Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program

The Washington State Department of Commerce, is initiating a Solicitation of Applications from industry-led consortia interested in participating in the a new accelerated cohort of the Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program. Donor Name: Washington State Department of Commerce State: Washington County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/06/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Less than 1 Year Details: The Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program Cohort 2.5, administered by Washington State Department of Commerce, aims to assist organizations with growing cluster operations, driving innovation in key sectors around the state, and attracting talent and capital. Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program is an economic development strategy to strengthen industry ecosystems and accelerate economic development. The goal is to expand the program over the coming decade to: Establish Washington as a global leader in key industry sectors Support tech transfer and commercialization Accelerate new start-ups and scale-ups Grow businesses Create high-value jobs throughout Washington Increase export opportunities Increase and support diversity, equity, and inclusion in business ownership and workforce Funding Information COMMERCE intends to award no more than 10 applications between $50,000 – $150,000. Project Period The period of performance of any contract resulting from this application is tentatively scheduled to begin on or about September 1, 2024 and to end on December 31, 2024. Eligibility Criteria Industry-led consortia/clusters that have a demonstrated commitment to building out a successful cluster. Cluster must have academic membership, and must submit a letter of commitment from a major university or community college within the state. Cluster must have equal to or over $500,000 thousand of demonstrated investment, which may include potential future investment via large federal opportunities. Funding will be prioritized for clusters whom are industry- led. Other Minimum qualifications include: Licensed to do business in the State of Washington or submit a statement of commitment that it will become licensed in Washington within thirty (30) calendar days of being selected as an Apparently Successful Contractor. Must have an active Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) or submit a statement of commitment that it will become licensed in Washington within thirty (30) calendar days of being selected as an Apparently Successful Contractor. Demonstrated experience working in Washington State and with communities, businesses, and other Washington State organizations Demonstrated project management experience Demonstrated stakeholder convening and management experience Demonstrated experience working with stakeholders in the industry the cluster will focus on For more information, visit Department of Commerce.