Funding for innovative research and development to be focus of SIU workshop

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Do you have a great idea for something that would enhance agriculture, rural health care, rural communities or the environment?

Government funding is available for innovative research and development focusing on those topics. Learn more about a program that helps people convert a concept into a proven, commercialized product at a June 28 informational workshop at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program workshop is set for 9 a.m. to noon at the Dunn Richmond Economic Development Center, located at 1740 Innovation Drive in Carbondale.

SBIR Program created to stimulate innovation with seed capital

The goal of the SBIR program is to stimulate technological innovation and it works by providing seed capital for early stage research and development of products or processes that could have commercial potential. The program is designed to increase commercialization of private sector innovations.

Entrepreneurs and businesses seeking the funding will participate in a highly competitive proposal process.

Provides grant to cover cost of R&D

The program provides recipients with numerous benefits, including funding to cover the costs of research and development so entrepreneurs don’t have to give up equity in their company or sacrifice the rights to their intellectual property.

The funding isn’t a loan, though; no repayment is required. Successful applicants can even apply for additional funding to continue development of their technology.

The workshop will provide details about the program, how to apply and what is entailed.

Wide range of beneficiaries

Innovators, entrepreneurs, small businesses and people with novel ideas for business startups will all likely find the workshop worthwhile. Organizers say that anyone with good ideas and solid research for a commercial product which could benefit the country is welcome to attend the free event.

Register now

Although there is no cost to attend, pre-registration is required. Sign up for the SBIR Program workshop online by June 25.

For more information, email Susan Odum at sodum@illinois.edu.

Event co-sponsors include SIU, the Illinois Small Business Development Center at SIU, SBIR: America’s Seed Fund, the University of Illinois Extension – College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences and the United States Department of Agriculture.

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