Faculty Assistance Projects FAQ's

How do I qualify for confidential, no-cost assistance?

The project must have the potential to strengthen an existing Indiana company or governmental unit, help a new venture get started in our state, or improve the quality of life for our citizens.


What type of assistance is available?

Note:TAP does not perform work that requires a professional engineer's approval or involves litigation.


Is product design and prototyping available?

We support many product development questions and problems, but we do not design products from scratch.

Note:TAP does not perform work that will develop intellectual property. Such work can be done by Purdue on a contract basis.


Is testing and analysis available?

Limited testing and analysis is available to support product development and problem-solving projects. We refer companies to testing laboratories for routine testing and for testing to industry standards.


Can I call TAP with short questions?

Yes. We are usually able to respond quickly by phone or e-mail.


Who performs the assistance projects?

A team of 25 Purdue faculty, professional staff, and graduate students.


How much help is available?

Free assistance is limited to 40 hours per company per year. Extended projects are available on a funded basis.


How quickly can I get started?

Most projects begin one to three weeks after contacting TAP.


What is the sequence for a typical project?

  • A business, new venture, or governmental unit contacts TAP and is quickly informed if the request qualifies for assistance.
  • TAP schedules a meeting with the client (often at the client site) to obtain specific project information and to define the project scope and timing.
  • TAP personnel work with the client to complete the project.
  • TAP requests an evaluation of the assistance provided.