The Washington Technology Center is currently accepting applications for its Fall 2005 Research and Technology Development (RTD) Awards program. WTC awards more than $1.3 million annually to technology projects that partner Washington companies with academic and non-profit research teams. The RTD grant program provides state funds for research projects with near-term potential for commercialization.
Early-stage financial support is valuable in helping companies fund proof-of-concept research and development that accelerate the adoption of new technologies into the marketplace. WTC provides up to 80 percent of the cost for companies to work with leading researchers in the state
Project teams can receive up to $300,000 through this grant program. This year, award amounts for Phase I projects increase from $40,000 to $100,000. Phases II/III awards are up to $200,000. Securing an RTD grant provides credibility and prestige to companies and researchers projects and helps them attract follow-on funding from federal contractors, investors and corporate partners.
RTD grants are given to collaborative research teams. Teams are comprised of a Washington company and an eligible university or nonprofit research partner. WTC accepts proposals for research projects in any technical area or industry. Preference is given to small companies (250 employees or less). The grants are competitive and include a matching fund requirement. Notice of Intent deadline is September 8, 2005 and proposals are due on October 13, 2005. Awards are announced in December 2005.
Companies that have benefited from WTC research grants through the RTD awards program include Real Networks, EKOS, Microvision and Magic Wheels working in collaboration with researchers at academic research centers across the state including University of Washington, Washington State University, and Western, Central and Eastern Washington Universities.
For more information on WTCs RTD grant program, visit http://www.watechcenter.org.
