FAST Program Goals
- Increase the number of competitive SBIR/STTR grant proposals from South Carolina companies
- Increase the number of SBIR/STTR grant awards for small businesses throughout South Carolina with an emphasis on rural areas
How We Can Help
Education
- Grow the pipeline of South Carolina companies funded through SBIR/STTR grant awards
- Increase collaborations among South Carolina companies and other state and federally funded programs
- Track data on grant proposals submitted and awards won by South Carolina companies
- Highlight and connect South Carolina business community to intellectual property, companies, and support partners
Technical and Business Assistance
- Guide entrepreneurs and startup companies through idea development and entity formation
- Support startup companies through educational programs and professional services that improve proposal development
- Provide assistance that leads to the commercialization of technology developed through SBIR/STTR grant funding
- Cultivate South Carolina mentoring networks to provide business advice
Outreach
- Increase the pipeline of competitive SBIR/STTR grant applicants through training and outreach
- Connect to existing mentor networks to cultivate and expand mentor support for small businesses
- Provide tailored outreach and educational programs to entrepreneurs and small businesses, offering resources, workshops, and one-on-one consultations to support growth, and navigate the grant process
Events
April 8-9, 2025
South Carolina Research Authority Annual Summit
Location: Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Time: 2:15 pm - 3:00 pm
March 25, 2025
Greater CWC Business Breakfast Meeting sponsored by Prisma Health
Location: Stone River Restaurant, 121 Alexander Road, West Columbia, SC 29169
Time: 7:45 am - 9:00 am
March 18, 2025
South Carolina Research Authority FAST Workshop
Location: 1000 Catawba Street, Columbia SC 29201
Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
November 22, 2024
Midlands Resource Partner Meeting - Richland County Library
Location: 1431 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Time: 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
What Can SBIR + STTR Funding Be Used For?
- Development of a proof of concept or prototype
- Hiring of staff or subject-matter experts
- Purchasing of materials and equipment
- Funding Research partnerships between small business and universities
