History

Our Story

In 1991, Chroma Technology Corp. started as a visionary idea in the heart of Vermont. Sparked by a commitment to scientific innovation and the power of community, a small team of six founders dared to dream big. 

Photo: The Founders of Chroma Technology.
From left to right: Wim Auer, Paul Millman, Dick Stewart, Francis Kebbel, Wendy Cross, and Jay Reichman

They sought to make a meaningful impact in the scientific and industrial worlds, and with passion, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to quality, they laid the foundation for what Chroma is today.

Over the decades, we've grown from that fledgling team to a leading global manufacturer and OEM supplier of precision optical filters, serving a multitude of industries. Our growth has been a testament to our commitment to continuous innovation, quality, and service. We've kept pace with advancements in technology, evolving and adapting to meet the changing needs of our customers and the market.

Key Dates in Chroma's History

• 1991 - Chroma Technology Corp. founded in Brattleboro, VT

• 1994 - Manufactured a complete line of filter sets for a major microscope manufacturer

• 2003 - Moved to new 28,000 sq ft facility in Bellows Falls, VT

• 2005 - Chroma GmbH office opens

• 2009 - An engineering subsidiary called 89 North, Inc. founded

• 2010 - 89 North introduced the Photofluor

• 2011 - The Chroma Asia office opened

• 2011 - 89 North introduced Heliophor

• 2012 - 89 North won the SPIE Prism Award for Photonics Innovation for the Heliophor

• 2013 - Certified B Corp

• 2014 - 89 North introduced LM-75, the first direct-coupled metal halide light source

• 2015 - The Chroma Japan office opened

• 2017 - 89 North launched its LDI series, a line of high-power multi-mode laser illuminators

• 2018 - 89 North moved into a larger facility to accommodate growth

• 2018 - Chroma’s expansion - doubled manufacturing footprint

• 2019 - Chroma achieved ISO certification

• 2020/2021 - Increased production for Covid related filters

• 2021 - 89 North achieved ISO 9001 certification

At Chroma, we're more than just a company. We're a collective group of innovators, explorers, and visionaries united by a common purpose. We're a team driven by the desire to create a positive impact – in our products, our workplace, our communities, and for our customers.

Our journey began with a commitment to scientific innovation and community, and we're proud of the ground we've covered since 1991. But we're not done yet. 

Endless Opportunities

As we look toward the future, we see endless opportunities to expand our reach, improve our products, and continue making a difference in the world.

We remain steadfastly committed to the principles that define us: precision, people, and purpose. Our Core Values guide us as we strive to serve our customers, support our employees, and uphold our environmental and social responsibilities. They push us to continually redefine what's possible, setting new industry standards and surpassing them.

Building a Better World for Our Customers

From our home in vibrant Vermont to our global presence, we are creating a brighter future – one optical filter at a time. We invite you to join us on this journey as we continue to lead with integrity, innovation, and impact.

At Chroma, we're not just building products; we're building a better world for our customers, our employees, and the world.