UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING SPONSORS SEMINAR TO HELP SMALL BUSINESSES OBTAIN GOVERNMENT GRANTS NOV. 15
BYLINE: US States News
DATELINE: LARAMIE, Wyo.
The University of Wyoming issued the following news release:
Jackson-area residents are invited to a seminar Wednesday, Nov. 15, to learn more about technology-based economic development opportunities.
The Wyoming Business Council (WBC) and the University of Wyoming are sponsoring a "Jackson Hole WSSI/SBIR" seminar from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at 43 North Restaurant, 645 South Cache Street. Space is limited and registration is $20 at the door. For more information, call 1-866-703-3280.
The Wyoming SBIR/STTR Initiative (WSSI) is located at UW. The SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are grant-funding competitions specifically targeted to the nation's for-profit small business sector, says Gene Watson, WSSI program director.
The WSSI is funded by the WBC and administered by the UW vice president for research and economic development. The initiative helps qualified Wyoming small businesses and individuals to access federal funds that support the development of new, cutting-edge technologies. Eleven federal agencies support the SBIR program, providing U.S. small businesses with more than $2 billion annually.
Watson says the Jackson seminar is open to technology innovators and entrepreneurs and those interested in technology-based economic development. Keynote speakers are national SBIR presenters Randy Dipner and Mark Henry. Both head their own companies in Colorado and have received numerous SBIR grants. Seminar participants will learn about SBIR/STTR programs, pre-qualification issues, the importance of preparing to write proposals, and budgeting.
Also, Jackson success stories will be detailed by representatives of Alces Technology and Square One Design. Currently four Jackson-area individuals and small businesses have received more than $5 million in federal grants the past five years to develop and commercialize their innovative technologies, Wilson says. Those grants range from $60,000-$750,000 and have enabled participants to establish local business ventures employing more than 15 area residents.
Wilson adds that competitive grants are available to all U.S. citizens and for-profit small businesses.