RFPs For Joint Innovation Projects Due February 28, 2014

This month, Space Florida and MATIMOP (Israel’s industrial center for research and development), on behalf of the Israeli Chief Scientist Office, issued a joint Request For Proposals (RFP) for research and development projects sponsored by companies in both states.

In October 2013, the States of Florida and Israel formed a $2 million joint industrial research funding program to support research, development and commercialization of aerospace and technology projects that benefit both States.

Within the RFP, Israeli and Florida-based companies are asked to present cooperative proposals, which will be jointly vetted for feasibility, and research funding will be awarded to companies demonstrating the most promising partnerships – those that demonstrate near-term potential for commercialization and economic benefit to both states.

Applicants must present a proposal that incorporates joint R&D projects in one of the following technological fields:

• Satellite Communication
• Small Satellite Technology and Small Launch Vehicles
• Space Research Related Sensor Technology (including bio-sensors)
• Nano-Materials and Coatings for Space Applications
• Electric Power Resources for Space Applications
• Microgravity Research tied to Human Life Sciences
• Unmanned Aerial Systems
• Nano-, Flex- and Low-Power Electronics
• Micro- and Nano-Robotics
• And other Space and Aerospace-Related Research

“Partnering with countries that value and invest in next-generation space and aerospace technology development and commercialization falls directly into our mission of ensuring a robust high-tech industry right here in Florida,” said Space Florida President Frank DiBello. “Florida and Israel have complimentary goals and resources in these areas and we look forward to enhancing Florida’s economy through this partnership.”

"We are excited to announce this new collaboration with Space Florida that will enable Israeli and Florida-based companies to mutually develop breakthrough technologies in the important space sector," added Israeli Chief Scientist Avi Hasson.

Space Florida regularly conducts international trade missions to partner with countries that have similar technological capabilities and needs. Israel, in particular, is known for its successful international joint research initiatives (with the UK, India and Italy, for example) and has strengths in many technological R&D areas.

FMI: www.spaceflorida.gov/proposals