Business Innovative Research Program: Department of Education Announces Funding Opportunity to Assist Employment for Individuals with Disabilities

The purpose of the Business Innovative Research Program (SBIR) program is to stimulate technological innovation in the private sector, strengthen the role of small business in meeting Federal research or research and development (R/R&D) needs, increase the commercial application of Department of Education supported research results, and improve the return on investment from Federally funded research for economic and social
benefits to the Nation.

The Administration has requested $5,000,000 for the SBIR program for FY 2006, of which an estimated $1,125,000 has been identified for new Phase I awards. The actual level of funding, if any, depends on final congressional action. The Department of Education, however, is inviting applications to allow enough time to complete the grant process if Congress appropriatesfunds for this program. The Department anticipates the award of 15
grants in the range of $60,000-$75,000.

The goals of the SBIR program are in concert with the proposed research of the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) summarized in the Long-Range Plan which integrates many issues relating to disability and rehabilitation research topics.

All SBIR projects funded by NIDRR must address the needs of individuals with disabilities and their families. Activities may include exploring the uses of technology to ensure equal access to education, employment, community environments, and information for individuals with disabilities and improving the quality and utility of disability and rehabilitation research.

For the current competition, NIDRR identifies "development of technology to support access to employment, promote sustained employment, and promote employment advancement for individuals with disabilities" as one of the priorities.

Eligible applicants must be small business concerns defined by the Small Business Administration. Technology, science, or engineering firms with strong research capabilities in any of the priority areas identified by NIDRR are encouraged to participate. Consultative or other arrangements between these firms and universities or other non-profit organizations are permitted, but the small business concern must serve as the grantee.

The January 10 FEDERAL REGISTER provides full background, description of the SBIR Phases, and application requirements. The application deadline is March 13, 2006.