SBIR funding: Everything you need to know w/ Christine E.B. Howard

The world of funding can be a bit intimidating. Where do you start? How do you increase your chances of receiving an award? The truth is, the process is highly specific. But if you take the time to really understand your proposal and what you’re hoping to prove, you’ve already got a leg up. Christine E.B. Howard has spent her entire career in the funding space - and when she says you need to do A, B, or C, you can bet you’re getting the right advice at the right time. On this week’s show, Christine helps dispel some of the myths around writing and submitting proposals while also providing strategic insights on how small startups can increase their chances with securing funds. Funding is definitely a hurdle every company will have to clear. But this episode is sure to give you the training you need to sail over that bar and increase your chances at winning an award and moving your startup into the next phase toward success. Here are the show highlights:  Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants and innovation (3:20) Why writing for clarity is key when submitting funding proposals (5:13) This is why you need a rock solid R&D methodology (15:09) You’re going to want to work out your customer discovery and value prop (16:09) Is funding customer discovery a “chicken or the egg” phenomenon? (18:02) What grant writers should (and should not) do (21:07)  Guest Bio  Christine E.B. Howard is the Founder and CEO of E.B. Howard Consulting, specializing in non-dilutive SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) funding that helps develop, fund, and implement innovative STEM-based solutions. Christine is a mentor at the National Science Foundation’s I-Corps and has served as president and on the board of directors for the National Association of Women’s Business Owners. If you’d like to reach out to Christine, or want more information about E.B. Howard Consulting’s platforms or their grant writing services, you can find her and additional information on EBHoward.com.