California Capital PTAC Counselors Earn Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Training Certifications

September 8, 2021 | In a show of continued dedication to serving small businesses across the state with the highest quality technical assistance available, the California Capital PTAC has expanded its capability by certifying two of its counselors as trainers for the SBA-powered Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. As SBIR/STTR trainers, Alex McCracken and Ralph “Skip” Masters are now positioned to lead California Capital clients towards unique opportunities for business growth. 

     The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are highly competitive programs that encourage domestic small businesses to engage in Federal Research/Research and Development (R/R&D) with the potential for commercialization. Through a competitive awards-based program, SBIR and STTR enable small businesses to explore their technological potential and provide the incentive to profit from its commercialization. By including qualified small businesses in the nation’s R&D arena, high-tech innovation is stimulated, and the United States gains entrepreneurial spirit as it meets its specific research and development needs.

     Central to the STTR program is the partnership between small businesses and nonprofit research institutions. The STTR program requires the small business to formally collaborate with a research institution in Phase I and Phase II. STTR’s most important role is to bridge the gap between performance of basic science and commercialization of resulting innovations. This expansion of our capabilities position the California Capital PTAC as a resource for organizations who are interested in navigating the intricacies of either the SBIR and/or STTR programs.

     “This accomplishment increases our ability as a team to respond to the needs of the PTAC clients and to train other team members as needed,” explained PTAC Director Ivor Newman, adding that SBIR/STTR Webinars will be added to the list of recurring PTAC Webinars. 

     To explore the SBIR/STTR programs, register with the California Capital PTAC  or stay tuned for virtual classes on the SBIR and STTR programs.

Ralph”Skip” Masters has worked with California Capital since 2019.

Alex McCracken joined the PTAC team in February of 2021.