NSF Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I, Phase II, Fast-Track Programs: A Pilot Emphasis on Scientific Instrumentation

The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is initiating a pilot emphasis area for its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. The goal is to invest in startups and small businesses that are developing enabling technologies, including next-generation instrumentation, novel experimental platforms, and other scientific equipment to advance the frontiers of scientific discovery and strengthen the American scientific and engineering enterprise. The funding opportunities are available through the NSF SBIR/STTR programs: Phase I, Phase II, Fast-Track, and Supplements. Each company can receive up to $2.0 million for R&D. Key points to consider: • The pilot emphasis area prioritizes investing in the necessary infrastructure to support entirely new fields of scientific discovery, making new technological breakthroughs and transformative applications possible. • The programs do not solicit specific technologies for the purpose of procuring goods and services for the agency from startups and small businesses. • NSF will continue to invest in other deep-tech ventures through the historic NSF SBIR/STTR programs. • The funding opportunities are available for small businesses that qualify as a small business concern, and the primary employment of the Principal Investigator (PI) must be with the small business at the time of award and for the duration of the award.