SBIR/STTR Grant Writing
“The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are highly competitive programs that encourage domestic small businesses to engage in Federal Research/Research and Development (R/R&D) with the potential for commercialization.” – United States Small Business Administration
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The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are governmental non-dilutive funding mechanisms designed to provide start-up technologies with much-needed capital for ongoing research. These highly competitive programs are often the primary engines that propel US science and technology start-ups toward their commercialization potential. As one might expect, the vetting and qualification process can be very stressful, especially considering that applicants are typically focused on further developing their technology. Although success rates vary each year, the National Science Foundation reported that only 10-15% of US start-ups successfully secure a Phase I proposal.
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KeepYourEquity.co helps start-up Founders with their SBIR/STTR application by streamlining and breaking down the overwhelming process into step-by-step action items in a timely manner. Our SBIR & STTR grant writing consultants help start-up Founders prepare a competitive grant application and can significantly improve the chances of award compared to the average rate. We are also here to revise rejected proposal applications, strengthen proposals prior to resubmission, provide feedback and revise already written proposal drafts, and provide 1-on-1 consultation for start-ups on their SBIR/STTR strategy.
KeepYourEquity.co consults on the first two out of the three Phases of the SBIR/STTR program:
Phase I
When preparing a Phase I SBIR/STTR proposal, KeepYourEquity.co advises Founders on their R&D strategy on how to overcome key technical challenges to validate your innovation’s technical merit, commercial feasibility, and market potential. Awarded Phase I applications can receive non-dilutive funding from $50,000 to $275,000. Phase I project periods typically range from 6-12 months.
Phase II
When preparing a Phase II SBIR/STTR proposal, KeepYourEquity.co consults Founders on their R&D strategy to position their innovation towards commercial readiness. Awarded Phase II applications can receive non-dilutive funding from $750,000 to $1.7M. Phase II project periods typically range from 12-24 months.
Contact KeepYourEquity.co now to work with one of our SBIR/STTR specialists on the following:
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National Institute of Health (NIH): Phase I & II, Fast Track, Direct to Phase II
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National Science Foundation (NSF): Project Pitch Application, Phase I & II
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Department of Defense (DOD): Phase I & II, Direct to Phase II
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AFWERX Challenge (DoD Air Force): Phase I & II
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Department of Homeland Security (DHS): Phase I & II
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Department of Energy (DOE): Phase I & II
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United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): Phase I & Phase II
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Other grants we have worked on:
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Advance Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E) grants
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United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) grants
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Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) grants
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Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation – Grand Exploration Challenges grants
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State Innovation Grants; SBIR/STTR State matching grants
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Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) grants
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And, many more…
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Click HERE to check that your start-up is eligible to apply for an SBIR/STTR award.
HOW CAN WE HELP?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do grants take to write?
A: These SBIR/STTR grants can take months to prepare properly. Many applicants, especially first-timers, typically underestimate how much time and effort it takes to draft a strong application.
Q: How do I improve my grant writing?
A: Practice, practice, and practice! There is both a science and art to writing and securing SBIR/STTR applications. Given how competitive the program is, it is very challenging to secure these awards, especially in your first submission. Keep going and keep revising your proposal. That will help you to improve your grant writing skills as well.
Q: How do I report an SBIR grant for tax purposes?
A: If you get awarded an SBIR, make sure you follow the IRS guidelines and to seek advice from a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to ensure you are following all necessary tax laws.
Q: Is SBIR grant funding considered a startup revenue?
A: Yes! Funding from an SBIR award is considered as "operational revenue" according to the IRS and thus, should be treated as operational revenue on your tax return. Make sure to seek advice from a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) when filing taxes.
Q: Where can I find help in pursuing an SBIR grant for my early-stage startup?
A: Our expert grant consultants at keepyourequity.co have advised over 100's of start-ups on their SBIR strategy. Contact us to learn how we can work together.
Q: Who qualifies for SBIR grants?
A: There are some eligibility requirements for SBIR and STTR grants that Founders should keep in mind when deciding which SBA grant opportunity would be the most appropriate for them. Check them out in this link HERE.
Q: Is an SBIR grant hard to get?
A: Federal grant programs for start-up funding, like the SBIR and STTR programs, are HIGHLY COMPETITIVE. In fact, it is estimated that less than 10% of applications actually receive an SBIR/STTR funding award. This means that you have to have a strong application to have a chance at getting awarded.