Advanced Sandwich Panels and Composite Structures for Solar Applications

Founded in Midland in 2004 as a spin-off from The Dow Chemical Company, Fulcrum Composites develops and markets advanced sandwich panels and composite structures for a number of industries and applications. Their unique, proprietary Micro-Comb™ foam core sandwich panels offer improved price performance and increased design freedom compared with existing alternatives. As a result, Fulcrum’s products have tremendous potential in the alternative energy industry, as components of solar panel systems and wind turbines and in the construction of truck trailers to lower weight and reduce fuel consumption.

Fulcrum was one of only 17 Michigan companies to receive 21st Century Jobs Fund monies from the State in 2008. The 21st Century Jobs Fund is a $2 billion, ten-year initiative proposed by Governor Granholm, approved by the Michigan Legislature, and administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to accelerate the diversification of Michigan’s economy and create jobs.

Fulcrum’s funding also comes from many investors who have already committed their resources to the company’s success. North Coast Technology Investors, Midland’s own venture capital firm, is an active investor in the company; The Dow Chemical Company has also invested and collaborates with Fulcrum on a number of projects. Fulcrum is also engaged with several leading companies on joint product development work, including Naugatuck Glass and Abengoa Solar in the renewable energy field and Wabash and R-Star Trailer in the truck trailer field.