Small Business Innovation Research Grant (SBIR/STTR)

"The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Busines Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are highly competitive programs that encourage domestic small businesses to engage in Federal Research/Research and Development (R/R&D) with the potential for commercialization."

-United States Small Business Administration

SBIR/STTR Eligibility Check

Funding NInja provides a free self-check to determine eligibility for SBIR/STTR non-dilutive funding. Our team will provide an expert opinion on your project within 48 hours.

Eligibility Check Form

Comprehensive Submission Assistance

We streamline the process of targeting multiple submissions, allowing you to focus on your research and goals while we handle the complexities.

Compliance and Administrative Support

Navigating reports and paperwork can be challenging. Our experts manage these intricacies, ensuring your compliance with program requirements.

Why Should You Pursue the SBIR/STTR Program?

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are government-backed initiatives providing non-dilutive funding to startups developing cutting-edge technologies. These highly competitive programs are key drivers of U.S. innovation, supporting startups in achieving commercialization milestones.

While these opportunities are invaluable, the qualification and vetting processes can be complex, especially for applicants focused on advancing their technologies. Success rates reflect this challenge; for instance, the National Science Foundation reports that only 10–15% of applicants secure Phase I funding annually.

With over $2 billion allocated each year for early-stage innovation, SBIR/STTR funding represents a substantial resource for eligible businesses. Funding Ninja specializes in assisting clients with identifying opportunities across all participating federal agencies, including the Department of Defense (DoD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Science Foundation (NSF), Department of Energy (DoE), NASA, and others.

Our proven process has supported over 100 businesses in preparing and submitting high-quality proposals. Additionally, we maintain an extensive library of resources to support companies as they navigate the SBIR/STTR process and achieve their funding goals.

Why Partner with Funding Ninja?

Funding Ninja specializes in assisting startup founders with their SBIR/STTR applications by simplifying the complex process into manageable, step-by-step actions. Our dedicated team of SBIR and STTR grant writing consultants helps founders develop competitive applications, significantly enhancing the likelihood of securing funding compared to average success rates.

In addition to helping draft initial proposals, we offer services to strengthen and revise rejected applications, refine existing drafts, and provide tailored one-on-one consultations to align startups with an effective SBIR/STTR strategy.

It’s important to note that Funding Ninja focuses exclusively on the first two phases of the SBIR/STTR program.

Phase I

For Phase I proposals, Funding Ninja provides guidance on overcoming technical challenges to establish the technical merit, feasibility, and market potential of your innovation. Our experts also help refine your R&D strategy to align with funding requirements.

Successful Phase I awards provide non-dilutive funding ranging from $50,000 to over $300,000, with project durations typically lasting 6–12 months.

Phase II

In Phase II, Funding Ninja works with founders to further develop their innovations and position them for commercial readiness. This phase emphasizes building on Phase I findings and preparing for market entry.

Awarded Phase II applications receive non-dilutive funding ranging from $750,000 to $1.7 million, with project durations typically spanning 12–24 months.

Work with Funding Ninja’s SBIR/STTR Experts

Funding Ninja offers specialized support for a range of SBIR/STTR opportunities across various federal agencies, including:

  • National Institutes of Health (NIH): Phase I & II, Fast Track, Direct to Phase II
  • National Science Foundation (NSF): Project Pitch Application, Phase I & II
  • Department of Defense (DoD): Phase I & II, Direct to Phase II
  • AFWERX Challenge (U.S. Air Force): Phase I & II
  • Department of Homeland Security (DHS): Phase I & II
  • Department of Energy (DOE): Phase I & II
  • United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): Phase I & II

Additional Grant Experience

In addition to SBIR/STTR opportunities, Funding Ninja has extensive experience with:

  • Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) grants
  • United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) grants
  • Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) grants
  • Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Grand Exploration Challenges grants
  • State Innovation Grants and SBIR/STTR State Matching Grants
  • Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) grants
  • ...and many more

SBIR/STTR Services Offered

SBIR/STTR Proposal Submission

We guide you through preparing and submitting proposals for NIH, NSF, DoD, and other participating agencies via portals such as grants.gov, eRA Commons, FastLane, and DSIP.

SBIR/STTR Resubmission

For rejected proposals, we help you refine and strengthen your application to significantly improve your chances of securing funding upon resubmission.

Commercialization Plans

Our team specializes in developing commercialization strategies tailored to NIH, NSF, and DoD grants, ensuring your innovation is well-positioned for market entry.

If you cannot find an answer to your question, you can send us an email using our contact form.

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FAQs

SBIR/STTR grants can take months to prepare properly. Many applicants, especially first-timers, underestimate how much time and effort it takes to draft a strong application. Funding Ninja can get you through the process in as little as 4 weeks.

Improving your grant writing skills requires dedication and consistent practice. Writing and securing SBIR/STTR applications is both an art and a science, as these programs are highly competitive and difficult to win, particularly on the first submission. To enhance your chances, focus on revising and refining your proposals based on feedback and lessons learned from each attempt. Perseverance, attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous improvement will ultimately strengthen your grant writing abilities and increase your success rate over time.

If you are awarded an SBIR grant, it is crucial to adhere to IRS guidelines when reporting the funding. To ensure compliance with all applicable tax laws, consult a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or tax professional. They can provide expert advice on how to correctly account for the grant and address any tax-related obligations.

Yes, funding received from an SBIR award is classified as “operational revenue” by the IRS. It should be reported as operational revenue on your tax return. To ensure proper reporting and compliance, consult with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or tax professional during the filing process.

Our experienced grant consultants at Funding Ninja have successfully guided hundreds of startups in developing and executing their SBIR strategies. Contact us today to explore how we can collaborate to help your business secure funding and achieve its goals.

Eligibility for SBIR and STTR grants is determined by specific requirements set forth by the programs. Founders should carefully evaluate these criteria to identify the most suitable Small Business Administration (SBA) grant opportunity for their business needs.

More Info

Yes, federal grant programs like SBIR and STTR are highly competitive. Statistics indicate that less than 10% of applications are awarded funding. To increase your chances of success, it is essential to submit a well-prepared and compelling application that stands out among the competition.

Funding Ninja LLC

A team of writers dedicated to getting you the funding you deserve.

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