Research Grant Matching (Sub E)

The Emerging Technology Advisory Committee and Governor's staff have clarified prioritization within the Research Matching Grant (RMG) component of the Emerging Technology Fund (ETF).  The following describes the targets for RMG and the application process.

RMG awards will be prioritized for significant technology commercialization projects undertaken by industry in partnership with Texas public and private institutions of higher education.  Strong preference will be given to those projects that 1) leverage major federal matching grant opportunities and address critical industry needs that enhance the competitiveness of existing and new technology companies in Texas or 2) leverage federal commercialization grant opportunities (i.e. SBIR, STTR, Nist ATP).  While strong preference is given to federal matches, other non-federal matching sources will be considered.  The major grants can be made to either the consortia or a higher education institution.

Companies with federal commercialization grants (i.e. SBIR, STTR, Nist ATP, etc.) or non-federal matching grants will apply and submit their research grant matching applications to the Office of the Governor on a quarterly basis.  Submitting companies must have an active and verifiable commercialization grant.

Major Project Definition

The ETF can be used to attract projects of major national significance.  Examples of these projects include Los Alamos National Laboratory, Galveston Laboratory for Infectious Disease Research, and the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI).

The ETF may be a proactive participant in recruiting such projects, including identifying funding partners, initiation, and active management.

A Major Project probably won't look like existing projects or those currently under evaluation.  Funding will be flexible and could exceed $10 million, when appropriate.

Recruitment of a Major Project will be coordinated by the Governor's Office with assistance from the Lieutenant Governor's and Speaker's Offices, the Texas Emerging Technology Fund Advisory Committee, and proposal partners, e.g., state or federal agencies and private companies.

Terms and contract awards will be determined by the Governor's Office with assistance from the Lieutenant Governor's and Speaker's Offices, the Texas Emerging Technology Fund Advisory Committee, and proposal partners, e.g., state or federal agencies and private companies.

Funding for a Major Project may come from more than one component of the ETF.  Other state funds may be included in a package, e.g., the Texas Enterprise Fund, Skills Development Fund, federal workforce funds, and institutional or other funds from public or private institutions of higher education.  In addition, funding may come from agencies or institutions of other states or nations.

Awards must be approved by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the House.