Could non-dilutive funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture help you develop a novel ag-tech solution?
Offered by the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center, this summer’s eight-week Lab2Launch Accelerator focuses on USDA seed funding opportunities.
The goal of the L2L Accelerator is to equip Arkansas researchers, engineers, and community innovators with early-stage technologies to tap into SBIR, the highly competitive federal Small Business Innovation Research funding program.
Also known as America’s Seed Fund, SBIR and its sister, Small Business Technology Transfer, award over $4 billion in non-dilutive grants and contracts each year to small companies to pursue the commercial potential of innovative technologies.
Lab2Launch will offer step-by-step guidance on preparing and submitting a strong SBIR proposal to USDA. Participants can expect to receive all the resources necessary to prepare a competitive application and will learn from one another as well as from ASBTDC staff and guest experts.
“We anticipate strong interest for participants to engage in this cohort, as USDA has broad SBIR objectives and research topics, and working in lockstep with accountability partners can mobilize busy people to get their proposals written and turned in on time,” said Karen Bergh, ASBTDC’s innovation specialist.
Bergh and subject matter experts from Arkansas APEX Accelerator and Independent Platform consultancy will lead the accelerator.
Over the eight weeks, they will dive into topic selection, federal registrations and business certifications for small businesses, budget preparation, writing and editing, market research, and other aspects of the government seed funding competitive application process.
The new cohort starts June 27. Sessions are virtual, allowing companies based anywhere in the state to easily take part.
The timing of the accelerator aligns with the 2024 deadline to submit a Phase I proposal to USDA. During the eight-week program, ASBTDC and Independent Platform consultants will work one-on-one with Lab2Launch companies to finalize their proposals by the Sept. 17 submission deadline.
Arkansans developing new products and services that fit within the Agriculture Dept.’s SBIR objectives and research topics are encouraged to apply for Lab2Launch.
“USDA has broad research topics and they often repeat from one funding cycle to the next. Innovators who may have a non-ag customer in mind may still find that their technology aligns with the agency’s interests,” said Bergh.
How to Apply
To apply, visit asbtdc.org/l2l-accel. There is no application fee or cost to participate.
Apply by May 24. Spots are limited. Researchers and companies seeking a first SBIR/STTR grant or contract will receive first preference.
For more information, contact Bergh at 501-831-2584 or kbergh@ualr.edu.
The post Applications Open for Lab2Launch’s Summer Cohort first appeared on Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center.