
Every quarter, The Bradley Technology Commercialization Center (BTCC) publishes its newsletter that is sent to current and past clients, and those interested in the services BTCC offers. One helpful item found in those newsletters is the "Reference Corner" in which we take a look a tool that can be useful to those starting a business, doing market research, or helpful in the business world in general. Below are the "Reference Corners" from our latest newsletters. You will also find additional "Reference Corners" listed here as we find new and useful items to share with you. For even more helpful items, click on "Resources" in the menu above.
Looking for a one-stop shop for information and the latest news on growing a tech-based economy? Look no further. The State Science and Technology Institute (SSTI) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to economic growth through the application of science and technology. SSTI publishes the e-newsletter, SSTI's Weekly Digest, which highlights the latest developments on the state, national, and global levels. Topics include which states are funding/cutting in the science and technology arenas, how research and technology transfer is being implemented and expanded at universities around the country, and what is working and not working in the drive to become a technology-based economy. SSTI also puts out a weekly funding supplement which highlights federal, state, and foundation grants and gives a brief description and link to each. For anyone interested in staying abreast of the latest changes in the tech and grand arenas, visit www.sti.org and sign up for a free subscription.
Cisco, AOL, Amazon.com, your company? None of these companies were started without a little cash in the pocket, and like many Fortune 500 organizations, you could get that money through angel investing. BTCC recently welcomed Adam Bock, research manager at Early State Research, LLC. In his presentation he referenced the book, Angel Investing, by Mark Van Osnaburgge and Robert Robinson. This book provides and in-depth look for entrepreneurs who want to learn what angel investors look for a new business and how to present their company successfully. Discover ways to access the billions of dollars invested by business angels. The book includes a resource section featuring over seventy services that match entrepreneurs with investors, web sites of interest, informational networks and many other resources that can be tapped to increase your success in seeking investor capital. Take a peek behind the scenes of what angel investors look for in a startup and how to differentiate your company from the rest of the pack. Look for Angel Investing in the Business/Management section of your bookstore.
This month's highlighted reference is the United States Small Business Administration web site. This site offers many tools to the entrepreneur. Some topics included on the site are business start-up requirements, financing options, business opportunities and how to pursue them, national training events, legal and management resources and an area to type in your questions for the answers that you're seeking. A library with updated printed materials is available as well as a locator map allowing you to find the Small Business Development offices in any state and evaluate their particular services. Many links exist that can provide real time saving advice as you develop your unique business strategy. The address for this resource is: www.sba.gov.