David Y. Ige

Deadline for companies to apply is September 26

HONOLULU – Small research companies wishing to spur the development of innovative scientific and engineering technologies for federal applications are encouraged to apply for a matching grant from the High Technology Development Corporation (HTDC).

HTDC’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants are available to companies working on projects that have the potential for commercialization.

The deadline to apply is Sept. 26 at 4 p.m.

Matching grant funds are tiered as follows:

• Phase 0 (up to $3,000) – Covers the grant writing process
• Phase 1 (up to $70,000) – Funds a feasibility study of the project
• Phase 2 (up to $500,000) – Funds a working prototype
• Phase 3 (up to $500,000)  — Commercialization of the project

“SBIR grants are an excellent way for innovative companies to jump start their projects,” said Robbie Melton, Executive Director and CEO of HTDC. “Today’s business landscape is highly competitive, and companies that can quicken the pace of development for projects have a great advantage in bringing their work to fruition.”

All applicants should be prepared to make two presentations as part of the review process. For more information, and to apply, go to www.htdc.org/sbir.

HTDC is also accepting applications for grants from the Office of Naval Research (ONR). These grants provide up to 50 percent matching funding for ONR awarded alternative energy, research, and development projects. Only those companies that have previously been awarded ONR contract awards for alternative energy research will be considered.

For more information, and to apply for an ONR grant, go to www.htdc.org/honrgrant.

HTDC recently awarded nearly $3.3 million in SBIR grants to 13 Hawaii companies, and $1 million in ONR grants to three firms.

About HTDC (High Technology Development Corporation)
HTDC is a state agency, attached to the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT).  HTDC’s mission is to facilitate the development and growth of Hawaii’s high technology industry.  HTDC is providing the capital, building the infrastructure and developing the talent to foster innovation and diversify Hawaii’s economy. HTDC’s 80/80 Initiative is to create 80,000 new tech and innovation jobs that will provide high paying jobs for Hawaii residents.

ABOUT DBEDT (Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism)
DBEDT is Hawaii’s resource center for economic and statistical data, business development opportunities, energy and conservation information, and foreign trade advantages. DBEDT’s mission is to achieve a Hawaii economy that embraces innovation and is globally competitive, dynamic and productive, providing opportunities for all Hawaii’s citizens. Through its attached agencies, the department fosters planned community development, creates affordable workforce housing units in high-quality living environments, and promotes innovation sector job growth.

# # #

Media Contacts:

Robbie Melton
High Technology Development Corporation
Office: (808) 539-3615
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.htdc.org

Christine Hirasa
Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism
Phone: (808) 587-9006
Mobile: (808) 286-9017
Email: [email protected]
Website: dbedt.hawaii.gov

Jocelyn Collado or Scott Kim
Becker Communications, Inc.
Phone: (808) 533-4165
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]