SBIR/STTR FAQs
SBIR/STTR Information
For entrepreneurs:
– Enables early transfer of technology and establishment of start-up companies
– Use funds to prove feasibility
– Retain Intellectual property
– Don’t have to pay back
– Won’t dilute ownership
For Maine:
– Additional jobs
– Increased Innovation
– Increased economic development
– Increased tax base
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs represent the nation’s largest source of early-stage funding for research and development in high-risk, innovative technologies. Each year, 11 federal agencies allocate a combined $4 billion through these awards to drive advancements in cutting-edge sectors. SBIR/STTR awards are instrumental in:
– Supporting the development of proof-of-concept models and functional prototypes
– Facilitating the hiring of specialized technical personnel and subject-matter experts
– Enabling the acquisition of critical materials, equipment, and tools
– Providing a pathway to validate technologies for federal procurement and government contracting – Financing collaborative research initiatives with academic institutions
Unlike equity-based financing models, SBIR/STTR funds are non-dilutive, meaning awardees retain full ownership of their companies and all associated intellectual property rights.