National Science Foundation SBIR/STTR Research Grant

The National Science Foundation's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are highly competitive programs that encourage domestic small businesses to engage in Federal Research/Research and Development with the potential for commercialization.

Through a competitive awards-based program, SBIR and STTR enable small businesses to explore their technological potential and provide the incentive to profit from its commercialization. By including qualified small businesses in the nation's R&D arena, high-tech innovation is stimulated, and the United States gains entrepreneurial spirit as it meets its specific research and development needs.

Program Goals:

• Stimulate technological innovation
• Meet Federal research and development needs
• Foster and encourage participation in innovation and entrepreneurship by women and socially or economically disadvantaged persons
• Increase private-sector commercialization of innovations derived from Federal research and development funding

Funding Details:

Phase I grants are for 6-12 months of concept development with up to $275,000 in funding. Successful Phase I companies may apply for Phase II funding of up to $1,000,000 for 2 years to further develop and commercialize their technology.

1. Review the solicitation guidelines and eligibility requirements
2. Register in the NSF FastLane system
3. Prepare and submit a project pitch (required before full proposal)
4. If invited, submit a full proposal through FastLane
5. Proposals undergo merit review by experts in relevant fields
6. Award notifications are typically made within 6 months of submission

• For-profit U.S. business with fewer than 500 employees
• At least 51% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents
• Principal Investigator must be primarily employed by the small business
• All work must be performed in the United States