New Orleans to host national innovation research conference

New Orleans will host the 2011 National Small Business Innovation Research Fall Conference. More than 700 people from federal agencies and high-tech businesses are expected to attend the event, set for Nov. 6-9. The conference is intended to educate and connect small technology-based businesses, researchers and universities from all across the United States with the resources to help them transform innovative ideas into new products or services and job growth. Awarding $2.5 billion annually, the Small Business Innovation Research program’s purpose is to spur innovation so that as companies build patents and profits, the United States gains a competitive edge globally. The conference will cover many aspects of the federal SBIR/STTR programs such as getting started, intellectual property, financing, marketing and business planning. SBIR enables small businesses to compete on the same level as larger companies, encouraging startups and growing economies in those states that actively support the program. This conference will offer participants exposure to a national audience, including university researchers, scientists, nationally recognized technology professionals, Fortune 500 companies, government prime contractors, venture capital investors and many small technology companies with opportunities for growth. For information about the conference, click here, or contact the Louisiana Technology Council (504) 304-2911. Read this week’s entire 10/12 Corridor Weekly here.