Mississippi Enterprise for Technology Works to Match Small Business with Government Agencies

June 20, 2016

The private, nonprofit Mississippi Enterprise for Technology was created in 1994 to foster regional economic development leveraging the resources at Stennis Space Center and the surrounding area. 

MSET works mostly with small businesses to match them with government agencies that have a need for their products and/or services and which could eventually lead to commercial sales. Additionally, the organization works with tech start-ups to help transfer their products into the marketplace or with entrepreneurs/small companies looking to license and bring government technologies to the marketplace.

“At MSET, we help any business find their best opportunities at Stennis – we keep up with all types of activities and which organization needs what,” said Laurie Jugan, MSET program coordinator.

As part of its mission, MSET operates the Mississippi Technology Transfer Office, a business incubator at Stennis for start-up technology companies.

MSET also collaborates with federal agencies, universities and industries on tech transfer and utilization. This includes technologies “spinning in” to federal agency programs, as well as technologies “spinning out” of federal programs that have a commercial application. The collaboration goes both ways. Jugan said one small business signed a licensing agreement with a federal agency to use its software in her business. 

The staff of MSET works directly with their clients onsite and offsite, holds events on a regular basis to keep businesses informed about government requirements and regulations, and provides assistance in identifying Stennis business opportunities. Clients also can take advantage of and have access to coaches and mentors to help assist growth in their businesses.

Robbie Ingram, MSET’s CEO, said, “MSET is positioning itself as the leader in high-tech enterprise support at Stennis Space Center and throughout the region.  Whether a tenant in the incubator, a corporate resident, or affiliate program member, our services enables companies to accelerate their growth and enhance their competitive advantage.”

To see a list of services, click here