NSF SBIR/STTR: America's Seed Fund
NSF's small-business programs funding startups developing deep-technology innovations with commercial potential.
Official program page- Sponsor
- National Science Foundation
- Mechanism
- SBIR/STTR
- Typical award
- Phase I up to roughly $300K; Phase II up to around $1M+, with supplemental funding opportunities.
- Deadlines
- Project Pitches are accepted on a rolling basis; full proposals are invited on a continuing schedule.
What it funds
- Phase I feasibility research
- Phase II product research and development
- Translation of science and engineering into the market
Who can apply
U.S. small businesses meeting SBA rules. STTR requires a partnership with a research institution. NSF uses a pitch/Project Pitch screening step before full proposals.
Best for
A deep-tech startup commercializing a science or engineering breakthrough.
Figures and deadlines change year to year: always confirm current details on the official program page before applying.
Related programs
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A Department of Energy program providing substantial, stable support to outstanding early-career researchers.
Managing a NSF SBIR/STTR proposal?
GrantsManager tracks the deadline, budget, and submission from first draft to award.