SBIR/STTR Phase I Proposal Workshop

Each year the federal government awards Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants to U.S.-based small businesses for the purpose of research and development, and strengthening small business innovation and access to new technology. Once funded, businesses will have six months to conduct a Phase I feasibility study at funding levels up to $150,000. They can then move into Phase II prototyping and testing for two years at levels up to $1 million. Businesses can then convert the funded research project into new commercial products and technologies without giving up equity or paying interest on a business loan.
The Advanced Manufacturing Partnership of Southern California (AMP SoCal), led by the Price School - USC Center for Economic Development, offered a free workshop for business owners who wanted to learn how to write successful proposals to any of the 11 government agencies that run these SBIR/STTR programs. The presentation was delivered by Dr. Marie Talnack, an SBIR/STTR program expert with over 30 years of experience in writing and submitting successful grants and proposals. Attendees learned the basics of the program, how the program makes sense for their respective company and the details of how to write a competitive proposal for funding.
The USC Center for Economic Development (CED) serves as a leader in facilitating sustainable economic development opportunities throughout Southern and Central California. A research center of the USC Price School of Public Policy, CED partners with community-based organizations, public agencies, and private entities to enhance their functional capacity by tapping the energy, enthusiasm, and talent of the school’s faculty, staff, and students.