The SBIR 2008 National Conference will be held this year in Hartford at the Connecticut Convention Center November 12-14. Scheduled highlights of the three-day event include a keynote address by nationally known forensic scientist Dr. Henry Lee.

In inviting Connecticut small businesses to attend, Governor M. Jodi Rell stated: "By addressing both national and commercial needs, the SBIR plays a valuable role in providing funding and validation for new and better products and services. The support of an SBIR can make the difference between an idea on the drawing board and a profitable product."

In addition to the core program and an evening reception, Day One of the conference includes a "Speed Dating" session in which small businesses can meet with potential customers.

Day Two includes remarks by United Technologies and Sikorsky executives, panel discussions, and one-on-one sessions. Small companies can schedule private meetings with such large corporations attending as Boeing, Merck, and Proctor and Gamble.

Day Three includes road trips to local manufacturing facilities in North Haven (Ulbrich Stainless Steel) and Farmington (TRUMPF North America (Specialty Lasers)).

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The Connecticut chapter of SBIR - Small Business Innovation Research - was established in 2004. Its mission includes helping small businesses learn about the funds available to them from the Federal Government's Three-Phase Program for eligible companies involved with technology innovation.