Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Programs Phase II

Background
The Small Business Administration (SBA) administers the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs Phase II, with the goal of stimulating technological innovation and increasing private sector commercialization among small businesses.

The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) oversees these programs, which aim to transform scientific discovery into products and services that provide social and economic benefits. The Phase II program focuses on continuing research and development while emphasizing commercialization.

Grant Details
The USDA SBIR/STTR programs are designed to support small businesses in creating innovative technologies with commercial potential. The funding opportunity is open to previous Phase I awardees who are eligible to submit applications for Phase II funding.

The anticipated funding for FY 2025 includes approximately $19,500,000 for SBIR and $3,250,000 for STTR. Each individual award is expected to range from $600,000 to $650,000. The program encourages applications across ten topic areas including:
1) Forests and Related Resources;
2) Plant Production and Protection (Biology);
3) Animal Production and Protection;
4) Conservation of Natural Resources;
5) Food Science and Nutrition;
6) Rural and Community Development;
7) Aquaculture;
8) Biofuels and Biobased Products;
9) Small and Mid-size Farms;
10) Plant Production and Protection (Engineering).

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants must be small business concerns (SBCs), organized as for-profit entities, with a majority ownership by U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens. Applicants must have previously received a Phase I award to qualify for Phase II funding. Additionally, the primary employment of the Project Director/Principal Investigator must meet specific criteria depending on whether they are applying under SBIR or STTR.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for the Phase II projects typically does not exceed 24 months but may be extended up to 36 months in special cases.

Grant Value
The total anticipated funding available for the FY 2025 Phase II SBIR Program is approximately $19,500,000, while the STTR Program has an anticipated funding amount of approximately $3,250,000. Individual awards are expected to range from $600,000 to $650,000.

Place of Performance
The research and development work must be performed in the United States.