SC Fraunhofer USA Alliance Grant Program Turning business challenges into applied research
The SC Fraunhofer USA Alliance connects South Carolina companies with researchers from the state’s colleges and universities and global experts from Fraunhofer USA. Through a matching grant program, project teams develop practical solutions that help companies innovate, improve operations and compete in a changing economy.
Bringing industry and research together
The SC Fraunhofer USA Alliance is a collaborative initiative managed by SC Competes, with matching funds from SC Commerce and applied research expertise from Fraunhofer USA.
Each project brings together:
- A company with a presence in South Carolina
- Researchers from a South Carolina college or university
- Technical experts from Fraunhofer USA
Together, the project team addresses a defined business or technical challenge with measurable goals, milestones and outcomes.
How the matching grant works
The participating company and SC Commerce each fund 50% of the project’s direct costs.
Funding does not go directly to the company. It supports the South Carolina college or university and Fraunhofer USA research teams conducting the work. The participating company benefits from the research, technical expertise and resulting project outcomes.
Federal funding, including eligible SBIR or STTR funding, may be used as the company’s matching contribution when program requirements are met.
Who can apply?
Companies of any size may apply if they:
- Have a business presence in South Carolina
- Can provide a 50% cash match toward the total project budget
- Have a clearly defined business or technical challenge
- Are prepared to collaborate with research partners
- Can identify measurable benefits for the company, its workforce or South Carolina’s economy
Projects are generally expected to be sufficiently developed for applied research and typically operate at Technology Readiness Level 6 or higher.
What kinds of projects are supported?
Alliance projects can span industries and technologies. Areas of focus may include:
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0
- Product and process development
- Automation and digital technologies
- Advanced materials
- Life sciences
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Logistics
- Wearable technologies
Projects may focus on solving a production challenge, improving efficiency, developing or testing technology, reducing costs or building research capabilities within South Carolina.
How to begin the process
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis while program funding remains available.
- Submit an interest form describing the company and proposed research need.
- Work with the Alliance team to confirm eligibility and define the project.
- Build a project team that includes Fraunhofer USA and South Carolina university researchers.
- Develop the project scope, milestones, expected impact and budget.
- Submit the completed application for review by the Alliance Advisory Board.
Funding decisions are generally made within four to eight weeks after a complete application is submitted. From the initial conversation to project launch, approximately three months is a realistic planning timeframe. Most projects last six to 12 months, although some may extend to 18 months.
Applied research with measurable impact
The Alliance has provided more than $7 million in applied research funding for South Carolina companies. Completed and active projects are expected to generate more than $10.6 million in cumulative cost savings within five years of completion. Fraunhofer USA Alliance impact information
Have a challenge worth exploring?
The Alliance team can help define your research need, identify potential partners and determine whether the matching grant program is right for your company.
