What is SBIR and STTR?

These two acronyms show up often in entrepreneurial conversations. Let’s break it down. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) are both programs of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)’s initiative, America’s Seed Fund. While both are non-dilutive, there are a few differences between them that determine which program is a good fit for you.

STTR

  • Small business is the applicant

  • Partnered with a non-profit research institution (RI)

  • PI can be employed by either the RI or the small business

  • Using technology from the RI’s portfolio (tech transfer)

  • Up to 60% of the research can be sub-contracted

  • 5 agencies participate

  • IP agreement is established

SBIR

  • Project’s principal investigator (PI) is primarily employed by the small business

  • Research institution partner not required

  • Up to 33% of the research can be sub-contracted in Phase 1, 50% in Phase 2

  • 11 agencies participate

  • More investor-friendly

  • Better for PIs who want to be consultants, independent of their institution

Learn more

Legislative Update

Learn more about the bills before Congress for the reauthorization of SBIR/STTR funding by clicking each title below. Track the bills by clicking the link for each bill, and sign up for update notifications by creating an account.

  • Status: Passed the House

    Track HR 5100

  • Status: With the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee

    Track SB 853

  • Status: With Committee, Summary Pending

    Track HR 4777

  • Status: In Committee, Summaries Pending

    Track S1660

    Track HR3239

  • Status: With Committee, Summaries Pending

    Track S1573

    Track HB3169

Want to see support for SBIR/STTR continue? After learning about each bill, contact your rep and let them know which bill you support, or just express support for the program overall.

Find Your Representative