Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the criteria to get into the USC Columbia Technology Incubator?

a. A need or desire to hire USC or Midlands Technical College students, faculty or staff
b. A technology oriented business
c. A written business plan
 
2. How long can my company stay in the incubator?
   Approximately three years.
    
3. Do I have to be a USC or MTC faculty person to get in the incubator?
   No.
    
4. I already have a company, but it is located in Nashville, Tenn. We want to work with USC/MTC on a project. Can we start in the incubator?
   Yes, we have a landing party program that encourages this to happen. We will discuss the details with you at your convenience.
    
5. I have heard there is a student incubator program. Is that true?
   Yes, if you are a full time USC/MTC student you qualify. A competition for space is held every two years. Call the Director for details.
    
6. Does the incubator introduce you to potential clients?
   Yes, we don’t tell them you are great, but most of the big companies (potential clients) support the incubator, and will listen to your story.
    
7. Does the incubator introduce you to lawyers, accountants, and PR companies, and will they work pro bono?
   Yes, the incubator does not guarantee you that these “service providers” will work pro bono, but some do. It depends on you and the service provider.
    
8. I hate the red tape of a University. Will I get good service if I join the incubator program?
   The incubator, part of USC businessLINK, (http://www.uscbusinesslink.com), helps break down the barriers. It is their job to make sure you don’t wait for an answer.
    
9. What are the criteria to graduate from the USC Columbia Technology Incubator?
   a. Must raise a round of capital
   b. Must have a board of directors in place
   c. Must have a steady revenue stream
    
10. How many companies have graduated from the incubator, and how many jobs have been created?
    Twelve companies have graduated, creating more than 300 jobs, as of November 2004.
     
11. How much is rent?
    Approximately $10.00 per square foot. This includes Internet service, a telephone line, janitorial electricity and water.