The New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation & Technology (CSIT) and Kean University have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to expand small business innovation research (SBIR) and small business technology transfer (STTR) funding in support of entrepreneurs statewide.
Under the agreement, Kean, through its Institute for Life Science Entrepreneurship, will implement a comprehensive Phase 0 SBIR/STTR Grant Writing and Entrepreneurs Training Program and provide targeted technical assistance to early-stage companies and innovators.
The initiative is designed to increase the number of SBIR/STTR applications submitted from New Jersey and the overall competitiveness of those proposals.
The Phase 0 SBIR/STTR Grant Writing and Entrepreneurs Training Program provides structured training to help small businesses and startup founders understand federal agency priorities, proposal requirements, commercialization expectations, and the strategic positioning necessary to compete successfully for SBIR/STTR awards.
Deliverables will be tailored to the specific federal agency (e.g., NIH, NSF) and the targeted topic area of the applicant.
Kean will also deliver hands-on support to selected companies, including:
- Drafting and refining SBIR/STTR grant proposals
- Preparing and strengthening executive summaries and abstracts
- Developing detailed project descriptions and research plans
- Conducting and articulating market analysis and commercialization strategies
- Assisting with budget preparation and budget justifications
- Reviewing supporting documentation and compliance elements
- Advising on related proposal components and submission readiness
Kean will also establish a formalized process for selecting companies to receive grant-writing assistance. This will include:
- A standardized application process
- Defined eligibility criteria
- A review and evaluation rubric
- Transparent selection procedures
- Ongoing performance tracking and reporting
