The U.S. Government’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, initiated in 1982, were created to drive technological innovation and address key federal research and development priorities. These programs continue to support small businesses by funding early-stage R&D with strong commercial potential.

Together, these programs provide a critical bridge between federal research and industry application. For companies in sectors like defense, health, energy, and advanced manufacturing, SBIR/STTR programs offer a rare opportunity to access non-dilutive funding in order to develop new technologies while keeping intellectual property and commercial rights. In a risk-heavy innovation environment, these programs lower the barrier to entry, helping companies test and scale solutions that can shape the future of their industry.

What Makes SBIR/STTR Programs Different:

• No Equity or Ownership is taken
• Focus on Commercialization
• Alignment with Agency Missions
• Phase Based Scaling
• Direct Partnerships with Research Institutions
• Intellectual Property Protection

Many different agencies across the government are involved in the process of granting SBIR and STTR funding. Some of the largest programs are executed by the Department of Defense (approx. $2.3 Billion) and Health and Human Services (approx. $1.2 Billion). Recently, Congress has proposed legislative changes to the SBIR and STTR programs, in order to improve commercialization activities and funding. This, in addition to the INNOVATE Act, reinforce the growing use of these programs to support innovation in the industry.  

This briefing will explain the SBIR/STTR programs, along with a review of the impact of current changes on program outcomes and what companies need to know to stay competitive within the changing federal landscape.

Recommended attending personnel:

• Government Contracting Officers
• Contractors with Current Contracts
• Businesses that want to win direct federal contracts
• Business development
• Proposal writers
• Contract managers
• Industry Contract officers

Important: This briefing uses a Zoom-based communication connection via your network. This briefing will be accessible via phone if you are unable to connect online and recorded versions will be distributed with closed-caption for the hearing impaired. Instructions for login will be provided upon registration.