Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program / Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program

Objective

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) administers the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, both of which focus on projects that enhance American agriculture, rural health care, rural communities and the environment. USDA SBIR/STTR PROGRAMS 1.) Stimulate technological innovations in the private sector; 2.) Strengthen the role of small businesses in meeting federal research and development needs; 3.) Increase the commercialization of innovations derived from SBIR/STTR-supported private sector research and development efforts; and 4.) Foster and encourage participation by emerging and undercapitalized small businesses.

Who Can Apply

• Small Business Person

Phase I is open to any eligible small independent US business. Phase II is open only to previous Phase I awardees. The SBIR/STTR Phase I and Phase II NOFOs outline the specific eligibility requirements that are in place to ensure that the funds go only to small, independent US businesses. The regulations include restrictions about 1.) the type of firm; 2.) its ownership structure; and 3.) the firm’s size in terms of the number of employees. See the program NOFO for more details about the SBIR/STTR eligibility requirements.

Assistance Types

• Grant

Program Contact

sbir@usda.gov
(816) 854-0299