Innovation-Technology (In-Tech) Program

The WV SBDC’s Innovation-Technology (In-Tech) program was designed to provide no-cost, one-on-one mentoring for inventors, innovators, and technology-based entrepreneurs. The goal of the In-Tech program is to help you take your innovative ideas and make them a reality. For entrepreneurs with existing companies, our program services can help you expand existing products or services or take your company into a new direction.

To reach that goal, the In-Tech program can assist with commercialization issues such as market analysis, intellectual property, alternative finance, prototyping and feasibility. 

SBIR/STTR Assistance
A key strategy in supporting our innovation and technology entrepreneurs is assistance with the federal Small Business Innovation & Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) application process, and help in locating necessary resources to take your concept through to full commercialization.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation Investment Fund

Investment Fund Phase Zero Application
Investment Fund Phase I and Phase II Application
SBIR/STTR Solicitations

In order to foster job creation and economic development in West Virginia, and stimulate SBIR and STTR results across the State, the West Virginia Legislature enacted WV code §5B-8-1, which initiated the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Investment (EII) Fund. This money is earmarked to provide a monetary award when a business successfully submits a federal SBIR or STTR proposal and receives a Phase I or Phase II award. The amount of the State matching funds awarded is dependent on the existing balance in the EII Fund at the time of application and is typically not a 100% match.

This matching fund program is managed by the WV SBDC’s Innovation-Technology (In-Tech) program. There are two award periods during the year for submitting SBIR/STTR Phase I or II matching fund applications: January and July. No preference will be given to the order in which applications are received. Closed Phase I or II SBIR/STTR projects are not eligible for matching funds.

In addition to these Phase I and Phase II award periods, businesses can also apply for a Phase 0 award upon submitting a Phase I SBIR or STTR proposal. These Phase 0 awards are distributed as a $2,500 grant and can be applied for during any month of the year.

For questions about the fund, the application process, or additional ongoing SBIR/STTR support services, you are encouraged to contact the In-Tech Program Manager, Mary Hott, at Mary.E.Hott@wv.gov or 304-380-3279.

Business Coaching Services

Coaches

Our statewide network of highly-skilled business coaches partner with you, and collaborate with each other, to help move your business to the next level. WV SBDC business coaches provide an array of free services and will cater guidance directly to your business’s needs.

BECOME A CLIENT

Training

A variety of training classes are offered each month with topics ranging from Business Fundamentals to Marketing and Applying for Relief Funds. Our Business Fundamentals workshop is regularly available online or in-person at different locations around WV and is designed specifically for people who are thinking of starting a business or have had a business for one year or less.

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