Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program Phase I

Background
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program Phase I is seeking applications from eligible applicants to explore the technical merit or feasibility of an innovative idea or technology with the aim of developing a viable product or service that will be introduced to the commercial marketplace. The program was established to strengthen the role of innovative small business concerns in Federally-funded research or research and development (R/R&D).

Specific program goals are to stimulate technological innovation, use small businesses to meet Federal R/R&D needs, foster and encourage participation by socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses and by women-owned small businesses in technological innovation, and increase private sector commercialization of innovations derived from Federal R/R&D, thereby increasing competition, productivity, and economic growth.

Grant Details
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program Phase I is a three-phase program established by the Department of Commerce. Phase I is for NIST to determine the technical feasibility of the research, preliminary commercialization merit of the proposed effort, and the quality of the awardee’s performance.

The application should concentrate on describing research that will significantly contribute to proving the feasibility of the proposed Phase II research and commercialization potential, prerequisites to receiving further support in Phase II. Each Phase I award is for up to $100,000 and up to a six (6) month period of performance. Up to an additional $6,500 may be requested for Technical and Business Assistance (TABA).

Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must qualify as a Small Business Concern for Research/Research and Development (R/R&D) purposes at the time of award. In addition, the primary employment of the principal investigator must be with the small business at the time of the award and during the conduct of the proposed research. The R/R&D work must be performed in the United States.

Period of Performance
NIST anticipates funding approximately ten (10) awards with a period of performance of up to six (6) months.

Grant Value
Individual award amounts may be up to $100,000 with up to an additional $6,500 for Technical and Business Assistance (TABA).