California

If you have an idea for a new product but need cutting-edge technology to help breathe life into your invention, California State Polytechnic University in Pomona may have the solution to your dilemma. The university has teamed up with NASA to create a business incubator that targets start-up or existing firms that have the ability to commercialize technology created in two NASA laboratories in California.

The incubator--called the NASA Commercialization Center--will help entrepreneurs commercialize technology at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena and the Dryden Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base to give their products the ability to create and control a niche. The technology available at JPL includes semiconductors, optics, power generation, communications and robotics. Dryden specializes in flight-related technology.

Both scientists with products or ideas and the need for business assistance, and entrepreneurs with the capability to develop technologies are eligible to utilize the incubator. Companies don't need to be located in the facility to participate, nor is the program aimed solely at tech companies.

To qualify, contact the incubator for an initial evaluation (no charge) to determine your product's market potential and your company's capabilities. If your business is chosen, the cost for the services is determined on an individual basis but will be at a below-market rate.

For more information, call the center at (909)869-4477.

This article was originally published in the July 1999 print edition of Entrepreneur with the headline: California.