Funding Programs
The SBIR/STTR Program
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR/STTR) program, provides non-dilutive federal research and development funding to US startups and small businesses developing innovative technologies with strong commercial potential. Often referred to as America’s Seed Fund, SBIR enables companies to prove feasibility, build prototypes, and transition solutions into government and commercial markets without giving up equity.
Phase I provides up to $305K early-stage validation. Phase II provides up to $2 million for advanced development, and Phase III is follow-on federal procurement or private capital.
If you are developing breakthrough technology and want to benefit from SBIR, let us guide you to the best place to start.
How the SBIR Program Works
SBIR uses a three-phase structure designed to move technologies from concept to commercialization.
Phase I: Feasibility - $100K to $305K
Phase I establishes technical merit and feasibility. The objective is to prove that your concept works and shows potential for commercialization.
Phase II: Prototype and Development - $650K to $3M
Phase II continues the research and development effort started in Phase I. Companies further develop and test their technology, often building advanced prototypes.
Phase III: Commercialization - No Funding Limit
Phase III is where the innovation transitions to the marketplace or into government procurement. Phase III is funded with non-SBIR dollars, which may include federal procurement funds or private capital.
Who Is Eligible for SBIR?
Any innovative technology in any vertical could be potentially funded with an SBIR grant.
To qualify for SBIR, a company must generally meet the following criteria:
Be a for-profit small business located in the United States
Meet SBA size standards, commonly 500 employees or fewer
Be majority owned and controlled by US persons (permanent residents or citizens) or qualifying entities
What Does SBIR Funding Cover?
SBIR awards typically cover:
Direct labor and fringe benefits
Materials and supplies
Subcontractors and consultants
Certain indirect costs
Testing and prototyping aligned with the approved work plan
Allowable costs depend on the awarding agency and the specific funding mechanism.
Many states also offer matching programs or commercialization support for SBIR awardees
Our Support
Our team has helped secure over $100 million in for startups and companies across a variety of verticals.
Our support includes:
Agency and topic alignment strategy
Eligibility and compliance review
Proposal development and positioning
Budget structuring and cost strategy
Post-award execution planning
Phase II and Phase III transition strategy
It’s Free to Get Started
Complete the short form below to be matched to the best SBIR grants for your technology and business.