SBIR & STTR

Through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, America’s Seed Fund awards non-dilutive funding to develop technology and chart a path toward commercialization.

Every year, the federal government awards $4 billion through the SBIR and STTR program to entrepreneurs in qualified companies.  A range of federal agencies support technology development in the life sciences through these programs, including NIH, CDC, FDA, USDA, NSF and DOE.   NIH alone provides $1.3 billion per year to SBIR and STTR grants.  SBIR and STTR awards support the mission of the federal agency providing the funds.

Both SBIR and STTR support scientific excellence and technology innovation to build a strong national economy but the programs differ in some ways:

• SBIR encourages entrepreneurs to partner with non-profit research institutions, such as universities, while STTR requires entrepreneurs to partner with a non-profit research institution.
• 11 agencies fund SBIR awards, while only 5 of those agencies also fund STTR awards.

Life Science Works provides grant-writing assistance and grant-coaching for SBIR and STTR applications.  We will work with you to ensure that you are ready to apply, will help register your company in the required government systems, will help identify partners if needed to ensure that your application is as competitive as possible, and will work with you to develop and submit your application.

Why your early-stage company should consider applying for an SBIR or STTR award:

1. Non-dilutive funds with no paybacks
2. Enhances investor confidence in commercial potential
3. Rigorous federal review offers developmental insights
4. Some states provide matching funds
5. Entrepreneurship training opportunities

Investors appreciate the stamp of approval related to receiving an SBIR or STTR award due to the rigorous review and highly competitive process.  You may be able to attract new investors once an award is made to your company.