The NCATS SBIR and STTR programs provide technical assistance and funding opportunities to help small business and research organizations advance technologies and research concepts that can eventually be commercialized to improve health. There are two primary SBIR and STTR funding mechanisms: grants and contracts. NCATS also supports other programs that work with small businesses to advance technology products. View all open small business funding opportunities from NCATS.
SBIR & STTR Grants
Omnibus Solicitation
Applications due: January 5, April 5 and September 5
The annual SBIR/STTR Omnibus Solicitation encourages investigator-initiated grant applications across a broad range of research areas. Eligible U.S. small businesses should have the capabilities and technological expertise to contribute to the research and development missions of the awarding NIH Institute or Center. Small businesses interested in NCATS funding should review the Center’s research priorities prior to applying. The typical award date is six to nine months after submission of a successful application.
Targeted Grant Funding Announcements
Applications due: Varies
Throughout the year, NCATS may release funding opportunities or participate in other NIH grant funding announcements to advance technologies in a targeted area. Current announcements are listed on the Open Small Business Opportunities page.
Administrative Supplements
Active SBIR and STTR grantees are eligible for administrative supplement awards, which have varying application periods and deadlines.
I-Corps™ at NIH
Innovation Corps (I-Corps™) at NIH is an innovative program to develop and nurture a national innovation ecosystem that builds upon biomedical research to develop technologies, products and services that benefit society. Active SBIR and STTR Phase 1 grantees are eligible to participate.
For more information, view the I‑Corps™ at NIH flyer (PDF - 225KB).
SBIR & STTR Contracts
Applications due: Typically in the fall
NCATS accepts applications for SBIR contract funding once each year. Contract topics cover a wide range of technology development areas to help successfully finance and advance innovations toward commercialization. Applicants should review the contract topic areas above and submit a proposal related to one of those topics. Applicants are encouraged to contact the NCATS SBIR & STTR team for more information about the Center’s contract topics of interest.
Additional Support for Small Businesses
NCATS SBIR and STTR awardees may be eligible for support beyond funding, including access to technical assistance programs and other NCATS small business resources.
For More Information
Contact the NCATS SBIR & STTR team to discuss your idea or to learn more about NCATS support for small businesses.
NCATS’ SBIR program