May 13 workshop features how-to for R&D grants writing
Billions in federal grants and contracts are available annually for companies that know how to apply
 
SARASOTA (March 31, 2010)– Sarasota County businesses that want to get their piece of the $2.5 billion in federal funding available annually for research and development of new technology and products are invited to attend a how-to-apply workshop on May 13, 7:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. at the Lakewood Ranch campus of State College of Florida. The workshop is sponsored by the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County to encourage innovation and business expansion.

The day-long workshop will provide step-by-step instruction on how to craft a proposal to win government grants and contracts for research and development through the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs. The agenda includes an overview of the programs, proposal strategies, drafting the Phase I proposal, reviewing and debriefing the Phase I proposal, and a critique of an actual proposal. The workshop is geared toward entrepreneurs and small business owners (primarily American-owned with fewer than 500 employees) and anyone interested in learning how to access this funding to start or expand their business.

Jim Greenwood of Greenwood Consulting Group will lead the workshop. Greenwood is a trainer and consultant recognized for his ability to break down the complexity of the application process into practical steps to position potential applicants for successful proposals and awards.

Participants will receive a binder with all materials presented at the workshop. In addition, Greenwood will critique a draft or previously submitted proposal for any attendee at no cost up to one year from the workshop and will, within reason, respond to e-mail questions from participants.

The cost is $125 per person and includes continental breakfast, lunch and snacks. Register on-line (www.edcsarasotacounty.com/calendar.asp) or by contacting Lee Kotwicki at 309-1200, ext. 110, or lkotwicki@edcsarasotacounty.com.

The EDC of Sarasota County is the private, not-for-profit corporation leading the community’s economic development strategy to add high-wage jobs and diversify the local economy. The EDC provides business assistance to companies in Sarasota County and helps forge solutions to community challenges that affect quality of life. The EDC works in partnership with chambers of commerce, local governments and other organizations throughout the county and the region. For more information, visit www.edcsarasotacounty.com.

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