NIH Highlighted Topic: Developing and Evaluating Evidence-Based Practice for Users of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is encouraging innovative research focused on improving evidence-based practices and measurement tools for users of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This highlighted topic aims to advance technologies, assessments, interventions, and clinical strategies that improve communication outcomes, accessibility, literacy, quality of life, and long-term support for individuals who cannot rely on spoken language as their primary means of communication.

More than 5 million individuals in the United States with developmental, acquired, or degenerative communication disorders—including cerebral palsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and minimally verbal or non-speaking autistic individuals—may benefit from AAC technologies and communication systems. NIH is particularly interested in projects that use community-engaged research and user-centered design approaches to develop more personalized, adaptive, and effective AAC solutions.

Areas of interest include communication outcome measurement tools, AI-enabled AAC systems, speech-generating devices, literacy support technologies, communication partner training, clinical implementation strategies, and tools that help tailor AAC systems to an individual’s evolving needs across their lifespan. Projects leveraging mixed methods research, predictive analytics, digital health technologies, and precision assessment frameworks are highly encouraged.

Funding is available through the NIH SBIR/STTR Program, which currently provides up to approximately $323,090 for Phase I projects and up to $2,153,927 for Phase II projects, with opportunities for additional commercialization and follow-on funding depending on project impact and scalability.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), both of which are seeking innovative technologies and evidence-based interventions that improve communication accessibility, patient outcomes, and quality of life for AAC users.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies, clinical tools, software platforms, and evidence-based interventions related to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of speech-generating devices and AAC communication platforms

• AI and machine learning tools for adaptive communication support

• Personalized AAC assessment and recommendation systems

• Precision measurement tools for tracking communication outcomes

• Digital health platforms supporting AAC users and caregivers

• Literacy instruction technologies for AAC users

• Mobile applications supporting non-speaking and minimally verbal individuals

• Predictive analytics and communication profiling systems

• User-centered design and accessibility research for AAC technologies

• Tools supporting communication partner engagement and training

• Clinical software for AAC implementation and therapy management

• Mixed-methods research platforms for communication needs analysis

• Technologies supporting lifelong AAC adaptation and personalization

• Remote monitoring and telehealth solutions for speech and communication therapy

• Assistive technologies supporting autism, ALS, cerebral palsy, and related conditions

• Research evaluating quality-of-life and well-being outcomes for AAC users

• Prototype development, validation studies, and usability testing

• Commercialization planning and implementation strategy development

Funding may also support personnel, software development, usability studies, clinical testing, cloud infrastructure, AI model development, accessibility design, data collection, intellectual property protection, regulatory preparation, and commercialization activities necessary to advance a scalable and commercially viable AAC solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Supporting Research Using the Resources from the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is encouraging innovative research proposals that leverage the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) database, clinical datasets, biospecimens, and imaging resources to advance osteoarthritis (OA) research and translational healthcare innovation. This highlighted topic is designed to expand the use of the OAI resource across the broader scientific and technology community, particularly through multidisciplinary and data-driven research approaches.

NIH is particularly interested in projects focused on novel analyses of osteoarthritis epidemiology and disease progression, integration of imaging and clinical data, biomarker discovery, predictive modeling, and the application of AI, machine learning, and advanced data science techniques to musculoskeletal health. Companies developing digital health platforms, AI-enabled diagnostics, medical imaging analytics, predictive healthcare software, biomarkers, wearable health technologies, or data integration tools may be strong candidates for funding.

Areas of interest include automated MRI and X-ray analysis tools, multimodal predictive modeling, disease trajectory analysis, biospecimen analytics, intervention effectiveness modeling, and real-world evidence studies using electronic health records (EHRs). NIH is also encouraging research addressing women’s musculoskeletal health, osteoarthritis progression during menopause, and sex-linked OA risk factors.

Funding is available through the NIH SBIR/STTR Program, which currently provides up to approximately $323,090 for Phase I projects and up to $2,153,927 for Phase II projects, with opportunities for follow-on and commercialization funding depending on project scope and impact.

This highlighted topic is supported by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), the National Institute on Aging (NIA), and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), all of which are seeking high-impact innovations that improve osteoarthritis diagnosis, monitoring, prevention, treatment, and long-term patient outcomes.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies, software platforms, diagnostics, and data-driven solutions related to osteoarthritis research and musculoskeletal health.

Eligible activities may include:

• AI and machine learning tools for osteoarthritis diagnosis and prediction

• Automated MRI and X-ray image analysis platforms

• Predictive analytics for OA progression and intervention outcomes

• Biomarker discovery and biospecimen analysis technologies

• Multimodal data integration platforms combining imaging, genetics, and clinical data

• Computational modeling of osteoarthritis disease progression

• Real-world evidence platforms leveraging EHR and longitudinal patient data

• Clinical decision support software for musculoskeletal disorders

• Digital health and remote patient monitoring technologies

• Wearable devices for mobility, gait, and musculoskeletal tracking

• Data science tools for population health and epidemiological analysis

• Women’s health technologies focused on OA risk and resilience factors

• Research platforms supporting longitudinal cohort analysis

• Advanced statistical and bioinformatics tools for musculoskeletal research

• Translational studies supporting diagnostics and therapeutic discovery

• Prototype development, validation studies, and regulatory preparation

• Commercialization planning and market validation activities

Funding may also support personnel, clinical data analysis, cloud infrastructure, software development, imaging analytics, laboratory testing, intellectual property protection, regulatory strategy, and commercialization activities necessary to advance a commercially viable healthcare or medtech solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Fundamental Science Research on the Neural Circuits Underlying Sensory Processing

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on advancing mechanistic understanding of neural circuits underlying sensory processing. NIH is particularly interested in multidisciplinary technologies and research platforms capable of recording, analyzing, and modulating neural circuit activity at cellular and sub-second temporal resolution.

This highlighted topic encourages cutting-edge neuroscience research integrating advanced methodologies such as electrophysiology, optical imaging, optogenetics, chemogenetics, sonogenetics, magnetogenetics, pharmacologic modulation, computational modeling, and statistical analysis to better understand how sensory information is processed across neural systems. Companies developing neurotechnology platforms, brain imaging systems, biosensors, AI-enabled neuroscience tools, neural modulation technologies, computational neuroscience software, or advanced neural recording systems may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects involving interdisciplinary collaborations across biological sciences, engineering, computational biology, chemistry, physics, and bioethics. Mechanistic human studies, comparative cross-species models, and translational neuroscience approaches are strongly encouraged. Research focused on hearing, balance, taste, smell, vision, and sensory-system neural processing is of particular interest.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) and the National Eye Institute (NEI), both of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing sensory neuroscience, neural circuit analysis, neurotechnology innovation, and translational brain research.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and research platforms focused on neural circuits, sensory processing, and advanced neuroscience methodologies.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of neural recording and modulation technologies for sensory-system research

• Electrophysiology systems and high-resolution neural monitoring platforms

• Optical imaging technologies for real-time neural circuit visualization

• Optogenetics, chemogenetics, sonogenetics, and magnetogenetics research tools

• AI and machine learning platforms for neural data analysis and computational neuroscience

• Biosensors and wearable neurotechnology systems for sensory processing studies

• Computational models simulating neural circuit dynamics and sensory integration

• Pharmacologic modulation technologies targeting neural signaling pathways

• Cross-species and translational neuroscience research platforms

• Human mechanistic studies evaluating sensory-system neural activity

• Technologies supporting hearing, balance, taste, smell, and visual system neuroscience research

• Advanced statistical and bioinformatics tools for neural circuit analysis

• Brain-computer interface (BCI) and neuroengineering technologies

• Translational research supporting neurological diagnostics and therapeutic discovery

• Validation studies, prototype development, translational research, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for neuroscience and neurotechnology solutions

Funding may also support personnel, laboratory testing, software development, computational infrastructure, prototype fabrication, neuroimaging systems, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Advancing Microbiome Science Through Multidisciplinary Mechanistic Investigations of the Human Microbiome in Health and Disease

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on advancing mechanistic investigations of the human microbiome and its influence on human health and disease. NIH is particularly interested in technologies and therapeutic approaches that improve understanding of host-microbiome interactions and translate microbiome science into novel diagnostics, therapeutics, disease prevention strategies, and personalized medicine solutions.

The human microbiome plays a critical role in immune function, metabolism, neurological health, inflammation, cancer progression, and chronic disease outcomes. While many studies have identified associations between microbiome composition and disease, significant gaps remain in understanding the mechanistic pathways driving these interactions. NIH is encouraging multidisciplinary projects that move beyond correlation-based studies to investigate molecular mechanisms, microbial metabolites, host signaling pathways, and therapeutic interventions capable of modulating microbiome function.

Companies developing microbiome therapeutics, probiotics, prebiotics, AI-enabled microbiome analytics platforms, computational biology tools, biomarker technologies, organ-on-chip systems, multi-omic platforms, microbial engineering technologies, or precision medicine applications may be strong candidates for funding. NIH is especially interested in projects focused on infectious disease, autoimmune disorders, cancer, metabolic disease, neuropsychiatric conditions, aging, oral health, women’s health, and immune-mediated diseases.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), the National Eye Institute (NEI), the National Institute on Aging (NIA), the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), all of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing microbiome science, translational therapeutics, systems biology, and precision health technologies.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and therapeutic approaches focused on microbiome science, host-microbe interactions, and microbiome-based disease prevention and treatment.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of microbiome-targeted therapeutics, probiotics, prebiotics, or microbial metabolite interventions

• AI and machine learning platforms analyzing microbiome composition, host interactions, and disease risk

• Multi-omic technologies integrating microbiome, genomic, metabolomic, epigenetic, and clinical data

• Organ-on-chip, tumor-on-chip, and advanced in vitro systems for microbiome research

• Biomarker discovery technologies for microbiome-associated diseases and treatment response

• Computational biology platforms modeling host-microbe interactions and microbial signaling pathways

• Research into microbiome impacts on infectious disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, metabolic disorders, neurological conditions, and aging

• Development of microbiome engineering and targeted pathogen elimination technologies

• Oral microbiome therapeutics for dental disease, periodontal disease, and oral cancers

• Studies evaluating microbiome effects on immune checkpoint inhibitors and cancer therapy response

• Nutritional, dietary, natural product, and complementary intervention research related to microbiome modulation

• Precision medicine approaches incorporating microbiome and microbial metabolite profiling

• Longitudinal microbiome monitoring systems and predictive analytics tools

• Translational research evaluating microbiome-driven treatment response and prevention strategies

• Validation studies, prototype development, translational research, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for microbiome technologies and therapeutics

Funding may also support personnel, laboratory testing, software development, computational infrastructure, prototype fabrication, sequencing technologies, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Understanding the Impact of Immune Function on Neurocognition and Substance Use Disorder Risk Across the Lifespan (IMMUNE-LIFESPAN)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on understanding how immune system function influences neurocognition, neuroinflammation, and substance use disorder (SUD) risk across the lifespan. NIH is particularly interested in technologies, computational models, and translational research approaches that investigate the dynamic relationship between immune dysregulation, neural function, behavioral responses, and addiction vulnerability.

Emerging evidence demonstrates that the immune system and nervous system are deeply interconnected, influencing cognition, neural circuitry, stress responses, and behavioral outcomes through complex molecular and cellular mechanisms. Many environmental, developmental, and psychosocial risk factors associated with SUD—including chronic stress, substance exposure, infection, maternal health, and aging—also affect immune system function. NIH is encouraging projects that advance systems-level understanding of neuroimmune interactions and their role in addiction development, progression, relapse, and recovery.

Companies developing neuroimmune analytics platforms, AI-enabled computational models, biomarker technologies, neuroinflammation diagnostics, imaging systems, precision medicine tools, behavioral health technologies, or translational neuroscience platforms may be strong candidates for funding. NIH is especially interested in projects examining molecular, cellular, circuit-level, and lifespan mechanisms connecting immune dysregulation and SUD-related cognition and behavior.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), all of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing neuroimmune science, addiction neuroscience, biomarker discovery, computational behavioral health, and precision intervention technologies.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and therapeutic approaches focused on addiction neuroscience, sensory integration, and substance use disorder mechanisms.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of neurotechnology platforms for studying reward circuitry and sensory processing

• AI and machine learning tools analyzing addiction-related neural activity and behavioral patterns

• Neuromodulation technologies targeting sensory-reward neural pathways

• Computational neuroscience models evaluating subjective reward processing and addiction progression

• Imaging technologies for studying interoception, sensory integration, and synaptic plasticity

• Behavioral assessment platforms measuring sensory-evoked responses and motivated behavior

• Research investigating neural adaptations associated with acute, chronic, and withdrawal-related drug exposure

• Technologies exploring multisensory influences on substance use and relapse vulnerability

• Genetic and molecular studies identifying enhancers or suppressors of reward and sensory systems

• Precision medicine and personalized intervention approaches for substance use disorders

• Sex-specific neuroscience research examining addiction-related neural processing differences

• Drug discovery and therapeutic development targeting sensory-reward neural circuits

• Digital health tools supporting addiction monitoring, behavioral intervention, and recovery management

• Validation studies, translational research, prototype development, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for neuroscience, neurotechnology, and addiction treatment solutions

Funding may also support personnel, laboratory testing, software development, computational infrastructure, prototype fabrication, neuroimaging systems, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Novel Circuits and Mechanisms Modulating Sensory Integration and Addiction

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on understanding how sensory processing, interoception, and neural reward circuitry contribute to substance use disorders (SUDs) and addiction-related behaviors. NIH is particularly interested in technologies, models, and neuroscience tools that investigate how multisensory integration and subjective reward experiences influence addiction vulnerability, progression, relapse, and recovery.

Traditional addiction research has focused heavily on core reward circuitry, but emerging evidence suggests that sensory processing systems and integrated subjective experiences play a critical role in shaping drug-seeking behavior and loss of cognitive control. NIH is encouraging projects that explore the neural mechanisms linking sensory processing, interoception, synaptic plasticity, and reward contextualization across different stages of substance use disorder progression. Companies developing neurotechnology platforms, AI-enabled neuroscience tools, neuromodulation systems, computational models, imaging technologies, behavioral analytics platforms, or addiction therapeutics may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects examining multisensory processing, sensory-evoked neural plasticity, interoceptive signaling, chronic drug exposure effects, withdrawal-associated neural adaptations, and genetic influences on reward processing. Research focused on sex-specific neural mechanisms, personalized addiction interventions, and advanced behavioral models is also encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), both of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing addiction neuroscience, neuromodulation technologies, sensory processing research, and precision behavioral health solutions.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and therapeutic approaches focused on addiction neuroscience, sensory integration, and substance use disorder mechanisms.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of neurotechnology platforms for studying reward circuitry and sensory processing

• AI and machine learning tools analyzing addiction-related neural activity and behavioral patterns

• Neuromodulation technologies targeting sensory-reward neural pathways

• Computational neuroscience models evaluating subjective reward processing and addiction progression

• Imaging technologies for studying interoception, sensory integration, and synaptic plasticity

• Behavioral assessment platforms measuring sensory-evoked responses and motivated behavior

• Research investigating neural adaptations associated with acute, chronic, and withdrawal-related drug exposure

• Technologies exploring multisensory influences on substance use and relapse vulnerability

• Genetic and molecular studies identifying enhancers or suppressors of reward and sensory systems

• Precision medicine and personalized intervention approaches for substance use disorders

• Sex-specific neuroscience research examining addiction-related neural processing differences

• Drug discovery and therapeutic development targeting sensory-reward neural circuits

• Digital health tools supporting addiction monitoring, behavioral intervention, and recovery management

• Validation studies, translational research, prototype development, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for neuroscience, neurotechnology, and addiction treatment solutions

Funding may also support personnel, laboratory testing, software development, computational infrastructure, prototype fabrication, neuroimaging systems, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Advancing Meaningful Outcome Measures in Adult Hearing Care

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on advancing meaningful outcome measures in adult hearing care (AHC). NIH is particularly interested in technologies, assessment systems, and data-driven approaches that improve how hearing loss, hearing interventions, and quality-of-life outcomes are measured across clinical and research settings.

Current adult hearing care lacks standardized outcome measures that accurately reflect patient experience, functional hearing ability, and real-world quality-of-life impacts. This limitation has created challenges in evaluating intervention effectiveness, comparing treatment approaches, and building scalable data repositories capable of supporting advanced analytics and personalized hearing care. NIH is encouraging projects that develop, refine, validate, and implement clinically meaningful hearing outcome measures with broad applicability across populations, interventions, and care environments.

Companies developing digital audiology platforms, AI-enabled hearing analytics tools, patient-reported outcome systems, remote monitoring technologies, hearing assessment software, data harmonization platforms, or quality-of-life measurement tools may be strong candidates for funding. NIH is especially interested in projects that improve psychometric rigor, support implementation in low-resource settings, and engage clinicians and patients in real-world care environments.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) and the National Institute on Aging (NIA), both of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing adult hearing care, hearing intervention effectiveness, digital audiology, patient-centered outcomes, and healthy aging technologies.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and systems designed to improve outcome measurement and intervention evaluation in adult hearing care.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of standardized outcome measures for adult hearing care interventions

• AI and machine learning platforms analyzing hearing outcomes, intervention effectiveness, and patient-reported data

• Digital audiology tools supporting hearing assessment, monitoring, and treatment optimization

• Quality-of-life measurement systems related to hearing loss and hearing interventions

• Remote hearing assessment and teleaudiology platforms

• Data harmonization systems and large-scale hearing care repositories

• Psychometric validation and refinement of hearing outcome measures

• Real-world evidence platforms evaluating hearing aid, pharmaceutical, biologic, and auditory training interventions

• Patient engagement technologies supporting personalized hearing care

• Clinical workflow integration tools for hearing outcome tracking and analysis

• Technologies supporting hearing care implementation in low-resource and underserved settings

• Predictive analytics tools for treatment response and hearing health outcomes

• Research involving clinician and patient co-design of hearing assessment systems

• Translational studies evaluating hearing intervention effectiveness across populations and care settings

• Validation studies, prototype development, translational research, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for hearing health technologies and assessment platforms

Funding may also support personnel, software development, clinical data analysis, prototype fabrication, digital health infrastructure, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Advancing the Use of 3D Technologies Using Human Auditory, Vestibular and Chemosensory Organoids to Create New Approach Models (NAMs) for Treatments

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on advancing human auditory, vestibular, and chemosensory organoid technologies through the integration of 3D modeling systems, bioprinting, AI-driven in silico platforms, and other New Approach Methodologies (NAMs). NIH is particularly interested in technologies that accelerate development of more accurate, reproducible, and scalable models for studying hearing, balance, taste, smell, and related communication disorders.

Current limitations in model systems continue to slow therapeutic discovery and precision medicine advancement for auditory, vestibular, and chemosensory disorders. NIH is encouraging collaborative, interdisciplinary projects that combine human organoid systems with advanced 3D technologies, tissue engineering, computational biology, and artificial intelligence to create highly functional ex vivo models capable of improving translational research and accelerating clinical deliverables. Companies developing organoid platforms, AI-enabled drug discovery systems, 3D bioprinting technologies, biosimulation tools, tissue engineering platforms, precision medicine applications, or advanced sensory-system disease models may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects focused on improving organoid reproducibility, stability, functional cell mimicry, and personalized iPSC-based research approaches. Research exploring sex-specific biology, hormonal influences, and women’s health applications within sensory-system disorders is also encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), both of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing organoid science, sensory-system therapeutics, AI-enabled biomedical modeling, and precision medicine technologies.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and research platforms focused on auditory, vestibular, and chemosensory organoid systems and advanced New Approach Methodologies (NAMs).

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of human auditory, vestibular, and chemosensory organoid platforms

• 3D bioprinting technologies for tissue engineering and sensory-system modeling

• AI and machine learning platforms for organoid analysis, predictive modeling, and therapeutic discovery

• In silico simulation systems supporting precision medicine and molecular therapeutic development

• iPSC-based personalized medicine research platforms

• Development of biolinks, tissue replicates, and advanced ex vivo assessment systems

• Technologies improving organoid reproducibility, stability, and functional cellular mimicry

• Drug discovery and therapeutic screening platforms utilizing organoid and NAM technologies

• Biosensors and imaging technologies supporting organoid characterization and validation

• Research into hearing, balance, taste, smell, and sensory-system disorders

• Sex-specific and women’s health-focused organoid research investigating hormonal and biological influences across life stages

• Computational biology and multi-omic approaches supporting sensory-system disease modeling

• Translational studies evaluating therapeutic efficacy and safety using advanced organoid systems

• Validation studies, prototype development, translational research, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for organoid, tissue engineering, and AI-enabled biomedical technologies

Funding may also support personnel, laboratory testing, software development, computational infrastructure, prototype fabrication, tissue engineering systems, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Neural Exposome Factors that Affect Brain Health and Neurological Disorders

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on understanding how environmental, behavioral, biological, and psychosocial exposures influence brain health and neurological disease across the lifespan. NIH is particularly interested in technologies and research platforms that investigate the “Neural Exposome” — the cumulative interaction of genetic and nonheritable factors affecting neurological function, disease progression, and long-term brain health.

While genetics have provided major insights into neurological disorders, many conditions cannot be explained by genetics alone. NIH is encouraging interdisciplinary projects that examine how environmental toxins, stress, sleep, microbiome activity, metabolism, diet, substance use, epigenetic changes, and other exposome factors interact with biological systems to influence neurological outcomes. Companies developing AI-enabled analytics tools, biomarkers, computational models, organoids, neuroimaging platforms, environmental health technologies, digital health systems, or advanced neuroscience research tools may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects involving longitudinal cohort analysis, gene-environment interaction modeling, exposome biomarker discovery, human-relevant disease models, organoid systems, computational neuroscience, and preventative intervention strategies. Research focused on women’s health, aging, substance use, neuroimmune interactions, and multi-organ system relationships impacting brain health is also encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the National Institute on Aging (NIA), the National Eye Institute (NEI), and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), all of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing environmental neuroscience, exposome science, neurological disease prevention, and translational brain health technologies.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and research platforms focused on neural exposome science, brain health, and neurological disease prevention.

Eligible activities may include:

• AI and machine learning platforms analyzing gene-environment interactions and neurological risk factors

• Biomarker discovery technologies for detecting neurological effects of environmental and behavioral exposures

• Longitudinal cohort studies integrating exposome and neurological health data

• Computational models evaluating composite environmental impacts on brain function and disease progression

• Organoid systems, in vitro models, and human-relevant neuroscience platforms for exposome research

• Neuroimaging and sensor technologies for studying environmental effects on the nervous system

• Digital health tools monitoring sleep, stress, substance use, environmental exposures, and neurological outcomes

• Research into neuroimmune interactions and multi-organ system effects on brain health

• Studies evaluating effects of toxins, microbiome changes, metabolism, diet, and psychosocial stressors on neurological function

• Precision medicine approaches integrating genomic, behavioral, and environmental health data

• Women’s health-focused research investigating hormonal, environmental, and neurological interactions across the lifespan

• Substance use and addiction-related exposome research

• Aging-related neurological health studies and preventative intervention strategies

• Development of preventative therapeutics and intervention technologies targeting modifiable neurological risk factors

• Validation studies, translational research, prototype development, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for brain health and exposome-related technologies

Funding may also support personnel, laboratory testing, software development, computational infrastructure, prototype fabrication, data integration systems, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Priority Research Questions in Fundamental Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on advancing fundamental cellular and molecular neuroscience. NIH is particularly interested in technologies, tools, and research platforms that improve understanding of the molecular architecture, dynamic interactions, signaling processes, and cellular organization of neurons and glia in vivo.

This highlighted topic aims to accelerate discoveries in foundational neuroscience by supporting development of advanced imaging systems, biosensors, computational models, molecular mapping technologies, and other enabling research tools that address critical knowledge gaps in nervous system function. Companies developing neurotechnology platforms, imaging systems, biosensors, AI-enabled neuroscience tools, molecular mapping technologies, computational biology solutions, or advanced in vivo research systems may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects focused on macromolecular cartography, molecular turnover and plasticity, developmental cellular dynamics, metabolic signaling, lipid dynamics, neural communication pathways, synaptic biology, neuroimmune interactions, and blood-brain barrier biology. Research integrating engineering, chemistry, biophysics, quantum sensing, computational modeling, and advanced optical imaging approaches is strongly encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the National Eye Institute (NEI), and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), all of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing neurotechnology, brain imaging, molecular neuroscience, neural signaling research, and translational neuroscience tools.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and research platforms focused on cellular and molecular neuroscience, neural imaging, and advanced neurobiology tools.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of advanced in vivo imaging systems for neural tissue analysis

• Optical imaging technologies for subcellular and tissue-scale neuroscience applications

• Quantum sensors and biosensors for neuronal activity detection and longitudinal monitoring

• AI and machine learning platforms for neural data analysis and molecular mapping

• Development of fluorescent, acoustic, bioluminescent, or metabolic imaging agents

• Technologies supporting macromolecular cartography and protein interaction mapping in neurons and glia

• Research tools studying synaptic plasticity, organelle dynamics, and cellular resilience

• Spatiotemporal tools measuring molecular turnover, signaling, and protein stability

• Computational models of neural development, cell signaling, and neuroimmune interactions

• Technologies investigating blood-brain barrier formation, apoptosis, and neurodevelopmental dynamics

• Metabolic and lipid signaling sensors for nervous system research

• Research platforms focused on neurotransmission, neuromodulation, gliotransmission, and extracellular signaling

• Sex-specific neuroscience research investigating molecular and cellular differences in neural systems

• Translational neuroscience tools supporting drug discovery, neurological disease research, and brain health

• Validation studies, prototype development, translational research, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for neuroscience technologies and imaging platforms

Funding may also support personnel, laboratory testing, software development, computational infrastructure, prototype fabrication, imaging system development, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Research on Drowning Prevention

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on drowning prevention, water safety, and evidence-based interventions that reduce drowning-related deaths and long-term injuries. NIH is particularly interested in technologies, public health strategies, implementation science approaches, and community-based interventions that improve drowning prevention outcomes across pediatric and high-risk populations.

Drowning remains one of the leading causes of death among children in the United States, particularly among children ages 1–4. Survivors of drowning incidents often experience severe neurological injury, disability, and long-term health complications. NIH is encouraging projects that better understand drowning risk factors, improve swim instruction and water competency, expand access to prevention programs, and strengthen implementation of the drowning chain of survival. Companies developing water safety technologies, digital health tools, wearable monitoring systems, AI-enabled risk analytics platforms, emergency response technologies, educational tools, or community health interventions may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects focused on culturally appropriate drowning interventions, school-based and community-based prevention programs, implementation science, drowning risk measurement, swim competency evaluation, and scalable public health strategies. Research addressing disparities in drowning risk, barriers to prevention access, and evidence-based policy development is also encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and the Office of Disease Prevention (ODP), both of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing drowning prevention, child safety, public health intervention delivery, and implementation science.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and interventions focused on drowning prevention, water safety, and emergency response.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of wearable technologies, sensors, or monitoring systems for drowning detection and prevention

• AI and machine learning platforms analyzing drowning risk trends and behavioral risk factors

• Digital health tools supporting swim instruction, water competency, and safety education

• Research evaluating swim instruction methods, timing, and effectiveness across populations

• Community-based and school-based drowning prevention programs and intervention models

• Implementation science approaches to improve adoption of evidence-based drowning prevention strategies

• Emergency response technologies supporting the drowning chain of survival

• Public health interventions targeting high-risk populations and underserved communities

• Data collection platforms and predictive analytics tools for drowning surveillance and prevention

• Research into medical conditions associated with increased drowning risk, including seizures, autism, and cardiac conditions

• Flood-related drowning prevention technologies and disaster-response interventions

• Policy evaluation, standards development, and cost-effectiveness studies related to water safety programs

• Culturally tailored education and outreach programs designed to improve prevention uptake

• Validation studies, translational research, prototype development, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for drowning prevention and water safety technologies

Funding may also support personnel, software development, clinical or public health data analysis, prototype fabrication, educational platform development, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Advancing Prevention and Treatment of Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infections in HIV-Affected Populations

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on advancing prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and implementation strategies for bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in adolescent and maternal populations affected by HIV. NIH is particularly interested in technologies and interventions that address rising rates of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia among youth and pregnant populations living with or at elevated risk for HIV.

Despite significant progress in HIV treatment and prevention, bacterial STI rates continue to rise nationwide, particularly among adolescents, young women, and maternal populations. NIH is encouraging projects that improve STI diagnostics, clinical management, implementation science, prevention technologies, healthcare delivery systems, and workforce training related to HIV and bacterial STI care. Companies developing diagnostics, microbicidal technologies, AI-enabled epidemiology tools, digital health platforms, implementation science solutions, community health technologies, or novel therapeutics may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects involving innovative diagnostic modalities, alternative antimicrobial therapies, prevention technologies, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) access, maternal and adolescent care models, vaccine and immunotherapeutic development, and scalable service delivery systems. Research incorporating New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), implementation science, health equity strategies, and community-engaged care models is also encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), the Office of Disease Prevention (ODP), and the Office of AIDS Research (OAR), all of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing HIV prevention, STI diagnostics, maternal health, adolescent medicine, infectious disease management, and public health implementation strategies.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and healthcare solutions focused on bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV-affected adolescent and maternal populations.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of innovative STI diagnostic technologies and point-of-care testing platforms

• AI and machine learning tools for STI epidemiology, risk prediction, and clinical decision support

• Novel antimicrobial therapies and alternative antibiotics for bacterial STIs

• Microbicidal agents and multi-purpose prevention technologies integrating STI and HIV prevention

• Digital health platforms supporting STI screening, prevention, treatment adherence, and patient engagement

• Research improving access to HIV and STI post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)

• Maternal and adolescent healthcare delivery models focused on STI and HIV prevention

• Community-based and implementation science approaches to increase prevention and treatment uptake

• Workforce training platforms and clinical education technologies for HIV and STI care providers

• Research evaluating cost-effectiveness, scalability, and sustainability of prevention programs

• Vaccine and immunotherapeutic development related to bacterial STIs

• Immune response studies supporting STI prevention and therapeutic innovation

• Public health infrastructure and service delivery optimization technologies

• Research focused on congenital syphilis prevention and maternal-fetal health outcomes

• Validation studies, translational research, prototype development, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for diagnostics, therapeutics, and public health technologies

Funding may also support personnel, laboratory testing, software development, clinical data analysis, prototype fabrication, computational infrastructure, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Research on the Transition from Pediatric to Adult Health Care

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on improving the transition from pediatric to adult healthcare for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN). NIH is particularly interested in technologies, interventions, and care models that improve health outcomes, continuity of care, patient engagement, and long-term well-being for adolescents and young adults managing chronic medical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional conditions.

As advances in medicine continue to improve survival rates for childhood-onset conditions, increasing numbers of youth require complex transitions into adult healthcare systems. However, significant gaps remain in transition planning, evidence-based interventions, care coordination, and outcome measurement. NIH is encouraging projects that develop scalable, patient-centered, and real-world approaches to healthcare transition (HCT) that improve measurable health and quality-of-life outcomes. Companies developing digital health platforms, care coordination technologies, AI-enabled analytics tools, behavioral health solutions, patient engagement systems, remote monitoring technologies, or community-based care models may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects focused on meaningful health outcome measurement, transition intervention design, patient and caregiver engagement, implementation science, behavioral health, chronic disease management, healthcare accessibility, and multidisciplinary care coordination. Research incorporating lived experiences, community engagement, innovative trial designs, and whole-person care approaches is strongly encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and other participating NIH offices, all of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing pediatric transition care, chronic disease management, behavioral health, and integrated healthcare delivery systems.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and healthcare solutions designed to improve transitions from pediatric to adult healthcare systems for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN).

Eligible activities may include:

• Digital health platforms supporting healthcare transition planning, coordination, and patient engagement

• AI and machine learning tools analyzing transition outcomes, risk factors, or care gaps

• Development and validation of meaningful healthcare transition outcome measures

• Care navigation systems and patient support technologies for chronic disease management

• Behavioral health and mental health transition interventions for adolescents and emerging adults

• Community-based and school-based healthcare transition models

• Remote monitoring and telehealth solutions supporting continuity of care

• Family-centered and caregiver-engaged healthcare transition interventions

• Technologies improving medication adherence, self-efficacy, and treatment continuity

• Healthcare transition solutions for conditions such as congenital heart disease, asthma, sickle cell disease, hemophilia, diabetes, mental illness, autism spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, and developmental disabilities

• Research-informed interventions supporting youth recovery services and overdose prevention

• Innovative clinical trial methods, synthetic control arms, and in silico healthcare transition studies

• Data collection systems and patient-reported outcome tools for transition research

• Implementation science and real-world healthcare integration strategies

• Validation studies, translational research, prototype development, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for healthcare transition technologies and care delivery systems

Funding may also support personnel, software development, clinical data analysis, prototype fabrication, patient engagement infrastructure, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Advancing the Use of Genomic Information Into Clinical Care

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on advancing the use of genomic information in clinical care. NIH is particularly interested in technologies, platforms, and implementation strategies that improve patient outcomes by integrating genomic evidence into routine healthcare delivery, precision medicine, disease prevention, diagnostics, and treatment decision-making.

Although genomic variants are known to influence risk for numerous diseases, significant gaps remain in demonstrating how genomic information improves clinical outcomes, cost-effectiveness, care delivery, and long-term health management. NIH is encouraging projects that generate genomic medicine evidence, develop scalable implementation frameworks, and create clinical tools and data resources that enable broader adoption of evidence-based genomic medicine. Companies developing genomics platforms, AI-enabled clinical decision support tools, multi-omic data systems, precision medicine technologies, predictive analytics solutions, diagnostics, digital health platforms, or genomic workflow integration technologies may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects focused on implementation science, genomic clinical utility, healthcare workflow integration, patient-centered genomic care, infectious disease genomics, addiction genomics, neurological applications, women’s health genomics, cancer genomics, and translational genomic data infrastructure. Research that improves accessibility, scalability, and real-world implementation of genomic medicine across diverse patient populations and healthcare environments is also encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), all of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing precision medicine, genomic healthcare integration, and translational clinical genomics.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and clinical solutions that advance the integration of genomic information into healthcare delivery and precision medicine.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of genomic diagnostics, predictive analytics tools, or precision medicine platforms

• AI and machine learning systems for genomic interpretation, risk prediction, and clinical decision support

• Multi-omic data repositories and translational genomic research infrastructure

• Clinical workflow integration tools for genomic medicine implementation

• Research evaluating clinical utility, patient outcomes, and cost-effectiveness of genomic interventions

• Technologies supporting personalized prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies

• Genomic medicine implementation science and healthcare adoption research

• Pathogen, microbiome, infectious disease, or HIV-related genomic applications

• Addiction and substance use genomics platforms and predictive models

• Neurological, oncology, autoimmune, and women’s health genomic research technologies

• Population health and community-based genomic medicine approaches

• Genomic data visualization, interoperability, and healthcare integration systems

• Biomarker discovery and genomic variant interpretation platforms

• Digital health tools supporting genomic-guided patient engagement and care management

• Validation studies, translational research, prototype development, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for genomics and precision medicine technologies

Funding may also support personnel, software development, laboratory testing, cloud or computational infrastructure, clinical data analysis, prototype fabrication, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Accelerating Research in Celiac Disease

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program to accelerate research in celiac disease, including improved diagnostics, immune-based therapeutics, prevention strategies, and technologies that advance understanding of disease pathogenesis. NIH is particularly interested in research that enables earlier and more reliable detection of celiac disease, identifies therapeutic targets, restores gluten tolerance, and improves long-term patient outcomes.

Celiac disease is a complex autoimmune disorder affecting more than 1% of the U.S. population, with incidence continuing to rise. Despite growing awareness and scientific progress, substantial unmet needs remain related to early diagnosis, disease monitoring, treatment resistance, immune dysregulation, microbiome interactions, and prevention. Companies developing diagnostics, therapeutics, microbiome technologies, AI-enabled disease modeling platforms, biomarker tools, digital health solutions, immune-modulating therapies, or advanced research systems relevant to autoimmune gastrointestinal disease may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects investigating immune mechanisms, genetic and environmental drivers of disease, microbiome interactions, inflammatory pathways, women’s health considerations, and complications associated with celiac disease, including osteoporosis, oral health disorders, autoimmune co-morbidities, and gastrointestinal cancers. Research utilizing New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), computational modeling, translational studies, and human-relevant disease models is also encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), all of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing autoimmune disease research, gastrointestinal health, cancer prevention, women’s health, microbiome science, and immune therapeutics.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and therapeutic approaches focused on celiac disease diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and immune system modulation.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of earlier, more reliable diagnostic tools and biomarker technologies for celiac disease

• AI and machine learning platforms analyzing autoimmune disease progression and treatment outcomes

• Immune-modulating therapies designed to prevent or treat celiac disease and restore gluten tolerance

• Research into cellular and molecular mechanisms driving autoimmune tissue damage and inflammation

• Microbiome, virome, and gut-environment interaction studies related to celiac disease progression

• New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) and advanced disease modeling systems for celiac disease research

• Precision medicine approaches evaluating genetic, hormonal, and environmental risk factors

• Development of nutritional, dietary, microbiota, or natural-product-based interventions

• Technologies addressing refractory celiac disease or poor response to gluten-free diets

• Cancer-related celiac disease research, including inflammation-associated gastrointestinal cancers

• Research into oral health, bone density, skin disorders, and other co-morbidities associated with celiac disease

• Women’s health-focused studies examining reproductive health, pregnancy outcomes, and autoimmune risk

• Translational research, preclinical validation, clinical studies, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for diagnostics, therapeutics, and digital health solutions

Funding may also support personnel, laboratory testing, software development, clinical data analysis, prototype fabrication, computational infrastructure, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Research on Short-Lived and Long-Lived Plasma Cells in Humans

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on the biology of Short-Lived Plasma Cells (SLPCs) and Long-Lived Plasma Cells (LLPCs) in human health and disease. NIH is particularly interested in technologies and therapeutic approaches that improve understanding of plasma cell differentiation, antibody production, immune memory, autoimmune disease mechanisms, vaccine durability, aging-related immune dysfunction, and allergic or transplant-related immune responses.

Long-Lived Plasma Cells play a critical role in sustaining lifelong immunity, but they are also implicated in autoimmune diseases, allergic disorders, and transplant rejection. NIH is encouraging research that advances human-relevant characterization of plasma cell biology through ex vivo human sample analysis, New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), computational modeling, and advanced immunology platforms. Companies developing immunology technologies, computational biology tools, AI-enabled immune modeling systems, vaccine platforms, antibody therapeutics, diagnostics, or autoimmune disease solutions may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects investigating plasma cell precursor populations, immune aging, tissue-specific plasma cell environments, microbiome interactions, vaccine response durability, and mechanisms influencing plasma cell differentiation and persistence. Research focused on women’s health, autoimmune disease progression, and sex-specific immune responses is also encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), the National Institute on Aging (NIA), the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), all of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing immunology, vaccine science, autoimmune disease research, and healthy aging technologies.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and therapeutic approaches related to plasma cell biology, antibody-mediated diseases, vaccine durability, autoimmune disorders, and immune aging.

Eligible activities may include:

• Computational modeling and AI-enabled analysis of plasma cell differentiation and immune responses

• Development of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) for plasma cell and antibody research

• Ex vivo human tissue and immune cell analysis platforms

• Vaccine technologies designed to promote durable Long-Lived Plasma Cell (LLPC) responses

• Therapeutic approaches targeting pathogenic LLPCs in autoimmune disease, allergy, or transplant rejection

• Biomarker discovery associated with plasma cell phenotypes, immune persistence, or immune aging

• Research into plasma cell precursor populations and differentiation pathways

• Technologies studying microbiome, aging, or host-factor effects on plasma cell function

• Development of diagnostics or therapeutics for autoimmune and antibody-mediated disorders

• Immune profiling platforms evaluating sex-specific immune responses and women’s health outcomes

• Research investigating immune aging, frailty, cognitive decline, and age-associated plasma cell disorders

• Tissue engineering, organoid, or advanced cellular modeling approaches for immunology research

• Validation studies, translational research, prototype development, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for immunology and vaccine-related technologies

Funding may also support personnel, laboratory testing, software development, computational infrastructure, prototype fabrication, clinical data analysis, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Effects of Contraception as Treatment for Gynecologic Disorders

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on the use of contraceptive therapies to treat gynecologic disorders such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), uterine fibroids, dysmenorrhea, and related women’s health conditions. NIH is particularly interested in technologies, clinical approaches, and data-driven solutions that improve understanding of the long-term effectiveness, safety, treatment optimization, and patient outcomes associated with hormonal contraceptive use for gynecologic disease management.

Although hormonal contraceptives are widely used off-label to manage gynecologic conditions, significant gaps remain regarding comparative effectiveness, personalized treatment strategies, biomarker identification, patient decision-making, and long-term health outcomes. Companies developing women’s health technologies, AI-enabled clinical analytics platforms, digital health solutions, biomarker tools, therapeutic approaches, data infrastructure, or precision medicine applications related to gynecologic disorders may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects utilizing artificial intelligence, machine learning, clinical datasets, biomarker discovery, molecular and cellular analysis, -omic technologies, and clinical evaluation approaches to improve treatment guidelines and patient-centered care. Research examining quality of life, treatment adherence, patient education, and long-term outcomes associated with contraceptive therapies is also encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), both of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing women’s health, gynecologic disease treatment, hormonal therapy optimization, and precision reproductive medicine.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and therapeutic approaches focused on gynecologic disorders and the use of hormonal contraceptives as treatment strategies.

Eligible activities may include:

• AI and machine learning platforms analyzing treatment outcomes from clinical or medical record datasets

• Biomarker discovery associated with improved responses to hormonal contraceptive therapies

• Clinical studies evaluating different estrogen/progestin formulations or delivery methods

• Research comparing continuous versus cyclic contraceptive treatment approaches

• Technologies supporting treatment optimization for endometriosis, PCOS, uterine fibroids, dysmenorrhea, and related conditions

• Digital health platforms supporting symptom tracking, treatment adherence, patient education, or personalized care

• Precision medicine approaches for contraceptive selection and gynecologic disease management

• Research evaluating quality of life, psychosocial outcomes, and patient-centered treatment effectiveness

• Development of predictive analytics tools for treatment response and long-term outcomes

• Molecular, cellular, genomic, proteomic, or other -omic approaches investigating gynecologic disease mechanisms

• Clinical data infrastructure, patient registries, and real-world evidence studies

• Validation, prototype development, translational research, and regulatory preparation activities

• Commercialization planning and scale-up activities for women’s health technologies and therapeutics

Funding may also support personnel, software development, clinical data analysis, laboratory testing, prototype fabrication, intellectual property protection, commercialization strategy development, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Sleep, Circadian Rhythms, and Substance Use Disorders

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program focused on the biological mechanisms linking sleep, circadian rhythms, and substance use disorders (SUDs). NIH is particularly interested in technologies and therapeutic approaches that improve understanding of how sleep dysregulation and circadian disruption contribute to addiction development, relapse risk, recovery outcomes, and long-term neurological health.

This highlighted topic encourages basic and pre-clinical research investigating the bidirectional relationship between sleep/circadian dysfunction and substance use disorders, including opioids, stimulants, nicotine, cannabinoids, designer drugs, and alcohol-related disorders. Companies developing neuroscience platforms, biomarkers, diagnostics, computational tools, imaging technologies, digital therapeutics, wearable monitoring systems, AI-enabled predictive models, or novel therapeutic interventions related to addiction and sleep science may be strong candidates for funding.

NIH is especially interested in projects utilizing behavioral, cognitive, cellular, molecular, genetic, imaging, pharmacological, and computational approaches to identify mechanisms, biomarkers, and therapeutic targets associated with addiction and circadian biology. Research exploring sex-specific responses, hormonal influences, and women’s health considerations is also encouraged.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH), all of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications advancing addiction science, sleep medicine, circadian biology, and precision behavioral health solutions.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and therapeutic approaches focused on sleep, circadian rhythms, addiction biology, and substance use disorder (SUD) prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of digital health platforms, wearable technologies, or remote monitoring systems for sleep and addiction management

• AI, machine learning, or predictive analytics tools for identifying relapse risk or treatment response

• Biomarker discovery related to sleep dysregulation, circadian disruption, and substance use disorders

• Neuroscience research investigating reward pathways, neurotransmitter systems, and addiction-related brain circuitry

• Imaging technologies and neurodiagnostic platforms for studying sleep and addiction interactions

• Development of therapeutics targeting circadian rhythms, sleep quality, or addiction recovery outcomes

• Research into opioid, stimulant, cannabinoid, nicotine, hallucinogen, and polysubstance-related sleep disruption

• Behavioral and cognitive interventions designed to improve sleep and reduce relapse risk

• Sex-specific and women’s health-focused research related to hormonal influences, pregnancy, menopause, and addiction recovery

• Computational, molecular, cellular, and genetic modeling of sleep-addiction interactions

• Preclinical validation, prototype development, translational studies, and regulatory preparation

• Development of precision medicine or personalized treatment approaches for addiction and sleep disorders

Funding may also support personnel, software development, laboratory testing, clinical data analysis, prototype fabrication, intellectual property protection, commercialization planning, and other research and development activities necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Postnatal Human Developmental Stages and Transitions: Relationships to Aging Changes and Outcomes over the Life Course

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking innovative research proposals through the SBIR Program that leverage New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) and Non-Animal Technologies (NATs) to accelerate osteoarthritis (OA) research and therapeutic development. NIH is particularly interested in human-relevant research approaches—including organoids, tissue chips, advanced in vitro systems, computational modeling, archived human joint tissues, and non-invasive imaging technologies—that improve understanding of the biological mechanisms driving OA initiation and progression.

This initiative aligns with NIH’s broader effort to promote innovative, translational science while reducing reliance on traditional animal testing. Companies developing technologies, platforms, diagnostics, regenerative therapies, AI-enabled disease modeling tools, biomarker solutions, rehabilitation technologies, or advanced research systems relevant to osteoarthritis and musculoskeletal degeneration may be strong candidates for funding.

Through the NIH SBIR Program, U.S. small businesses may apply for up to $323,090 in Phase I funding and up to $2,153,927 in Phase II funding to support research, development, validation, and commercialization activities. Applications are accepted on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th annually, with funding typically beginning approximately 9 months after submission.

This highlighted topic is supported primarily by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) and the National Institute on Aging (NIA), both of which may give special consideration to high-impact applications focused on osteoarthritis initiation, aging-related degeneration, regenerative rehabilitation, inflammation-driven joint damage, and human-relevant disease modeling approaches.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards provide up to $323,090 for Phase I projects (up to 2 years) and $2,153,927 for Phase II projects (up to 3 years). Some topics approved by NIH may exceed these limits. Fast-Track and Phase IIB (follow-on) options allow continuous or extended funding beyond Phase II.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support the research, development, validation, and commercialization of technologies and therapeutic approaches aimed at understanding, preventing, diagnosing, or treating osteoarthritis (OA), particularly through the use of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) and Non-Animal Technologies (NATs).

Eligible activities may include:

• Development of organoids, tissue chips, advanced in vitro systems, or computational models for osteoarthritis research

• Human tissue-based studies investigating OA initiation and progression

• AI, machine learning, or predictive modeling platforms for musculoskeletal degeneration

• Biomarker discovery and molecular characterization of joint degeneration phenotypes

• Research into inflammation-driven cartilage degradation and immune system interactions

• Studies of aging-related metabolic, epigenetic, or cellular senescence mechanisms contributing to OA

• Technologies evaluating mechanotransduction and physical loading impacts on joints

• Regenerative medicine and regenerative rehabilitation strategies for tissue repair and functional recovery

• Imaging technologies and non-invasive diagnostic tools for early OA detection

• Research into gene-gene and gene-environment interactions influencing OA susceptibility

• Therapeutic development targeting cartilage, bone, synovium, muscle, fat, tendon, or nerve-related contributors to OA pathology

• Validation, prototype development, preclinical testing, and translational studies

• Regulatory preparation, commercialization planning, and scale-up activities for Phase II projects

Funding may also support personnel, materials, software development, laboratory testing, prototype fabrication, data analysis, intellectual property protection, and other research and development expenses necessary to advance a commercially viable solution aligned with NIH priorities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, awardees gain several strategic advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility:
  Being selected for an NIH-backed SBIR grant signals technical excellence and alignment with national health and biomedical priorities. This validation builds investor and partner confidence.

• Enhanced Visibility and Market Recognition:
  Awardees are featured in NIH and HHS announcements, helping attract partnerships, media attention, and future contracting opportunities.

• Access to the Federal Innovation Ecosystem:
  Recipients join a national network of researchers and agencies advancing life science innovation, often opening doors to collaborations with NIH laboratories and federal health programs.

• Stronger Commercial and Exit Potential:
  By maturing technology through nondilutive funding, companies strengthen valuation, de-risk commercialization, and increase attractiveness for acquisition or follow-on private investment.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Applications are accepted each year on January 5th, April 5th, and September 5th. Funding is received approximately 9 months after submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with statutory set-asides requiring NIH, CDC, and FDA to devote portions of their extramural R&D budgets (3.2% for SBIR, 0.45% for STTR) to support small business innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that demonstrate:

• A clear unmet medical or public-health need,

• Strong scientific rationale and feasibility,

• High commercialization potential, supported by a realistic market and regulatory strategy, and

• Alignment with an NIH Institute’s or CDC/FDA Center’s specific research mission (e.g., infectious disease, digital health, diagnostics, therapeutics, or data analytics).

Competitive applicants often have an early prototype, preliminary data, and a defined path to market adoption.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Companies must complete multiple federal registrations (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons, SBA Company Registry) before applying.

• Foreign entities are not eligible.

• Disclosure of foreign affiliations and compliance with national security screening are mandatory. Currently we do not recommend any sort of foreign affiliation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth.

Review solicitation here.

TSM Special Topic – WIRE Advanced Manufacturing for Supersonic Aircraft

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Department of Defense is seeking advanced manufacturing solutions that can help build and sustain the next generation of supersonic aircraft through the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace (TSM) Special Topic: Advanced Manufacturing for Supersonic Aircraft. The government is specifically looking for technologies that reduce acquisition and sustainment costs, accelerate production timelines, strengthen the domestic supply chain, and improve manufacturing capabilities for critical aerospace systems.

This opportunity is designed for companies developing advanced aerospace manufacturing technologies including additive manufacturing, advanced materials, robotics and automation, reverse engineering, advanced repair technologies, and digital engineering tools.

Submissions must be submitted to the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace between May 15, 2026 and June 24, 2026, 12:00PM EST. Solutions assessed as “Awardable” may become eligible for future procurement actions through the Tradewinds ecosystem and potentially through the Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC).

How much funding would I receive?

The solicitation does not specify any award amount, funding range, ceiling, floor, or number of awards.

The notice states that placement into the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace as “Awardable” does not guarantee any current or future award. Future awards, if any, may result through separate procurement actions.

What could I use the funding for?

The solicitation is seeking advanced manufacturing technologies and processes that support the manufacturing and sustainment of supersonic aircraft.

Example capability areas include:

• Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)

  • PBF-LB

  • EBF3

  • Flight-critical components

  • High-temperature thermoplastics

  • Titanium alloys

  • Nickel-based superalloys

• Advanced Materials

  • Carbon fiber composites

  • Metal matrix composites

  • High-stress and high-temperature applications

• Robotics and Automation

  • Automated assembly

  • Manufacturing automation

  • Precision and safety improvements

• Reverse Engineering and Legacy Systems

  • Reverse engineering of obsolete components

  • Recreation of technical data packages

• Advanced Repair Technologies

  • Laser cladding

  • Cold spray

  • Non-destructive inspection (NDI)

• Digital Engineering and Manufacturing

  • MBSE

  • Digital twins

  • Manufacturing process optimization

The government also requires solutions to:

• Reduce acquisition and sustainment costs

• Shorten production timelines

• Strengthen the U.S. Defense Industrial Base

• Reduce reliance on foreign suppliers

• Improve domestic manufacturing capabilities

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Companies assessed as “Awardable” will:

• Be placed in the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace

• Have their solutions made available for future procurement actions

• Potentially become eligible for future awards through the Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC)

The solicitation also notes that future awards may require companies to become DIBC members, although DIBC membership is not required to submit a solution.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Key dates include:

• Submission window opens: May 15, 2026

• Submission deadline: June 24, 2026, 12:00PM EST

• Assessment period begins: July 1, 2026

• Assessment period concludes: July 31, 2026, no later than 12:00PM EST

• Notification of assessment rating: On or immediately after July 31, 2026

Where does this funding come from?

The opportunity is sponsored through the Warfighting Investments, Resourcing, and Execution (WIRE) program, which is focused on strengthening the U.S. Defense Industrial Base and supporting critical national security manufacturing capabilities.

The notice states that future awards, if any, may be made through the Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC).

Who is eligible to apply?

The solicitation refers broadly to “entities” and “vendors” submitting solutions through the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace.

The notice does not specify:

• Company size requirements

• Small business requirements

• Domestic ownership restrictions

• Revenue limits

• Stage restrictions

• TRL requirements

The solicitation does state that submissions must comply with the Tradewinds Announcement v10.0 requirements and submission process.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The government is prioritizing solutions that:

• Directly support current and future supersonic aircraft manufacturing and sustainment

• Reduce acquisition and sustainment costs

• Accelerate production timelines

• Strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities

• Reduce reliance on foreign sources

• Advance the state of the art in aerospace manufacturing

Strong applications will likely demonstrate:

• Clear technical differentiation

• Significant improvement over existing processes

• Strong domestic supply chain impact

• Long-term industrial base resilience

• Scalability and operational relevance

The solicitation also emphasizes business models that foster innovation, competition, and broader adoption within the industrial base.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes. Important restrictions and requirements include:

• All submissions must be made through the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace

• Submissions must comply with Tradewinds Announcement v10.0

• Video submissions are required

• Companies must select:

  • “Special Topic Submission” under Submission Type

  • “WIRE ADV MAN Special Topic” under Relevant Strategic Focus Area

• Video titles must begin with:

  • “WIRE ADV MAN:”

The solicitation also states:

• Submission preparation costs are not reimbursable

• “Awardable” status does not guarantee funding

• Future awards may require DIBC membership

The solicitation does not specify any cost share requirements.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The application requires a compliant Tradewinds video submission addressing all required evaluation criteria.

Companies will need to prepare content covering:

• Problem alignment

• Mission acceleration

• Technical innovation

• Business model viability

• Industrial base impact

The solicitation does not estimate preparation time. However, because the process requires a structured video submission and compliance with Tradewinds requirements, companies should expect a meaningful preparation effort.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can help your team:

• Determine whether your technology aligns with the solicitation

• Position your solution against the Tradewinds evaluation rubric

• Develop a compelling technical and commercialization narrative

• Structure and script the required video submission

• Translate complex manufacturing technologies into reviewer-friendly messaging

• Emphasize domestic supply chain and industrial base impacts

• Improve competitiveness for “Awardable” assessment status

Review solicitation here.