WNY businesses can receive $25K for technical assistance via grant program

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Entrepreneurs and businesses seeking to innovate and grow this spring may find just the type of help they need – both technical and monetary – from the University at Buffalo Center for Industrial Effectiveness (TCIE).

Every year, TCIE connects Western New York businesses with resources of UB’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Through the Strategic Partnership for Industrial Resurgence (SPIR) grant, matching funds of up to $25,000 for specialized assistance are available to access the expertise of UB’s eight engineering departments.

Armstrong Pumps of North Tonawanda, for example, tapped SPIR to explore modernizing its facility and making it more conducive to optimum manufacturing practices. Tonawanda-based SR Instruments is using funds to research developing a new all-in-one scale.    

Companies in New York state with fewer than 500 employees are eligible for SPIR, which is funded by the State University of New York. Funds are available, but not limited to, the following:

• Research and development projects.
• Finite element analysis.
• Material design and selection.
• Layout and workflow analysis.
• Employing graduate and PhD students.

Note: Capital expenses are not covered. To be considered for SPIR funding, visit TCIE’s website to complete a grant application by Feb. 12.

TCIE is Western New York's bridge to excellence; it provides a dynamic link between UB’s expert resources and the region’s business community. Its core focus on engineering solutions and operational excellence drives continual improvements, and ignites innovation and technological advantages. For more information on how TCIE can assist Western New York businesses, visit www.tcie.buffalo.edu or call 716-645-8800.