6.1 Senator Mike Enzi's Inventor's Workshop February 17
6.2 Sell Your Products And Services To A Multi-Billion Dollar Market (Feb 18-19)
6.3 Wyoming Manufacturer's Workshop (Evening Feb. 18, Gillette)
6.4 National Homeland Security Conference & Expo
6.5 16th Annual High-Tech Small Business Conference in Los Angeles, March 2 & 3
6.6 How To Manage And Keep In Compliance Grant Funded Projects Workshop
6.7 WSSI 2004 State Conference

The following article (provided by the SBIR Gateway) concentrates on Maurice Swinton's contributions and features quotes from comments given to the SBA (and others) by many important SBIR contributors.

Without formal announcement or explanation, the SBA has moved Maurice Swinton from Assistant Administrator for the Office of Technology (in charge of SBIR/STTR oversight) to Assistant Administrator for the Office of Management and Technical Assistance (7a and other loan programs). The SBA has appointed Edsel Brown (from the 7a program) to Mr. Swinton's position of SBIR/STTR management and oversight. This managerial swap is causing great concern within all facets of the SBIR/STTR arena.

The decision to reassign Swinton is especially troubling to many SBIR/STTR professionals, agency program managers, as well as SBIR/STTR supporters on Capitol Hill. Edsel Brown's background is in the 7a and other loan programs at SBA, but he has had no experience whatsoever in SBIR or STTR programs. Conversely, Maurice Swinton is very experienced, extremely knowledgeable and dedicated to the SBIR/STTR program. In Swinton's 10 plus years in this office (the last 4 as assistant administrator), he helped guide the process to save the SBIR/STTR programs, as well as provide quality oversight to help the them grow.

The SBA, House and Senate Small Business Committees, Small Business Technology Coalition, SBIR Gateway and many others are receiving strong comments against Swinton's reassignment.

Roland Tibbetts, designer and father of the SBIR Program, whose name reflects the highest honor in SBIR (The Tibbetts Award), wrote a very eloquent letter in support of Swinton and returning him to the SBIR program. Tibbetts' letter, addressed to the SBA stated "Maurice's performance in managing the program has been outstanding. He has been the best Administrator the program SBA has ever had and I have known them all quite well. He [Swinton] is the most knowledgeable, the hardest working, the best speaker, the best to work with and the wisest of all. He thinks carefully about problems and the program's future, acts promptly and gets an immense amount done from a minimal budget and a total staff of five for a nearly $2 billion program. In my many years of knowing him, I know of no criticism of any consequence."

U.S. Senator Mike Enzi (R-WY) and U.S. Senator Conrad Burns (R-MT) wrote a letter to SBA Administrator, Hector Barreto, that stated "Mr. Swinton is widely acclaimed among our small business constituents and small businesses across the country for his high level of achievement and commitment in carrying out his SBIR and STTR Program oversight responsibilities. His experience with the SBIR and STTR Programs and relationships with the participating agency SBIR/STTR Program Managers uniquely qualify him to fulfill the oversight function. In addition, these federal agency SBIR/STTR Program Managers attest to the high quality of his work in leading the SBIR and STTR Programs at SBA."

Many others are weighing in on this reassignment. A long standing SBIR Program manger said "they are making a critical mistake." A small business SBIR award winner from a small rural state reflected, "We have contacted Mr. Swinton several times since he has taken office and found him to be exceptionally knowledgeable and helpful on matters of policy and procedure. He has been a champion of the small business community and has been vigilant and proactive to ensure that the intent of the SBIR program, as established by Congress, is being upheld uniformly and fairly by each agency."

Jere Glover, former judge advocate for SBA and leader of the Small Business Technology Coalition (SBTC), has issued an SBTC Action Alert, "Small technology companies are about to lose one of our most important advocates. But if we work together, we may be able to prevent it."

Chris Busch, long time SBIR advocate, and private sector advisor to several agencies, takes a very stern view of Swinton's reassignment. In a letter to the SBA administrator, and several important Senate Small Business Committee members, Busch states, "His [Swinton's] work carrying out SBA's statutory responsibility for SBIR Program oversight is widely recognized both by small businesses and among federal agency SBIR Program Managers. Maurice Swinton has done an extraordinary job in meeting these challenges, and true friends of small businesses and the SBIR Program recognize him for this work. His experience, dedication and commitment to the Program are badly needed at this point in time when serious challenges are being mounted against the program." Busch also feels that the SBA decision to reassign Maurice Swinton out of the SBA Office of Technology and replace him with a person with virtually no knowledge of, or experience with the SBIR Program conveys a strong and clear message to the small business community that the SBIR Program has low priority at SBA.

Eugene Watson, State of Wyoming SBIR outreach program, wrote to SBA, "This move is a major set-back to the SBIR program that Mr. Swinton has worked so effectively to build and protect during his tenure. I am certain that if you were fully aware of all of the circumstances behind this reassignment, you would immediately work to reverse this troubling event."

Robert Berger, former DOE SBIR/STTR Program manager wrote: "Mr. Swinton's essential accomplishment, which will not show up in any statistics or objective analysis, is the cooperation that he achieved among the 11 agencies that participate in the SBIR program. Ultimately, who benefits from this cooperation? Why, it is the small businesses that were targeted by the legislation that created and reauthorized the SBIR program -- the same small businesses that the SBA is charged with representing."

Rising to the Challenge
About 5 years ago when SBA's high profile SBIR/STTR manager Dan Hill decided to make a career change, the SBA was left with finding a suitable replacement to head the program. Immediately several federal agency SBIR program managers championed the cause to give Maurice Swinton a chance at the position. Hill's presence was that of a high powered politically savvy administrator, and some questioned whether Swinton, who had been in a supporting role to Hill and the program, would have what it takes to be a leader and administrator in this very complex and important environment.

One such person who initially questioned Swinton's ability to do the job effectively was none other than Roland Tibbets, the father of SBIR. In his recent letter to SBA, Tibbets recalled: "I was not an original supporter of his [Swinton's] appointment. But I was wrong and I compliment those who selected him for the SBIR position. No other SBIR Administrator has listened as well or has been as competent and dedicated to finding the best answers for the program."

With the initial support of some SBIR program managers, Swinton took on challenges to improve the program. Some of these efforts would raise issues that would be unpopular with some agencies and their program managers. The 2002 SBIR Policy Directive included a provision to ban agencies from subcontracting parts of SBIR awards back to the agencies. The DOE's program manger Robert Berger was opposed to such a ban and prepared to fight the issue. Although Berger and Swinton were in opposition on this issue, Swinton listened to the arguments and worked hard to hammer out a compromise that would satisfy both needs. On this front Berger writes, "The singlemost key to the cooperation that has existed under Mr. Swinton's tenure, is the interpersonal skill that he has brought to bear to attain this cooperation. By listening to agency concerns, by including them in the development of the most recent Policy Directive (in itself, a major accomplishment attributed to Mr. Swinton), by chairing frequent program manager meetings, and by fostering an atmosphere of mutual trust, all of the agencies have been able to improve their SBIR services to small businesses.

Swinton also realized that it was important to involve the states in the SBIR/STTR process. To this end Berger notes, "He [Swinton] has been instrumental in forming a partnership between the Federal administrators of the SBIR program and representatives of the 50 states that support the Federal government in its outreach to small businesses. He initiated regular meetings of state and federal representatives at each of the SBIR National Conferences, held at least twice yearly. He knows all of the state representatives on a personal basis. Again, it is the technology-based businesses of our nation that ultimately benefit."

Reason for Change
As of this time it is merely speculation as to why the SBA would want Maurice Swinton and Edsel Brown to swap jobs. In essence both parties are starting from square one on their new jobs. This is not only contrary to common sense, but it also is contrary to the White House and Congressional views of efficiency in government. In the letter to SBA from Senators Enzi and Burns, they state, "During this time of budget constraints, it is imperative that agencies maintain experienced personnel to provide quality oversight of federal programs. It is important that SBA employ available resources in the most effective and efficient way possible in administering the SBIR and STTR Programs. In achieving this end, we believe it is vital that SBA keep Maurice Swinton in his current position."

Possible Results of Change
Many important SBIR/STTR participants who have rendered assistance to the SBA in support of the various SBIR/STTR programs, have suggested that they will refrain from future volunteer participation in SBA SBIR projects if the Swinton reassignment is not reversed. There are no personal issues with Edsel Brown. However the fact that he is a complete novice in the SBIR/STTR program comes at a time when a strong well informed leader is necessary. The non-SBA volunteers feel betrayed by the SBA's actions and do not feel it is their job to train an SBA SBIR Program manager.

Perhaps most important is the fact that many federal employees involved in the technology sector are watching this scenario play out. The SBA appears to be saying that if you do a good job, give a 110% effort, satisfy the majority of people you work with, get accolades from the public, private and academic sectors, you will be rewarded with the opportunity to start over from scratch and watch your previous efforts be dismantled.

The last word is from Chris Busch's letter to SBA and the Senate Small Business Committee, which closes with: "The decision removing Maurice Swinton from the Office of Technology is a travesty for the SBIR Program, tech-based small businesses and America."

Hopefully the ground swell of support for Maurice Swinton will encourage the SBA to reconsider its decision.

You can let the SBA and the Small Business Committee know your feelings in this matter. For a list of email addresses and fax numbers, please send an email to: info@zyn.com

6.1 SENATOR MIKE ENZI'S INVENTOR'S WORKSHOP (Feb. 17, Gillette)


If you have ever had an idea for an invention, but didn't know how to turn that invention into a real product, or if you are simply interested in the invention process, you are invited to join Senator Mike Enzi in Gillette for the first annual "Inventor's Workshop: From Your Garage to the Assembly Line." Senator Enzi will host this FREE all-day workshop at the Best Western Tower West Lodge on February 17, 2004 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch will be available for approximately $8.50/person.

The workshop will feature exciting and informative discussions that will show you how to take your idea and create a product that could earn you enough money to send you into a higher tax bracket. Senator Enzi is excited about this opportunity to help creative Wyomingites capitalize on their ideas to bring in cash and looks forward to seeing you at the First Annual Inventor's Workshop.


A complete agenda is now available at: www.uwyo.edu/sbir/rtf/InventorsAgenda04

If you plan on attending, or need more information, please contact Senator Enzi's Gillette Office by phone at (307) 682-6268 or by email at robin_bailey@enzi.senate.gov.
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6.2 SELL YOUR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES TO A MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR MARKET (Feb. 18-19)

Save yourself time, money, and frustration! More than 60 federal and state procurement individuals are invited to this conference. The cost of visiting with each one of these professionals, both in time and money, is a cost that most small business cannot afford to miss.

U.S. Senator Mike Enzi and GRO-Biz invite small businesses in Wyoming and the western region for the 3rd annual Government Procurement Opportunities for Small Business Conference. Some of the agencies who will be available to talk with you include: Bureau of Land Management, Department of Defense, Department of Commerce, Department of Transportation, Veteran's Affairs, several Air Force Bases, U.S. Forest Service and many, many more. Procurement Officials will help you understand the specific contracting process for their agency. This will also be a perfect opportunity to meet other businesses, economic development professionals and many individuals who want your business to succeed.

The United States government is the single largest consumer in the world, with more than $250 billion in annual purchases, not including state and local governments. These governmental entities purchase almost any goods or service imaginable, thus creating a huge market for U.S. businesses. A participant from the previous year's conference says, "Accessibility to levels of officials that have authoritative positions is very beneficial to the small business owner."

The conference will be held in Gillette at the Camplex, February 18 and 19, 2004. Registration is $90 for the entire conference. It is only $45 for each additional person your business sends to the conference. Register on-line at www.gro-biz.com or call UW Conferences & Institutes Toll Free: 877-733-3618 ext.1. The following hotels are offering special GRO-Biz conference: Days Inn 307-682-3999; Wingate 307-685-2700; Clarion 307-686-3000.

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6.3 WYOMING MANUFACTURER'S ROUNDTABLE (Evening Feb. 18, Gillette)

The Wyoming Manufacturers' Statewide Roundtable will be held in cooperation with the 2004 GRO-Biz Conference on Wednesday, February 18th from 5:15 to 7:00 pm at the Cam-Plex Multi Event Facility- 1635 Reata Drive, Gillette.

The guest speaker for this roundtable will be Tony Nevshamel, Director of the UW Research Products Center. Other topics to be discussed are: the Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Manufacturing Equipment, LEAN Manufacturing, and WMA Membership Status.

There is no cost to attend the meeting but reservations would be appreciated. Please contact Karen Fate at 307-777-2827, 800-262-3425- ext 2827 or kfate@state.wy.us

The complete solicitation (application package) can be downloaded from the ED web site at: www.ed.gov/programs/sbir/applicant.html

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6.4 NATIONAL HOMELAND SECURITY CONFERENCE & EXPO

A Comprehensive Conference on Homeland Security Technology, Policy and Procedures

Dates: February 25-26, 2004
Location: Hilton Hotel in the WDW Resort, 1751 Hotel Plaza Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830


The National Homeland Security Conference is the only, conference that addresses all aspects of Homeland Security issues. Topics range from specific areas such as cyber-security and bio-terrorism to more general issues such as materials handling, transportation security, and public health security.

Events of September 11, 2001, and the constant terrorist threat facing our nation, has forced most of us to re-examine our procedures and practices, and to assess vulnerability points in our immediate surroundings. Terrorism affects all of us. The purpose of this Conference is to prepare all individuals and organizations against any natural or man-made disasters.

Most industrial facilities and businesses need comprehensive Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) to prepare for any natural and man-made disasters. This conference will teach you proven strategies to implement EAPs in an effective manner, and teach you the results of innovative, new research to minimize security risks.

CONFERENCE TOPICS:

-- Aviation and Transportation Security Act
-- Bio-terrorism Preparedness
-- Cyber-security
-- Emergency Planning and Management
-- Emergency Response to Terrorism
-- Homeland Security Statutes
-- Managing Hazardous Materials
-- Public Health Security
-- Risk Management
-- Security Vulnerability Analysis
-- Tools and Resources to Help You Minimize Security Risks
-- USA Patriot Act

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
Managers, Scientists, Government Officials and Executives from all organizations are invited to attend this Conference and learn how to revise their Emergency Response Procedures. Learn the latest developments in Homeland Security Policies and their impact on your operations and understand your requirements for planning and reporting Emergency Response.

Please visit the conference website at www.homelandsecurityconference.org for further information. The National Homeland Security Conference is organized by the Homeland Security Training Organization, a nonprofit organization, and is sponsored by the American Quality Institute.

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION:
Conference Technical program consists of two days of Technical Symposia, on Wednesday February 25 and Thursday, February 26, 2004. You can register for either one-day, or the entire Conference. To register visit: www.homelandsecurityconference.org/confreg.htm

EXHIBITS INFORMATION:
The Conference will feature 10' wide x 8' deep booths on February 25, 2004. For further Information on the exhibits visit: www.homelandsecurityconference.org/exhibits.htm

SPONSORSHIP:
A limited number of companies will be showcased as Conference Sponsors. These select companies will have special benefits designed to maximize their visibility in the area of Homeland Security Technology. Additionally, each sponsor will receive two exhibit booths. For further Information on sponsorship opportunities, visit: www.homelandsecurityconference.org/sponsorship.htm

HOTEL INFORMATION:
Deadline to take advantage of special rates is January 16, 2004. Special rates are honored for 3 days before and 3 days after the official days of the conference based on availability. For reservations, contact the hotel directly:

Hilton Hotel in the Walt Disney World Resort
1751 Hotel Plaza Blvd.
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Tel: 1-800-HILTONS (for reservations) or (407) 827-4000
Fax: (407) 827-3805
www.hilton-wdwv.com

CONFERENCE CONTACT INFORMATION:


Tel: (412) 799-0270; Fax: (412) 799-0271
E-mail: info@homelandsecurityconference.org
Web Site:www.homelandsecurityconference.org

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6.5 16TH ANNUAL HIGH-TECH SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE IN L.A., MARCH 2 & 3

JPL, in coordination with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), is sponsoring its 16th Annual High-Tech Small Business Conference on Tuesday, March 2, and Wednesday, March 3, 2004. The conference site is the Radisson Hotel at Los Angeles Airport located at 6225 West Century Blvd., Los Angeles, CA.

The conference affords small businesses the opportunity to meet purchasing and technical representatives from major corporations and Federal Agencies (e.g., The Aerospace Corp., The Boeing Co., Lockheed- Martin, U.S. Dept. of Defense, U.S. Dept. of Transportation, the U.S. Veterans Administration, etc.) during the Marketplace Forum to discuss contract opportunities. Attendees can expect to improve their knowledge and skills in competing in the federal and state government and prime contractor marketplace, and also take advantage of several "How To" workshops.

JPL has successfully coordinated this event for the past 15 years with an average attendance of 1,200 participants, 300 of which are representatives from the prime contractor/government agency arena and 900 are small business owners.

The registration fee is $100 per person and includes two continental breakfasts, two lunches, networking receptions, and program materials. Room rates are $99 single/double occupancy. Parking fees at the Radisson are $5.00 for self parking and $7 valet for day use and do not include in and out privileges. A special $10 self-parking fee with in and out privileges is available for overnight hotel guests.

For additional information contact: Martin Ramirez at martin.m.ramirez@jpl.nasa.gov or 818-354-8689.

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6.6 HOW TO MANAGE AND KEEP IN COMPLIANCE GRANT FUNDED PROJECTS WORKSHOP

When & Where: March 9 & 10, 2004, 8am - 5pm & 8am - Noon, respectively, Gillette, WY (lunch on your own)
Workshop Agenda: This two day workshop is designed for personnel who are anticipating receiving grant funding or have obtained grant funds. Learn the key components of grants management and compliance. The following topics will be discussed: planning for the funded project; implementing the project; ensuring fiscal integrity; monitoring the project; demonstrating accountability; evaluating the project; auditing requirements; solving problems; and terminating and closing out projects.
Who Should Attend: Administrators and Managers of the Project, Business Managers, Administrative Assistants, For-profit or Non-profit Grant Funded Entities, anyone anticipating receiving grant funding or has already obtained grant funds.
Cost: $100/person ($75 for second person from same small business or agency) Cost includes materials.
Workshop Facilitator: Sheela Schermetzler of Resource Development Consulting. Sheela has over eight years experience in writing and administering grant funded projects totaling over $19 million dollars.
To register or for more information please call: Scheela Schermetzler at 307-685-6663
Sponsored By: Campbell County CARE Board

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6.7 WSSI 2004 STATE CONFERENCE
When: Wednesday & Thursday, June 2 & 3, 2004!
Where: Cody Holiday Inn
Hotel Rates (mention appropriate code to receive these reduced rates): $79 for 1-2 adults at the Holiday Inn (use code WSB) or the Comfort Inn (use code SBR); $59 for the Village Cabins (use code SBIR) with 1-2 adults and $79 for 3-4 adults or families needing two bedrooms.
Hotel web site: www.blairhotels.com — Hotel email: blair@blairhotels.com
Conference Registration/Information: TBA – Watch for details!
Check out Cody, Wyoming!

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TO BE ADDED TO OR REMOVED FROM THE DISTRIBUTION LIST FOR THIS NEWSLETTER, SEND NAME, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER, AND EMAIL ADDRESS TO jillkline@vcn.com.

Prepared by: Jill Kline, WSSI Outreach Coordinator, 307.682.2660 or toll free in Wyoming, 866.703.3280, jillkline@vcn.com, and Gene Watson, WSSI Program Manager, 307.742.7162, ewatson@wyoming.com.