SiMPore
SiMPore is a nanotechnology company based on ultrathin, nanoporous membrane filtration technology developed at the University of Rochester. SiMpore introduced its first product, TEM window grids for nanoscale imaging early in 2009. The company will launch its second product, SepCon™ devices for filtration and separation of nanoparticles, in early 2010.  A series of products for the biological, biomedical and pharma research markets will follow.
 
SiMPore’s development and production staff are recent microfabrication and electrical and computer engineering and biomedical engineering graduates of the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology. They are highly skilled in the special fabrication needed to create SiMPore’s membranes. However, they had limited training and experience in industrial production. To be competitive, the company needed efficient, well-controlled and well-documented production and quality programs. Good manufacturing practice is essential to their success.
 
The WIRED scholarship program has been instrumental in providing the needed training for SiMPore’s staff. RochesterWorks! awarded SiMPore two WIRED matching grants, totaling $15,530.89, for training. The funds helped SiMPore pay for a trainer with many years experience in the microfabrication field. The consultant trained SiMPore staff to establish and maintain operational control systems, focusing on supervision, line management, change control (documentation and implementation), data analysis and continuing process improvement.  
 
The program was quite successful. SiMPore now has in place systems with controls and documentation such as SOPs, change orders, and travelers created and maintained by staff. The company now has excellent systems for building products, maintaining highest quality standards and controlling inventory.

As a result of the WIRED program assistance and other efforts, SiMPore has reduced its cost to build TEM windows by greater than two-thirds. The compnay is now much better prepared to produce and introduce our new products to the marketplace. It has also positioned to train new employees when needed after it introduces these new products.

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