Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program
RFP Summary provided by the agency
The Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program seeks to improve outcomes in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs for underserved communities by increasing participation from women-owned, rural-based, and socially economically disadvantaged small businesses.
FAST provides one year funding to organizations to execute state/regional programs that increase the number of SBIR/STTR proposals (through outreach and financial support); increase the number of SBIR/STTR awards (through technical assistance and mentoring); and better prepare SBIR/STTR awardees for commercialization success (through technical assistance and mentoring). As set forth in the Small Business Act (Rev.13) FAST awards build the SBIR/STTR ecosystem through:
- Outreach: increase the pipeline of applicants and build the capacity of partner organizations and individuals to refer possible SBIR/STTR applicants through train-the trainer activities.
- Financial support: make grants or loans to applicants to pay a portion or all of the cost of developing SBIR/STTR proposals, attending relevant conferences, and bridging possible gaps between phases.
- Technical assistance: encourage the transition from Phase I to II and commercialization of technology developed through SBIR/STTR program funding; and form and or support mentoring networks to provide business advice and counseling.
Only one proposal from each state may be submitted to the SBA for consideration and this application must have a signed letter of endorsement from the state governor or equivalent.
What is the mission and focus of the program: research, social, economic or others?
The mission of SBA’s Office of Innovation & Technology, which bears responsibility for administering the FAST Program, is to strengthen the technological competitiveness of small businesses across the country through coordination of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. The FAST program focuses on increasing the participation of small firms in the innovation and commercialization of high-risk technologies, keeping the United States on the cutting edge of next generation research and development.
Who are the target applicants: cities, universities, companies, small business, nonprofits, or others?
- Private institutions of higher education
- Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
- City or township governments
- Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
- Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
- County governments
- State governments
Past Awardees
Wisconsin Center for Technology Commercialization: The Center for Technology Commercialization provides one-on-one assistance to early-stage emerging technology businesses throughout Wisconsin. From agriculture to biotechnology, Center consultants are experts in commercialization processes.
