Connecticut to Award $195,000 to Nanotech Firms

Nanotechnology companies in Connecticut are eligible to compete for $195,000 in grants, worth up to $65,000 each, from the Connecticut Small Business Innovation Research Office, an initiative of the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology Inc. (CCAT). The pilot program, “Nano-structured Catalysts/Reformers for Fuel Cells to Reduce Cost, Increase Efficiency, Improve Reliability and be Resistant to Poisoning for Military as Well as Commercial Fuel Cell Applications in Unmanned Vehicles,” is intended to advance the development and commercialization of emerging nanotechnologies by Connecticut small businesses. The state’s Office of Workforce Competitiveness has designated the CT SBIR Office at CCAT, in East Hartford, to develop and administer the program. Any US-owned (at least 51 percent) Connecticut small business (500 or fewer employees) can apply for grants of up to $65,000 to prove the feasibility of a concept. The deadline for proposals is Dec. 1. Like the federal program, the state-funded SBIR development effort will last 6 months. For more information, visit: www.ctsbir.com