FAQ | Economic Development

What is my first step to starting a business?

Starting a business may seem daunting, but the Stony Brook Small Business Development Center is available to help both aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned franchise owners.

Their team of professional business advisors provide free and confidential business counseling services, including developing a business plan, conducting market research, and assisting with loan applications.

Visit the Stony Brook SBDC website here to learn more and schedule an appointment.

How can I apply for incubator space at Economic Development?

The incubator application form can be found on the Long Island High Technology Incubator (LIHTI) website here.

How much does it cost to apply?

There is no fee for submitting the form and getting reviewed. If you are accepted into our incubators, you will have a one-year lease subject to review after the year to see if you are meeting the milestones for success. You will have access to conference rooms with projector, screen, internet and teleconference ability and the support of our Incubator Advocate who will help answer your questions and the SBDC.

Is there anything I need to do before contacting Economic Development?

There is an application form you can fill out online before contacting us. This will help you put your thoughts/ideas into order and help us understand what if and what type of space would be the best fit for you. It will be important to show why you seek to be at one of our incubators (e.g.- collaboration with researchers, or access to specialized facilities) versus renting commercial space. It will also be important to show when you plan to graduate into the Long Island region and continue to grow. The form will be reviewed by the Incubator Selection and Review Committee.

What are the benefits of having Incubator Space at Stony Brook University?

Incubator Companies draw on the strengths at SBU in many areas of basic science and engineering, computer science, energy, materials science, marine and environmental science, and medical science and healthcare and can provide a close synergy with faculty, students and research.

What type of space is available for start-ups?

Stony Brook Economic Development has many different types of areas: office space; laboratories; shared space; Start-Up NY space; Hot Spots. Once we receive your application, we can better determine what type of space best serves your needs and financial capabilities.

What areas of concentration are the incubators associated within?

Areas of Research include:

What is the AERTC?

The Advanced Energy Research and Technology Center (AERTC) is one of two New York State Centers of Excellence at Stony Brook University. This New York Division of Science, Technology and Innovation (NYSTAR) facility focuses on innovative energy research, education and technology deployment with an intent on efficiency, conservation, renewable energy and nanotechnology applications for new and novel sources of energy.

You can learn more about the AERTC on their website here.

What is CEWIT?

As one of two New York State designated Centers of Excellence, the Center of Excellence in Wireless and information Technology (CEWIT) strives to conduct first-class interdisciplinary research and development in wireless and information technology; foster new enterprise development; and address the skilled technology worker shortage.

You can learn more about CEWIT on their website here.

What is CIEES?

The Center for Integrated Electric Energy Systems (CIEES) is one of fifteen NYSTAR-designated Center for Advanced Technology (CAT) in New York State.

Located at Stony Brook University's Advanced Research and Technology Center, CIEES enhances the development and integration of cutting-edge technologies into electric energy systems, working with industry partners and leveraging the technical and intellectual assets of Stony Brook University and Brookhaven National Laboratory.

You can learn more about CIEES on their website here.

What is IPP?

Intellectual Property Partners (IPP) fosters the successful commercialization of cutting-edge discoveries by bridging SBU innovation with public benefit through partnership with SBU inventors and the business community in order to enhance well-being, return economic benefit to the university, and strengthen the long-term vitality of our innovation ecosystem.

You can learn how IPP can address your technology transfer inquiries on their website.

What is the LIMEP?

The Long Island Manufacturing Extension Partnership (LIMEP) is New York State’s only campus-based Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center (MEP) serving biotechnology and manufacturing firms on Long Island—and we offer so much more than a standard MEP.

The LIMEP helps companies assess their needs, define projects, and match them with experts for: technology assistance, research and development, prototyping, workforce training and process improvement, as well as the adoption and evaluation of new manufacturing equipment.

You can learn more about LIMEP on their website here.

What is the Stony Brook SBDC?

The Stony Brook Small Business Devcelopment Center (SBDC) brings together the resources of the University, the private sector and government at all levels to assist entrepreneurs, business and industry in the solution of their problems, leading to increased productivity and profitability. The SBDC provides free and confidential business counseling sessions, free workshops on key topics and areas of concern for small business owners, assistance with business plan creation, and more.

You can learn more about the SBDC on their website here.

What is SPIR?

The Strategic Partnership for Industrial Resurgence (SPIR) fills a critical gap in existing State industrial assistance programs by providing technically advanced multidisciplinary assistance on a fast turnaround basis. The intent is to help companies improve their market posture, retain existing employees and create new jobs.

You can learn more about SPIR on their website here