Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) is a government startup scheme in the US. Federal programme, coordinated by the SBA and funded through 11 participating agencies, that gives US for-profit small businesses non-dilutive, phased R&D awards (proof of concept, then development) with no equity taken. Its authority expired on 1 October 2025 and it was reauthorised on 13 April 2026 through 30 September 2031.

What it offers

• “Through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, America's Seed Fund awards non-dilutive funding to develop your technology and chart a path toward commercialization.” — sbir.gov
• “As of April 2026, agencies may issue a Phase I award (including modifications) up to $ 323,090 and a Phase II award (including modifications) up to $2,153,927 without seeking SBA approval.” — sbir.gov
• “Any award above those levels will require a waiver.” — sbir.gov
• “Awarded companies use Phase I funding to create proof-of-concepts for their innovations.” — sbir.gov
• “Typically, only Phase I awardees are eligible for Phase II awards.” — sbir.gov
• “No SBIR/STTR funding is awarded in Phase III.” — sbir.gov
• “0% Equity or IP ownership taken by the government” — sbir.gov

Who can apply

• “Is a for-profit entity located in the U.S.” — sbir.gov
• “Has fewer than 500 employees (most applicants have fewer than 10).” — sbir.gov
• “Is owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents.” — sbir.gov
• “Some additional restrictions apply with venture capital ownership.” — sbir.gov
• “A non-profit organization cannot directly receive an SBIR or STTR award.” — sbir.gov
• “For Phase I, the proposing firm must perform a minimum of two-thirds of the research and/or analytical effort.” — sbir.gov
• “The SBIR/STTR program does not fund unsolicited proposals” — sbir.gov

Stages

Seed

How to apply

Apply or read the rules on the official site.

About this listing

TrustList compiled this listing from Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)'s official pages in September 2026. The quotes above are its own words. Amounts, deadlines and eligibility rules change, so check the official site before you rely on them.