Grants for Startups & Early-Stage Companies
Access non-dilutive funding for technology startups — from SBIR/STTR grants across 11 federal agencies to accelerator programs and innovation awards.
Non-Dilutive Funding for Startups
The SBIR/STTR programs (America’s Seed Fund) provide non-dilutive federal funding across 11 agencies. Phase I awards up to $314,000 for 6-12 months, Phase II up to $2 million for 24 months, and new Strategic Breakthrough Awards up to $30 million for companies with prior Phase II success.
NSF’s America’s Seed Fund specifically supports use-inspired R&D addressing societal challenges. Y Combinator has launched 5,000+ companies with $500K in seed funding per cohort company.
Federal SBIR/STTR
Eleven federal agencies participate including NSF, NIH, DOE, NASA, USDA, and DOD. DOE’s SBIR program alone has a ~$300 million annual budget across approximately 400 Phase I and 200 Phase II awards. These grants provide critical runway without equity dilution.
Accelerators & Corporate Programs
Beyond federal grants, accelerator programs and corporate initiatives provide additional funding. Y Combinator invests $500K ($125K for 7% equity + $375K uncapped SAFE). Microsoft for Startups offers Azure credits and AI infrastructure grants for AI-first companies.
Key Funding Sources for Startups
SBIR/STTR (America’s Seed Fund)
Phase I: $314K (6-12 months). Phase II: $2M (24 months). Strategic Breakthrough: up to $30M. Non-dilutive funding across 11 federal agencies.
Find SolicitationsNSF Seed Fund
Use-inspired R&D for startups addressing societal challenges. Phase I, Phase II, and Strategic Breakthrough Awards with mentorship and training.
Apply NowY Combinator
$500K per company (3-month program, 4x yearly). 5,000+ companies launched. World’s leading startup accelerator with unmatched investor network.
Learn MoreEssential Resources
-
SBIRSBIR.GOV Official SBIR/STTR portal with solicitations and deadlines
-
NSFNSF Seed Fund NSF-specific SBIR/STTR opportunities
-
FEDGrants.gov All federal SBIR/STTR opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SBIR/STTR funding?
SBIR/STTR (America’s Seed Fund) provides non-dilutive grants across 11 federal agencies. Phase I: up to $314K. Phase II: up to $2M. Strategic Breakthrough: up to $30M. No equity given up.
How do I apply for SBIR grants?
Visit SBIR.GOV for solicitations from all 11 agencies. Each agency runs its own program with specific topics and deadlines. Applications go through Grants.gov or agency-specific portals.
What agencies participate in SBIR?
NSF, NIH, DOE, NASA, USDA, DOD, EPA, ED, DHS, DOC, and DOT. DOE alone has ~$300M annual SBIR budget. Each agency focuses on its mission-relevant technology areas.
How can OpenGrants help startups find funding?
OpenGrants matches startups with SBIR/STTR opportunities, state innovation grants, and private funding. Create a free account to discover non-dilutive funding for your technology.
Find Startup Grants
OpenGrants matches startups with the best non-dilutive grant funding. Get started in minutes.