Small Business Innovation Research Grants Extended; National Conference Scheduled For November

To ensure that the nation's small, high-tech, innovative businesses are a significant part of the federal government's research and development efforts, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has been funding grants for innovative companies.

They are called SBIR or Small Business Innovation Research Grants. Annually, about $2 billion in funding is awarded to small high-tech businesses.

Just recently, after receiving bipartisan support in the Senate, a bill was passed that extends the availability of this program to entrepreneurs and business owners until at least January 31, 2011. President Obama is expected to sign off.

Meanwhile, the national Fall SBIR conference is scheduled to take place in Oklahoma City, November 8-10, 2010. The conference is for companies that specialize in aerospace, biotechnology, energy, information technology and nanotechnology. It will educate interested ones with the most relevant information on how to apply for federal funding, and how to be approved.

For more details about the grants, visit:
www.sbir.gov

For more details about the conference, visit:
www.sbirok.org