DELAURO CALLS FOR CONTINUED SBIR INVESTMENT

Joined by SBIR representatives, local business owners at New Haven company

New Haven, CT — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) visited Molecular Neuro-Imaging, LLC in New Haven today, touring the facility and learning about how the company has benefitted from its participation in the Small Business Innovation and Research (SBIR) program.

The SBIR provides opportunities for small, innovative companies to participate in Federal agency research and development. In Connecticut, SBIR support has created about 10,000 jobs since 1982. Last year, the state received 135 awards, totaling $37.6 million. Legislation under consideration in the House of Representatives could compromise the SBIR’s ability to support American small businesses, denying them the opportunities needed to be successful.

Molecular Neuro-Imaging (MNI), a neuroimaging services company that provides information critical for drug development and clinical research in degenerative brain disorders, was established in 2000 and has benefitted from SBIR support since 2002. With the SBIR’s assistance, MNI has been able to expand their business and revenue.

“Molecular Neuro-Imaging is a great example of the benefits of SBIR investment in Connecticut and across the country. With SBIR support, companies like Molecular Neuro-Imaging can take the entrepreneurial risks that strengthen America’s high-tech economy and create good jobs,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “We know that small businesses are the engine of our economy, and I will keep fighting to ensure we maintain a strong SBIR program that works as intended to help our emerging and up-and-coming companies to innovate, grow, and hire.”