Latest inter-agency cluster initiative

Press Release

The U.S. Small Business Administration is investing in regional clusters throughout the US that span a variety of industries, ranging from energy and manufacturing to agriculture and advanced defense technologies.

Clusters are geographic concentrations of interconnected companies, specialized suppliers, academic institutions, service providers and associated organizations with a specific industry focus. They provide high-value, targeted connecting of small and large businesses, including networking with potential industry partners abroad.

Clusters form strong partnerships between universities and private industry, facilitating technology transfer and commercialization of new technology. Clusters can play a critical role in meeting innovation needs in sectors such as energy or defense faster and cheaper than traditional procurement processes.

The map below shows the names and locations of the 33 clusters in which SBA is investing, the majority of which represent a collaborative funding opportunity among several Federal agencies. Small businesses interested in participating in a cluster can find more information here.

SBA Invests in 33 Clusters

In the fall of 2010, SBA funded its initial three clusters in collaboration with the Department of Commerce, the Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, and several other agencies.  These clusters are located in the Greater Philadelphia region, Florida, and Ohio and appear in red on the SBA map. Read more

SBA Supports Clusters Across the US Learn more

Resources

Evaluation of Pilot Clusters Initiative Year One

SBA funded a third party evaluator to examine the ten pilot clusters in detail, including their various stakeholder participants and the services and activities provided by the clusters, with a focus on small business participants. The report evaluates the initial outcomes observed during the first year of the initiative, including the employment, revenue, and payroll of the small businesses as well as their ability to spur innovation and obtain financing. Furthermore, the report analyzes the regional economic impact of the economic activity of the clusters’ small business participants.

Click here to download a PDF of the report.

Clusters Forms and Worksheets for Grantees

• Jobs Accelerator Reporting Template
• Federal Financial Report
• Request for Advance or Reimbursement
• Performance Progress Report – SF PPR
• Certification Form Template
• Revised 7(j) Eligibility Criteria July 2012  

Clusters FAQs

Payment and Invoicing 2011 Jobs Accelerator and Innovation Challenge SBA 7(j) Grant Recipients. Click here to view FAQs.