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The New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology and Kean University announced a Memorandum of Understanding March 17. The agreement aims to support New Jersey entrepreneurs competing for federal Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer funding.

Under the partnership, Kean’s Institute for Life Science Entrepreneurship will run a Phase 0 Grant Writing and Entrepreneur Training Program. The course will offer structured guidance and technical assistance to early-stage companies.

Services will include:

• Drafting and refining grant proposals
• Preparing executive summaries
• Developing project plans
• Conducting market analyses
• Assisting with budgets
• Ensuring compliance with federal requirements

A formal application, review and selection process will prioritize high-potential projects while ensuring equitable access across the state.

“New Jersey has extraordinary scientific and entrepreneurial talent,” said Judith Sheft, executive director, CSIT. “This partnership with Kean University strengthens our commitment to helping innovators access federal research funding, commercialize breakthrough technologies and create high-quality jobs throughout the state.”

The program aims to increase the number and quality of New Jersey SBIR/STTR submissions, accelerate technology commercialization, foster startup growth, create jobs and strengthen the state’s innovation economy. CSIT and Kean hope the initiative will bolster New Jersey’s national competitiveness in science and technology.

“This collaboration reflects Kean University’s mission to advance innovation, entrepreneurship and economic development,” said Keith Bostian, associate provost for science and technology at Kean University. “Through the Institute for Life Science Entrepreneurship, we will provide structured training and high-quality proposal development support that helps New Jersey companies compete successfully for federal research funding.”

Entrepreneurs interested in participating may contact Kean’s Institute for Life Science Entrepreneurship at [email protected].

Investing in innovation:

New Jersey once again ranked as one of the most innovative states in the U.S., according to a recent WalletHub ranking. Find out more here.