The 2004 National SBIR/STTR Conference - BIG Picture: Ideas - From Concept To Commercialization And Beyond

This year, the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs will provide over $2 billion to small businesses through federal programs to help entrepreneurs take their ideas from conception to reality. The SBIR and STTR programs fund high-risk projects at the earliest stages of development - before companies can attract venture capital - and work with you through that development and on into the actual commercialization of your product! This Conference gives you the tools you need to obtain part of the $2+ billion available to small business innovators.

At this National Conference in Boise, new and aspiring small businesses can learn about the SBIR/STTR Program - how to apply for, and what it takes to win. Whether you are new to the program, have a grant under your belt or are a multiple award winner, the sessions offered in Boise this fall will help you enhance your participation in the SBIR/STTR Program.

Day One: The day starts out with an overview of the Program and updates you need to know. Brief introductory presentations will be made by all participating Agencies to help you identify which Agencies are most likely to match up with your needs. The Networking Luncheon will provide you an overview to which Agencies, companies, and organizations are on-site for future discussions. The afternoon is devoted to Expanded Presentations by the participating Agencies. These sessions will be presented in three tracks.

Day One wraps up with a Networking Reception to encourage interaction between attendees, Agencies, and organizations supporting the Program.

Day Two: If you are new to the Program or have a Phase I, you will want to attend this session for an overview of the Conference. Topics will include a critical look at identifying if the SBIR/STTR Program is for you. We will look at the basic elements of success and failure in the Program. You will also have an opportunity to meet various SBIR Program State Representatives – people who can be a resource to you now and in the future. Finally, tips for talking to the SBIR/STTR Program Managers will be highlighted to help you get your message across quickly and easily!

If you are more experienced and have a Phase II or III, you will want to attend this session, which will focus on some of the issues and opportunities that now face you as you move through the Program.

An expanded, one-hour Networking Break is schedule here so you can start your conversations with the Program Managers and other participants.

The balance of the Conference will be presented in three concurrent tracks. You are welcome to participate in any track session that is of interest to you. To help you identify which sessions may be of the most value to you, we have established a Target Audience Code.

Day Three: Some of the topics include:

Partnerships - Intellectual Properties - It WAS Your Idea!!! Do you know how to show them just enough but not to much? Do you know ways to protect your idea and your business? Here are some helpful tips!!

Phase III – Commercializing Your Technology and On to Procurement!—The Government may be the original market but there are no guarantees. What can you expect on your property rights? What about procurement?

Introduction to Phase II – A look at the whole process. Tips and suggestions to make your transition to Phase II easier. Things to start thinking about when you are writing your Phase I proposal.

Remember: Successful SBIR/STTR ventures not only create successful companies, they create JOBS. Jobs in your area, jobs in your state, jobs in your country! More and more large corporations are outsourcing and looking for the innovative help provided by smaller companies. How do you tap into this network? How do you move from idea to product? This Conference Program has been developed with the total journey in mind!