SBIR/STTR Programs for Small Businesses
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs support a diverse portfolio of U.S. small businesses by funding high-impact research (R)/research & development (R&D) with the potential for technology commercialization.
R/R&D funding is available through omnibus (researcher-initiated) and targeted (specific research area) solicitations. SBIR and STTR awards are made available through 11 and 5 federal agencies, respectively.
Eligibility
For-profit, individually-owned U.S. businesseswith ≤ 500 employees.
Which program is right for you?
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
- Partnering permitted (not required)
- Principal investigator’s primary employment with small business
- Small business may outsource 33% for Phase I, 50% for Phase II
Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)
- Requires non-profit research partner
- Principal investigator’s primary employment with small business or research institution
- Minimum 40% work performed by small business, 30% by research partner