Engage with startups and early stage companies as a First Flight Partner!
As a non-profit incubator for science-focused early stage companies, we strive to keep costs affordable fees for space and services to lower the barrier for entry. To fund the many services and programs we offer our resident members and the broader early stage company ecosystem, we seek out grants, donations, and partner sponsorships.
Advantages of partnering with First Flight
In addition to creating brand awareness with next generation companies, First Flight partners have the opportunity to meet and understand the needs of early stage companies who require a variety of services along their path to commercialization.
Strategic Connections with Early-Stage Companies
First Flight offers sponsors the opportunity for meaningful exposure and interaction with early-stage companies.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
FLIGHT PLAN - A Customized Annual Sponsorship > DETAILS
Being a Flight Plan Annual sponsor allows a sponsor to choose from a variety of events, education sessions and networking events to engage with companies at various stages of the company’s development over the course of a year. Sponsors can choose to present, attend and engage with entrepreneurs involved in First Flight programs such as but not limited to:
Propeller: A unique 6-week course to assist startups find the value in their business idea
Test Flight: a monthly pitch practice presentation by 2 startups
DRIVe Initiative: Identify/fund companies who solve priority health threats
LiftOff: Grant writing assistance program for high potential science-focused startups support the submission of competitive grants that win SBIR/STTR funding
Hangar6: An advanced prototyping facility for entrepreneurs and companies
Itineraries: A monthly presentation to share the science, progress, evolution and entrepreneurship of startups in the First Flight family
More details about First Flight programs described can be found HERE
“FAST” Sponsorship - Direct Contact with Science-Focused Startups > DETAILS
The Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program seeks to improve competitive grants and wins for non-dilutive funding through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs for underserved communities by increasing participation from women-owned, rural-based, and socially economically disadvantaged small businesses.
CONTACT Andrea Conner, Ecosystem Development Director, 919-990-8558, AConner@ffvcnc.org
Ways to Donate to First Flight
Financial support: General operating or program specific
In-kind donations: services, equipment, property/vehicles, other items of value
Matching company gifts
Grants and Foundation awards
Other: Create a custom program
mailto:info@ffvcnc.orgFor more information about First Flight partnerships, contact us.
What our partners say
We routinely advise our RTP-based startups to consider locating their company at the First Flight Venture Center. First Flight provides a unique environment for companies as they move through research, product development, marketing and commercialization. First Flight is adaptable to each company's needs and provides programs that fill critical gaps such as rapid prototyping and grant-writing support. I will continue to highly recommend First Flight and look forward to our future collaborations.