Small Business Toolbox

New to the Small Business Program? Where to Start?

SBIR/STTR Programs

ORIP seeks to increase small business participation in federally supported research and development as well as the private-sector commercialization of technology developed with federal support. The office achieves this through the federal government's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs.

For those seeking more information about ORIP's SBIR/STTR programs, view the related fact sheet.

SBIR (R43/R44) grants support domestic small businesses engaging in research and development that has the potential for commercialization. Phase I, which uses the R43 funding mechanism, offers up to $306,872 for a project timeline between 6 months to 2 years. Phase II, which uses the R44 funding mechanism, offers up to $2,045,816 for a project timeline between 1 to 3 years. These award amounts and durations are guidelines that can be exceeded with appropriate justification. See SBIR funding opportunities.

STTR (R41/R42) grants also support innovative research that results in commercial products or services that benefit the public. Funding applicants must have a formal research partnerships with universities or other nonprofit research institutions. Phase I, which uses the R41 funding mechanism, typically offers up to $306,872 for a project timeline between 6 months to 2 years. Phase II, which uses the R42 mechanism, offers up to $2,045,816 for a project timeline between 1 to 3 years. These award amounts and durations are guidelines that can be exceeded with appropriate justification. See STTR funding opportunities.

The SBIR and STTR programs have three application cycles each year. Application deadlines for these periods are January 5, April 5, and September 5.

There are significant differences between the SBIR and STTR programs. For detailed information, see the program descriptions on the NIH Small Business Funding Opportunities website.