Our Story
Over the past decade it became apparent to us that there was a gap in entrepreneurial support services that exists between federally funded no cost support (such as Small Business Administration resources) and investors (who are interested in high profit margin, later stage innovations). We realized our experience and straightforward approach was a good fit for innovators who were struggling to navigate in this space and, in 2022 we started laying the ground work for what would become Tributary Insights, LLC.
Our Approach
The name tributary insights comes from our core technical specialization in water resource management, geology and hydrology. Tributaries add water to a larger river system, which then flows into a lake or even the ocean. Similarly, innovators require a variety of support mechanisms that helps them achieve their goals.
Along with a strong background in soil, water, and geography, our founders have almost three decades of working with small businesses. This includes 10 years providing advising on government contracting, and over a decade of developing SBIR education. We have worked with dozens of DOE, DOD and NSF SBIR applicants via Phase 0 programs, and we have a deep understand the mechanics of all eleven R&D agencies including the USDA and NASA.
We work alongside SBA-funded programs, innovation hubs, universities, and regional economic development organizations to strengthen the work they are already doing. We work throughout the United States and have connections globally as well.
Tributary Insights: Helping build stronger innovation ecosystems through experience and strategic alliances