Services
National Science Foundation,
National Institute of Health & Others
Do you have a groundbreaking technical innovation? Both NSF & NIH support startups through the SBIR/STTR program that fund high-impact research with strong commercial potential. Whether you’re developing cutting-edge technology in science, engineering, or healthcare, these agencies offer non-dilutive funding to help bring your innovation to life.
NSF vs. NIH SBIR/STTR
Which One Fits Your Startup?
For life sciences startups, the two primary funding agencies are the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). While both support innovation, their focus areas differ:
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Best for early-stage technology development, proof-of-concept, and fundamental research. NSF emphasizes engineering, computational science, and disruptive technologies.
National Institutes of Helath (NIH)
Ideal for startups advancing biomedical and healthcare innovations, particularly those requiring pre-clinical studies, human subjects research, or FDA regulatory approval.
National Science Foundation (NSF)
The National Science Foundation funds innovators & startups working on R&D of unproven, leading-edge tech innovations that address societal challenges.
Get started with NSF
Submit a three-page Project Pitch to the SBIR/STTR team. The Agency gives feedback on whether your innovation aligns with NSF’s priorities before you dive into a full proposal.
If your pitch gets the green light, you’ll be invited to submit a full Phase I proposal.
- This program is open to almost all areas of technology. Whether you’re fresh out of the private sector, a federal lab, or academia, the NSF SBIR/STTR program is designed to support ideas at the earliest stages of development.
- Proposals are reviewed after each of the three annual deadlines.
From crafting the initial pitch to securing PhII funding, we’re committed to make your ideas stand out.
- No-Cost Project Validation: We’ll dive deep into your project idea to ensure it aligns perfectly with program requirements and priorities.
- Seamless Registrations: We handle all the registrations on SAM.gov, SBA, eRA Commons, Grants.gov, and Research.gov so you can focus on your innovation.
- Expert Pitch & Grant Writing: Our team provides top-notch writing, editing, and proof-reading services to craft a compelling application.
- Hassle-Free Submission: We take care of submitting your application through the NSF portal, ensuring everything is in order.
- Comprehensive Support: From due diligence to post-award management, we’re with you every step of the way.
Phase I
- Period of Performance: 6 to 12 months
- Award Maximum: $305,000.
- Contract Focus: Proof of concept and feasibility
Phase II
- Period of Performance: 21 months (18 months of R&D + 3 months for final reporting)
- Award Maximum: $1.25 million
- Contract Focus: Advance the technology toward commercialization
National Institute of Health (NIH)
The National Institutes of Health SBIR/STTR program funds scientists & entrepreneurs working to bring their discoveries to patients.
Get started with NIH
Thinking about applying for NIH SBIR/STTR funding? Start by identifying the most relevant Institute based on your technology area.
The NIH SBIR/STTR program is ideal for health and biomedical innovations at various stages of development, including pre-clinical research, diagnostics, medical devices, and therapeutics.
Applications are accepted three times per year under standard due dates.
Unlike NSF, NIH does not require a pre-submission pitch, you can take a look at the NIHs Portfolio Overview and check the most funded topic.
From aligning with the right NIH Institute to securing Phase II funding.
Project Validation: We assess your project idea to ensure it aligns with NIH’s mission and the priorities of the relevant Institutes or Centers.
Seamless Registrations: We handle all required registrations including SAM.gov, SBA, eRA Commons, Grants.gov… so you can focus on your research.
Expert Grant Writing: Our experienced team provides high-quality writing, editing, and review services to craft a compelling NIH proposal.
Hassle-Free Submission: We manage the entire submission process through ensuring all components are complete and compliant.
Full-Cycle Support: From initial planning to post-award compliance, we’re with you every step of the way to maximize your chances of success.
Phase I
- Period of Performance: 6 to 12 months
- Award Maximum: $305,000
- Award Focus: Proof of concept and feasibility
Phase II
- Period of Performance: Typically up to 2 years
- Award Maximum: $1,500,000+ (depends on the program)
- Award Focus: R&D and further development
Other Agencies
But that’s not all! At Inspiralia, we also have specialized teams ready to assist you with other major funding opportunities:
DOE SBIR/STTR
If your project has strong commercialization potential in the energy sector, the Department of Energy (DOE) SBIR is your ticket. With Phase I awards of $225,000, Phase II awards up to $1.1 million, and Fast Track awards of $1.85 million, we’ll help you tap into funding for innovations in energy production, storage, security, and environmental management.
USDA SBIR/STTR:
Got a breakthrough idea in agriculture? The USDA SBIR program offers Phase I awards of $125,000 and Phase II awards of $600,000 to fund innovations in plant and animal production, conservation, and food science. We’ll guide you through the process to turn your scientific solutions into real-world applications.