What Is the Funding Amount for SBIR Grants?

Page Summary

SBIR grant awards vary by federal agency, with amounts between $50,000 for a Phase I, up to $1,500,000 for a Phase II. The duration of these awards varies from six months to two years. For the latest information, consult specific agencies as funding and requirements may have changed, and some agencies may require cost-sharing.

The funding amounts for SBIR Phase I and Phase II grants can vary by agency. Each federal agency that participates in the SBIR program may have its own guidelines and funding limits. As of the last program update in January 2022, here are general guidelines for the SBIR Phase I and Phase II funding amounts for some key agencies:

SBIR Grants Funding Amounts

1. National Institutes of Health (NIH)

   • SBIR Phase I: awards can provide up to $225,000 (for six months to one year).
   • SBIR Phase II: awards can provide up to $1,500,000 in total funding for a period of up to two years.
     
     

2. National Science Foundation (NSF):

   • SBIR Phase I: awards can provider up to $256,000 (for six months to one year).
   • SBIR Phase II: awards can provide up to $1,710,000 in total funding for a period of up to two years.
     
     

3. Department of Defense (DoD)

   Funding amounts can vary widely across DOD agencies (e.g., Army, Navy, Air Force). Typically,
   • SBIR Phase I: awards may range from $50,000 to $150,000.
   • SBIR Phase II: award amount can vary by agency and program, but it often provides funding in the range of $750,000 to $1,500,000 for a period of up to two years.
     
     

4. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

   • SBIR Phase I: awards can provide up to $125,000 (for six months to one year).
   • SBIR Phase II: awards can provide up to $750,000 in total funding for a period of up to two years.
     
     

5. Department of Energy (DOE)

   • SBIR Phase I: awards can provide up to $200,000 (for six months to one year).
   • SBIR Phase II: awards can provide up to $1,500,000 in total funding for a period of up to two years.
     
     

These amounts are general estimates, and actual funding limits may vary. Additionally, agencies may have specific topics or areas of interest for which they are offering SBIR funding. It's crucial for applicants to check the specific solicitation or program announcement from the relevant agency to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on funding amounts and requirements. Funding amounts and guidelines may have changed since the last SBIR update in January 2022, so it's advisable to consult the latest information from the respective agencies.

Additionally, some agencies may have matching requirements where the small business must provide a certain percentage of cost-sharing.

Applying for SBIR grant funding involves meeting eligibility criteria, selecting relevant agencies, crafting a comprehensive proposal, registering with SAM and Grants.gov, adhering to agency-specific guidelines, and engaging with program managers for a competitive chance at funding and successful commercialization.

How to Apply for SBIR Grant Funding

Are There Additional Funding Opportunities Beyond SBIR Phase II?