USRIA Initiative
WV SPRINT
West Virginia’s Free Resource for SBIR / STTR Assistance
Upcoming SBIR / STTR Events
Innovation Funding Can Be Complicated.
It doesn’t have to be.
The SBIR/STTR grant application process is complex. These applications demand extensive time and research, resources that can often be scarce for entrepreneurs.
Additionally, the volume of information needed can make many feel overwhelmed, especially if they are going at it alone. With success rates around 20%, presenting a well-crafted proposal is essential for your chances of winning an award.
Through our program, we provide you with the essential guidance, coaching, training, and support you need to approach the application process with confidence. Our skilled SBIR experts will help you break down the overwhelming application requirements into manageable steps, which with proper resource planning, can help you submit your best proposal.
FAST is Free
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers the Federal and State Technology (FAST) partnership program to assist small businesses in successfully applying for SBIR and STTR funding. As West Virginia's FAST provider, we support early-stage founders, inventors, and entrepreneurs in navigating the process of applying for these funding opportunities.
In collaboration with the West Virginia Small Business Development Center’s In-Tech Program, we provide free, professional support to help startups in West Virginia.
You don’t have to approach the application process alone. Our program’s free services help businesses develop a comprehensive understanding of federal agency requirements and preferences, provide application coaching assistance, strategically position their innovations, and create clear, compelling proposals.
Ready to Get Federal Funding Assistance?
Apply Today and We Will Contact You With Next Steps
Focus on your innovation. Not application stress.
West Virginia features a broad network of entrepreneurial support organizations ready to jump in and help your innovation succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Small Business Administration (SBA) created the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs to support innovative small businesses in developing their technology and charting a course toward commercialization.
It is known as “America’s Seed Fund” because it is the largest pool of non-dilutive capital available in the U.S. for funding innovation. Through the SBIR/STTR program, the federal government awards $4 Billion per year and takes zero equity or IP in return.
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The Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program provides funding to organizations to execute state/regional programs that increase the number of SBIR/STTR proposals leading to an increase in the number of SBIR/STTR awards from women, socially/economically disadvantaged individuals, and small businesses in underrepresented areas - typically rural states.
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WV SPRINT is an initiative from USRIA and the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, to deliver free support to West Virginia companies pursuing SBIR / STTR funding.
USRIA is West Virginia’s FAST program partner. The FAST program is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the US Small Business Administration (SBA).
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The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Investment (EII) Fund, funded by the state of West Virginia, provides matching grants to businesses that secure federal SBIR/STTR awards. Applications for Phase I and Phase II matching funds are accepted twice yearly, in January and July.
Additionally, businesses can apply for $2,500 Phase 0 grants immediately after submitting a Phase I SBIR/STTR proposal. Unlike the Phase I/II matching program, these applications are accepted year-round. Learn more and apply at: https://wvsbdc.com/services/technology-commercialization/
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Most federal agencies recommend allowing up to six months to fully develop a proposal, with the average time being 3-6 months. However, some agencies, such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) have created a “Project Pitch” opportunity which can be completed in less than a day and allows you to simply pitch your idea and have it accepted for submitting a full proposal, or rejected with suggestions.
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Because every federal agency handles their SBIR/STTR program differently, the award cycle and receipt of funds can also vary greatly. After a proposal has been awarded, the first funds could appear after a few weeks while some agencies could take several months to distribute the funds.
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The SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) program was initiated in 1982 to stimulate technological innovation in the U.S. by supporting the path of taking an innovative idea through development to commercialization. Several years later the STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) was added to the program to facilitate the transfer of technology developed through support of a research institution back to the small business. SBIR/STTR funds are only available to small business organizations, but many need the technology or scientific assistance of experts. The STTR program allows a larger percentage of funds to be allocated to the research organization. Of the 11 federal agencies that participate in the SBIR/STTR program, only 5 of those agencies also offer an STTR option.
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The following are the 11 federal agencies participating in the SBIR/STTR program, along with the total annual funding issued through the program and whether the funding is issued as a grant or a contract.
Health and Human Services (HHS) $1.2B Grants
Dept of Energy (DOE) $315M Grants
Dept of Agriculture (USDA) $42M Grants
Dept of Commerce (DOC) $15M Grants
Nat’l Science Foundation (NSF) $1.25M Grants
Dept of Defense (DOD) $2.3B Contracts
Dept of Homeland Security (DHS) $18M Contracts
Dept of Education (ED) $10M Contracts
Dept of Transportation (DOT) $9M Contracts
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) $5M Contracts
Nat’l Aeronautics & Space Agency (NASA) $1M Contracts
