MELBOURNE, Fla. – Those who have applied for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants can testify that one of the most difficult, yet important parts of the submission process is developing the cost proposal. Now, Florida’s Technological Research and Development Authority (TRDA) simplifies the task with a new workshop designed to teach Central Florida business owners the ABC’s of cost proposal development.

On Oct. 24, the TRDA will host the SBIR/STTR Cost Proposal Preparation Workshop at its business incubation facility, the TRDA Business Innovation Center in Melbourne, Fla. During the 8-hour class, participants will learn the general components of a strong cost proposal, including formatting, preparation, audits and basic government accounting techniques. They will also learn how to estimate their company's indirect Facility and Administrative rate (F&A) and how to justify fee/profit requests.

Nationally renowned SBIR trainers Gail and Jim Greenwood will conduct the workshop. The duo has been involved in the SBIR program since its inception

“Government accounting and SBIR/STTR cost proposals are challenging, yet very important in making sure that you don't lose money completing your actual SBIR/STTR project,” said Jim Greenwood. “If your eyes glaze over common SBIR/STTR cost proposal acronyms such as IR&D (independent research and development) and G&A (general and administrative) then this class is for you.”

Sponsored by the Florida High Tech Corridor Council and the University of Central Florida, the SBIR/STTR Cost Proposal Preparation Workshop takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $35 per person and includes a boxed lunch. The TRDA Business Innovation Center is located at 1050 W. NASA Blvd. 

Registration is available online at www.trda.org/events.  Or contact Bonnie O’Regan at boregan@trda.org or (321) 872-1050, Ext. 107.

About TRDA

Launched in 1987, the TRDA is an agency of the state of Florida that leverages federal, state and private resources to develop and implement technology-based programs in four target areas:  education, business incubation, energy and technology transfer.  Since its inception, the TRDA has leveraged tens of millions of dollars in funding to support its education and economic development programs.  By infusing new technology into businesses and schools, the TRDA helps to strengthen the economy and education throughout the state and nation.  For more information, visit www.trda.org.

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