The following are questions most commonly asked by small businesses seeking SBIR/STTR funding. If you are unable to find the answers you need here, please contact Janice Kato at janicek@htdc.org or call 808-539-3814.

• How are Proposals Evaluated?
• Who is eligible to participate in SBIR?
• Who is eligible to participate in STTR?
• How can I participate in the SBIR program?

How are Proposals Evaluated?

Proposals are primarily evaluated based on their scientific and technical merit and on the basis of their originality. Federal scientists, engineers and other subject matter experts in the particular topic area provide the review. The agency considers the qualifications of the principal investigator and key staff, the technical merit of the proposal, potential commercial applications, and the benefit to the particular agency. SBIR monies are not awarded to mere improvements and applied technology.

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Who is eligible to participate in SBIR?

Companies that meet the following criteria may participate in SBIR:

• U.S.-owned and independently operated
• For-profit
• Principal researcher employed by business
• Company size limited to 500 employees

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Who is eligible to participate in STTR?

Companies that meet the following criteria may participate in STTR:

• U.S.-owned and independently operated
• For-profit
• Principal researcher need not be employed by small business
• Company size limited to 500 employees
  The nonprofit research institution (there is no size limit for nonprofit research institutions) must also meet certain eligibility criteria:
  • Located in the US
  • Meet one of three definitions:
    1) Non-profit college or university;
    2) Domestic nonprofit research organization; or
    3) Federally funded R&D center (FFRDC)
    

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How can I participate in the SBIR program?

Download the Roadmap for participating in the SBIR program (PDF), which includes tips and information on the basics of submitting an SBIR proposal.

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