Welcome to the next Q&A in our series highlighting people from various pathways along the entrepreneurial technologist journey in Arkansas and the nation.
Katie Thompson is executive director of Science Venture Studio. Launched in 2020 with support from the Walton Family Foundation, SVS is based in Northwest Arkansas.
Under her leadership, SVS concentrates on non-dilutive funding consulting, commercialization planning, mentorship, and proposal development. ASBTDC has enjoyed productive collaboration with the team in pursuit of a common mission: helping Arkansas innovators succeed in securing federal funding.
Both organizations assist with business development, proposal preparation, and commercialization, yet each brings unique relationships and perspectives that enhance the client experience and outcomes.
In this Q&A, Thompson shares a bit about the SVS approach to helping startups raise capital, especially through America’s Seed Fund, the federal Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs.
Katie’s Perspective
Q: What are the most common gaps or challenges you see in early-stage startups when preparing federal grant proposals?
A: Many early-stage teams struggle to bridge the gap between their technical concept and its broader commercial or societal impact. We often see proposals that are strong in scientific merit but lack a clear commercialization pathway or customer validation.
Another common challenge is underestimating the level of detail and strategic storytelling needed to make a proposal competitive.
Founders are passionate about their technology, but translating that into a compelling, fundable narrative takes targeted support—which is exactly what SVS provides.
Q: In your work with clients seeking non-dilutive funding, what do you think makes your approach so successful?
A: Our success comes down to deep collaboration and a customized, founder-first approach. At SVS, we integrate scientific expertise, commercialization insight, and grant strategy to guide startups through what can otherwise be a daunting process.
We don’t just edit proposals—we partner with founders to refine their vision, align it with funding priorities, and clearly communicate the impact of their innovation. That kind of hands-on, interdisciplinary support makes a measurable difference in outcomes.
Q: How does SVS tailor its support to meet the unique needs of each startup? Can you share a recent example?
A: Every startup is different, and so is our support. Some teams need help refining their specific aims or building a competitive pitch; others may need customer discovery support or guidance in developing a commercialization plan.
A recent example is our work with a biotech company focused on maternal and infant health. We helped the founder connect with a research lab, clarify their Phase I objectives, conducted market research to validate their target users, and strengthened their commercialization section. The result has been well-aligned SBIR proposals and has positioned the company for long-term growth.
Q: Why is storytelling such a critical part of technology commercialization and funding strategy?
A: Storytelling is what turns data into impact. Reviewers and investors alike need to quickly grasp not just what the innovation is, but why it matters—who it helps, how it solves a problem, and what the future looks like if it succeeds.
A good story creates connection and confidence. At SVS, we help founders tell stories that are technically sound, commercially relevant, and emotionally compelling, because that’s what moves proposals from the pile to the award list.
Q: I know it’s hard to pick just one, but what’s a piece of advice you’d give to a science- or tech-based founder new to the SBIR/STTR process?
A: Start early, and don’t go it alone. The SBIR/STTR process is complex, but it’s navigable with the right support. Engaging with resources like SVS and ASBTDC early can save time and money, reduce frustration, and dramatically increase your chances of success.
And remember, it’s not just about writing a good proposal. It’s about building a viable business around your science.
Q: How can entrepreneurial support organizations like ASBTDC and SVS best collaborate to amplify startup success across Arkansas?
A: ASBTDC and SVS complement each other in powerful ways. By maintaining open communication, co-counseling, and cross-referring clients we can offer startups a cohesive, wraparound experience that meets them where they are and helps them move forward with confidence. Together, we create a stronger innovation pipeline for Arkansas.
To learn more, visit the Science Venture Studio website.
###
Call on Us
If you are on a “lab to launch” journey to commercialize your novel innovation or are seeking capital for product development, Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center’s innovation consulting and market research staff can help!
Our Technology Team provides consulting, training, connections, and technical assistance to help you navigate non-dilutive seed fund options through America’s Seed Fund, the SBIR/STTR program. In addition, we assist you with one-on-one advice, educational opportunities, connections, and expert entrepreneurial support.