Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program

Equity-free federal R&D funding for small businesses that partner with a nonprofit research institution such as a university or federal laboratory to move research into the market.

Run by

U.S. Small Business Administration (coordinating) with participating federal agencies

Funding

Up to $2,153,927

SBIR/STTR caps as of April 2026: Phase I up to $323,090 and Phase II up to $2,153,927 (including modifications) without an SBA waiver; actual amounts set by each agency's solicitation.

Your share

Small business must perform at least 40% of the work and the research institution at least 30%

Who can apply

• Small, for-profit U.S. business (fewer than 500 employees including affiliates)
• Must formally partner with a nonprofit research institution (e.g., university or federal lab) and agree on IP allocation
• Principal investigator may be primarily employed by the business or the research institution
• Must respond to a specific agency STTR solicitation/topic

How to apply

Find an STTR topic on SBIR.gov and submit a joint proposal with your research partner to the issuing agency.

Timing

Reauthorized through September 30, 2031 (signed April 13, 2026). Deadlines vary by agency solicitation.

Last checked

2026-10-11

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