The conference website will be updated on a rolling basis as program details are confirmed. We encourage prospective attendees to revisit the site periodically for the latest information regarding speakers, sessions, logistics, and networking opportunities.

Strengthening Small Business-HBCU Collaborations to Advance Research Conference

Tuesday, June 30 | NIH Small Business Conference | 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. ET
Wednesday, July 1 | HBCU Biomedicine Research Conference | 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. ET

NIH Main Campus - Building 45 (Natcher Conference Center)

Overview

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) Small Business Program Office (SBPO) will host a conference to highlight the current state of biomedicine research by HBCUs. Specifically, the conference will convene key stakeholders to drive innovation in the biomedical sector in alignment with the Presidential Executive Order 14283, “White House Initiative to Promote Excellence and Innovation at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.”

Purpose

The conference aims to foster strategic partnerships that expand research capacity, strengthen acquisition pathways, and increase funding opportunities for HBCUs and small businesses. The conference will also feature panels and breakout sessions explicitly tailored to encourage innovation, exchange knowledge, and advance research in health-related fields. This event is designed to facilitate collaborations between NIH, HBCUs, Federal agencies, small and large businesses, as well as private and philanthropic organizations.

Goals

Collaboration: Strengthen partnerships between small and large businesses, private and philanthropic organizations, HBCUs and NIH (and other Federal agencies, as appropriate-SBA and HHS and FDA) under the PEI initiative.

Innovation: Highlight cutting-edge biomedicine research.

Infrastructure Support: Support HBCUs in expanding biomedical research infrastructure and funding pathways to become more competitive when applying for Federal assistance (i.e., grants, cooperative agreements and contracts).

Visibility: Elevate the role of HBCUs in shaping national health and research strategies for expanded opportunities in all communities.

Engagement: Inspire students, researchers, small and large businesses, and communities to participate in translational science collectively to reshape future innovation holistically.

Countdown to the Event