USC Office of Economic Engagement's Federal and State Technology (FAST) Program

by: University of South Carolina

USC Office of Economic Engagement's Federal and State Technology (FAST) program provides technical assistance, education, and outreach to South Carolina small businesses.

FAST Program Goals

• Increase the number of competitive SBIR/STTR grant proposals from South Carolina companies

• Increase the number of SBIR/STTR grant awards for women, veteran, socially/economically disadvantaged individuals, and small businesses throughout South Carolina with an emphasis on underrepresented areas

How We Can Help

Education

• Grow the pipeline of South Carolina companies funded through SBIR/STTR grant awards

• Increase collaborations among South Carolina companies and other state and federally funded programs

• Track data on grant proposals submitted and awards won by South Carolina companies

• Highlight and connect South Carolina business community to intellectual property, companies, and support partners

Technical and Business Assistance

• Guide entrepreneurs and startup companies through idea development and entity formation

• Support startup companies through educational programs and professional services that improve proposal development 

• Provide assistance that leads to the commercialization of technology developed through SBIR/STTR grant funding

• Cultivate South Carolina mentoring networks to provide business advice

Outreach

• Increase the pipeline of competitive SBIR/STTR grant applicants through training and outreach

• Connect to existing mentor networks to cultivate and expande mentor support for small businesses

• Provide tailored outreach and educational programs to entrepreneurs and small businesses, offering resources, workshops, and one-on-one consultations to support growth, and navigate the grant process

READ MORE HERE