Grant Directory

Verified government funding opportunities

NSF Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I Programs

Closed

U.S. National Science Foundation

Deadline: Nov 5, 2025federal

Updated: Oct 30, 2025

Summary

The NSF SBIR/STTR programs provide non-dilutive funding for innovative research and development of unproven technologies that address societal challenges, aiming to stimulate economic growth and the commercialization of new products and services. Eligible applicants include small businesses that are majority U.S.-owned, comply with specific size regulations, and may include partnerships with research institutions for STTR proposals; socially and economically disadvantaged and women-owned businesses are particularly encouraged to apply. To apply, potential proposers must first submit a Project Pitch to receive an official invitation from NSF, which is valid for two subsequent deadlines.

Full Description

Description

The NSF SBIR/STTRprograms provide non-dilutive funds for use-inspired research and development (R&D) of unproven, leading-edge, technology innovations that address societal challenges. By investing federal research and development funds into startups and small businesses, NSF helps build a strong national economy and stimulates the creation of novel products, services, and solutions in the private sector; strengthens the role of small business in meeting federal research and development needs; increases the commercial application of federally-supported research results; and develops and increases...

Eligibility

Eligible applicants

Miscellaneous

  • Other

Additional information

*Who May Submit Proposals: Proposals may only be submitted by the following: -
  • Proposers must obtain an official invitation to submit a proposal. To receive the invitation, potential proposers must submit a Project Pitch and receive an official response (via email) from the cognizant Program Officer. Project Pitch invitations are valid for two deadlines after the date of the initial official invitation from NSF; for example, if an official invitation is received on May 30, 2024, the proposer may submit for either the September 18, 2024, or November 6 deadline. In this example, submissions after November 6, 2024 will require a new Project Pitch invitation.
  • Firms qualifying as a small business concern are eligible to participate in the NSF SBIR/STTR programs (see Eligibility Guide for more information). Please note that the size limit of 500 employees includes affiliates. The firm must be in compliance with the SBIR/STTR Policy Directive and the Code of Federal Regulations (13 CFR Part 121). For STTR proposals, the proposing small business must also include a partner research institution in the project, see additional details below.
In compliance with the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, Section 10636 (Person or entity of concern prohibition) (42 U.S.C. 19235): No person published on the list under section 1237(b) of the Strom Thurmond National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 (Public Law 105-261; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note) or entity identified under section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 10 U.S.C. 113 note; Public Law 116-283) may receive or participate in any grant, award, program, support, or other activity under the Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships. Individuals who are a current party to a Malign Foreign Talent Recruitment Program are not eligible to serve as a Senior/Key Person on an NSF proposal or on any NSF award made after May 20, 2024. See current PAPPG for additional information on required certifications associated with Malign Foreign Talent Organization. The Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR) must certify that all individuals identified as Senior/Key Personnel have been made aware of and have complied with their responsibility under that section to certify that the individual is not a party to a Malign Foreign Talent Recruitment Program. The startup’s or small business’ research and development (R&D) must be performed within the United States. Startups and small businesses funded by NSF must be majority U.S.-owned companies.   NSF does not fund proposals from companies that are majority-owned by one or more venture capital operating companies (VCOCs), hedge funds, or private equity firms. Proposals from joint ventures and partnerships are permitted, provided the proposing entity qualifies as a small business concern (see Eligibility Guide for more information).  “Collaborative Proposal from Multiple Organizations” (a special proposal type in Research.gov) are not allowed.   Startups and small businesses that have a social mission in their charter are encouraged to apply. Socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses and women-owned small businesses are also encouraged to apply. *Who May Serve as PI: The primary emplo

Grantor contact information

Description

NSF grants.gov support grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov

Email

If you have any problems linking to this funding announcement, please contact the email address above.

grantsgovsupport@nsf.gov

Apply on official siteUpdated Oct 30, 2025

Recommended Resource

Grant Writing Services on Fiverr

Top Pick

Struggling with grant applications? Get expert help from professional freelance writers on Fiverr — from research and proposal drafts to compliance review and submission. Secure funding faster with proven talent.