- Thames River Innovation Place extends timeline for its latest round of funding
- Request for proposals now sets Set. 10 as date for applicants to submit a letter of interest and Oct. 8 for proposals
- RFP remains focused on finding projects to enhance the Blue Tech sector in southeastern Connecticut or address a periphery issue
Summary by Dirk Langeveld
Thames River Innovation Place is extending its timeline on a request for proposals, giving interested applicants more time to submit a letter of interest if they would like to be considered for the organization’s next round of funding.
TRIP originally asked that applicants submit a letter of interest by July 30 and a proposal by Aug. 13, with projects to commence on Nov. 1. Under the revised timeline, applicants must submit a letter of interest by Sept. 10 and have proposals in by Oct. 8. Proposals will be reviewed by TRIP in October, with a project refinement period and pitch to TRIP occurring in the same month, before a pitch to CTNext on Nov. 23, contracting period in December, and project launch on Jan. 1.
Other aspects of the RFP remain unchanged, with a core focus on projects designed to activate the Blue Tech sector in southeastern Connecticut, including submarine construction, offshore wind, aquaculture, transportation, research and education, and tourism and recreation. The ideal projects will attract these businesses to the region, support innovation and collaboration or break down barriers and silos within the industry, or strengthen connections within the region or outside it.
The RFP also offers includes areas of periphery focus, such as supporting business concepts specific to the region or enhancing community vibrancy. These projects could include business development in downtown New London or Groton City, highlighting the region as a center of innovation of Blue Tech business, or supporting underserved communities.
Applicants must include a variety of information, including a project summary, key performance indicators, budget, proposed milestones, and three letters of good standing. They are also required to commit a cash match of at least $1.15 for every dollar of CTNext funding.
