube-based automation systems, has been awarded a $75,000 grant from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s FLITE (Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship) program. The grant will support a validation test of the robotics-driven solution that is working to reduce delays, improve passenger satisfaction, and enhance sustainability in airport logistics.

“Airports are at the heart of global transportation, yet many still rely on outdated methods for moving goods,” said Ben James, Co-Founder of Tubular Network. “At Gerald R. Ford International Airport, through the FLITE program and with the backing of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, we are introducing modern solutions to tackle inefficiencies. Whether it’s luggage, food, or other goods, we are reimagining how transportation works to save time, energy, and resources.”

The FLITE program, supported by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, fosters groundbreaking technologies that enhance airport operations. Tubular Network’s robotics-driven solutions aim to streamline logistics, reduce energy waste, and create sustainable outcomes in aviation and beyond. “Michigan has been the home of mobility for over a century, and we’re proud to build on that legacy with innovative companies like Tubular Network who are choosing to ‘Make It in Michigan,’” said Justine Johnson, Michigan’s Chief Mobility Officer with the MEDC. “The Office of Future Mobility and Electrification congratulates Tubular Network on their FLITE grant, and we look forward to their contributions to Michigan’s innovative mobility ecosystem and transportation network.”

This grant is Tubular Network’s second from Michigan in as many years, underscoring the state’s commitment to clean technology innovation. Tubular Network strategically based its business development office at Newlab - Detroit at Michigan Central in Detroit, a premier hub for mobility innovation and advanced industrial solutions. This collaborative ecosystem enables the company to scale transformative technologies. “Tubular Network was one of the first startups to join Newlab Detroit,” said Riley Hall, Head of Membership at Newlab Detroit. “Though the founders are based in Austin, they chose Michigan as the place to open their Business Development office due to Newlab and Michigan Central's unique commercialization opportunities and the growing innovation ecosystem. Their work exemplifies the kind of transformative technology we aim to foster.”

In addition to its work in airport logistics, Tubular Network is disrupting manufacturing by using tube-based automation to optimize supply chains, boost efficiency, and enhance sustainability. By aligning with Michigan’s expertise in clean technology and manufacturing, the company connects logistics innovation with industrial efficiency. “With the renewed focus on modernizing U.S. manufacturing, companies like Tubular Network are crucial in driving innovation and creating sustainable solutions,” said Colleen Hau, Tech Ecosystem Strategist.

To learn more about Tubular Network’s vision and technology, watch this video: https://www.tubular.network/about-us 

To learn more about the FLITE program, go to: https://www.grr.org/news/flite-round-vii.

About Tubular Network
Tubular Network is a clean-tech robotics company revolutionizing logistics with tube-based automation systems. Headquartered in Austin with business development operations at Newlab at Michigan Central in Detroit, the company delivers energy-efficient logistics solutions for airports, manufacturing, and beyond.

Press Contact
Allison Bowman
Allison.Bowman@Tubular.Network
313-338-8841
www.Tubular.Network