Entrepreneur Services - Frequently Asked Questions
How does a company become a member of the ATDC?
ATDC assists emerging science- and technology-based companies located in Georgia. To be accepted into the ATDC, companies must have strong management, significant executive commitment, large and attractive markets, a realistic business plan, unique technology that can create a competitive advantage and a fit with the ATDC community. ATDC has an established application process that begins with completing an online application. To see if your early-stage technology company is a possible fit for ATDC membership, please visit www.atdc.org/becoming_member.asp
Do I have to be affiliated with Georgia Tech or be using Georgia Tech technology to be an ATDC member company?
No. Approximately 40 percent of ATDC companies are based on technology developed at Georgia Tech, but that is not a requirement for membership. ATDC's mission is to help Georgia entrepreneurs launch and build successful companies, and membership is open to all entrepreneurs who meet admission criteria.
How much time does the ATDC admission process require?
The ATDC admission process adds value even to companies that ultimately do not become part of the program. The management team from applicant companies meets with ATDC staff to review the admission criteria. Often, suggestions are made for strengthening business plans, management team or other vital issues. Applications are handled in a timely way.
What value does ATDC provide to its member companies?
Companies located in ATDC facilities strongly benefit from being a part of a community of like-minded entrepreneurs who often help each other by sharing their collective experience. ATDC services also include consulting with ATDC “venture catalysts” who have experience in starting up companies, weekly “brown bag” lunches on topics of vital interest, and community-building activities. ATDC offers its member companies:
- Consulting: practical advice from experienced entrepreneurs.
- Connections: credibility and the right connections.
- Community: a dynamic environment of entrepreneurs.
- Centre: facilities designed for startup companies.
- Credibility: instant recognition for ATDC companies.
What do SBIR and STTR stand for, and what agencies offer them?
These programs are the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. They are offered by the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Department of Commerce, Department of Agriculture, National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, NASA, Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Transportation and Department of Education.
How much funding is available from a SBIR/STTR Award?
A Phase I award can be between $70,000 and $150,000, and a Phase II Award can be between $300,000 and $750,000, depending on the agency.
What requirements must a company meet to be eligible for SBIR funding?
To be eligible, companies must meet these requirements:
- Must be a small company (under 500 employees).
- Must be organized for profit.
- Must be owned at least 51 percent by U.S. citizens (or U.S. resident aliens).
- Must be located in the United States.
- Company and/or principal investigator must have creditable, relevant experience in leading-edge technologies.
I've never applied for SBIR/STTR funding. What are my chances?
On average, one in seven proposals is selected for Phase I and one in two proposals is selected for Phase II. Overall, 40 percent of the Phase I winning companies are first-time winners.
Can I submit an SBIR or STTR proposal at any time?
No, you must respond to a published topic in a solicitation. Solicitations are released at various times throughout the year. The SBIR Assistance Program for the State of Georgia can help you locate these solicitations.
What are your SBIR services, and what do they cost?
Services of the SBIR Assistance Program for the State of Georgia are offered at no cost to Georgia companies. The services help:
- Determine if the SBIR/STTR Program is right for your company.
- Answer your questions and concerns.
- Provide you with guidance/coaching throughout the proposal process.
- Critique your proposal prior to submission.