ISU to Host Two Events on Obtaining Federal R&D Funding

Sessions aimed at Iowa small businesses to be broadcast throughout the state

AMES, Iowa - Managers, researchers, entrepreneurs and others involved in small businesses can learn more about obtaining federal funding for research & development projects by attending information sessions May 18-19 at Iowa State University in Ames. The two events, organized by ISU's Center for Advanced Technology Development, will also be broadcast via the Iowa Communications Network to locations in Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Sioux City, Iowa City and West Des Moines.

The events focus on the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program and the Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR), which are competitive, three-phase federal funding sources. Both programs provide qualified small businesses (defined as those with 500 or fewer employees) with opportunities to propose innovative R&D projects that meet specific federal needs. The two programs are similar; one difference is that STTR projects require business partnerships with research institutions such as universities and federal laboratories.

The information sessions consist of a workshop and a conference; interested parties may attend one or both. On May 18, the Greenwood Consulting Group will hold a workshop on "SBIR Phase I Proposal Preparation." On May 19, CATD will host the "SBIR/STTR Conference with Federal Agency Program Managers."

"The May 18 workshop allows attendees to learn what it takes to compete successfully for SBIR/STTR awards," said Cheryl Kamman, CATD technology transfer associate and SBIR specialist. "The May 19 conference gives participants the opportunity to hear about the specific needs of federal agencies directly from their representatives." She pointed out that the SBIR and STTR programs account for more than $1 billion annually in federal R&D funding for small businesses.

The May 18 workshop, to be held at ISU's Scheman Building, introduces SBIR and STTR programs and gives attendees guidance in writing competitive Phase I proposals. Attendees can also receive, at no charge, a critique of one SBIR or STTR proposal. The sessions are taught by Gail and Jim Greenwood, who have promoted the programs since 1983 and have received national recognition for their efforts in this area.

At the May 19 conference, which will take place at ISU's Howe Hall, morning sessions will feature program managers from several of the federal agencies participating in the SBIR and STTR programs, including the departments of Defense, Agriculture, Transportation and Education, as well as the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. Program managers will provide brief overviews of their agencies and current R&D needs. In the afternoon, attendees can meet individually with program managers to discuss their particular situations.

Both events are free, but registration is required and space is limited, so reservations should be made as soon as possible. To register and to request other Iowa Communications Network locations, please contact Kamman at (515) 294-9938 or email kamman@iastate.edu. A complete agenda can be viewed on the Center for Advanced Technology Development's Web site at http://www.catd.iastate.edu/public/Default.htm

The events are made possible in part from a $70,000 grant CATD obtained from the U.S. Small Business Administration to help Iowa small businesses.

CATD is a technology-transfer center that works with companies to develop and commercialize new technologies. CATD is a member of the Institute for Physical Research and Technology, a network of research and technology-transfer centers at ISU.

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Last updated September 6, 2006 rbm