Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) are federal research and development programs administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA).
If you are an expert in your field or have a cutting edge technology concept or idea that might be of interest to the federal government the SBIR program is a great place to start.
You can also learn more about the SBIR program at SBIR.gov.
What Support WA APEX Offers Innovators
Washington APEX Accelerator offers support for the Department of Defense SBIR program as well as others. Our services include:
- Navigating the Department of Defense SBIR Program submission process
- Identifying Key Technology Areas the DoD is interested in
- Identifying funding options outside of SBIR
- Connecting you to other DoD SBIR Support resources
- Provide technical narration and commercialization plan reviews
- Provide government market research
Additionally, our advisor is able to help with Department of Transportation, NASA and Department of Homeland Security Phase 1 submissions. For any other SBIR programs reach out to ARC WA (see below)
The process starts with registering as a client with the Washington State Accelerator and requesting DOD/NASA/DOT/DHS SBIR assistance.
Other Links for Innovators
If you are working on a more mature innovation you may also want to visit these sites for funding ideas:
Defense Innovation Unit (DIU): A DoD focused organization that accelerates the adoption of commercial and dual use technology for use by the DoD. Innovations should be at TRL 6 or above.
Challenge.gov: These on going federal prize competitions are agency and industry agnostic. All levels of innovation maturity.
Federal Laboratories: There are over 300 federally funded laboratories nationwide funded by research and development across all federal agencies. They may be a good partner for a STTR submission or partner for transferring technology out to commercialize.
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA): DARPA supports research for revolutionary innovations that can help with national security. They offer a wide variety of programs and support across all innovation maturity levels.
Defense Production Act: Learn how the different federal agencies are using this act to support finding solutions to supply chain issues.
Washington APEX Partners
In addition to providing in house support we can connect you to one of our partners for more intensive assistance.
ARC WA – The Washington State SBA FAST Grant funded program is the state’s starting point for all things SBIR. If you are not sure if the SBIR or STTR program is a fit for you and want to learn the basics, or you have interest in an SBIR program the APEX does not help with, an ARC WA advisor can help.
Northwest Tech Bridge – The Pacific Northwest has a large Navy presence and one of the NavalX funded Tech Bridges. If you are particularly interested in the Navy SBIR you can find no cost assistance at the NW Tech Bridge.
The Life Science Washington Institute – As a partner in the ARC WA program, LSWI provides support to life science innovators and start ups statewide. If you are seeking SBIR assistance with any medical related or bioscience related innovation, this is the place to start.
Other Resources for Innovators
Small Business Development Centers – Washington State SBDC has a dedicated SBIR Advisor who can provide solicitation and financial reviews as well as commercial market research.
Impact Washington – The state’s MEP helps potential manufacturers with job training, cyber security trainings, and much more. Find local and regional no cost or low cost assistance as you grow.
Questions? Contact Kate Hoy, WA APEX SBIR/STTR Program Director, khoy@thurstonedc.com
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