The SBIR and STTR programmes, known as America’s Seed Fund, provide funding to small businesses for innovative technology development. Eligible applicants are U.S.-based for-profit entities with fewer than 500 employees and a unique entity ID from SAM.gov; non-profits can participate as minority investors in STTR.
Application Deadline:
Deadlines vary by agency solicitation. Check SBIR.gov for current calls.
Tell Me About the Opportunity:
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programmes are U.S. government initiatives designed to support small, for-profit, independent U.S. businesses in developing innovative technologies. These programmes provide funding to help transform research ideas into commercial applications, ensuring that small businesses benefit from federal R&D investments.
Which Sectors are Eligible?
All technology-driven sectors are eligible, depending on agency solicitations. Common areas include:
- Health & Biotech
- Energy & Environment
- Defence & Aerospace
- IT & Advanced Manufacturing
Type:
Federal R&D funding — grants and contracts.
Who can apply?
- U.S.-based, for-profit small businesses
- Firms with ≤ 500 employees (including affiliates)
- Majority-owned and controlled by US citizens or permanent resident aliens, or other eligible small businesses
- Certain firms majority-owned by venture capital, hedge funds, or private equity may apply under specific authority (§5107).
How are applicants selected?
Applicants must certify eligibility at the time of award. Selection is based on:
- Type of firm (for-profit business concern)
- Ownership and control (majority U.S. citizen or permanent resident ownership)
- Size (≤ 500 employees including affiliates)
Agencies may also require certification at application and recertification during the award lifecycle.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
United States only. Firms must be organised and have a place of business in the U.S.
Where will the opportunity be taken?
Nationwide across U.S. federal agencies participating in SBIR/STTR.
How Many Opportunities?
Multiple awards annually across agencies. Funding levels vary by solicitation.
What is the benefit of the opportunity?
- Access to federal R&D funding
- Commercialisation support for innovative technologies
- Opportunities to partner with research institutions (STTR)
- Potential for follow-on contracts and commercialisation pathways
How Long Will the Support Last?
Project periods vary by agency, typically 6–24 months for Phase I and up to 2 years for Phase II.
How to Apply:
- Register your company on SBIR.gov to obtain a Control ID.
- Review agency solicitations and eligibility requirements.
- Complete required certifications and submit proposals via agency portals.
- Ensure compliance with ownership, control, and size regulations.