“… The NCI just issued its 2021 research topic solicitation focused on 17 topics ranging from next generation 3D culture systems to quantitative imaging software tools to software to social determinants. Submissions are due Oct. 26. NCI received more than $151 million in SBIR funding in fiscal 2020, according to its budget justification.”
“[Christie Canaria, the Small Business Innovation Research program director at the National Cancer Institute], who earned a PhD in chemistry, said the diversity of thought and backgrounds help small firms with their proposals and with the decisions on funding.”
“’We look at who’s on the team? What kind of expertise do they have? What problems are they trying to address? Are they things we think are important, and as program directors we do bring a lens to that and try to make sure our portfolio is diverse in the types of cancer innovations we are trying to support, in the types of companies that are coming in, where they are coming from and what they are trying to do?’ she said. ‘We are trying to work closely with review panels and help them understand what we are trying to do through our SBIR program. If you look at the SBIR policy directive, the number three mission statement on there is to increase participation from women and traditionally underrepresented individuals in entrepreneurship. That is something we are trying to do good work on.’”
“NCI is holding a virtual MedTech Showcase on Sept. 9 and 10 for NCI-funded companies to obtain investments or make new partnerships. The virtual showcase will include one-on-one virtual meetings, panel discussions with medical technology investors and partners and a keynote speech by NCI Director Ned Sharpless…” Listen to the interview here.
Source: National Cancer Institute brings diversity of thought, people to help small business innovators – By Jason Miller, August 7, 2020. Federal News Network.
