West Virginia’s technology startups have a powerful resource to use in their pursuit of federal funding via USRIA’s WV Supporting and Promoting Research, Innovation, Networking and Technology (SPRINT) Program.

WV SPRINT is an initiative provided by USRIA in collaboration with the West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WVSBDC) and funded through the SBA’s Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership. The no-cost support and resources are provided to tech startups and aims to help them navigate the pursuit of Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) funding.

Understanding the SBIR/STTR Programs

It is known as “America’s Seed Fund” because it is the largest pool of non-dilutive funding available in the U.S. for stimulating technological innovation. Eleven federal agencies participate in the SBIR Program, and five participate in the STTR Program. Each of these agencies administer its own program within guidelines established by Congress, and each designates R&D topics to meet federal R&D needs.

WV Sprint: Eligibility and Services

To be eligible for SBIR/STTR support services through WV SPRINT, your small business must meet the following guidelines:

• Your business should be registered in the state of West Virginia, and at least one founder should reside in the state.

• Your company is a for-profit small business whose technology is innovative with commercial potential.

• You need early-stage funding to further develop your technology through research and development (R&D).

The WV SPRINT Program’s mission is to enable access and garner an understanding of SBIR/STTR opportunities, ultimately increasing the number of applications to the program by companies in the State of West Virginia. To reach this goal, we provide valuable insight, information, and guidance in navigating the entire application process and post-award assistance.

Through our program, we offer customized solutions by highly skilled SBIR specialists to increase your chances of securing these grants, including:

• Informative and actionable webinars

• Registration assistance

• One-to-one coaching and guidance

• Application review and feedback

• Support for Phase 0 applications

Ready to explore how federal SBIR/STTR funding can accelerate your tech startup's growth? The WV SPRINT Program services are available now to help you navigate the path from concept to commercialization.