Deadline Nears for Small Business Grant Applications

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LANSING – The Michigan Corporate Relations Network is accepting applications for Small Company Innovation Program grants.These grants are designed to promote research partnerships between Michigan small and mid-sized businesses and Michigan’s six top research universities. The deadline for submitting applications for SCIP grants is Sept. 27.

SCIP provides matching funds for collaborative research projects between small- to mid-sized Michigan companies and MCRN universities, including Michigan State University, Michigan Technological University, the University of Michigan, the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Wayne State University and Western Michigan University, as well as the University Research Corridor. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation provides funding for the grants.

Businesses that receive SCIP matching funds are able to work with top researchers and research facilities at one of the MCRN universities to solve technical challenges and move their work closer to commercialization.

“SCIP funds provide access to the vast resources available through Michigan’s leading research universities,” said Lorelei Davis, associate director of MSU Business Connect office. “Companies can become familiar with the practices of university researchers and business engagement offices, while accelerating business development through access to equipment and expertise.”

To apply for a matching grant, applicants should contact the university business engagement office at the MCRN university closest to them. Applicants who already have identified a researcher to work with at an MCRN university can continue building that relationship through SCIP. Contact information for MCRN university business engagement offices can be found at michigancrn.org/scip.  Answers to frequently asked questions also are available on the website.