Issue 20- August 2014
US Bioplastics Receives Institute Funding
The Florida Institute has finalized a funding agreement with US Bioplastics, an Orlando-based company that takes feedstock waste, paper production by-products, or other plant waste to practical use and then returns it to the environment without damaging the ecology.
US Bioplastics’ flagship product Gatoresin™ based on technology licensed from the University of Florida, is a bio-renewable, water-degradable plastic designed for use in highly disposable applications. Gatoresin eliminates the possibility of environmental contamination by replacing non-degradable petroleum-based plastics with materials derived from agricultural and other waste products.
New Insights Provided During SBIR/STTR
Proposal Writing & Grant Preparation Workshop
VGTI of Florida, with support from the Florida Institute, hosted a Proposal Writing and Grant Preparation workshop at the Homewood Suites by Hilton in Port St. Lucie. The purpose of the workshop was to assist companies with the preparation of Federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) funding applications and increase the likelihood of successful grant submissions. Thirty-five participants attended the workshop, which was led by the Greenwood Consulting Group.
New Startup Quest™ Sessions Getting Underway
Startup Quest is a 10-week entrepreneurial training program that pairs unemployed and underemployed professionals with yet-to-be commercialized technology and experienced entrepreneurs, to learn how to develop business plans, pitch to investors and build successful companies.
Regional Program Managers across the state are seeking mentors, judges and other program participants who wish to be involved as new sessions get underway. Please contact Susan Scully at
Forward Florida Sheds New Light on Venture Capital
In Forward Florida's recent article entitled "Venture Capital in Florida", author Nathalie McCrate discusses the current and evolving investment climate, the economic development impact of Florida’s research universities and institutions, and how programs such as those offered by the Florida Institute are vital to entrepreneurs and Florida’s future growth.
eTect Recognized at the Second Annual V2Venture Competition
eTect, Inc., a specialized communications technology company that develops applications for its novel in-vivo wireless communications platform, took home first prize for its flagship ID-Cap product in the Health and Wearable Technologies category at V2Venture competition held at SXSW V2V. The competition, held at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, awarded five of the most exciting new innovations in categories including Education Technologies, Health and Wearable Technologies, Mobile and Tablet Technologies, Culture and Entertainment Technologies and Innovative World Technologies. ID-Cap is an innovative mobile platform that will provide a deeper understanding of patient’s medication taking behavior leading to better care, lower cost, and improved outcomes.
Don’t Miss the BioFlorida Annual Conference
October 12-14, 2014
Harbor Beach Marriott, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Connect with more than 500 life sciences professionals including company executives, scientists, investors, and federal and state lawmakers at the premier event for Florida’s life sciences community. Hear industry leaders discuss current trends in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and bio agriculture, and contribute to advancing the growth of the industry in Florida! Registration is now open and applications for emerging and established companies to present are being accepting.
September 29- October 1, 2014
Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, Lake Buena Vista, FL
Join state business leaders, industry experts and elected officials at the largest gathering of CEOs in the state as they discuss and explore how to secure Florida's future. This year’s program features top level executives from several state agencies and identifying connection points and partnerships that will make Florida the state with vibrant communities, high-wage jobs and endless opportunities for global competitiveness. Register today and be a part of the conversations that will help Florida stand out as the best state to live, learn, work and raise a family.
The Institute delivers company building and funding programs to facilitate new venture and job creation through commercially-viable technologies in major industries that are driving the global economy. In addition to providing company support services, the Institute manages the Seed Capital Accelerator Program launched in 2011, and the Florida Technology Seed Capital Fund launched in 2013. For more information, visit www.florida-institute.com.