MERC Application Process
It starts with our interest form, and a conversation with an MTI team member
Expand each step for more information
Step 1: Fill out the interest form
Note that the interest form is not a funding application form – it simply provides basic information so we can contact you to see if your organization is a good fit for MERC funding.
Step 2: Meet with the MERC coordinator
We will contact you within 5-8 business days to schedule a meeting with the MERC coordinator. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss if your business is a good fit for the MERC program and to discuss how your proposed project will contribute to the long-term growth of your business by addressing an immediate consulting need. By the end of the meeting, we will determine if you are ready for a MERC project, and if so, the MERC Coordinator will invite you to apply.
Step 3: Application
The MERC project application is intended to provide more information about your project and how MTI can help you achieve your project goals. We will request the following:
- Status of your company (opportunities and challenges)
- How your proposed project fits into your immediate growth plan (pursuing opportunities and addressing challenges)
By this point in the application process, we will have a good sense around what type of assistance you will need to complete a successful project.
Step 4: Choose your consultant
Based on the information collected from your meeting and application, the MERC Coordinator will create a list of approved MERC consultants who could potentially fit your project needs. For each consultant on the list, you will receive a profile including a fee schedule, contact information, background information, and written references from past clients.
From this list, you will be free to contact and select any consultant you wish. Please note that MTI will not be involved in the consultant selection process beyond providing you with a list from our database. Whichever consultant you choose to work with is entirely your decision.
Step 5: Scope of Work
Once you and the consultant of your choice agree to collaborate, we ask that you draft a Scope of Work (SOW) for MTI’s approval. We will review the SOW for clarity and specificity to be certain both you and your chosen consultant understand what your completed project will look like.
Step 6: Contracting
Once the SOW has been signed by both you and the consultant and approved by the MERC Coordinator, we will send you a final contract, at which point you may begin your project.
