4th Phase Technologies
Advancing Water Innovation Through Research and Resilience
Chunhong Li founded 4th Phase Technologies, LLC with a vision: to develop advanced water treatment technology to address some of today’s most pressing environmental and industrial challenges. Based in Delaware, the company focuses on innovative Densified Carbon Nanotube Film (DCN) water treatment technology designed to improve water purification efficiency and create more sustainable solutions for industries and communities alike.
4th Phase Technologies is focused on developing advanced filtration technology designed to solve complex challenges across industries including water treatment, manufacturing, healthcare, and research. At the center of the company’s innovation is its DCN technology, which is engineered to deliver more precise and efficient filtration and separation processes. From improving water purification for communities to supporting cleaner industrial environments and enhancing product quality, the technology has the potential to create meaningful impact across multiple sectors.
As an early-stage technology company, bringing that innovation from research into real-world application required more than scientific expertise alone. 4th Phase Technologies faced the challenge of securing strategic funding, building industry connections, and laying the groundwork needed to scale and commercialize its technology for broader market use.
Strengthening Growth Through Strategic Partnerships
Over the years, 4th Phase Technologies has built strong momentum through a combination of state support programs, strategic funding opportunities, and entrepreneurial development resources across Delaware.
The company participated in the University of Delaware’s BUAD 444 StUDent Link program in 2019 and later joined the 2023 Winter Cohort of the iDEA Lab, helping strengthen its business strategy and growth planning. In 2020, the company secured a $100,000 EDGE Grant, followed by a $25,000 SBIR Phase I Grant through AFWERX and a $75,000 CAT ARC Grant in 2023.
Most recently, 4th Phase Technologies was awarded $200,000 through the Delaware Accelerator and Seed Capital Program (DASCP) as part of the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), further supporting the company’s next phase of growth and commercialization efforts.
Strategic Support from the Delaware SBDC
Throughout the company’s journey, the Delaware Small Business Development Center (SBDC) served as more than an advising resource — it became a long-term partner in 4th Phase Technologies’ growth. Over nearly a decade, the organization provided mentorship, guidance on funding opportunities, and strategic support as the company advanced its battery safety innovations.
That collaboration was especially important during the EDGE grant application process. Chunhong credited Delaware SBDC advisor Mr. DiNetta with helping strengthen the company’s proposal and navigate the competitive application process.
“The assistance from Mr. DiNetta has been instrumental in preparing the proposal for the EDGE grant application,” Chunhong shared.
The support culminated in the SSBCI funding presentation held at the Delaware SBDC offices, where representatives from the Delaware Division of Small Business joined the SBDC team to recognize 4th Phase Technologies’ achievement. The event reflected Delaware’s broader commitment to supporting innovation-driven startups through mentorship, state resources, and federal investment initiatives.
For Chunhong, the relationship has always extended beyond funding alone.
“Thank you Delaware SBDC for believing in my vision for the last nine years,” he said during his remarks. “The mentorship I received here is often more valuable than the cash itself.”
That combination of innovation, persistence, and collaborative support has helped position 4th Phase Technologies for continued advancement within Delaware’s growing technology and startup ecosystem.
