COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Development announced the opening of a new round of grant funding to help entrepreneurs and innovators bring breakthrough technologies to the marketplace.

The Ohio Third Frontier, an initiative of the Department of Development, is releasing the request for proposals for Phase 1 and 2 projects through the Technology Validation and Start-up Fund.

The program aims to strengthen Ohio’s economy by commercializing technologies invented and developed at higher education institutions, nonprofit research institutions and federal labs, as well as supporting startups as they license their products. 

Awards focus on technology and tech-enabled products in advanced manufacturing, materials, biomedical and life sciences, energy, sensors and software and information technology.

“Ohio is where bold ideas become real-world solutions,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development and chair of the Ohio Third Frontier Commission. “Investments made through the Ohio Third Frontier Commission give innovators the support they need to move breakthrough technologies from the lab to the marketplace, creating new companies, good-paying jobs and lasting economic opportunity for Ohioans.” 

Phase 1 awards are intended for Ohio research institutions to offset the cost of viability testing and prototypes for new technologies. Awards help demonstrate the commercial viability of a technology and prepare a proof-of-concept for commercialization. Grants range from $200,000 to $1 million and require the institution to match the grant amount. Another funding option allows institutions to request $100,000 by hiring an intern as part of the project instead of providing a cost-share match. 

Phase 2 awards are up to $200,000 for each project and target companies ready to move technologies from Ohio research institutions to the marketplace. Awards support startups and young companies with the licensing and validation of products and technologies to help them move forward with the commercialization of their product. 

Prospective applicants can submit written questions on the RFP through July 31. Proposals are due by 4 p.m. Aug. 6. Awards are expected to be announced in October. 

More information is available HERE.