The Wisconsin Center for Technology Commercialization (CTC) supports small businesses by providing resources, guidance, and matching funding to drive innovation. Through expert consulting and strategic partnerships, CTC ensures that entrepreneurs, like UW-Madison faculty, postdocs, and students, can navigate complex funding mechanisms and commercialize their innovations.
A Beneficial Partnership for TEO Participants
After acquiring essential entrepreneurial skills from the local or regional NSF I-Corps™ training program through TEO, participants can use the CTC’s specialized resources to further develop their ventures. The CTC offers robust support for securing funding, including guidance on grant applications and investor presentations. Additionally, the CTC connects innovators with more advanced companies to a broader network of mentors, industry experts, and potential collaborators, significantly enhancing their chances of successful market entry. The partnership between TEO and CTC ensures that innovators receive continuous, comprehensive support throughout their entrepreneurial journey, maximizing their potential for success.
Essential Support for Startups
CTC offers free services to entrepreneurial ventures focusing on Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants. CTC’s team of professionals provides essential support in technology commercialization, grant writing, and business development. Key offerings include:
- SBIR/STTR Workbooks – Beginner-friendly guides for various SBIR-funding agencies.
- Ad Hoc Assistance – Expert feedback on grant documents within one to two days.
- Micro-Grants – Up to $9,000 per company to assist with hiring grant specialists.
- Panel Reviews – Mock evaluations to refine proposals before submission.
- SBIR Advance – Competitive match grants up to $275,000 to support commercialization efforts for past SBIR/STTR recipients.
Strengthening Wisconsin’s Innovation Network
Beyond individual guidance, CTC fosters learning and collaboration through:
- SBIR 101 Training – A free monthly webinar introducing SBIR/STTR programs.
- Educational Presentations – Expert-led sessions with institutions like UW-Madison’s Discovery to Product (D2P) and Technology Entrepreneurship Office (TEO), Marquette University, and the Medical College of Wisconsin.
- Intensive Writing Workshops – Focused one-on-one training for SBIR/STTR grant applications.
Advancing Wisconsin’s Innovation Economy
CTC is a key player in Wisconsin’s innovation ecosystem, removing financial barriers, fostering strategic connections, and providing expert guidance. By helping businesses access funding and develop commercialization strategies, CTC ensures that Wisconsin remains a thriving hub for technology and entrepreneurship.
For businesses seeking funding and commercialization support, Wisconsin CTC is a trusted partner in success. Visit us to learn more!
Written By: Kody Ova, Wisconsin CTC
Edited By: Jen Fenton, Office of Research Impact and Outreach