NanoOpto Chosen as Nano Science and Technology Institute's -NSTI- Top Venture Company Pick

Business Wire, May 24, 2005

SOMERSET, N.J. -- NanoOpto Corporation, which is applying novel design methods and proprietary nano-fabrication technology to produce a broad range of unique optical components that enable higher quality, low-cost optical components and systems, announced today that it has been chosen as one of the Top Picks for 2005 Early Stage companies at the recent NSTI Nanotech Ventures Conference. Held in Anaheim, California, May 9-10, this event featured 50 early stage nanotech companies presenting to observers and vetting teams comprised of some of the top names in nano business.

"Nanotech Ventures 2005 Early Stage Company Review provided an ideal forum for seed to early-stage companies to showcase their technologies, market advantages, and to search for funding and "go-to-market" partners," said Matthew Laudon of the Nano Science & Technology Institute, producers of the event. "Over 100 early stage companies submitted their business plans into the event. The vetted companies were given 15 minutes to present and address on-site feedback from Nanotech Ventures Vetting Team." This year's team included representatives from such firms as: IBM, Intel Capital, Mohr, Davidow Ventures, Burns Doane, DuPont Ventures, ChevronTexaco Technology Ventures, Motorola Investments, Echelon Ventures, Echelon Ventures, Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr, Harris and Harris Group, Greenberg Traurig, 3i, UBS, and Draper Fisher Jurvetson.

The goal of the Early Stage event was to unite early stage public and pre-IPO small-technology products and intellectual property (IP) with industrial users, funding sources, technology providers, and the media and analysts community. This venue was used to promote the global commercial maturation across the nanotechnology landscape, from technology to products.

"NanoOpto is pleased to be recognized by the Nano Science and Technology Institute," said Barry Weinbaum, President and CEO of NanoOpto. "This award honors our entire team for their dedication and hard work in developing, commercializing, and delivering a revolutionary methodology for creating optical components. NanoOpto's optical components and manufacturing technology are progressively enabling optical component, module, and system designers to realize superior cost and performance, increased flexibility, and enhanced application capabilities that were never before possible with conventional bulk optics."

About NanoOpto

NanoOpto Corporation is applying proprietary nano-fabrication technology to the rapid design and high-volume manufacture of nano-optic devices for optical components and systems. The company's nano-meter scale optical function design capability combined with wafer-based manufacturing methods delivers optical components that allow more rapid prototyping, higher performance, and lower overall system cost. Both independently and with industry partners, NanoOpto uses its technology to produce superior versions of standard optical components and new classes of integrated optical subassemblies for both custom and general applications. The company has received financial backing from leading venture capitalists and is based in Somerset, New Jersey. For additional information about NanoOpto, visit www.nanoopto.com.

About NSTI

The NSTI provides analysis and information services for government, business, and industrial clients worldwide. The NSTI staff and vast network of science advisors provide confidential technology and product review services covering all domains of nano, bio, and micro technologies. For more information, please contact info@nsti.org.