SBIR & STTR Agencies We Support
KeepYourEquity supports Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) funding across all major federal agencies, with extensive experience in biotech, deep-tech, and dual-use R&D programs. We focus on agencies where execution, technical rigor, and commercialization matter most.
Core SBIR & STTR Agencies:
Agency
Focus Area
Phase I
Phase II
Best Fit
NIH (HHS)
Biomedical, therapeutics, diagnostics
~$300K
~$2M+
Biotech, life sciences
NSF
Deep-tech, AI, engineering
~$300K
~$1.25M
Platform technologies
DOW / DoD
Defense, dual-use systems
Varies
Varies
Aerospace, cyber, hardware
DOE
Energy, climate, materials
~$250K
~$1.5M
Energy and climate tech
ARPA-H
Advanced health innovation
Varies
Varies
High-risk health tech
ARPA-E
Transformational energy
Varies
Varies
Breakthrough energy
Additional Federal Programs:
Agency
Focus Area
Notes
NASA
Space, robotics, propulsion
Strong for hardware startups
USDA
Agriculture, bio-based products
Agtech, bio-manufacturing
EPA
Environmental technologies
Climate, water, remediation
NIST (DOC)
Standards, manufacturing
Measurement and infrastructure
NOAA (DOC)
Ocean, climate systems
Environmental innovation
DHS
Homeland security
Dual-use technologies
ED (Dept. of Education)
Education technologies
EdTech, accessibility
How to Choose the Right SBIR & STTR Agency
Selecting an agency is a high-leverage decision that dictates your success rate. We evaluate every opportunity based on four critical pillars:
Technical Alignment
How well does your tech match the agency’s specific problem set?
Program Intent
Are they looking for early-stage basic research or late-stage commercialization?
Stage Fit
Does your development timeline align with the agency’s budget cycles?
Commercialization Pathway
Do you have a plan that matches their expected outcome?
Full-Service Support
(Flat Fee or Hybrid)
- Full SBIR/STTR proposal development
- Strategy, drafting, and iteration
- Submission and compliance guidance
Ways to Work With KeepYourEquity
We offer multiple engagement models depending on your team, timeline, and budget.
Strategic Support
(Hourly)
- Agency and topic selection
- Technical planning and positioning
- Proposal review and red team feedback
Self-Serve Templates
(Phase I & Phase II)
- SBIR Phase I templates
- SBIR Phase II templates
- Built from awarded proposals
- Aligned to agency expectations​
Common Questions
Most grant firms operate purely as writers—they take your input and format it. We operate as strategic partners. We understand the science, the agency’s mission, and the commercial pathway that drives a review panel’s decision.
What are SBIR and STTR Programs?
The SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) programs are federal funding mechanisms that provide non-dilutive capital to startups developing innovative technologies. These programs are designed to support early-stage R&D with commercialization potential across agencies like NIH, NSF, DoD, and DOE. They allow companies to advance technical milestones without giving up equity.
What is the difference between SBIR and STTR?
The primary difference between SBIR and STTR is the requirement for a research partner. STTR mandates collaboration with a nonprofit research institution, while SBIR allows startups to apply independently. Both programs fund similar types of innovation, but STTR is ideal for teams commercializing academic or lab-based technologies.
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What is the success rate for SBIR/STTR Phase I?
SBIR/STTR Phase I success rates typically range from 10% to 20%, depending on the agency and solicitation. Winning proposals demonstrate strong technical feasibility, clear commercialization potential, and tight alignment with agency priorities. Teams that treat SBIR/STTR as a strategic process, not just a writing exercise, significantly improve their odds.
How much funding can you receive from SBIR/STTR?
SBIR/STTR Phase I awards typically range from $100,000 to $300,000, while Phase II awards can exceed $2 million (depending on the agency). Some agencies also offer Direct-to-Phase II and follow-on funding opportunities that can bring total non-dilutive funding into the multi-million dollar range. The exact amount depends on the agency, topic, and scope of work.
Can startups apply without prior funding or revenue?
Yes. Early-stage startups can apply for SBIR/STTR funding without prior revenue or venture backing. These programs are designed to fund high-risk, high-reward technologies at the earliest stages. However, teams must demonstrate technical credibility, a clear R&D plan, and the ability to execute.
What is the biggest mistake founders make with SBIR/STTR?
The biggest mistake founders make is treating SBIR/STTR like a grant-writing exercise instead of a strategic alignment process. Many proposals fail due to weak technical milestones, unclear commercialization pathways, or poor fit with the agency’s mission. Success comes from aligning your innovation, execution plan, and narrative with how reviewers evaluate risk and impact.