CONROE, Texas (June 17, 2025) — FluxWorks Inc., a growing aerospace and defense startup headquartered in Conroe, has been awarded up to $347,000 by the Texas Space Commission to support the development of its innovative magnetic gear system for space applications. The grant is part of a broader $20.7 million state initiative to boost Texas’ space technology sector.
The funding will help FluxWorks prepare its magnetic gear technology for testing aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in 2026. The project aims to demonstrate how magnetic gears — which use magnetic forces rather than traditional gear teeth — can offer more efficient, quieter, and low-maintenance performance in the extreme environment of space.
From Texas A&M Lab to Conroe Factory
Founded by Dr. Bryton Praslicka, a Texas A&M University Ph.D. graduate, FluxWorks spun out of academic research focused on magnetic gear systems. The technology eliminates friction between gear teeth, delivering up to 99% efficiency with no need for lubrication — features ideal for aerospace, defense, robotics, and subsea energy systems.
FluxWorks gained national attention in 2023 when it won the Rice Business Plan Competition grand prize of $350,000. The company has since opened a 9,000-square-foot facility in Conroe, bringing design, manufacturing, and testing operations under one roof. The expansion has been supported by state and local leaders, including the Greater Houston Partnership and Governor Greg Abbott’s economic development office.
Building Partnerships and Momentum
In addition to the Texas Space Commission grant, FluxWorks has attracted funding and partnerships from:
- The U.S. Army, with about $1.9 million in Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts to adapt its magnetic gear technology for military applications.
- NASA, to develop gearboxes for future lunar rovers designed to withstand harsh environments on the Moon.
- Boeing and CASIS, through a MassChallenge Space Tech Prize supporting the upcoming ISS mission.
The company has also achieved federal security certifications, positioning it for work with NASA’s Johnson Space Center and key defense contractors.
A Bright Future for Texas Space Innovation
FluxWorks projects $1.8 million in revenue for 2025, with clients ranging from defense startups to government agencies. The ISS mission will provide crucial flight data as the company aims to commercialize its gear systems for a range of demanding environments.
“The Texas Space Commission’s investment not only accelerates our path to spaceflight testing, but reinforces the state’s role as a national leader in space technology and advanced manufacturing,” said Dr. Praslicka in a statement.
As Texas continues to position itself as a hub for space exploration and aerospace manufacturing, FluxWorks’ success highlights the growing ecosystem of innovative hardware startups contributing to that vision.