MEP to host workshop for small businesses with research potential

Flying WV

The West Virginia Manufacturing Extension Partnership will host a workshop for small business owners and entrepreneurs seeking funding for potential research projects through the Small Business Innovation Research program.

The SBIR program is a competitive awards-based program that assists domestic small businesses in their efforts to engage in federal research and research and development. SBIR funds small businesses seeking to explore their technological potential and provides the incentive to profit from its commercialization.

“Historically, West Virginia has not had many SBIR submissions,” said Jerry Biser, director, West Virginia MEP. “We are hoping to provide education and information on the program and process of preparing and submitting submissions.”

The half-day workshop, which will be held on May 25, from 8 a.m.-noon, at the Holiday Inn in Morgantown, will cover topics ranging from SBIR eligibility and registration requirements, intellectual property, proposal development and how to find the appropriate funding agency and topic.

The cost to attend the workshop is $100, which covers materials and light refreshment. Pre-registration is required; registration ends May 19. For more information, contact Candace Hixenbaugh, 724-710-0863, or Deedre Hayes, 304-376-3346, or visit our website.

Housed in West Virginia University’s Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources, the WVMEP is the state’s affiliate to the national Manufacturing Extension Partnership program, managed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

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