Partnering with a National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded Engineering Research Center (ERC) in writing an Industry-University Cooperative Research Centers (IUCRC) Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) grant can yield a multitude of benefits. The synergy between these two entities can accelerate innovation, foster technological advancements, and drive economic growth. The startup or small business brings entrepreneurial vigor, market insights, and agility, complementing the ERC’s research expertise and infrastructure. Collaboratively, they can navigate the complex grant application process more effectively, increasing their chances of securing funding. Such partnerships stimulate knowledge transfer, encouraging real-world applications of cutting-edge research, and pave the way for job creation and economic development, ultimately bolstering the nation’s competitive edge in the global technology landscape. PATHS-UP has been fortunate enough to partner with fourteen separate companies to secure an SECO award.
