The National Institute of Standards and Technology has streamlined the process for applying for its Advanced Technology Program funding.

In the new "gated" proposal process, the institute will accept applications through Sept. 30, 2001, for the approximately $60.7 million available in fiscal year 2001.

Officials said the "rolling submission" process should allow staff members to evaluate proposals more quickly. Also, people whose proposals are rejected can submit revised proposals later.

The process also allows submissions in stages, with the technical description and preliminary business plan coming first, followed by a more detailed business plan and budget if the technical portion is accepted.

For more details of the competition rules and schedule, visit www.atp.nist.gov.