Bridge Fund Prize

The Bridge Fund is a one-time prize awarded to the eidotech project cluster participants that will provide gap funding for eligible businesses with promising innovations.

The Bridge Fund is a great opportunity for eidotech project cluster participants that will provide gap funding for eligible businesses in the smart sensing space. We know that startup costs in the industry can be expensive. IP protection, marketing, corporate structuring costs, prototype and product design costs, and small equipment purchases all add up quickly. The eidotech project can provide funds to assist with these costs and help get your idea out the door and into the marketplace.

  • Applications are accepted on a rolling basis as funds are available. Funding awards typically range from $5,000-$50,000 and are delivered as a cost reimbursement. Applications must demonstrate how the funds will provide positive economic impact to Montana (number of new jobs, new products, new revenue, new or expanded customers, etc.)

  • Potential uses of funds might include:

    • Video production and other marketing campaigns

    • Third party validation testing

    • Initial batch runs

    • Small equipment purchases

    • Patenting costs

    • Cybersecurity or business systems compliance

    • Travel expenses for customer demos

  • Must be a small business located and operated in Montana to be eligible for funds. Funds cannot be used for basic research.

    Companies in the photonics, optics, quantum, and remote sensing space or companies that are commercializing a Montana University System technology will be given preference.

    Contact morgan@eidotech.co to determine if your business is eligible for consideration.

  • Bridge Fund applications must include a proposed use of funds, the expected impact of those funds, and a quote or budget to demonstrate how funds will be used. You can find the application here.