Small, high-tech firms interested in developing and commercializing cutting-edge energy and environmental technologies can attend a free workshop on March 22 to learn how to win funds to hone their concepts.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will host a workshop on March 22 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. to share information about the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program which awards up to $70,000 to small firms to investigate the scientific merit and technical feasibility of new concepts.

The workshop will be held at EPA’s regional office at 1650 Arch St., in Philadelphia.

“EPA and Department of Energy seek novel, low-cost, and effective technologies to address energy and environmental priorities,” said Donald S. Welsh, EPA’s mid-Atlantic regional administrator. “We can all benefit from innovations championed by small businesses.”

A small business is defined as a for-profit organization with no more than 500 employees. Through the SBIR program, EPA and the Department of Energy will solicit applications from small businesses whose research is conducted in the United States.

Winning companies that successfully complete the investigation phase can compete for a total of up to $415,000 from EPA or $850,000 from DOE to conduct the testing and research and development needed to commercialize the new technology or product.

EPA’s solicitation opens March 22 and closes May 23. Call the EPA HELPLINE for more information at 800-490-9194 or see last year’s solicitation at the Small Business Innovation Research Program webpage.

The workshop will emphasize the critical elements of the program, including writing winning proposals and sources of assistance. Call 215-204-3856 or email to sbtrain@temple.edu for information or to register.

Space is limited, so register as early as possible.

3/16/2007