ROOTED in science...
- Marie Ambusk
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
... GROWING through collaboration
Full Circle: Phase I > Â Peak Pitch > Elevate VT > Phase II
When our team completed the NSF SBIR Phase I project earlier this year, it felt like reaching the end of a long trail — only to see new challenges and opportunities branching out ahead.
Phase I gave us more than just data and deliverables. It offered insight into the possibilities at the intersection of science, technology, grit, and concern for urban trees. We proved that our innovation is achievable, and there are many broader impacts to explore.
Grounded and focused, we set our sights onward.
In March, I competed alongside other Vermont entrepreneurs (Vermontrepreneurs) at Fresh Tracks Capital’s Peak Pitch, delivering our elevator pitches—literally—while on a chairlift at a ski resort! It was an exhilarating way to connect with investors and community leaders who believe in using innovation for good. That event reminded me of how far we’ve come—and how fortunate we are to have a vibrant startup ecosystem here in Vermont.
A few months later, we received matching funds from Elevate Vermont, acknowledging our successful completion of the National Science Foundation (NSF) SBIR Phase I and supporting our journey toward the next milestone, assisted by Eva Garland Consulting: NSF SBIR Phase II. Their confidence in our progress affirms that what we’re building has both roots and reach.
Our team will build on everything we’ve learned — from Phase I research, customer discovery, investor insights, and more — into our Phase II proposal. The goal is to develop a meaningful product, scale what we started, expand our impact, and deepen our partnerships because
WE NEED TREESÂ to live - - - to live WE NEED TREES
A recurring theme on this journey is growth through collaboration. No one can do it all alone.
As we look ahead, I’m deeply grateful to every mentor, partner, and believer who’s helped nurture our vision for INSIGHT™ — and for the future of urban trees, the trees we grow where we live.
This work by TreesROIâ„¢ LLC is made possible in part by a grant from the State of Vermont through the Agency of Commerce and Community Development, Department of Economic Development, and by the National Science Foundation (NSF) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program.