The Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) was established in 1987 by the Oklahoma legislature for the purpose of growing and diversifying the state’s economy through technology development, technology transfer and technology commercialization. The agency takes great pride in being recognized as a best-in-class, results-driven, high-performing and efficient organization that benefits our state by increasing research activity and public/private collaborations leading to innovation, new businesses, job growth, higher wages and an improved quality of life for the citizens of our state and nation. OCAST also is an active supporter of STEM education across Oklahoma’s common education system and provides funding to support internships between local industries and higher education.

The Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) was created as the state’s agency for technology-based economic development (TBED). OCAST’s mandate is to “expand and diversify Oklahoma’s economy and provide new and higher quality jobs for Oklahomans” by encouraging “. . . the development of new products, new processes and whole new industries in Oklahoma.” (O.S. 74, Sections 5060.1a and 5060.2A)

To foster innovation in existing and developing businesses − by supporting basic and applied research − by facilitating technology transfer between research laboratories and businesses − by providing seed capital for innovative firms in the development of new products or services − by helping Oklahoma’s small and medium-sized manufacturing firms become more competitive through increased productivity and modernization (O.S. 74, Section 5060.3)

OCAST’s vision is continued growth and vitality through facilitating collaboration between state government, universities, start-up companies and established large-scale firms to develop an entrepreneurial environment that supports technology-based economic development. In pursuit of this vision and in carrying out its mission, the agency funds cutting-edge science and technology through processes that are recognized nationally and internationally for excellence, objectivity and economic impact. OCAST’s strategy includes technologies such as biosciences, information technology, sensors and electronics, advanced materials, energy and alternative fuel sources. Achieving this vision will result in continued growth of advanced technology companies in the state thereby increasing Oklahoma’s global competitiveness, per capita income and quality of life.

OCAST encourages and assists Oklahoma's entrepreneurs, researchers and small businesses to create and apply innovation to create jobs and grow and diversify Oklahoma’s economy. Whether we're funding research projects, facilitating partnerships and collaborations or assisting small businesses in obtaining federal funding, we're here to help.

Industry: OCAST's programs, financial resources, and services are focused on Oklahoma's industry to help fund innovation that grows businesses, adds jobs, and expands markets. OCAST resources work daily to build collaborations that find solutions to the industry's technology needs, locate R&D assistance, finance technology development, and build the tech-based workforce critical to sustaining and growing Oklahoma's innovation economy.

Manufacturers: The OCAST supported Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance offers technical assistance and business advice, helping companies become more innovative and successful. Through their statewide network of manufacturing extension agents and applications engineers, services focus on improving the bottom line while growing the entire business.

Inventors: Through a partnership with Oklahoma State University’s New Product Development Center OCAST offers the Inventors Assistance Service (IAS) which provides guidance and resources to Oklahoma's inventors. IAS provides services in the area of preliminary patent searches, market analyses, manufacturing referrals, engineering analyses, prototyping, and drawing/model design.

High-Technology Business Startups and Entrepreneurs: OCAST partners with i2E Inc. to support their mission of working directly with entrepreneurs, researchers and companies to help them commercialize their technologies, launch and grow new businesses and access needed capital.

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