State programs add non-dilutive money on top of federal awards, grouped here by state. The most common are SBIR/STTR Phase 0 proposal-prep grants (usually $3K–$15K) and SBIR/STTR matching grants (often up to $50K–$150K per phase). Many states also run innovation vouchers that pay for work at an in-state university, proof-of-concept grants, and loans or royalty financing, which are labeled as such. Nearly all require an in-state presence, and most run annual or rolling rounds. State venture funds that invest equity are not listed. We found no qualifying state-funded grant program in Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Oklahoma or Washington, D.C. as of this check.
Alabama
Alabama Launchpad (Technology and Life Sciences tracks)
Alabama — Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA), with Innovate Alabama
$75,000 (Technology winner) / $100,000 (Life Sciences winner); $2,500 stipend for every finalist
PrizeEquity-freeanybiotech/medtech
The catch: You sign a funding agreement within 30 days. No more than half the prize is paid up front, and the rest depends on judge-set milestones. If IP is involved, you must own it or be close to exclusive rights before the second tranche. Misrepresentation can trigger repayment plus 10% interest.
Next deadline: Expected: January 2027 · multiple rounds/yr (two cycles a year; Cycle 2 2026 closed August 13)
Founder tip: Life sciences startups compete for a larger prize ($100K vs $75K) in a smaller pool. SBIR money doesn't count toward the $1M raise cap, so grant-funded deep tech teams stay eligible longer than VC-backed ones.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Alabama startups in technology or life sciences. You are ineligible if you have raised $1M or more in equity or convertible securities (SBIR/STTR and other grants excluded) or had more than $2M in sales in the prior 12 months.
- How to apply
- Direct application (with application fee) during a cycle window. First step: apply on alabamalaunchpad.com. Finalists get 12 weeks of mentoring, then pitch to closed-door investor committees.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, student
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Cycle 1 2026 Technology: The BreadBoard Company ($75K). Recent Life Sciences winners: Kalm Therapeutics ($100K), Cognera Health ($100K).
Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program (SBIR/STTR match)
Alabama — Innovate Alabama
50% of the federal award: up to $100,000 (Phase I) or $250,000 (Phase II)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Must be Alabama-based with an active award. Rounds are short (about 4–5 weeks).
Next deadline: Expected: February 2027 · multiple rounds/yr (2026 rounds closed February 26 and July 17)
Founder tip: At 50% up to $250K, the Phase II match is among the largest state SBIR supplements in the Southeast. Awards from July 2024 onward counted in 2026, so check with Innovate Alabama whether an older award still qualifies before you write it off.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Alabama-based small businesses with an active federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II award. The 2026 round covered awards received on or after July 1, 2024.
- How to apply
- Direct application during an open round. First step: watch innovatealabama.org for the next round and email [email protected].
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Alaska
Alaska SBIR/STTR Grant Program (state match and bridge funding)
Alaska — Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development (Division of Community and Regional Affairs)
Phase I or bridge: up to $25,000; Phase II: up to $25,000 initial plus up to $75,000 supplemental (max $100,000)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Small annual pool ($125,000 for FY2026), so awards run out. Phase II supplemental awards are made only if money remains after the deadline, and your federal Phase II must still be active. The application asks how the project serves Alaska's economic priorities. Line-item state budget and reporting.
Next deadline: Expected: May 2027 · annual (rolling review within the state fiscal-year window)
Founder tip: The whole program is about $125K a year, so apply early in the window. Tick the supplemental-award box if you hold a Phase II. Bridge funding between Phase I and Phase II is allowed, which few state programs offer.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit, Alaska-based businesses with an active federal SBIR/STTR Phase I or Phase II award, or seeking bridge funding between Phase I and Phase II. Needs an Alaska business license and a SAM.gov UEI.
- How to apply
- Direct application to DCRA; the department reviews applications on a rolling basis during an annual window with a May deadline (FY2025 deadline: May 9). First step: download the current-year application from the DCRA Grants Section page.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
Arizona
Arizona Innovation Challenge (Fall 2026, SaaS track)
Arizona — Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA)
Minimum $50,000 (the ACA page headline and the Sept 2026 notices cite $100,000)
PrizeEquity-freeAI/compute
The catch: Awardees sign a contract with ACA, complete three months of milestones with an ACA partner or Entrepreneur-in-Residence, and are paid after the milestones. Funds must support jobs, revenue and capital spending in Arizona. Past winners cannot win again.
Next deadline: Sep 28, 2026 · annual (fall)
Founder tip: The last two rounds (2025, 2026) were SaaS-only, so hardware and biotech teams cannot enter now. Watch whether ACA brings back the broader industry list (materials, aerospace, cleantech, bio) for 2027.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- The Fall 2026 round is for SaaS startups only. They must be incorporated after Aug 2023, have a working product with real customers and earn $5K–$50K in monthly recurring revenue. The standing rules require 2–29 employees and a for-profit entity; out-of-state companies must move or build significant operations in Arizona.
- How to apply
- Pitch competition with three rounds: an online application, a semifinalist pitch to Arizona VCs, then a finalist interview. Apply Sept 14–28, 2026.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Since 2011 there have been 156 awardees from over 3,000 applicants. Past sectors include cleantech, bioscience and advanced manufacturing (e.g., GT Medical Technologies). The Fall 2026 round expects 5 awardees.
Arkansas
Arkansas SBIR Matching Grant Program
Arkansas — Arkansas Economic Development Commission (Division of Science & Technology)
Up to 50% of the federal award: max $50,000 (Phase I) and $100,000 (Phase II)
GrantEquity-freematerialshardwarebiotech/medtechclimate/energyAI/compute
The catch: Discretionary and subject to available funds. Paid as reimbursement against invoices and financial reports. Only costs incurred after AEDC receives the application count. The 2025 rules (SB 218) require at least 51% of funds spent in Arkansas, an Arkansas-resident PI, staying in the state for the project period, and a cap of 3 matching grants per company.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: File as soon as the federal award letter arrives. The program only reimburses costs incurred after AEDC receives your application, so waiting costs you money. The official page names SBIR only; the 2025 law also mentions STTR, so confirm STTR eligibility with AEDC.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Arkansas-based small businesses that hold a federal SBIR award. They must work mainly in a targeted sector: advanced materials and manufacturing, agriculture/food/environmental sciences, biotech/life sciences, IT, transportation logistics or bio-based products.
- How to apply
- Direct application after a federal award. First step: contact the AEDC Division of Science & Technology. The discretionary application is filed only once the AEDC Director has offered the incentive.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Kuria Therapeutics (Little Rock) got an AEDC match on its NIH SBIR Fast Track in 2026. FR8relay (Bentonville) got a $100,000 match on a USDA Phase II in 2024.
Arkansas Technology Development Program (TDP) royalty financing
Arkansas — Arkansas Economic Development Commission (Division of Science & Technology)
Up to $100,000 per technology
OtherEquity: see termsany
The catch: You pay a royalty on product revenue. You must sign a Royalty Agreement before any money is released. The program only fills gaps, so it cannot fund projects that fit other programs.
Equity: No equity. It is royalty financing: you repay through a royalty of 0%–5% under a Royalty Agreement that runs up to 10 years.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: AEDC says it has used TDP to bridge the gap between SBIR Phase I and Phase II. Pitch it that way if you are waiting on a Phase II decision.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Arkansas inventors, businesses, Arkansas colleges and universities, and federal labs in Arkansas developing new technology-based products or processes. Projects must not be eligible for other AEDC programs.
- How to apply
- Direct application to the AEDC Division of Science & Technology, with a project plan that runs from idea to prototype to production. Contact the program (Bob Kucheravy) first.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- No equity. It is royalty financing: you repay through a royalty of 0%–5% under a Royalty Agreement that runs up to 10 years.
- Who wins
- AEDC names Ozark Integrated Circuits and SurfTec (low-friction surface technology) as TDP-funded companies.
California
CEC Cost-Share for Federal Geothermal Energy Funding Opportunities (GFO-25-902)
California — California Energy Commission (Geothermal Grant and Loan Program)
Varies — check official page ($3,000,000 total available)
GrantEquity-freeclimate/energyhardware
The catch: Only pays if you win the federal award. The California Grants Portal lists a 50% match requirement. Awards are contingent on the federal selection and CEC approval. Standard CEC grant agreement and reporting.
Next deadline: Rolling · Standing solicitation (released June 4, 2026; deadlines tied to each eligible federal FOA)
Founder tip: Use this as state cost share inside your federal geothermal application, since DOE reviewers score committed cost share. Check the manual's FOA table first; only the listed federal opportunities qualify.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Businesses, individuals, public agencies and tribal governments that apply for and win an award under an eligible federal geothermal funding opportunity listed in the solicitation manual (for example DE-FOA-0003589). Location requirements are set in the application manual.
- How to apply
- Direct application through the CEC's ECAMS portal after (or alongside) the federal application. First step: check the Eligible Federal Funding Opportunities table in section II.B of the GFO-25-902 manual; each federal FOA has its own CEC deadline.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
Colorado
Colorado Advanced Industries Early-Stage Capital and Retention Grant
Colorado — Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT)
Up to $250,000 (up to $500,000 for projects spanning more than one advanced industry)
GrantEquity-freehardwarespacebiotech/medtechsemiconductorsclimate/energymaterialsAI/compute
The catch: Match of $2 of non-state cash for every $1 of state money (e.g., $500K for a $250K grant). The match must be cash in the company account at grant execution; in-kind and other state funds do not count. A conditional award gives you 6 months to raise the match or you lose it. The technology must be created or manufactured in Colorado. Follow-on grants must be for a different technology.
Next deadline: Expected: February 2027 · twice a year (winter window Jan–Feb, summer window Jul–Aug; the last deadline was Aug 27, 2026)
Founder tip: Federal grants and investor money both count toward the 2:1 match, so an SBIR Phase II can cover it. Preference points go to technology licensed from a Colorado research institution, accelerator alumni, or companies referred by a VC or angel group.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Colorado-headquartered companies (or with at least 50% of employees in Colorado) building a disruptive technology in an advanced industry: advanced manufacturing, aerospace, bioscience, electronics, energy/cleantech, infrastructure engineering or tech/IT. Annual revenue must be under $10M and total grants plus investment under $20M. You need a completed prototype, technical validation, IP and a commercialization plan.
- How to apply
- Direct application in the OEDIT portal: a pre-qualification questionnaire, then the full application, industry subcommittee review, a pitch to the full committee and final approval by the Economic Development Commission. Request portal access several days ahead.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- The spring 2026 cycle funded 21 companies and 15 researchers ($7.49M total from 144 applications). The fall 2025 cycle funded 17 companies and 8 researchers ($5.23M).
Delaware
Delaware Catalyst Fund — Delaware Rural Health Challenge
Delaware — Delaware Prosperity Partnership
Up to $5,000,000 total in milestone-based grants (per-company amounts not stated)
GrantEquity-freebiotech/medtechhardware
The catch: Milestone-based payments. Solutions must serve rural Delaware residents. All funds must be spent by September 30, 2027, so timelines are short.
Next deadline: Expected: January 2027 · one-time funded cohort (federal CMS/HHS money; all funds out by 2027-09-30)
Founder tip: Startups are recruited to fit problems DPP has already defined, so watch for the challenge statements after the operator is picked. You will need a deployable device or service, not an early prototype, to spend the money by September 2027.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Health tech startups with consumer-facing solutions (e.g. remote patient monitoring, wearables) that prevent disease or manage chronic conditions for rural Delaware residents, matched to challenges DPP identifies.
- How to apply
- Reverse-pitch: DPP first selects a program operator (proposals due 2026-10-05), then startup applications open for the posted healthcare gaps.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
Delaware EDGE Grants — STEM Class
Delaware — Division of Small Business
Up to $100,000 (share of a $750K STEM pool; scaled by pitch)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: 3:1 match: the business puts in $1 for every $3 of state money. Funds go to specific growth costs (equipment, lab space rent, market analysis, infrastructure), not general operating capital.
Next deadline: Expected: September 2027 · annual competition (2026 window closed Sept 11)
Founder tip: Award size depends on your finalist pitch, so rehearse it. Lab rent and equipment are eligible, which suits early hardware and bio teams, and your 25% share can be modest.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Businesses majority located in Delaware, in business under 7 years, with 15 or fewer full-time employees and under $700K in assets.
- How to apply
- Direct application in the competition window, then a finalist pitch.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Up to 18 awardees per round across the Entrepreneur and STEM tracks; past winners are listed on the EDGE awardee page.
Georgia
Georgia FAST Grant (SBIR/STTR Phase 0)
Georgia — UGA Innovation Gateway (Georgia FAST Partnership)
Up to $2,450
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Pays only toward hiring a grant-writing consultant for an SBIR/STTR application. Funded by an SBA FAST grant.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling (while SBA FAST funds last)
Founder tip: The proof-of-concept requirement is easy to meet if you have a GRA grant or completed I-Corps, so cite it up front. Line up the consultant first, since the money is tied to that engagement.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Georgia-based for-profit ventures eligible for SBIR/STTR that show potential for Georgia job creation. You need evidence of proof-of-concept funding, such as a Georgia Research Alliance grant, UGA KickStart, NSF I-Corps, accelerator winnings or seed capital.
- How to apply
- Direct application via the form on the UGA program page. First step: confirm your proof-of-concept funding evidence, then apply (questions: [email protected]).
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Hawaii
Hawaiʻi Small Business Innovation Research (HSBIR) Matching and Phase 0 Grants
Hawaii — Hawaiʻi Technology Development Corporation (HTDC)
Phase 0: up to $3,000 reimbursement; Phase I: 50% match up to $75,000; Phase II/III (when available): 50% match up to $500,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Match capped at 50% of the federal award. Must complete NIST MEP and HTDC impact-metric surveys and take part in Innovate HI programs and events. Work must be done in Hawaiʻi.
Next deadline: Expected: December 2026 · annual (Phase 0 and Phase I applications open in the fall)
Founder tip: The match is 50% of the federal award, so a standard Phase I nets about $75K. Apply in the fall window after your federal award lands, because the award has to be within the past 12 months. First-timers should claim the $3,000 Phase 0 to pay a grant writer.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Registered to do business in Hawaiʻi and compliant with Hawaii Compliance Express, with project work performed in Hawaiʻi. Matching grants require an active federal SBIR/STTR award received within the past 12 months. Phase 0 reimburses grant-writing costs on a first federal application.
- How to apply
- Direct application during HTDC's annual window. First step: email [email protected] or use HTDC office hours to confirm eligibility before the Fall 2026 window opens.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- FY26: 19 awards totaling $1,281,730 (11 Phase I, 7 Phase II, 1 Phase III) in ocean, space, health and energy tech, including Ocean Era, Cloudstone Innovations and MorphOptic.
Illinois
Illinois SBIR/STTR Matching Program
Illinois — DCEO
Phase I: up to $75,000; Phase II: up to $250,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: One grant per state fiscal year and per federal proposal; lifetime limits of 5 Phase I and 2 Phase II grants. Phase I pays 75% up front and 25% after milestones; Phase II pays 50/50 with the second half after the final report. No duplicate funding.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling within each state fiscal year (July 1–June 30) until funds run out
Founder tip: Apply for the Phase I match before you submit your Phase II proposal: once Phase II is in, you lose Phase I eligibility. Since it is first-come, apply early in the fiscal year (July).
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit businesses with their principal place of business in Illinois that received a federal SBIR/STTR Phase I or Phase II award within the past 12 months; the award must still be active. Phase I applicants must not yet have submitted their Phase II proposal. Must certify 51% of the research happens in Illinois.
- How to apply
- Direct application, first-come first-served (non-competitive). First step: apply on the DCEO SBIR/STTR page soon after your federal award notice; questions to [email protected].
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Illinois Innovation Voucher Program
Illinois — DCEO / Illinois Science & Technology Coalition
Up to 75% of a university research engagement, max $75,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: 25% cost share by the company. Money goes to the university engagement; your own internal salaries, travel and general consulting are not covered.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling (annual funding; 2026 funding limited)
Founder tip: The voucher pays the university, not you, so use it for work you would otherwise buy: characterization, testing, prototyping or specialized equipment time at a campus lab.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit businesses with their principal place of business in Illinois (or at least 100 full-time Illinois employees), partnering with a qualified Illinois nonprofit college or university. Business must stay in Illinois during the project.
- How to apply
- Direct application with a university partner. First step: scope a project with an Illinois university (ISTC can help match you), then apply online.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
Indiana
Indiana Innovation Voucher Program
Indiana — IEDC / Applied Research Institute
Up to $50,000 per project; $100,000 lifetime per company
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Cash match required from private or public investment (SBIR/STTR money counts; other IEDC awards do not). Research partner must be an approved Indiana institution; universities must waive overhead.
Next deadline: Expected: January 2027 · annual, three deadlines (2026: Jan 16, May 15, Sep 18)
Founder tip: An SBIR/STTR award can serve as your cash match, so a voucher can buy university lab time or testing that your federal budget does not cover.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Indiana-based startups and small businesses working with an approved Indiana research provider (e.g., Purdue, Indiana University, Notre Dame, Rose-Hulman Ventures, Trine, IBRI and other approved nonprofits). Project work cannot start before the agreement is signed.
- How to apply
- Direct application with a named research partner. First step: agree a scope with an approved Indiana research provider, then apply on the ARI Pathfinder portal before a deadline.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Indiana SBIR/STTR Matching Grants
Indiana — IEDC / Applied Research Institute
Phase I: 50% of federal award, up to $50,000; Phase II: 50%, up to $75,000 ($150,000 lifetime cap)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Must stay headquartered in Indiana. Match is capped at 50 cents per federal dollar and at $150,000 lifetime.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Because the lifetime cap is $150,000, save matches for your largest awards: a $275K Phase I only earns $50K, while a Phase II earns up to $75K.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Companies headquartered in Indiana that have received a federal SBIR/STTR Phase I or Phase II award. Max three Phase I matches and two Phase II matches per company, $150,000 total including subsidiaries.
- How to apply
- Direct application after the federal award, through the IEDC SBIR microsite. First step: use the free application assistance (proposal feedback and support letters) before you submit the federal proposal.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- At the IEDC board's Q2 2026 meeting the state reported $600,000 in SBIR/STTR matching grants to 10 Indiana companies in AI, biotech and quantum.
Iowa
Iowa Demonstration Fund
Iowa — IEDA
Up to $100,000
OtherEquity-freehardwarematerialsbiotech/medtechAI/compute
The catch: Repayable loan or royalty on sales. 1:2 private-to-public match.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling (funding decisions every two months)
Founder tip: This is launch money (hiring, equipment, marketing), so it fits right after a POCR or SBIR Phase II, once the product is ready to sell.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Iowa companies with fewer than 500 employees in advanced manufacturing, bioscience or IT with a market-ready product (exception for regulated bio/medical products), a protectable technology, and a management team covering business development, finance and technology.
- How to apply
- Direct application via VentureNet Iowa, then panel review and presentation to the Technology Commercialization Committee. First step: email [email protected].
- Stage fit
- seed
- Equity taken
- None — primarily loans or royalty arrangements
Iowa Innovation Acceleration Fund (Launch, Propel, Expansion)
Iowa — IEDA
Launch up to $250,000; Propel up to $500,000; Expansion up to $1,000,000
OtherEquity-freehardwarematerialsbiotech/medtechAI/compute
The catch: Repayable financing. Private match required. Revenue-stage companies only.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling (funding decisions every two months)
Founder tip: All three tiers require real revenue, so this is scale-up debt for a deep tech company already selling, not pre-revenue R&D money.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Iowa companies with fewer than 500 employees commercializing in advanced manufacturing, bioscience or IT, with a protectable product, complete management team, proven business model, established customers and significant revenue.
- How to apply
- Direct application via VentureNet Iowa, then presentation to IEDA's Technology Commercialization Committee or SSBCI committee. First step: email [email protected].
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None — loans or royalty arrangements (Expansion: secured low-interest loans)
Iowa Proof of Commercial Relevance (POCR)
Iowa — IEDA
Up to $50,000
OtherEquity-freehardwarematerialsbiotech/medtechAI/compute
The catch: Repayable loan. Requires $1 private for every $2 of state money (1:2 match). No university overhead and no work done before the contract.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling (funding decisions every two months)
Founder tip: The money is for market validation (beta tests, IP analysis, competitive analysis), not core R&D, so frame the ask around proving customers will buy.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Iowa-registered companies with fewer than 500 employees in advanced manufacturing, bioscience or IT, with a functional prototype and at least two active co-founders (technical and business). Biomedical companies needing regulatory approval may use the Investigative POCR track.
- How to apply
- Direct application via VentureNet Iowa, then panel review and a presentation to IEDA's Technology Commercialization Committee. First step: email [email protected] for the current application.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None — low-interest loan (IEDA's funding chart also lists royalty agreements)
Kansas
ACCEL-KS Kansas SBIR/STTR Matching Program (Phase 0 and Phase I)
Kansas — Department of Commerce
Phase 0: up to $3,000; Phase I match: up to $25,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Phase 0 requires a 1:1 match and only pays for professional proposal-writing services. Reimbursement basis. Must keep 51% of operations in Kansas; progress and expenditure reports required. Only $250,000 per year in total.
Next deadline: Expected: November 2026 · annual (announced each October; Phase 0 rolling, Phase I rounds in Oct–Nov and Apr–May)
Founder tip: The pool is small ($250,000 a year), so file the Phase I match as soon as the round opens and your award notice is in hand.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit small businesses headquartered in Kansas that meet federal SBIR/STTR rules, do at least 51% of Phase I research in Kansas and keep 51% of operations in Kansas. Phase 0 applicants must work with an experienced grant writer or PI and be vetted by the Kansas FAST program, a support center or a consultant. Phase I applicants must hold an active federal Phase I award.
- How to apply
- Direct application. First step for Phase 0: get referred by Kansas FAST or an SBDC and sign an engagement with a grant writer; for Phase I, apply in the round covering your award date.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Kentucky
KSEF SBIR/STTR microAwards (Phase 0)
Kentucky — Kentucky Science & Engineering Foundation (KSTC)
Up to $5,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Covers fee-for-service work (lab testing, prototype fabrication), customer-discovery travel and prototype materials. It excludes equipment, grant-writing services, salaries and rent. You must submit an SBIR/STTR proposal within six months.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Unlike most Phase 0 programs, this one pays for lab tests and prototype fabrication but not grant writers. Use it to generate the preliminary data reviewers want, and use KSEF's free agency Proposal Labs for the writing.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit small companies registered in Kentucky that have prior SBIR/STTR awards or training and commit to submitting an SBIR/STTR proposal within six months. No microAward in the past 12 months.
- How to apply
- Pitch gate. First step: submit the pre-application form and schedule a consultation. Then give a 5-minute pitch plus 5 minutes of Q&A to judges.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Kentucky SBIR/STTR Matching Funds
Kentucky — KY Innovation (Cabinet for Economic Development)
Up to $100,000 for Phase I; up to $150,000 for Phase II
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Reimbursable and competitive, so you spend first and get repaid. Out-of-state companies must relocate to Kentucky.
Next deadline: Oct 26, 2026 · multiple rounds/yr (spring window usually March–April, fall window usually September–October)
Founder tip: The fall 2026 window closes October 26 at 11:59 PM. Out-of-state SBIR winners can qualify by committing to relocate, as AstraQua did in the July 2026 round.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit companies that have received a federal SBIR/STTR award and are based in Kentucky or willing to relocate there.
- How to apply
- Direct application during an open window. First step: download the KSBIR guidelines, Excel application and instructions from kyinnovation.com/sbir and email the package to [email protected].
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- July 2026: six companies received $748,620, including Bioptics Technology (fluorescence imaging for neurosurgery), Spirited Inc. (distillery-waste biorefinery) and AstraQua (relocating from California).
Louisiana
Louisiana SBIR/STTR Phase 0 Program
Louisiana — Louisiana Economic Development (Louisiana Technology Transfer Office)
Up to $3,000 (Phase I proposal) or $5,000 (Phase II proposal)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Funds only proposal-prep costs such as customer discovery, conferences and hiring a grant reviewer. You must be pursuing a federal SBIR/STTR proposal.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Use the money on an outside SBIR reviewer, not writing labor. LTTO also runs a free SBIR/STTR Advantage Series that you can take before you apply.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Louisiana small businesses preparing a federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II proposal.
- How to apply
- Direct request through LTTO. First step: fill out the survey on the LTTO page and check the box for Phase 0 grant assistance. An LED team member will follow up.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Maine
MTI Business Innovation Funding (grants)
Maine — Maine Technology Institute
Up to $30,000 (Tier 1); $30,000–$60,000 (Tier 2); $60,000–$100,000 (Tier 3)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: At least a 1:1 match; cash is required, with in-kind allowed for part. Maine-based leadership required.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Start the interest form early. You must meet the MTI team before you can file the full application, and review takes about two months. Pick the tier that matches your proof points, because the tiers have different evidence bars.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Companies with Maine-based leadership in MTI’s technology sectors, with real technical or scientific innovation and market validation. The tier depends on stage: prototype and early validation (Tier 1), working prototype and multi-person team (Tier 2), or product in market testing (Tier 3).
- How to apply
- Direct application: self-assessment, then interest form, then a meeting with the MTI team, then the full application (about 2-month review).
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None for grants (MTI also offers loans and equity separately)
MTI Technical Assistance Program (SBIR/STTR proposal support and funding)
Maine — Maine Technology Institute
Varies — check official page
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: None noted on the page. Amounts and terms are set case by case after intake.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: TAP also helps build an overhead rate and an SBIR budget, which is where first-time applicants most often stumble. Engage them before the agency solicitation opens, not in the final weeks.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Maine small businesses preparing federal SBIR/STTR proposals.
- How to apply
- Direct: complete MTI’s SBIR interest form; TAP consultants then explain the MTI funding available to cover proposal-writing costs.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- MTI reports $115M in SBIR/STTR funds won by supported Maine companies since 1997.
Maryland
Maryland Innovation Initiative (MII)
Maryland — TEDCO
Up to $130,000 (Phase 1 sole; $180,000 joint); up to $300,000 (Phase 2); up to $430,000 total
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Only for technology licensed from the five qualifying universities within 12 months. Phases run 9 months each.
Next deadline: Oct 15, 2026 · multiple rounds/yr (quarterly: Jan 15, Apr 15, Jul 15, Oct 15)
Founder tip: The 12-month clock starts at the license date, so apply in the first quarterly deadline after you sign. Phase 2 (company formation, $300,000) is where a spinout gets real runway.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Maryland-based startups that licensed technology from a qualifying university (Johns Hopkins, Morgan State, UMB, UMBC, UMD College Park) within the past 12 months, or faculty at those universities. The technology must be university-owned, disclosed to the tech transfer office and IP-protected.
- How to apply
- Direct proposal to TEDCO by a quarterly deadline.
- Stage fit
- academic spinout, pre-seed
- Equity taken
- None
Maryland Industrial Partnerships (MIPS)
Maryland — University of Maryland (MIPS)
Varies — check official page
In-kind / lab accessEquity-freeany
The catch: The company must match MIPS funds. The money goes to the university lab doing the research, not to the company. IP terms are set in the project agreement.
Next deadline: Expected: September 2027 · annual proposal round (2026 deadline was Sept 2)
Founder tip: Find the faculty partner months before the deadline, because MIPS staff help make the match and the proposal is joint. For a startup, MIPS turns a small cash match into a much larger university research effort on your problem.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Maryland companies partnering with a faculty researcher at one of the 12 University System of Maryland institutions, Morgan State or St. Mary’s College.
- How to apply
- Joint proposal: company interest form, match with a faculty investigator, then a joint proposal in MIPStrack.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
Massachusetts
Business Builds: Life Sciences
Massachusetts — Massachusetts Life Sciences Center
$500,000–$2,000,000
GrantEquity-freebiotech/medtechrobotics
The catch: 1:1 cash match (no in-kind, no other state grants). Capital expenses only (equipment, buildout, site infrastructure); no salaries or working capital. Work must be done by 2027-06-30.
Next deadline: Oct 1, 2026 · annual (late summer window; recurrence not stated on page)
Founder tip: This is only for capital spending. A startup fitting out its first GMP or pilot manufacturing suite fits best. Up to ten grants are available, so show a funded match and a build schedule that finishes by June 2027.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Life science companies of any size based in Massachusetts or expanding into it; non-MA companies must set up an MA presence before spending funds. Priority to biomanufacturing and medtech advanced manufacturing.
- How to apply
- Direct application on MLSC Submittable.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
Massachusetts Next Generation Initiative (MassNextGen)
Massachusetts — Massachusetts Life Sciences Center
Varies — check official page
GrantEquity-freebiotech/medtech
The catch: A year-long program: grant plus lab bench at a sponsoring incubator, coaching and a showcase event. You must stay MA-based.
Next deadline: Expected: June 2027 · annual (spring window)
Founder tip: The lab bench at a sponsoring incubator is worth as much as the cash for a pre-seed wet-lab team. Attend one of the spring info sessions, since the window is only about three months.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Massachusetts life sciences companies whose CEO (or equivalent) is from an underrepresented group (e.g. women, Black, Hispanic, Indigenous, LGBTQIA+, veteran, disabled, immigrant, socially disadvantaged). Majority of employees in MA.
- How to apply
- Direct application on MLSC Submittable during the annual window.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
MLSC Impact Catalyst
Massachusetts — Massachusetts Life Sciences Center
Up to $250,000
GrantEquity-freebiotech/medtech
The catch: Milestone-based: 25% on closing seed funding from syndicate partners, 25% after the first milestone report, 50% after the second. Board-meeting participation and milestone reporting required. MA good-standing certificates needed.
Next deadline: Expected: June 2027 · multiple rounds/yr (two cycles per year)
Founder tip: You need investors already doing diligence (LOIs) before applying, because the grant releases only when the seed round closes. MLSC says there are two cycles a year but has not dated Cycle 2, so watch the page.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Massachusetts life sciences startups in the program’s focus areas, with more than 50% of employees in MA, at the seed stage with committed investors.
- How to apply
- Direct application on MLSC Submittable with investor letters of intent.
- Stage fit
- seed
- Equity taken
- None (grant co-deployed alongside a private seed syndicate)
Business Builds: Climatetech
Massachusetts — MassCEC
$500,000–$2,000,000
GrantEquity-freeclimate/energyhardwarematerials
The catch: 1:1 cash match (no in-kind, no other state grants). Capital expenses only; assets commissioned within 1–3 years. Cannot stack with Climatetech Tax Incentives or the other Business Builds programs.
Next deadline: Oct 1, 2026 · multiple rounds/yr (twice a year; October 1 and April 1)
Founder tip: This funds scale-up capital, not R&D. It fits a startup building its first production line in Massachusetts. Reviewers favor shovel-ready projects with big job and capital growth (50%+ jobs, $10M+ capex).
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit companies producing climate technologies with a capital project (facilities, equipment, commercial-scale operations) located in Massachusetts. HQ does not have to be in MA; international firms must set up an MA-registered US entity.
- How to apply
- Direct application on MassCEC Submittable with the required templates and match-commitment letters.
- Stage fit
- Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
Catalyst (MassCEC / MassVentures)
Massachusetts — MassCEC
Up to $75,000
GrantEquity-freeclimate/energyhardwarematerials
The catch: No cost share. Primary operations, HQ, R&D and sales must be in Massachusetts. Capitalization cap of $2.5M. Academic applicants cannot charge indirect costs.
Next deadline: Sep 30, 2026 · multiple rounds/yr (spring and fall)
Founder tip: Catalyst is built for the feasibility step (TRL 2–4), so pitch the experiment that de-risks the idea for investors rather than a product plan. Finalists get free pitch coaching even if they lose, and the spring round reopens in January.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Massachusetts early-stage climatetech companies with 4 or fewer FTEs and no more than $2.5M in combined debt, equity, grants and revenue over the past 5 years (you can apply before incorporating but must incorporate to receive funds). MA nonprofit/academic PIs and faculty-led student teams are also eligible. Technology must be at TRL 2–4.
- How to apply
- Direct application through the MassVentures Catalyst portal, then a pitch for finalists. First step: submit the written application for the Fall 2026 round.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, academic spinout, student
- Equity taken
- None
InnovateMass
Massachusetts — MassCEC
Up to $350,000
GrantEquity-freeclimate/energyhardwarematerials
The catch: 50% cost share, reduced to 25% at Public Benefit Sites. Paid on milestones. You need a demonstration partner and must keep the Massachusetts presence throughout. Awards in early 2027; projects start summer 2027.
Next deadline: Oct 20, 2026 · annual (RFP opens around September 1)
Founder tip: Recent winners brought cost share at or above the grant. Hosting the demo at a Public Benefit Site (public facility, low-income building or Gateway City) halves your required share to 25%.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- A Massachusetts-based climatetech company as lead applicant (it must keep a majority of its HQ, primary R&D, primary manufacturing and primary sales office in MA for the whole project) plus one or more Demonstration Project Partners.
- How to apply
- Direct application, then a finalist pitch. First step: line up a demonstration host and submit under the 2026 InnovateMass RFP (questions due 2026-09-29).
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Recent awardees include Noble Carbon, MacroCycle, Elementium and Orpheus Ocean ($276K–$350K each, with $283K–$450K cost share).
MassVentures SBIR Targeted Technologies (START) Grants
Massachusetts — MassVentures
$100,000 (Round 1); $200,000 (Round 2); up to $500,000 (Round 3)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Funds go to commercializing the SBIR technology. Massachusetts HQ required. Round 3 is framed as seed capital, so read the terms before accepting.
Next deadline: Expected: February 2027 · annual (window opens in February)
Founder tip: Only Phase II holders qualify, so time the application for the February after your Phase II lands. A strong Round 1 year is the only way into the larger Round 2 grant.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Massachusetts-headquartered companies that have received a federal SBIR or STTR Phase II award. Round 2 and 3 are only for top performers from the prior round.
- How to apply
- Direct application in the annual Round 1 window; later rounds by advancement.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None for Round 1–2 grants; Round 3 is described as seed capital in a commercial spinout (terms not stated)
- Who wins
- Since 2012, START has granted $46.2M to 157 companies; the 2026 cohort was announced September 14, 2026.
Michigan
Michigan Emerging Technologies Fund (ETF) SBIR/STTR Match
Michigan — MEDC / Michigan SBDC
Phase I: $25,000; Phase II: up to $125,000
GrantEquity-freebiotech/medtechhardwarematerialsclimate/energy
The catch: Must apply before federal submission; late applications are refused. Money is paid only after you win the federal award and sign an ETF agreement, and must go to commercialization. Phase II match requires third-party matching funds. Max 2 ETF grants per 12 months (4 Phase I, 2 Phase II, 6 total). Annual results reports for 5 years and possible site visits.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling (tied to each federal SBIR/STTR deadline)
Founder tip: The pre-submission rule is the trap: file an ETF application for every SBIR/STTR proposal you send, because you cannot claim the match after the fact. The letter of support also goes into your federal proposal.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Michigan companies (or principal place of business in Michigan before disbursement) submitting SBIR/STTR proposals in one of four sectors: life sciences; homeland security and defense; advanced automotive, manufacturing and materials; alternative energy. No more than two federal Phase II awards already.
- How to apply
- Direct application at mietf.org BEFORE you submit the federal SBIR/STTR proposal. First step: apply and request the ETF letter of support at least 10 business days before the federal deadline.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Michigan SBIR/STTR Assistance Program (BBC Entrepreneurial Training & Counseling)
Michigan — MEDC / Michigan Strategic Fund (BBC Entrepreneurial Training & Counseling)
Subsidized consulting: $500 fee covers up to 10 hours of one-on-one proposal help
In-kind / lab accessEquity-freebiotech/medtechhardwarematerialsclimate/energy
The catch: $500 program fee per 10-hour block. You must agree to report award and demographic data.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Use the 10 hours on a mock review of a full draft, not on basics; BBC's free webinars cover the basics. Pair it with Michigan's ETF match, which you must file before submission anyway.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Michigan-based companies (or principal place of business in Michigan) in the state's competitive-edge sectors: advanced automotive/manufacturing, homeland security, alternative energy, life sciences.
- How to apply
- Direct enrollment. First step: complete BBC's Michigan program intake form and a consultation with a BBC consultant.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Mississippi
Mississippi Seed Fund (Proof of Concept grant and R&D loan)
Mississippi — Innovate Mississippi (Mississippi Seed Fund board)
$10,000 (grant); $25,000 (loan)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Reimbursement only. The match is at least 25% cash plus up to 75% in-kind, so a $10K award means a $20K project. Funds can't pay for patents, existing debt or pre-award costs. You report financials quarterly. The $100K and $250K convertible-note tiers are currently inactive (funds spent).
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: The $10K grant needs only $2,500 in cash, since founder hours count as in-kind for the rest. Budget for the four-week wait before you can request reimbursement.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Small businesses (500 or fewer employees) located in or relocated to Mississippi and primarily domiciled there. Innovate Mississippi focuses on innovation-based technology companies.
- How to apply
- Invitation only after coaching. First step: fill out Innovate Mississippi's Entrepreneur's Survey, then work through development meetings with the Innovate team until you are invited to pitch the Seed Fund board.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None (the $25,000 tier is a loan with up to five years to repay)
MS-FAST SBIR/STTR Phase 0 Program
Mississippi — Innovate Mississippi (with USM Office of Innovation Management)
Up to $3,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Reimbursable and tied to a specific SBIR/STTR proposal. Funded partly through an SBA FAST grant, so availability depends on that award.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Pair the Phase 0 request with MS-FAST's free matchmaking to a university faculty collaborator. That can also give you an STTR research partner.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Mississippi-based small businesses preparing a federal SBIR/STTR proposal. The current SBA FAST award emphasizes women-owned, rural and socially/economically disadvantaged firms.
- How to apply
- Direct request, rolling. First step: submit the assistance request on Innovate Mississippi's SBIR/STTR resources page or email Joe Graben ([email protected]).
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Montana
Montana SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program
Montana — Department of Commerce
Up to $60,000 per approved application ($30,000 per stage)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Paid in stages: 50% on Stage 1 approval, then 2/3 of the rest on Stage 2 approval and 1/3 after the final report. One approved application per company per fiscal year. You must remain a Montana business during Phase II.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling (first come, first served each state fiscal year until funds run out)
Founder tip: Watch the 180-day Stage 1 window; it starts on your federal Phase I start date, not the award notice date. MSU TechLink's Montana Innovation Partnership provides free help with the application.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit businesses registered with the Montana Secretary of State that hold a federal SBIR/STTR Phase I award and intend to apply for Phase II. At least 51% of the Phase II research must be done in Montana, and the business must not get duplicate state SBIR matching.
- How to apply
- Stage 1 application on funding.mt.gov within 180 days of the Phase I start date. Stage 2 application within 90 days after Phase I ends, with the final report and proof that the Phase II proposal was submitted.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
Nebraska
Nebraska Academic Research and Development Grant
Nebraska — Department of Economic Development
Phase I: up to $100,000; Phase II: up to $400,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: 1:1 match with non-state funds (25% for value-added agriculture). Research should be driven mainly by the academic partner. No more than two awards per project in four years; each phase generally finishes within 24 months.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling within the fiscal year (FY27 open from July 6, 2026 until funds run out)
Founder tip: Federal SBIR/STTR money is non-state money, so an STTR with a Nebraska university can double as the 1:1 match for this grant.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit businesses with physical operations in Nebraska doing R&D with a Nebraska college, university or faculty member. Phase II requires a successfully completed Phase I.
- How to apply
- Direct application on DED's AmpliFund portal. First step: line up the university partner and scope, then contact DED staff about funding status.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Nebraska Innovation Fund Prototype Grant
Nebraska — Department of Economic Development
Up to $150,000 per project
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Cash match of 50% of the grant (one third of project cost; 25% for value-added agriculture or Omaha Economic Redevelopment Area projects), available at application. Reimburses 2/3 of costs. Must spend within 24 months. No indirect costs.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling within the fiscal year (FY27 open July 6, 2026–June 30, 2027, until funds run out)
Founder tip: Match money has to be in hand when you apply (bank statement or investor letter), so time this right after a raise or federal award. DED may pause intake until January if half the year's money goes in the first six months.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Nebraska businesses with fewer than 500 employees in non-retail primary industries developing a prototype, from their own R&D or from research at a Nebraska college or university. Needs a business plan or pitch deck with a proof-of-concept demonstration.
- How to apply
- Direct application on DED's AmpliFund portal with a business plan and proof of matching funds. First step: talk to DED program staff to confirm funds remain.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Nebraska SBIR/STTR Grant Program (Phase 0, I and II)
Nebraska — Department of Economic Development
Phase 0: up to $5,000; Phase I: 65% of federal award, up to $150,000; Phase II: 65%, up to $300,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Reimbursement basis; covers costs outside the federal award's scope or timeline. Phase II match released only after federal Phase II approval. Late applications are returned unreviewed.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling within the fiscal year (FY27 window open July 7, 2026–June 30, 2027, until funds run out)
Founder tip: The match is large (65%, up to $300,000 for Phase II), but the 45-day clock after the federal award notice is strict. Put the filing date on your calendar the day the award arrives.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit small businesses eligible for federal SBIR/STTR that carry out at least 51% of the proposed federal work in Nebraska.
- How to apply
- Direct application on DED's AmpliFund portal. First step: Phase 0 must be filed at least 30 days before the federal deadline; Phase I/II matches within 45 days of the federal award notice.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Nevada
InnovateNV Phase 0 Microgrants
Nevada — GOED / StartUpNV (with UNLV Office of Economic Development)
Up to $5,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Covers only eligible expenses incurred while preparing an SBIR/STTR proposal. You need approval before funding. The page does not list the eligible expense categories.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Pair the microgrant with InnovateNV's free 5-week SBIR/STTR Proposal Accelerator; the next cohort runs in spring 2027. UNR's SAGE program helps with the NSF Project Pitch.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Nevada small businesses preparing a federal SBIR/STTR proposal. Open to InnovateNV Proposal Accelerator participants and other qualified applicants.
- How to apply
- Direct application. First step: get approved through the Qualtrics form linked on startupnv.org/innovatenv before you spend money.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
New Jersey
NJ Catalyst R&D Voucher Pilot Program (Round 2)
New Jersey — NJ Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT)
Up to $40,000 per 12 months
In-kind / lab accessEquity-freebiotech/medtechhardwareAI/computeany
The catch: Pays for facility access and technicians, not cash. Vouchers valid for 12 months from execution. NJ tax clearance required.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: This is the non-clean-tech twin of the Clean Tech voucher. Life sciences, robotics and advanced manufacturing startups can use it for lab testing they cannot afford to equip in-house.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Same size and NJ rules as the Clean Tech voucher (1–50 FTEs, 50%+ of hours in NJ, revenue of $5M or less, fewer than 3 vouchers total), for technologies in advanced manufacturing, advanced transportation, life sciences, technology, food/beverage, film/digital media or professional services.
- How to apply
- Direct application via the CSIT portal (application.njeda.com).
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
NJ Clean Tech R&D Voucher Program (Round 3)
New Jersey — NJ Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT)
Up to $40,000 per 12 months
In-kind / lab accessEquity-freeclimate/energymaterialshardware
The catch: The voucher pays for equipment, technician time and training at approved university or government-lab core facilities, not cash to the company. NJ tax clearance required.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Pick the core facility first (CSIT publishes an asset map) and get its signed approval, which is part of the application. Stack several smaller vouchers up to the $40,000 annual cap.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- NJ companies in good standing with a tax clearance certificate, 1–50 FTEs, at least 50% of work hours in NJ, prior-year revenue of $5M or less, and fewer than 3 vouchers received across rounds. Technology in clean tech areas (chemicals/advanced materials, energy generation/storage/efficiency, green buildings, transportation, waste, water/agriculture).
- How to apply
- Direct application through the CSIT portal (“Apply here” on the program page) with the facility’s sign-off.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
NJ Clean Tech Seed Grant Program
New Jersey — NJ Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT)
Up to $75,000
GrantEquity-freeclimate/energymaterialshardware
The catch: NJ tax clearance and good standing required. About 10 awards per round ($750K pool in Round 4).
Next deadline: Expected: June 2027 · annual (Round 4 opened June 2025)
Founder tip: With roughly ten awards per round, reviewers want a clear TRL jump, for example bench to integrated pilot. Watch the CSIT page and the spring info session, since Round 5 has not been announced.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- NJ companies in good standing with tax clearance, 1–50 FTEs, 50%+ of hours in NJ, prior-year revenue of $5M or less, technology at TRL 2–7 in clean tech areas. One application each; ineligible if holding 2+ active CSIT Seed or Demonstration grants.
- How to apply
- Direct application through the CSIT portal when a round opens.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
New Mexico
New Mexico Quantum Technologies Award
New Mexico — Economic Development Department (Technology and Innovation Office)
Up to $200,000
GrantEquity-freequantum
The catch: You must keep a New Mexico presence (space plus at least one employee) for 2 years after the grant, or the state can claw funds back. Work must finish within 12 months. You file quarterly reports for 2 years after the grant, display the EDD logo and give testimonials on request.
Next deadline: Expected: April 2027 · annual (2026 window: Feb 26–Apr 30, 2026)
Founder tip: Out-of-state companies qualify. Tie the project to Sandia, Los Alamos or CINT, as Mesa Quantum did, to show a real New Mexico presence.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Early-stage for-profit companies in quantum or quantum-enabling technology that have already raised outside funding. Out-of-state companies qualify if they register in New Mexico and set up a presence there: a NM tax ID, a physical address and staff working in the state.
- How to apply
- Competitive online application during the spring window. Applications are evaluated monthly, and finalists may present to a review board.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Mesa Quantum (Colorado) won $100K in the first cycle (2025) to open a New Mexico site and work with Sandia's CINT on VCSEL lasers.
New Mexico RD&D Fund — Targeted Federal Match
New Mexico — Economic Development Department (Technology and Innovation Office)
$1,000,000 minimum; no fixed maximum
GrantEquity-freequantumAI/computeclimate/energyspacebiotech/medtechsemiconductorsmaterials
The catch: Paid only if you win the outside award. The minimum total project is $2M: at least $1M from the RD&D Fund and $1M from the outside funder. TIO mirrors the federal cost-share rules and may negotiate the amount. Work must benefit New Mexico.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Use it as the state cost share on programs like NSF SBIR/STTR Strategic Breakthrough, NASA CCRPP, DoD STRATFI/TACFI or DOE 20% cost-share calls. Apply before the federal deadline so the commitment letter goes in your proposal.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- New Mexico public entities, or businesses registered to do business in New Mexico (or that commit to register before funds are paid), going after a listed priority federal program with at least $1M of non-state funding. Standard SBIR/STTR Phase I/II are excluded; large NSF and DoD Strategic Breakthrough awards are the exception.
- How to apply
- Rolling application to TIO. TIO runs a light eligibility screen and issues a conditional commitment letter that you attach to your federal proposal. It aims to decide within 20 working days.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
New Mexico SBIR/STTR Matching Grant
New Mexico — Economic Development Department (Technology and Innovation Office)
Up to $50,000 (active Phase I) or $100,000 (active Phase II)
GrantEquity-freespacebiotech/medtechAI/computeclimate/energyquantum
The catch: Paid as cost reimbursement after the work is done. Covers business development only: IP, patents, outside testing, regulatory, market research and customer meetings. Trade shows are capped at 10%. Payroll, R&D, equipment and supplies over $100 are not covered. Work and final reports are due by the end of the state fiscal year (June 30).
Next deadline: Expected: May 2027 · annual (FY26 window: May 20–June 10, 2025)
Founder tip: The money cannot pay for R&D, so plan to spend it on patents, certification testing and customer pilots. That work fills the gap your federal SBIR budget leaves.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- New Mexico-based for-profit companies with an active SBIR/STTR Phase I or Phase II award, or within 3 months after a Phase I ends if they plan to apply for Phase II. Aerospace, bioscience, advanced computing, water tech and advanced energy get priority.
- How to apply
- Competitive online application during the annual window. Eligible applicants give a 10-minute virtual pitch to the Technology Research Collaborative (TRC) Board, and the EDD Secretary makes final decisions.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Past winners include Integrated Deposit Solutions ($100K, aerosol printing), NeuroGeneces ($100K), UbiQD (quantum dots), Mesa Photonics and BennuBio.
New Mexico Science & Technology Business Startup Grant
New Mexico — Economic Development Department (Technology and Innovation Office)
$25,000–$50,000
GrantEquity-freeclimate/energyAI/computespacebiotech/medtechhardwarematerials
The catch: Funds business development for market entry, customer acquisition and expansion. You must stay in business in New Mexico.
Next deadline: Expected: October 2026 · annual (late summer; FY26 window was Aug 12–Sept 3, 2025, and FY25 opened Sept 3, 2024)
Founder tip: Reviewers weigh economic benefit to New Mexico above the award amount. Show hires and follow-on capital in the state, not just technical milestones.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- New Mexico-headquartered for-profit science or technology companies commercializing a technology in a TIO priority sector: advanced energy, advanced computing, aerospace and defense, or bioscience.
- How to apply
- Competitive online application during the annual window, then review by the Technology Research Collaborative Board.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- FY26 winners were mostly $50K awards to deep-tech firms: GridFlow (Li-S flow battery), Halo Materials (graphite reactor), Zenthos Energy, Rarefied Technologies (near-space flight), BGS Engineering, Hoonify.
New York
FuzeHub Commercialization Competition (Jeff Lawrence Innovation Fund)
New York — FuzeHub (NYSTAR Jeff Lawrence Innovation Fund)
Up to $150,000
GrantEquity-freehardwareany
The catch: Funds must improve an existing physical prototype (not software-only or paper concepts). Finalists must present in person in New York.
Next deadline: Expected: August 2027 · annual (applications July–August; live finals late October)
Founder tip: You need a physical prototype already built, and the money pays to improve it toward manufacturability. Show a manufacturing partner or DFM plan, since FuzeHub is New York’s MEP center.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Pre-revenue, pre-seed companies residing and operating in New York State with at least one NY-based founder and an existing tangible prototype. Less than $2M in grants in the past two years. D&B registration with an eligible NAICS code.
- How to apply
- Direct application on the FuzeHub website; finalists pitch live in Buffalo.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed
- Equity taken
- None
NSF Energy Storage Engine SuperBoost Technology Translation Program (Phase 2)
New York — NSF Energy Storage Engine in Upstate New York (led by Binghamton University)
$100,000 per project over 1 year (up to 5 projects per year)
GrantEquity-freeclimate/energyhardwarematerialsAI/compute
The catch: Customer purchase commitment required, and the Engine will meet your customer to verify it. Funds must largely be spent in Upstate NY. Milestone and final reports, IP reports about every six months, 2 CFR 200 rules, a conflict-of-interest policy and research-security training. SAM.gov UEI and an NSF account are needed before award. Funding depends on NSF continuing support.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling (Phase 2 call released August 31, 2026)
Founder tip: The customer letter decides this one: get a buyer who will take a verification call, not just a letter of interest. Budget real work at NECCES, the RIT Battery Development Center or another regional partner, since spending in the region is scored.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- U.S.-based startups, small and mid-size businesses, university projects and other for-profit or nonprofit entities working on energy storage or battery technology at TRL 3–5. Must have a committed customer ready to buy the result on success. Must use Engine partner facilities and spend a significant share of funds in Upstate New York. Focus areas: safety, power engineering, advanced manufacturing, AI.
- How to apply
- Two-step: email a 1–3 page preliminary proposal to [email protected] (reviewed on a rolling basis); promising teams are invited to submit a full proposal.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
NYSERDA PON 6149: Grid Enhancing Technologies Product Development & Demonstration
New York — NYSERDA
Up to $3,000,000 per project ($24M total)
GrantEquity-freeclimate/energyhardwareAI/compute
The catch: At least 50% cost share from the project team. Funds are first-come until committed. Final concept-paper cutoff is 2029-09-07.
Next deadline: Rolling · standing solicitation (open until 2029 or until funds are committed)
Founder tip: The 50% cost share is the real gate, so line up utility or customer co-funding before the concept paper. A standing PON means an early concept paper gets reviewed while funds remain.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Project teams developing (Product Development category) or demonstrating (Demonstration category) technologies that improve grid resiliency, reliability and performance: advanced conductors, AI/ML, monitoring and controls, protection, power electronics, power-flow optimization, cybersecurity and more. Flexibility in distribution systems and dynamic line rating deployment are out of scope.
- How to apply
- Direct, two steps: concept paper, then invited full proposal, through the NYSERDA portal under PON 6149.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
North Carolina
One North Carolina Small Business Program (SBIR/STTR Incentive + Matching Funds)
North Carolina — NC Commerce (Board of Science, Technology & Innovation)
Incentive: up to $12,000; Matching: 50% of the federal Phase I award, up to $75,000 (+$25,000 in Helene-impacted counties)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Incentive reimburses part of your proposal-prep costs. Matching recipients must keep their principal place of business in North Carolina and file interim and final reports. Funds go first-come, and the FY2027 Incentive pool is $210,000.
Next deadline: Jun 30, 2027 · annual (solicitations released each September; open until June 30 or until funds run out)
Founder tip: The Matching application is due 45 days after your federal Phase I notice, not at the June 30 close, so have it ready before the award email lands. The Incentive pool is small ($210K), so claim it soon after you submit.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Qualified small businesses with their principal place of business in North Carolina. Incentive: submitted a federal SBIR/STTR Phase I or Fast Track proposal during the solicitation period (July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027). Matching: received a Phase I or Fast Track award in that period. Matching is limited to Tier 1/2 counties, or Tier 3 counties with no more than three prior match awards.
- How to apply
- Direct application through CyberGrants. First step: download the FY2027 solicitation from the NC Commerce program page (online applications opened September 14, 2026). For Matching, apply within 45 days of your federal award notice.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- FY2026: 18 Incentive grants ($116,553) and 32 Matching grants ($2.37M, 6 with the Helene bonus) to companies in pharma, health care, defense, advanced materials, seafood production and space.
NCBiotech Small Business Research Loan (SRL)
North Carolina — North Carolina Biotechnology Center (NCBiotech)
$150,000–$350,000
OtherEquity: see termsbiotech/medtech
The catch: This is a loan, not a grant: a five-year balloon note at Wall Street Prime + 2% (capped at 7%), plus a warrant. You must keep a significant NC presence. Board-subcommittee approval follows due diligence.
Equity: Warrant: the loan includes a warrant to buy company stock.
Next deadline: Nov 11, 2026 · multiple rounds/yr (quarterly)
Founder tip: Funding is scaled to how far the data goes (in vivo efficacy earns more than in vitro target engagement), so time your application after your strongest data point. Deadlines are fixed quarterly (next: Nov 11, 2026 for a March 2027 decision), so book the eligibility meeting weeks ahead.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Early-stage life sciences companies registered with the NC Secretary of State and keeping a significant operating presence in North Carolina. Requirements: robust technical proof of principle, at least one NC-based manager working 30+ hours/week, and a valid license to the key IP.
- How to apply
- Invitation only. First step: complete NCBiotech's eligibility questionnaire and meet the Investments team, who invite qualified companies into the next quarterly round.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- Warrant: the loan includes a warrant to buy company stock.
NCBiotech Strategic Growth Loan (SGL)
North Carolina — North Carolina Biotechnology Center (NCBiotech)
$350,000–$650,000
OtherEquity: see termsbiotech/medtech
The catch: This is a loan: a five-year balloon note at Prime + 2% (capped at 7%), plus a warrant. It requires a dollar-for-dollar (or larger) equity match from a qualified investor who does formal diligence. Awards near $650K are reserved for applicants backed by top-tier life sciences investors.
Equity: Warrant: the loan includes a warrant to buy company stock.
Next deadline: Nov 11, 2026 · multiple rounds/yr (quarterly)
Founder tip: The SGL is sized against your equity round, so bring it in as part of the round your lead is already diligencing. It works as non-dilutive extension capital, with only the warrant as the equity cost.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- North Carolina life sciences companies with a significant NC operating presence and strong traction, such as advanced preclinical or early clinical data. Prior SRL recipients must have met all SRL milestones. You must hold or license the key IP and have a matching equity commitment of equal or greater size from an experienced life sciences investor.
- How to apply
- Invitation only. First step: complete NCBiotech's eligibility questionnaire and meeting, with your lead investor's commitment in hand.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- Warrant: the loan includes a warrant to buy company stock.
North Dakota
Innovate ND
North Dakota — Department of Commerce
Up to $50,000 in reimbursements ($25,000 per phase, two phases)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Reimbursement only, for customer and market research costs. Six months per phase; bi-weekly coach check-ins and updates; customer interview quotas (40 more interviews in Phase 2); post-program survey. Owners tied to an unresolved loss to a state program are ineligible.
Next deadline: Expected: October 2026 · quarterly application windows (last: April 21–May 14, 2026)
Founder tip: This pays for customer discovery, not lab work. Deep tech teams should use it to validate buyers and pricing before an SBIR Phase II commercialization plan or a LIFT application.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit businesses headquartered and registered in North Dakota with at least one founder living in the state, a scalable model with primary-sector potential (no retail, hospitality or local services), a basic prototype or roadmap, and early customer validation. Past participants are not eligible.
- How to apply
- Direct application in a quarterly window (questionnaire, pitch deck, business plan); top scorers pitch to a panel of Entrepreneur Centers and Commerce.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed
- Equity taken
- None
North Dakota Legacy Investment for Technology Loan Fund (LIFT)
North Dakota — Department of Commerce / Bank of North Dakota
Typically $250,000–$500,000
OtherEquity-freeAI/computeclimate/energybiotech/medtechroboticshardware
The catch: Repayable loan; the committee may require personal guarantees, collateral or matching funds. Money is for working capital on applied research and testing in North Dakota, not equipment or buildings. Draws are milestone-based within 18 months. Partial awards require proof the gap is funded.
Next deadline: Nov 9, 2026 · quarterly windows
Founder tip: Principal is due in year five, so the committee scores your ability to repay. Show a revenue path or follow-on raise that covers the balloon payment.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Companies commercializing intellectual property in North Dakota in advanced computing/data, ag tech, autonomous and uncrewed systems, energy, health care, value-added agriculture or energy. Out-of-state companies must bring substantial operations to North Dakota. The committee looks for customer traction and private capital already raised.
- How to apply
- Direct application in a quarterly window, emailed to [email protected] with business plan, financials, projections and pitch deck; top scorers present to the LIFT Committee, then Bank of North Dakota underwrites.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None — loan: 0% interest years 1–3, 2% years 4–5, principal due at year 5
- Who wins
- LIFT has recommended $47.5M across 76 awards to North Dakota companies since inception.
NSF AgTech Engine Startup Seed Fund
North Dakota — NSF AgTech Engine in North Dakota (led by North Dakota State University)
Up to $50,000
GrantEquity-freehardwarebiotech/medtechAI/computerobotics
The catch: Milestone-based: selected teams track progress and give evidence of milestone completion. Funds must be spent by February 28, 2027; deliverables are accepted up to a year after award.
Next deadline: Oct 16, 2026 · annual (2026 window: September 14 – October 16, 2026)
Founder tip: The spending window is short (award notices November 6, spend by February 28), so propose milestones you can actually buy in about 16 weeks, such as a field validation, a prototype build or a regulatory plan.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Early-stage agtech startups that can define the agricultural problem, customer, technology stage, approach and milestones that can be finished by February 28, 2027. Priority areas: water and resource resilience; intelligent operations and logistics; breeding, genetics and predictive biology; regenerative systems and crop protection; quality, nutrition and value-added markets. The page does not state a geographic requirement.
- How to apply
- Direct application through NDSU's InfoReady portal (ndsu.infoready4.com) during the open window. First step: draft milestone-based objectives with evidence you can show by February 2027.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
Ohio
Ohio Third Frontier Technology Validation and Start-Up Fund (Phase 2 Start-Up Fund)
Ohio — Department of Development / Ohio Third Frontier
Up to $200,000 per project
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: No cost share required. Personnel capped at 20% of budget; no travel, legal/licensing/patent fees, indirect costs or sponsored research. Executed exclusive license needed before money is disbursed. At least 51% of work in Ohio; moving out of Ohio or transferring the technology can trigger full repayment. Quarterly reports during the 1-year project plus 3 years of annual metrics.
Next deadline: Expected: January 2027 · multiple rounds/yr (recent rounds opened Aug 2025, Jan 2026 and Apr 2026)
Founder tip: This is not proof-of-concept money: reviewers expect the technology already past basic research, and most spend has to go to outside vendors, supplies and equipment because salaries are capped at 20%. Plan the budget around contracted prototyping or testing.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Ohio-based for-profit startups (principal place of business in Ohio, owned or 12+ month leased facility) that have licensed, or are negotiating an exclusive license for, technology developed at and owned by an Ohio university, nonprofit research institution or federal lab. The technology must be patent pending or patented (IT: trade secret, trademark or copyright). Up to three tries for the same technology.
- How to apply
- Direct application to a competitive RFP round. First step: get a letter from the institution's tech transfer office confirming the license negotiation, then apply online when the next Phase 2 RFP opens.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Round 43 (evaluated Jan 2026): 9 of 18 eligible Phase 2 applicants recommended, about $1.8M total, mostly $200,000 each (e.g., EndoEvolve, Meteora3D).
Oregon
Business Oregon SBIR/STTR Matching Grant
Oregon — Business Oregon (Oregon Business Development Department)
Up to $50,000 (Phase I awardees); up to $100,000 (Phase II or Fast-Track awardees)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Funds must go to commercialization of the SBIR/STTR-funded project (equipment, pilot production, hiring, marketing, IP, regulatory, customer discovery), not general operations or unrelated research. Cannot duplicate costs covered by the federal award. Indirect costs capped at 15%. 2025-round work had to finish by June 30, 2027. State grant contract with reporting.
Next deadline: Expected: October 2027 · Periodic competitive rounds (most recent: September–October 2025)
Founder tip: This money pays for what federal SBIR budgets usually won't: marketing, business development, IP and pilot production. Write the budget around those gaps. Scoring rewards Oregon jobs and investment, so give concrete Oregon hiring numbers.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Oregon-based traded-sector business (more than 50% of employees reside in Oregon), in good standing with the Oregon Secretary of State, meeting federal SBIR/STTR rules, holding a federal SBIR/STTR Phase I, Phase II or Fast-Track award dated on or after January 1, 2024 (2025 round). Sub-awardees of a non-Oregon prime qualify if the IP will be developed and commercialized in Oregon; the match is prorated.
- How to apply
- Competitive request for grant applications (RFGA), emailed to Business Oregon. First step: join the Business Oregon SBIR email list so you see the next RFGA the day it is released.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
Business Oregon SBIR/STTR Phase 0 and Phase 00 Application Support Grants
Oregon — Business Oregon (Oregon Business Development Department)
Up to $5,000 per grant
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Reimbursement contract with Business Oregon, with reports during the project. Pays outside help only (consultants, writers, reviewers, legal/accounting, market research). Staff or owner time and normal business costs are not eligible. No duplicate funding for the same purpose.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Phase 0 covers a Phase I proposal and Phase 00 covers a Phase II or Fast-Track proposal, each up to $5,000. Line up your grant writer or reviewer before you apply, because the application asks for their bios and a line-item budget. Submit at least four weeks before the federal deadline.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Oregon-based, traded-sector, for-profit small business (under 500 employees, more than 50% of employees in Oregon) that meets federal SBIR/STTR ownership rules. Must be targeting an open federal SBIR/STTR solicitation. One Phase 0 award per state fiscal year (July 1–June 30). NSF applicants must already have an NSF invitation from the Project Pitch.
- How to apply
- Direct application, year-round. First step: download the application form from the Business Oregon SBIR/STTR page and email it with a line-item budget and consultant bios at least four weeks before the federal agency deadline.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Pennsylvania
Ben Franklin Big Idea Contest
Pennsylvania — Ben Franklin Technology Partners (Central & Northern PA)
Up to $50,000 total cash prizes (plus $2,500 People’s Choice)
PrizeEquity-freeany
The catch: Finalists must attend pitch training and the finale, about 5–6 hours a week during the program. Winners get a guaranteed TechCelerator spot.
Next deadline: Oct 16, 2026 · annual (fall)
Founder tip: Now in its 25th year, it is a low-cost first step into the Ben Franklin pipeline. A win gets you TechCelerator and a portfolio manager, which improves your odds for the larger early-stage investment later.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Early-stage companies in Ben Franklin CNP’s 32-county region with a tech-enabled innovation, annual sales under $1M, and no prior Ben Franklin funding or Big Idea/TechCelerator cash prize.
- How to apply
- Direct application (2-page summary plus video); finalists do pitch training and a virtual finale.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed
- Equity taken
- None
Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central & Northern PA — Early-Stage Funding
Pennsylvania — Ben Franklin Technology Partners (Central & Northern PA)
Up to $500,000 (tech startups, staged); up to $250,000 (existing manufacturers)
OtherEquity: see termsany
The catch: Not a grant: repayment starts after the engagement ends. Cash match from the company required. Cannot fund land, buildings, machinery, equipment or inventory. Must be in the 32-county region.
Equity: No equity stated — repayable investment with a payback process that starts after the engagement ends
Next deadline: Rolling · multiple rounds/yr (invests quarterly)
Founder tip: Plan for the 3–6 month process and the quarterly board cadence. Use it for hiring, prototype and market work, not equipment, which is excluded.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Tech startups and existing manufacturers operating in Ben Franklin CNP’s 32-county Central & Northern Pennsylvania region.
- How to apply
- Direct: short introduction form, fit meeting, videoconference pitch and board decision (3–6 months total).
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- No equity stated — repayable investment with a payback process that starts after the engagement ends
Innovation Works Scalable Grant
Pennsylvania — Innovation Works (Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southwestern PA)
Up to $25,000 (reimburses 50% of eligible costs)
GrantEquity-freehardwareroboticsmaterials
The catch: Reimbursement of 50% of costs, so you front vendor payments for about a month. Final report, annual impact surveys for 3 years, and one site visit a year.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: It only pays work done by Southwestern PA manufacturers, so pick a local contract manufacturer for your prototype-to-production step. Budget at least $50,000 of spend to get the full $25,000.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Pennsylvania-based businesses partnering with manufacturers in nine Southwestern PA counties (Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Lawrence, Washington, Westmoreland). Eligible spend must exceed twice the grant cap. No delinquent liens.
- How to apply
- Direct application; rolling, about 6–12 weeks to first funds.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
Innovation Partnership SBIR/STTR MicroVoucher
Pennsylvania — The Innovation Partnership (PA DCED / Ben Franklin network)
Up to $3,000 (plus travel/training awards up to $1,000)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: The MicroVoucher covers grant-writing help and the travel award covers SBIR-related travel/training; neither funds R&D directly.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Pair the $3,000 MicroVoucher with the free pre-submission review. The Partnership’s 28% win rate is well above the national average, so use their reviewers.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Pennsylvania-based small technology businesses pursuing federal SBIR/STTR funding.
- How to apply
- Direct: complete the “Do I Qualify?” check and contact The Innovation Partnership for proposal support.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Supported firms report 588 SBIR proposals, a 28% win rate and 167 awards worth $55M.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico Science Trust SBIR/STTR Matching Grant Program
Puerto Rico — Puerto Rico Science, Technology & Research Trust
Dollar-for-dollar: up to $100,000 (Phase I); up to $200,000 (Phase II)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Matching money must be spent in Puerto Rico. Out-of-island expenses over $5,000 need pre-approval, indirect costs are capped at 10%, and first-time applicants get a site visit. Phase I is paid in three installments tied to reports. Phase II year two ($100K) requires a private cash match of at least $0.10 per dollar ($10,000) from new outside investors.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Out-of-island companies can qualify by incorporating or registering in Puerto Rico and moving the R&D there. The match can also pay for equipment, patents and fundraising costs that SBIR itself won't cover.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Companies incorporated in or authorized to do business in Puerto Rico before disbursement, with an SBIR/STTR award whose place of performance and credited jurisdiction is Puerto Rico. At least 75% (SBIR) or 51% (STTR) of the R&D must happen in Puerto Rico, and the PI or co-PI must be a Puerto Rico resident or employee.
- How to apply
- Direct application after award. First step: download the Phase I or Phase II Matching Grant Program guidelines from the Trust's SBIR/STTR page and contact the program ([email protected]).
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- January 2026: Flora Rural, INKIT Worldwide and INSU Health Design each received a $50,000 match after winning SBIR/STTR awards with Colmena66 support.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island Innovation Vouchers
Rhode Island — Rhode Island Commerce
Up to $75,000
In-kind / lab accessEquity-freematerialsclimate/energybiotech/medtechhardwareany
The catch: The voucher pays the knowledge provider for R&D, expertise or scale-up work, not your own payroll. Priority for advanced materials, ocean economy, defense, energy/environment, food and life sciences.
Next deadline: Expected: January 2027 · multiple rounds/yr
Founder tip: Line up the knowledge provider and scope before the window opens, since windows run only about four weeks. Projects in the state’s priority sectors (materials, ocean tech, defense, energy, life sciences) score best.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Small businesses (500 or fewer employees) registered in Rhode Island with at least 51% of employees in RI. Work is done with an approved RI knowledge provider (e.g. Brown, URI, RISD, Roger Williams, New England Tech, Lifespan/Brown Health research, VA Providence).
- How to apply
- Direct application in a posted window via the Commerce WizeHive portal, with the budget template and a knowledge-provider partner.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Awards have been announced several times a year since 2016, most recently in January and April 2026.
Rhode Island Invention Incentive Program
Rhode Island — Rhode Island Commerce
Up to $5,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Reimbursement only, for USPTO fees and services from a USPTO-registered patent practitioner located in Rhode Island. One award per applicant for life.
Next deadline: Expected: May 2027 · annual (spring window)
Founder tip: Only in-state patent practitioners qualify, so pick your RI patent attorney before filing the provisional. Keep invoices, because the grant reimburses past expenses within a set lookback period.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Small businesses (500 or fewer employees) incorporated in RI with at least 51% of staff in RI, or individual inventors living in RI. Prior recipients are ineligible.
- How to apply
- Direct: Smartsheet reimbursement application (separate business and individual forms) during the annual window.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
Innovate RI Small Business Fund — SBIR/STTR Application Grant
Rhode Island — RI Science & Technology Advisory Council (STAC)
Up to $3,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Rhode Island-based small businesses only. Covers the costs of preparing a competitive Phase I proposal.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Use the $3,000 for a proposal reviewer or consultant. If you win, the same fund’s Phase I match (up to $75,000) is the next step.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Rhode Island small businesses preparing a Phase I SBIR/STTR application.
- How to apply
- Direct application through the Innovate RI Fund portal.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed
- Equity taken
- None
Innovate RI Small Business Fund — SBIR/STTR Matching Grants
Rhode Island — RI Science & Technology Advisory Council (STAC)
Up to $75,000 (Phase I match); up to $150,000 (Phase II match)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Rhode Island-based small businesses only. No deadline or fiscal-year budget is posted, so funding is presumably subject to availability.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: This is one of the larger state SBIR matches in New England. A Phase II win can bring up to $150,000 more, so plan the match into your Phase II commercialization plan.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Rhode Island small businesses that have received a federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II award.
- How to apply
- Direct application through the Innovate RI Fund portal linked from the STAC page.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
South Carolina
SC EPSCoR Phase-0 (SBIR/STTR proposal development)
South Carolina — SC EPSCoR
Up to $15,000 (+$3,000 for ADAPT in SC proposals that include an undergraduate intern)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: A 12-month project. You must submit a federal SBIR/STTR proposal within 30 days of finishing. Infrastructure costs (computers, rent, utilities) are not allowed.
Next deadline: Expected: January 2027 · annual (proposals due mid-January; projects start in April)
Founder tip: At up to $15K this is one of the largest Phase 0 awards in the Southeast, and it can pay for preliminary data and prototype work as well as writing. Pitch it as the feasibility work your Phase I will build on, and keep the 30-day federal submission deadline in mind.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- South Carolina-based, American-owned, for-profit small businesses registered with the SC Secretary of State. Past SC EPSCoR PIs who failed to file final reports are ineligible.
- How to apply
- Direct application via InfoReady during the annual call. First step: watch the SC EPSCoR Phase-0 page for the next call (the 2026 proposals were due January 15, 2026).
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
SCRA Federal Matching Grant (SBIR/STTR Phase I)
South Carolina — South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA)
Up to $50,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Requires SCRA membership, which means signing its Terms of Membership and completing an annual economic impact assessment. Grant recipients must file final reports.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Membership comes first and takes a pitch, so apply to SCRA while your Phase I is under review. That way you can request the match as soon as the award lands.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- South Carolina-based SCRA member companies that have won a federal grant such as SBIR/STTR Phase I and are pursuing more federal funding. SCRA membership is competitive: fewer than 40% of applicants are accepted.
- How to apply
- Invitation only for SCRA members, rolling. First step: submit the SCRA membership interest form, then complete the application and pitch.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
SCRA Startup, Academic Startup and Acceleration Grants
South Carolina — South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA)
Up to $25,000 (Startup / Academic Startup); up to $50,000 (Acceleration)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Requires SCRA membership (Terms of Membership, annual economic impact assessment) and a final report on each grant.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Tie each request to a specific commercialization milestone (prototype, pilot or certification), because SCRA frames these grants around milestones. Membership also makes you eligible for SC Launch investment later.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- South Carolina technology companies accepted as SCRA members. Academic Startup grants are for startups built on IP from higher-education institutions. Acceleration grants are for established early-stage companies.
- How to apply
- Invitation only for SCRA members, rolling. First step: submit the SCRA membership interest form.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
South Dakota
South Dakota Proof of Concept Program
South Dakota — GOED
Up to $25,000
OtherEquity-freeany
The catch: At least 10% cash or in-kind match. Cannot pay principals' or researchers' salaries, incorporation legal fees or general operating costs. Final report required; a successful project turns into repayment terms.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Because a successful study converts to a 0% note, budget for repayment if it works. Scope it as one clear feasibility question you can answer for $25,000.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Entrepreneurs, universities, existing South Dakota companies and other entities committed to commercializing the innovation in South Dakota.
- How to apply
- Direct application (5-page proposal) emailed to GOED; technical review by the Research Affairs Council and business review by investors and incubator managers.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None up front. If the research succeeds, GOED can convert the award to repayment terms (0% promissory note, up to 5 years per the application); may be forgiven if it does not continue
South Dakota Proof of Concept SBIR Phase 0 and SBIR Supplement
South Dakota — GOED
Phase 0: up to $5,000; SBIR Supplement: up to $25,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Phase 0: no match required; you must send a draft to the SD SBIR Center one week before federal submission and report the outcome. Supplement: 10% match (SBIR funds count). Neither can pay company principals. If you win or commercialize, GOED may convert the money to a loan or equity.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling (tied to federal SBIR/STTR deadlines)
Founder tip: The 6-week notice rule means you need to plan the Phase 0 before you start writing. Use the funds for a consultant review or preliminary data rather than drafting help alone.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- SBIR/STTR-eligible South Dakota businesses. Phase 0: preparing a federal Phase I proposal. Supplement: SBIR/STTR awardees bridging Phase I to Phase II or commercializing results.
- How to apply
- Direct application (5 pages) emailed to GOED. First step for Phase 0: notify GOED of intent at least 6 weeks before the federal deadline and submit the application at least 4 weeks before.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None up front; GOED may later convert funds to a loan or equity if the funded project is commercialized
Tennessee
Launch Tennessee SBIR/STTR Matching Fund
Tennessee — Launch Tennessee (LaunchTN)
50% of the federal award: up to $100,000 (Phase I) or $300,000 (Phase II)
GrantEquity-freeanybiotech/medtechclimate/energy
The catch: You must stay headquartered in Tennessee for 24 months after the award, report twice a year and take part in LaunchTN programming. Paid in two tranches. Previous recipients are given lower priority.
Next deadline: Oct 16, 2026 · annual (FY27 window October 5–16, 2026)
Founder tip: The FY27 window is only 12 days (Oct 5–16, 2026), so have your documents ready now. LaunchTN gives priority to first-time applicants, life sciences, advanced energy, agriculture and mobility, companies that relocated since July 2024, and companies it helped with the SBIR proposal.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Pre-IPO Tennessee startups and small businesses (under 500 employees) with a federal SBIR/STTR Notice of Award dated July 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026. Awards within 90 days of that window may be considered. Publicly traded companies are ineligible.
- How to apply
- Direct application in a short annual window: October 5–16, 2026 for FY27. First step: gather your Notice of Award, winning proposal, use-of-funds plan and Articles of Incorporation.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- FY26: 32 companies, including Branch Technology, SkyNano, CrossLink Composites, Coulomb Technology, Terra Watts and SEAK Therapeutics.
LaunchTN SBIR/STTR Application Support Microgrant
Tennessee — Launch Tennessee (LaunchTN)
Up to $2,500
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Must be spent with an SBIR/STTR consultant. Expenses are reimbursable for up to six months after the award. Funded in part through SBA FAST.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: A quad chart aimed at one named solicitation is what LaunchTN reviews. Getting this help also moves you up the priority list for the state's $100K–$300K Matching Fund if you win.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Tennessee startups and founders preparing an SBIR/STTR proposal who have attended a LaunchTN SBIR/STTR workshop and outlined their proposal (ideally as a quad chart).
- How to apply
- Direct application, rolling. First step: attend a monthly LaunchTN SBIR/STTR webinar, draft a quad chart for a specific solicitation, then submit the support application.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
TTAC Technology Maturation Grant
Tennessee — Launch Tennessee (Tennessee Technology Advancement Consortium)
Up to $100,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: One-time funding for a 12-month project with an interim report. At least 50% of funds are reserved for technologies from TTAC member institutions.
Next deadline: Expected: September 2027 · annual (opens late July, closes early September)
Founder tip: Half the pool is set aside for spinouts from the smaller TTAC schools (ETSU, Meharry, MTSU, TSU, Tennessee Tech, Memphis), so a license from one of them faces less competition than a Vanderbilt or UT deal.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Pre-IPO small businesses (under 500 employees) registered in Tennessee with a formal IP relationship with an eligible research institution: ETSU, Meharry, MTSU, Tennessee State, Tennessee Tech or University of Memphis, plus (new for FY27) Vanderbilt, UT Knoxville and UTHSC. Proof of concept must already be shown, along with evidence of industry interest.
- How to apply
- Direct application during the annual window. First step: secure your license or option with an eligible institution. The FY27 window ran July 29 to September 9, 2026.
- Stage fit
- academic spinout, pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
Texas
CPRIT Product Development Research Awards (SEED, TNTC, TDDC, TTC)
Texas — Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT)
Up to $3,000,000 (Seed Company Award); no fixed cap on the other three awards
GrantEquity-freebiotech/medtechAI/compute
The catch: Matching funds: $1 of company money for every $2 of CPRIT funds, rising to 1:1 once a company's CPRIT product development awards exceed $20M. You must locate and stay in Texas, share revenue with the state, and not bill travel to the grant. Review fee: $500 (SEED) or $1,000 (others).
Next deadline: Expected: April 2027 · annual (preliminary applications in spring; the FY2027 Cycle 1 prelims were due April 16, 2026 and full applications July 9, 2026)
Founder tip: Start with the SEED award if you are pre-IND or pre-IDE. The larger RFAs expect you to be close to a regulatory filing. Model the revenue share and relocation duty before you apply, because both outlast the grant.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit companies developing cancer therapeutics, devices, diagnostics or related tools. Companies outside Texas can apply but must commit to locating and staying in Texas as a condition of the award.
- How to apply
- Direct application in two stages: a preliminary application, then a full application if invited. First step: read the current RFAs (SEED, TNTC, TDDC, TTC) and register in CPRIT's application system before the spring preliminary deadline.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None up front. Revenue sharing is required: 2.5% of revenue (devices, diagnostics, services) until 2.5x the grant is repaid, or 3–5% (therapeutics) until 4x, then 0.5% ongoing. The contract may also use equity or another arrangement.
- Who wins
- Texas-based oncology companies. CPRIT has about $70M a year for product development awards.
Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) — business grants
Texas — Office of the Governor, Economic Development & Tourism (Texas CHIPS Office)
Varies — check official page (announced business awards run from about $1.0M to $250M)
GrantEquity-freesemiconductorsmaterialshardware
The catch: Grants reimburse costs. Scoring weighs capital investment, jobs created and local incentives. The public award listing tracks jobs, capital investment and liquidated damages (clawbacks), so expect performance terms. Salaries are reimbursable only for design projects.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: This is an economic-development deal, not an R&D grant. It fits a startup that is building a Texas fab line, pilot plant or design center and can show local incentives and a job count. Get your local EDO's sign-off before you submit.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Business entities with an established presence in Texas (at minimum, registered to do business in the state) that plan new or expanded semiconductor manufacturing, design or research projects. State entities and universities apply on a separate form.
- How to apply
- Direct application by email to [email protected] using the Private Sector application form. A local economic development organization, city manager or county administrator must sign it. The TSIC Executive Committee reviews it.
- Stage fit
- Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Established manufacturers and chip firms. As of Aug 25, 2026 the smallest business award was LTD Material ($1.0M, 40 jobs, $26.3M capex). Larger awards went to Silicon Labs ($23.25M), Arm ($4.16M) and Texas Instruments ($33.6M).
Utah
Utah Technology Innovation Funding (UTIF) — SBIR/STTR Gap Funding Nonrecourse Loan
Utah — Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, via Nucleus Grow (Nucleus Institute)
Up to $50,000 (up to $60,000 for rural, women-owned or disadvantaged small businesses)
OtherEquity-freeany
The catch: This is a loan, not a grant. You repay it if the technology succeeds commercially. Money is released after the Phase II submission. First come, first served until funds run out.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Use it to keep your team paid between Phase I and Phase II. Read the repayment terms in the contract closely, because "commercially successful" triggers repayment.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Utah small businesses that won an SBIR/STTR Phase I (with at least a $100,000 award opportunity) and are submitting the matching Phase II proposal with Nucleus Grow. Limit two loans per company.
- How to apply
- Apply in the GOEO submission portal at least 4 weeks before the Phase II deadline, then submit the Phase II proposal with Nucleus Grow's review.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None. It is a nonrecourse loan: you repay the principal with no interest if the technology succeeds commercially and you pay within the agreed time. Otherwise repayment runs up to 5 years with interest. Repayment is waived if the technology has no viable path to market.
Utah Technology Innovation Funding (UTIF) — SBIR/STTR Microgrant
Utah — Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, via Nucleus Grow (Nucleus Institute)
$3,000 (up to $5,000 for rural, women-owned or disadvantaged small businesses)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Paid only after you submit the Phase I proposal and send the agency receipt, a copy of the proposal and a state vendor form within 90 days. First come, first served until funds run out.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: The 4-week lead time is strict. For NSF, get your Project Pitch accepted before you start the UTIF application.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Utah small businesses registered with the Utah Division of Corporations that are new to SBIR/STTR, with no SBIR/STTR award in the last 5 years. They must work with Nucleus Grow on the Phase I proposal. Limit one per company.
- How to apply
- Apply in the GOEO submission portal at least 4 weeks before the federal SBIR/STTR deadline, naming a specific open topic. For NSF, an accepted Project Pitch is required. Nucleus Grow decides within 10 business days.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
Vermont
Elevate Vermont (SBIR/STTR matching grants)
Vermont — Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Up to $50,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Funds only commercialization costs the federal award cannot cover (marketing, market research, sales materials). At least 51% of Phase II research must be done in Vermont, and the business must stay in Vermont for the federal project. Limit of one grant per federal award and five in a lifetime.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Because it is non-competitive and first-come, apply as soon as the federal award notice arrives. Budget it for the go-to-market work SBIR money cannot pay for.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit businesses with their principal place of business in Vermont that hold a federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II award. Phase I awardees must commit to submitting a Phase II. Companies with more than 3 prior Phase II awards are ineligible.
- How to apply
- Direct, non-competitive, first-come first-served: online form, then email a narrative, milestones, budget and the federal award notice.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
Vermont EPSCoR SBIR/STTR Phase 0 Grant
Vermont — Vermont EPSCoR (University of Vermont)
Up to $15,000
GrantEquity-freeAI/computespaceany
The catch: No cost share. Primary work location must be in Vermont; no international travel. Annual progress updates and attendance at the EPSCoR annual meeting for 2 years after the award.
Next deadline: Expected: February 2027 · annual (RFA released around October 1; due in February)
Founder tip: Priority goes to data science, computer science and aerospace, and one slot is reserved for a NASA-aligned topic. Frame the feasibility study around a specific NSF or NASA SBIR topic you plan to submit to.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Businesses registered and operating in Vermont. Prior awardees may apply if they have had no more than 3 awards in the past 4 years and met prior obligations. SAM.gov Unique Entity ID required.
- How to apply
- Direct application: one PDF (cover page, 4-page research description and required parts) by the RFA deadline.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- About five awards per cycle, including one in a NASA-interest area.
Virginia
VIPC Federal Funding Assistance Program (SBIR/STTR Phase 0 and 00 awards)
Virginia — Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC)
$500–$3,500
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: The money reimburses proposal-development help such as consultants, software and legal fees. VIPC says to allow 2–3 months for the process. Partly funded by an SBA FAST cooperative agreement.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: VIPC asks you to have a professional email, website and SAM registration in place before you request support. Sort those out first, and start 2–3 months ahead of the agency deadline you are targeting.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Virginia-based technology small businesses preparing a federal SBIR/STTR Phase I or Phase II proposal. VIPC highlights funding assistance for qualified first-time Phase I and Phase II applicants.
- How to apply
- Direct request after a mentoring session. First step: contact Robert Brooke ([email protected], 703-689-3080), take the VIPC SBIR training, get a consultant quote, then submit the proposal-support application.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
VIPC Lab-to-Launch Grant
Virginia — Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC)
Up to $50,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Requires a 1:1 match. Funds go to license reimbursement and commercialization support. VIPC does due diligence (turnaround under 60 days). Taking this grant makes you ineligible for the Launch Grant later.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: This grant only works with the standardized Fast-Track License, which closes in 30–60 days instead of 9–12 months, so ask your tech transfer office for that license path up front. Receiving Lab-to-Launch bars you from the $50K Launch Grant, so decide which one you want before you apply.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Early-stage Virginia startups licensing technology from UVA, Virginia Tech, VCU, George Mason, Old Dominion or William & Mary under the Virginia Fast-Track License. Must meet VIPC's Virginia-company definition.
- How to apply
- Direct application, rolling. First step: sign a Virginia Fast-Track License with one of the six R1 universities, then apply (contact [email protected]).
- Stage fit
- academic spinout, idea, pre-seed
- Equity taken
- None
VIPC Launch Grant
Virginia — Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC)
$50,000
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Requires a 1:1 match, which can be in-kind, other non-dilutive grants or founder capital. You must commit to growing the company in Virginia. Paid in one tranche about 30 days after the window closes.
Next deadline: Expected: October 2026 · multiple rounds/yr (VIPC says quarterly solicitations; about 20 grants a year)
Founder tip: The Launch Grant disqualifies anyone who has taken other VIPC money, so apply for it first if you plan to seek a Launch Note or VVP investment later. Your 1:1 match can be founder time and in-kind support, so you don't need cash in the bank to qualify.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- For-profit, Virginia-headquartered companies that are pre-MVP with no product revenue and not currently raising. Companies that already got CCF, CRCF, Lab-to-Launch or VVP money are out (CCF scholarships and higher-ed grants are fine). VIPC also requires 50%+ of senior management to live in Virginia and Virginia residents to hold 50%+ of founder ownership.
- How to apply
- Direct application during a cycle window. First step: watch the VVP page for the next cycle opening and email [email protected] with questions.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed
- Equity taken
- None
Washington
Andy Hill CARE Fund Research Grants (Scientific Discoveries / Implementation and Outcomes)
Washington — Andy Hill Cancer Research Endowment (CARE) Fund
$250,000–$1,500,000 (Scientific Discoveries Research, Cycle 2)
GrantEquity-freebiotech/medtech
The catch: Minimum 1:1 match of non-state funds required. Projects run up to two years. Substantial Washington presence required. State-created endowment grant with reporting.
Next deadline: Expected: June 2027 · Recurring RFPs, generally announced in January and June
Founder tip: The 1:1 non-state match is the real gate. Company revenue, investor money or a federal grant all count, so line it up before the RFP opens. Pitch your project as the bridge from discovery to a therapeutic, device or tool; the RFP uses that language.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Public and private entities doing cancer research in Washington, explicitly including companies, with a substantial presence in Washington as determined by the CARE Board. Also open to universities, research institutions, nonprofits, tribes and health jurisdictions. Up to five proposals per organization and one per principal investigator.
- How to apply
- Competitive RFP. First step: sign up for CARE Fund news; the Implementation and Outcomes Research RFP is anticipated to open June 2027, and calls are generally announced in January and June.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Aptevo Therapeutics (Seattle) won a $1.5M grant in 2026 for IND-enabling work on its APVO451 trispecific immunotherapy.
Washington Clean Energy Fund Research, Development and Demonstration (RD&D) Grants
Washington — Washington State Department of Commerce
$150,000–$2,000,000 (about $10M total in the 2025–27 round)
GrantEquity-freeclimate/energyhardwarematerials
The catch: Cost share required (percentage set in the RFA). Funded by Climate Commitment Act money, so projects must align with the 2021 State Energy Strategy and Washington climate goals. State grant contract with reporting.
Next deadline: Expected: June 2028 · Biennial competitive round (2025–27 round opened June 30, 2026)
Founder tip: The TRL 4–7 floor rules out bench-stage ideas, so frame the project as a demonstration or pilot with a Washington host site. The 2025–27 round closed September 3, 2026, with notifications expected October 23, 2026. Use the gap to line up cost share and a partner for the next biennium.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Washington-based for-profits, nonprofits, local governments, research institutions, federally recognized tribes, higher-education institutions, national labs and state agencies. Out-of-state entities can apply if they show public benefit to Washington and significant in-state presence. Technology must be at TRL 4–7 at award. 2025–27 topics: advanced bioenergy/biofuels, energy storage and battery recycling, greenhouse gas removal and carbon capture, flexible load and grid modernization.
- How to apply
- Competitive request for applications with a required pre-application. First step: watch the Commerce EPIC grants page and FundHubWA for the next RFA, and email [email protected] with questions.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
West Virginia
West Virginia SBIR/STTR Phase 0 Award (EII Fund)
West Virginia — WV Small Business Development Center (WV Department of Commerce)
$2,500
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Reimburses non-duplicative proposal-prep costs, subject to money remaining in the EII Fund. You apply after submitting, not before.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: This award pays out after you submit, so keep receipts for proposal costs and the agency's confirmation of receipt. Every submitted Phase I can become a $2,500 claim, once per year.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- West Virginia businesses that have submitted a federal SBIR or STTR Phase I proposal (with proof of receipt from the agency). Limited to one Phase 0 award per company per year.
- How to apply
- Direct application after you submit a federal proposal, any month of the year. First step: contact the WV SBDC In-Tech program (Mary Hott, [email protected]).
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed
- Equity taken
- None
West Virginia SBIR/STTR Phase I and II Matching Funds (EII Fund)
West Virginia — WV Small Business Development Center (WV Department of Commerce)
Varies — check official page (depends on EII Fund balance; typically less than a 100% match)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: The match size depends on the fund balance at the time, and applications get no first-come preference. Closed Phase I or II projects are ineligible.
Next deadline: Expected: January 2027 · multiple rounds/yr (January and July award periods)
Founder tip: Your Phase I or II must still be open when you apply, so check whether your award will close before the next January or July period. Plan your cash as if the match were partial, since the state says it is usually below 100%.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- West Virginia businesses holding an active (not closed) federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II award.
- How to apply
- Direct application in one of two award periods each year (January and July). First step: contact the WV SBDC In-Tech program manager for the application.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
Wisconsin
WEDC Technology Development Loans
Wisconsin — WEDC
Up to 20% of an investment round
OtherEquity: see termsany
The catch: Must be repaid over a set loan term and WEDC takes warrants. Designed to sit alongside private equity, capped at 20% or less of a round. For FY2026 only federal funds are available for the program.
Equity: Loan with warrants (venture debt)
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: WEDC scores the ability to bring private capital alongside the loan, so apply once your lead investor is committed and use the loan to stretch the round to a technical milestone.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Wisconsin companies developing high-tech or innovative, technology-driven products with national or global market potential that are raising private investment.
- How to apply
- Direct application. First step: contact WEDC's Technology Investment Manager ([email protected]) with your round details.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- Loan with warrants (venture debt)
Wisconsin SBIR Advance Matching Grants
Wisconsin — WEDC / CTC
Phase I: 50% of the award, up to $75,000; Phase II: up to $100,000/yr for up to 2 years
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Covers commercialization costs federal SBIR awards don't allow. Phase I awardees must complete Lean Startup training and customer development, a draft commercialization plan, and submit a Phase II proposal. Phase II is milestone-based and requires reapplying each year.
Next deadline: Expected: October 2026 · multiple rounds/yr (Phase I in the fall; spring 2026 round was Phase II only)
Founder tip: Phase I money is built to produce your Phase II commercialization plan. Use the Lean Startup deliverables as the plan itself instead of treating them as extra work.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Wisconsin small businesses with a current or recent SBIR/STTR award. Phase I: current/recent Phase I awardee intending to apply for Phase II, with a commercial team of at least three people. Phase II: active Phase II awardee (or ended within the last 6 months). No more than three completed Phase II awards in the last five years; WEDC prefers companies with only one Phase II.
- How to apply
- Direct application. First step: file the intent-to-apply by the round's deadline, then submit the full application to CTC about 10 days later.
- Stage fit
- seed, Series A+, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- Round 27 (spring 2026, Phase II only): seven Wisconsin companies shared $675,000.
Wyoming
Wyoming SBIR/STTR Matching Grant (Innovation Grant)
Wyoming — Wyoming Business Council
Up to $100,000 (Phase I match) or $200,000 (Phase II match)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: Maximum of 4 matches over the life of the company. You file annual reports for 3 years after the award and must keep a meaningful presence in Wyoming.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: The Phase II match (up to $200K) is large for a state program, and WBC's own FY26 figures show most of the pool unspent. Apply as soon as your award is active, and plan the pitch around your path to private capital.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Wyoming businesses with an active federal SBIR/STTR award, at least 50% of employees in Wyoming, and a commitment to seek funding beyond SBIR/STTR.
- How to apply
- Rolling application with the federal award letter, W-9, budget form, employee form and pitch deck. Qualified applicants pitch virtually to the WBC team, hear back within 2 weeks, and the contract takes about 45 days.
- Stage fit
- pre-seed, seed, Series A+
- Equity taken
- None
- Who wins
- WBC reports 58 matching grants, $8.26M awarded, and $50.4M in related federal awards. The FY26 allocation had about $15.3M still unspent as of Dec 2025.
Wyoming Phase 0/00 (Wyoming SBIR/STTR Initiative)
Wyoming — Wyoming SBIR/STTR Initiative (University of Wyoming & Wyoming Business Council)
Up to $5,000 (paid as a contract)
GrantEquity-freeany
The catch: WSSI's guide requires a complete proposal draft 21 days before the agency deadline and a final draft 7 days before. Missing these can reduce your payment. Funds cover pre-proposal work only: reviews, travel and calls with program officers, market research, consultants and test data.
Next deadline: Rolling · Rolling
Founder tip: Budget for the 21-day draft rule from the start. Treat it as your internal deadline, because payment depends partly on meeting it.
Eligibility, how to apply, past winners
- Eligibility
- Small businesses owned and run by Wyoming residents, headquartered in Wyoming and creating jobs there, that are preparing SBIR/STTR Phase I or II proposals.
- How to apply
- Register as a WSSI client, meet with the team and get the Phase 0/00 application packet. Complete applications are reviewed on the 1st and 15th of each month.
- Stage fit
- idea, pre-seed, seed, academic spinout
- Equity taken
- None
