March 1, 2016
Request for Proposals
For MassVentures START (SBIR TARgeted Technologies) Program Stage I Grants
MassVentures hereby invites all Massachusetts companies that meet the new, expanded eligibility criteria set forth below to submit applications to its START program for Stage I grants.
What is START?
START is a program funded by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to assist Massachusetts companies that have received at least the equivalent of a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (“SBIR”) or Small Business Technology Transfer (“STTR”) grant to commercialize their technologies. The program was created to assist high growth companies that will expand employment opportunities, promote manufacturing and commercialization, and stimulate innovation across the Commonwealth.
Who is eligible?
Any Massachusetts company whose application to the program is not based on pharmaceutical, therapeutic or medical device technology and has received a Phase II SBIR.
We are pleased to announce that, for the first time, proposals based on clean energy, alternative energy and other energy technologies are eligible to apply for START.
There is no strict requirement about when the qualifying Phase II SBIR was received. However, if it was received prior to March 1, 2012, you should explain in your application why it remains commercially relevant today.
A “Massachusetts company” is one that conducts its research, development, manufacturing and commercialization primarily in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and for the purposes of this program commits to continuing to do so. It is expected that START funds will be spent primarily in Massachusetts.
How do I apply?
A detailed description of the application process is located at https://www.mass-ventures.com/start-program/#tab-id-5
When is the Deadline for Applications?
The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, April 4, 2016, at 12:00 pm EST.
How Do I Get More Information?
Many of your questions will be answered on our website, https://www.mass-ventures.com/start-program/. Please make sure to review the full START section, including our Frequently Asked Questions page. If you have further questions after reviewing these pages, please contact the START Program Manager, John Fitzpatrick, at jfitzpatrick@mass-ventures.com. In addition, MassVentures will be conducting a conference call on Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at 2:00 pm at which potential applicants can ask us questions about the START Program and the Stage I application and selection process. The dial in information for that call is below:
When:
Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at 2:00 pm
Call-in Info:
Dial in #862-902-0240; Pin #7551599