Oct. 18, 2005: MDA Launches Major Program of Essential New York Initiative: $1 Million in Seed Funding For University-Industry Partnerships

The “Grants for Growth” (GFG) program will offer up to $50,000 in matching funds for innovative applied research projects between universities and industry that have the potential to improve business competitiveness and create jobs. The program is part of the Metropolitan Development Association’s (MDA) Essential New York Initiative-- a plan to accelerate the transition of the regional economy one based on knowledge and technology.

By seeding applied research relationships between university and industry, the program seeks to increase innovation and technology commercialization within the central upstate regional economy. Through a combination of grants and no-interest loans, the GFG program is designed to give companies in greater access to the unique knowledge, expertise and educational resources available at regional research institutions.

To be eligible for GFG funding, projects must:

• Provide a 1:1 match for all GFG funds;

• Focus on research, development or commercialization in one or more of the following industries: agriculture, biosciences, digital and electronic devices, energy, environmental systems, information technology, packaging, and precision metalworking;

• Include business and university partners from the 12-county central upstate region (Cayuga, Cortland, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, Seneca, St. Lawrence, and Tompkins); and,

• Have the potential to create jobs and deliver economic impact to the central upstate region.

All proposals require evidence of detailed planning and sound budget justification, and must clearly spell out the underlying assumptions, intended approaches, milestones and deliverables. Proposals will be reviewed by an 11-member Advisory Committee. Awards will be made on a rolling basis until all program funds have been expended. The Grants for Growth program is funded through the support of New York State Senator John A. DeFrancisco.

Last year, Operation Oswego County became a member of a 12-county regional alliance formed as a result of the Essential New York Initiative. The alliance is comprised of individuals from a variety of economic development, business and academic institutions across the Central New York region. Participating counties include Cayuga, Cortland, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, St. Lawrence, Seneca and Tompkins. Laser Transit CEO and OOC Board President George Joyce, President and CEO of PathFinder Bank Thomas Schneider and OOC Executive Director L. Michael Treadwell, CEcD represent Oswego County.

For more information, contact the Metropolitan Development Association at 315-422-8284, or to download an application, please visit www.essentialny.com/gfg.

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