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DoD’s budget priorities – why research funding for small businesses & startups remains secure The Department of Defense (DoD) is bracing for budget cuts, with plans to reduce spending by 8% annually over the next five years. This move has sparked concerns about the future of DoD-funded innovation programs, particularly for small businesses and startups that depend on research grants like SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer). However, despite broader budget tightening, startups and small businesses should feel confident that research funding for industry will continue. What the DoD plans to cut According to

Impact of the Workforce Optimization Initiative on Federal Grant Programs for Deep Tech and Life Science Startups How deep tech and life science startups should interpret the impact of the latest Office of Management & Budget’s MOU Titled: Guidance on Agency RIF and Reorganization Plans Requested by Implementing The President’s “Department of Government Efficiency” Workforce Optimization Initiative   The recent federal reorganization efforts have caused widespread confusion regarding the future of federal grant programs, including startup business grants. However, this presents a unique opportunity for companies that act decisively. Due to misinformation and uncertainty, many businesses will hesitate to

Grant Funding Is Still Strong – Despite DOGE’s Activities In recent months, there has been speculation about the state of grant funding, with some questioning whether DOGE would cut research funding that has historically supported early-stage deep-tech startups. While shifts in policy and economic conditions can influence funding trends, grant funding remains a viable and powerful tool for fueling innovation—especially for startups that know how to identify and pursue the most strategic opportunities. For entrepreneurs seeking startup business grants, understanding the landscape is crucial to securing funding. Grant Funding Remains a Priority Federal, state, and private grant programs continue

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) offers a unique funding opportunity for technology startups through its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This program provides non-dilutive funding to help de-risk innovative projects that align with NOAA’s mission. Working with experienced SBIR grant writing consultants can significantly enhance your chances of securing funding. Here’s everything you need to know about this valuable funding source. Overview of NOAA’s SBIR Program NOAA joined the SBIR program in 2010 when its research and development (R&D) budget surpassed $100 million, as required by federal statute. Since then, NOAA has allocated 3.2% of its

1. $1.3 Billion from NIH SBIR/STTR The National Institutes of Health (NIH) invites small businesses to apply for the upcoming deadlines of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, with submissions due on January 5 and April 5, 2025. These programs offer critical funding to support innovative health-related research and development. Phase I grants, aimed at early-stage, proof-of-concept projects, award up to $314,363 over 6-12 months. Successful Phase I projects may advance to Phase II, where they can receive up to $2.09 million for further development over two years. These awards provide essential

1. Up to $1.1 million from DOE SBIR/STTR The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will release the second round of topics for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs on November 12, 2024. These programs offer funding opportunities for small businesses to engage in research and development on advanced energy-related technologies. Eligible small businesses can apply for Phase I grants, which provide up to $200,000 to support initial R&D efforts over approximately 6-12 months. Successful Phase I projects may then qualify for Phase II grants, offering up to $1.1 million to continue development

1. Up to $1.1 million from DOE SBIR/STTR The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will release the second round of topics for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs on November 12, 2024. These programs offer funding opportunities for small businesses to engage in research and development on advanced energy-related technologies. Eligible small businesses can apply for Phase I grants, which provide up to $200,000 to support initial R&D efforts over approximately 6-12 months. Successful Phase I projects may then qualify for Phase II grants, offering up to $1.1 million to continue development

1. Up to $1.8 Million with AFWERX The AFWERX Direct to Phase II (D2P2) program is an innovative funding initiative designed to accelerate the development of high-impact solutions for the U.S. Air Force. D2P2 provides an opportunity for small businesses and non-traditional contractors to receive funding for technology prototypes and solutions that align with Air Force needs, bypassing the Phase I feasibility study. The program encourages companies with proven concepts to scale quickly, with a focus on dual-use technologies that have both commercial and defense applications.   Through this fast-tracked process, D2P2 enables quicker deployment of cutting-edge technologies, fostering

1. $1.3 Billion from NIH SBIR/STTR The National Institutes of Health (NIH) invites small businesses to apply for the upcoming deadlines of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, with submissions due on January 5 and April 5, 2025. These programs offer critical funding to support innovative health-related research and development. Phase I grants, aimed at early-stage, proof-of-concept projects, award up to $314,363 over 6-12 months. Successful Phase I projects may advance to Phase II, where they can receive up to $2.09 million for further development over two years. These awards provide essential