The Kansas Innovation & Technology Enterprise - Proof of Concept Grant

The Kansas Innovation & Technology Enterprise (KITE) continues to cultivate a growing network to support innovation that allows companies with advanced innovative technology to expand and grow creating more jobs and revenue for Kansas. The programs are designed to further research, spur commercialization, and assist entrepreneur’s in raising funds and growing and expanding their businesses.

The KITE Proof of Concept (POC) is designed to fill a need for support where typical funding mechanisms are not available, acting as a bridge between federal funding for basic research and commercial seed funding by angel or venture investors. POC funding will not be awarded when other sources of funding are timely available. The POC program will aim to assist:

• The establishment of promising new technology-based entrepreneurial ventures within the State.
• The commercialization of inventions resulting from research conducted at Kansas public universities.

Applications for POC funding are accepted throughout the year. The POC review committee meets on a quarterly basis to review proposals and make recommendations for funding. Awards will be made for eligible applications until funds are expended. Applicants are required to submit applications through an approved partner at least two weeks prior to quarterly committee reviews.

Additional information on the program and a link the the application can be found on the Department of Commerce website here: POC Program Application