The Maryland Technology Development Corp., known as TEDCO, recently launched the first systematic program in Maryland history to open the doors of the state's federally funded and university research labs to Maryland entrepreneurs.

At a ceremony Aug. 3 at the Applied Physics Laboratory, TEDCO signed with APL a memorandum of understanding through which they will jointly promote technology transfer opportunities in Maryland by facilitating interactions with small emerging technology companies and entrepreneurs.

Signings with other research and development laboratories in Maryland will be occurring over the coming months.

Companies who enter into agreements through TEDCO's Federal Laboratory Partnership Program will be made aware of participating laboratories' technical advancements and R&D capabilities in an effort to facilitate technology transfer and foster Maryland's economic development.

The half-day event, which included briefings to several Maryland information technology companies on APL's recent developments in IT programs, was capped off by a signing ceremony that included TEDCO president Phillip A. Singerman, APL director Rich Roca, Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski of Maryland and Richard C. Mike Lewin, the state's secretary of business and economic development.

"I commend the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, the Maryland Technology Development Corp. and everyone involved with this project," Mikulski said. "Their willingness to share their cutting-edge technological developments with emerging businesses will help bring companies throughout the state into the 21st century and beyond."

TEDCO's board of directors has allocated $250,000 to fund short-term research and development and testing projects between Maryland companies and the federally funded labs. The funding will be available Sept. 1.

"TEDCO's memorandum of understanding with APL marks the beginning of a pioneering effort to allow Maryland's emerging companies and entrepreneurs into Maryland's laboratories," Lewin said. "Maryland receives more funding for research and development than any other state, and by creating these links we are encouraging all involved to use Maryland's valuable resources to propel the state forward as a player in the technology-driven economy."

The Maryland Technology Development Corp. was established by the Maryland General Assembly as a tool to maintain and enhance the state's reputation as a leader in technology. Gov. Parris N. Glendening announced the appointment of Singerman as president of the organization in August 1999. Singerman most recently served as assistant secretary for economic development at the U.S. Department of Commerce. Previously, he managed technology development for southeastern Pennsylvania as president and CEO of the Ben Franklin Technology Center. He has a doctorate in political science from Yale.

Entrepreneurs interested in obtaining more information about this program should call Ron Hawkins, TEDCO federal technology transfer specialist, at 410-455-5591.