GARDINER – The Maine Technology Institute recently awarded nearly $2 million in seed grants and development awards to 21 Maine businesses for research and product development.

The recipients represent various sectors of the technology industry, including information, aquaculture and precision manufacturing technology.

MTI seed grants range from $1,000 to $10,000 and are offered to Maine companies up to six times per year. Development awards total up to $500,000 and will be offered three times in 2004.

MTI was created by the Legislature in 1999 to promote and stimulate research and development at Maine’s industrial technology businesses.

The submission deadline for the next round of MTI seed grants is Dec. 11. Awardees will be announced on Jan. 13. The deadline for development awards is Jan. 5. For information, visit www.mainetechnology.org.