Small Business Innovative Research - Chemical Biological Def

The Small Business Innovative Research - Chemical Biological Defense Program (CBD SBIR) focuses on enhancing the transition and transfer of innovative chemical and biological defense technologies between the Department of Defense (DoD) and the private sector. This initiative aims to bolster defensive capabilities in chemical and biological environments through both passive and active deterrents. Key areas include chemical and biological detection, information assessment, contamination avoidance, and protection for individual soldiers and equipment.

The CBD SBIR program is part of a broader effort to engage small businesses in federal research and development, as mandated by Congress. It reserves a portion of extramural R&D funds for small business awards, encouraging these entities to contribute innovative solutions that align with government objectives. The program supports the development of new technologies and facilitates their commercialization, allowing small businesses to sell these innovations back to the government or in the private market.

Additionally, the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program complements the SBIR initiative by fostering collaboration between small businesses and research institutions such as universities and Federally-Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs). This collaboration aims to move emerging technical ideas from laboratories to the marketplace, promoting high-tech economic development and enhancing U.S. competitiveness. The STTR program requires a cooperative research agreement between a small business and at least one research institution, with specific work distribution requirements.

In fiscal year 2023, significant resources were directed toward various projects under the CBD SBIR program. These projects include advancements in chemical countermeasures, biological countermeasures such as decontamination techniques for open wounds, early-warning biosensors, point detection systems, and protective materials like breathable chemical barriers. Additionally, there was support for infectious disease diagnostics research. These efforts collectively aim to strengthen national defense capabilities against chemical and biological threats while supporting innovation within the small business sector.