our approach
who we are
We offer a range of consulting services, all designed to help your company reach its potential. Whether you're looking for a small tweak or complete overhaul, we have you covered. Our services are available a la carte so you can get precisely what you need.
We make your priority our passion
Smith Science Strategies is a small strategic consulting firm headed by Dr. William S. Smith. Our business model is to engage universities and non-profit institutions in building research capacity. Predicated on our deep understanding of the budget process and agency priorities, and an understanding of the strengths and top-level goals of the institution, our services include:
Assisting and advising in the execution of the institution’s strategic plan, Identifying and pursuing funding opportunities that fit the institution’s goals, assisting in the development of winning proposals, and developing and executing institutional relationship strategies with key federal research agencies.
Our understanding of the policy-making process includes the Administration and the federal research agencies, how they formulate internal priorities, the various advisory bodies that influence their choices, and the Congressional budget and policy process. All of these result in the research directions and opportunities that will form the landscape for the institution’s success. Ideally, a fully effective and supportive relationship can be achieved if we are also closely involved in the institution’s strategic planning process as it pertains to research and development and work with the faculty leaders in the execution of that plan.
Stagnation in Federal funding, a steady decline in state support, dramatically increased competition for grants, public perceptions of science, and breakdowns in the STEM employment pipeline are calling for new strategies for research universities. Many universities are struggling to broaden the base of support beyond the traditional sources of funding within the Federal Government, explore new relationships with industry and the philanthropic sector, and leverage cross-campus strengths. Many, have seen merit in defining "Grand Challenges" that promote a greater degree of interdisciplinary research. This transcends traditional academic disciplinary boundaries, and encourages greater collaboration within the faculty. Others have sought closer bonds with Federally Funded Research and Development Centers--as major partners, collaborators, or even as part of the management organization.
The challenge of remaining competitive and achieving the necessary awareness for new opportunities requires universities to look towards other avenues for strategic advice and planning . Smith Science Strategies can answer this need.