Pre Application Teleconference Questions and Answers.pdf

Pre Application Teleconference Questions and Answers

Date of Meeting: 6/25/2019

1. Question: Is there a KPP for cross-network collaboration?

Answer: No. But within our existing network we often connect accelerators to share best practices. We have regular teleconferences with All Accelerators, about once a month.

2. Q: Are letters of support allowed?

A: Yes.

3. Q: Is the expectation for awarded accelerators to act a regional hub with other institutions? Or is it confined to its own network?

A: Accelerators should be able to work with both regional partners and within their own institution/network.

4. Q: What is the commitment of the “90% person?”

A: Scouting for new innovations and start-ups of interest to the BARDA and DRIVe mission within your biotechnology/medical device/life science/digital health ecosystem. Deliver a Monthly Report and monthly teleconference with the BARDA DRIVe team. Focal point for the DRIVe team to communicate with.

5. Q: What are some examples of desired attributes of a Principal Investigator for the Accelerator?

A: A track record of working with start-ups and innovators; having a network of mentors and advisors with expertise in typical areas of need by start-ups: commercialization strategies, legal, technical, regulatory, etc.

6. Q: Will the focus of scouting efforts be for DRIVe only, of all of BARDA?

A: Both.

7. Q: What is the expectation of the Accelerator in terms of filtering/screening company applicants?

A: BARDA does not expect you to select our company awardees, rather to refer potential applicants to us (our program managers and staff) and/or make them knowledgeable about our funding opportunities and Tech Watch programs—to amplify our message. As we work with you after award, we will exchange information with you on a regular basis to educate you on our portfolio needs so that you can send the best-fitting applicants.