Energy Innovation Day will connect entrepreneurs with federal funding

by Jeff Della Rosa ([email protected]) 944 views 

Entrepreneurs and researchers looking to commercialize energy technology can attend a June workshop to learn about programs providing federal money for their projects, according to an event announcement.

Energy Innovation Day in Arkansas will take place on June 15 in the AT&T Conference Room at Arkansas Research and Technology Park at 535 W. Research Center Boulevard in Fayetteville. The event also will include a panel discussion on state energy advancements.

The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center, the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association and the University of Arkansas divisions of Economic Development and Research and Innovation are collaborating to host the event from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Starting at 9:30 a.m., Eileen Chant, outreach program manager at the U.S. Department of Energy, will offer a two-hour workshop on federal Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) programs. Participants can schedule 15-minute, one-on-one appointments with Chant between 12:30 and 3 p.m. to discuss projects and funding opportunities.

According to her biography, Chant is a mechanical engineer with more than 25 years of experience. Her experience comprises diverse energy technologies, including dehumidification processes, fossil and nuclear power, pressure vessel technology and hydrogen storage. She started in her existing role in 2020.

The following will be a part of a 1 p.m. panel discussion on Arkansas energy advancements:

  • Lisa Perry, senior manager, Energy Services, Walmart
  • Becky Keogh, state infrastructure coordinator, Department of Finance and Administration
  • Glen Hooks, policy manager, Audubon Delta
  • Tom Waggoner, managing director and CEO, Syntex Industries
  • Douglas Hutchings, CEO, Delta Solar.

Other aspects of the event include food trucks, networking time and an energy innovation showcase where attendees can learn about new energy innovations.

The deadline to register for the free event is 8 a.m. June 9. Event signup is available online at this link.