Startup Benefits The Startup in Residence program helps startup close government contracts. The 16 week collaboration period commences on January 28, 2019. Expedited procurement process: The program incorporates a streamlined procurement process, which means that startups can respond to an RFP in less than one hour and contracts can be executed immediately following the residency. Deep Customer Insights: Throughout the residency, startups have a dedicated project manager from a government department to collaborate with on the project. The program incorporates four weeks for user research and four weeks for product testing, giving startups an in-depth understanding of the challenge the government partner faces. Access to STIR’s Government Network: Participation in the program gives startups access to the 30+ members of our government network.