By Shelia Watson

SC Launch!, a South Carolina Research Authority collaboration, is implementing a year-long trial of a matching grant with the federal-based Small Business Innovation Research program and Small Business Technology Transfer program.

Matching grants of up to $100,000 will be awarded to South Carolina-based companies that have received SBIR/SBTT Phase I awards. A total of $1 million is available for the trial phase of the matching grant program.

If the trial period is successful, the program is expected to expand in duration and scope. The SC Launch! SBIR/STTR matching grant program is designed to foster job creation and the knowledge economy in South Carolina by increasing the competitive position of small businesses in attracting SBIR and STTR grant funding. The program also provides incentive for companies who have been awarded federal Phase I feasibility research support to participate in the Phase II program.

“Our intent for the SC Launch! matching grant program is to further increase the number of South Carolina small businesses that apply for federal research dollars within the state,” said Bill Mahoney, SCRA’s CEO and acting president of SC Launch! “This program can also increase the productivity of Phase I research for South Carolina startups, which can make them more competitive when they apply for Phase II funds. Winning Phase II awards allows startups to further develop innovative technology into expanded commercial offerings within the state.”

Grants will be available as of July 1, 2007, on a first-come, first-served basis. The last date applications will be accepted is June 30, 2008, unless program funds have been exhausted prior to this time.