Corridor Matching Grant Research Program

Corridor Matching Grant Research Program is sponsored by Florida High Tech Corridor Council. A collaboration between the Florida High Tech Corridor and the University of South Florida, this program provides matching grant funds for collaborative research projects between local industry partners and USF researchers, including Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) / S…

Research Grants | Florida High Tech Corridor Accelerating Collaborative Research + Innovation Connecting industry partners with UCF and USF researchers through co-invested, applied R&D grants. What Is the Matching Grant Research Program (MGRP)? The Corridor co-invests in industry-sponsored research projects led by faculty at the University of Central Florida (UCF) and the University of South Florida (USF).

By matching industry contributions with up to $150,000 in funding, the program accelerates applied research, develops the future workforce, and delivers real-world results. Gain access to specialized faculty expertise and advanced research capabilities while cultivating a future workforce pipeline. Benefit from expanded research impact, industry engagement, and real-world problem alignment.

Faculty serve as Principal Investigators. Receive hands-on experience in applied research tied directly to industry challenges and often transition into full-time roles with the industry partner. University faculty serve as Principal Investigator and submit the proposal in partnership with the eligible industry partner.

Industry partners must have a presence in the Corridor’s 23-county region and commit to a mutually beneficial research collaboration with UCF or USF. Up to $150,000 per project matching the industry partner’s direct investment. Corridor funds go to the university research team.

All projects must include graduate or undergraduate student participation – gaining real-world industry experience. Four Steps to a Funded Project Identify a shared research opportunity. Program Directors can facilitate introductions.

Collaborate on a project plan, scope, and MGRP proposal budget. Proposals reviewed by Program Staff and a committee of regional professionals. A sponsored research agreement is executed.

Research begins with students involved. Eligibility + Requirements The program is open to industry partners in the Corridor’s 23-county region working in one of ten target technology sectors.

✓ Your company has a presence in the 23-county Corridor region ✓ Your work aligns with faculty areas of expertise and interest ✓ You are prepared to co-invest directly in collaborative research with USF or UCF faculty ✓ You are willing to engage with graduate or undergraduate students during the project Planning an SBIR/STTR proposal?

MGRP can be a powerful complement to federally-supported University research collaborations The MGRP has built a track record across every major technology cluster in the Corridor region – from advanced materials to medical devices to clean energy solutions. Learn about the Corridor’s Impact.

As The Corridor celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026, our team is dedicated to uniting bright minds, visionary institutions and entrepreneurial energy to build a more resilient, prosperous and connected future for all of Florida.

Check out our 2025 Impact Report → Connect with a Program Director Program Directors can help you determine eligibility, facilitate connections with university researchers, and advise on proposal development. One conversation is usually enough to know if the MGRP is a fit for your project. University of Central Florida (UCF) jennifer.

mckinley@ucf. edu University of South Florida (USF)