AMERICA'S SEED FUND
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The competitive Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are designed to encourage domestic small businesses to engage in Federal Research and Development (R&D). SBIR/STTR funding enables entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into commercial potential while also fulfilling the needs of participating federal agencies.
The mission of the SBIR/STTR programs is to support scientific excellence and technological innovation through the investment of Federal research funds in critical American priorities to build a strong national economy.
The program's goals are to:
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Stimulate technological innovation.
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Meet Federal research and development needs.
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Foster and encourage participation in innovation and entrepreneurship by women and socially or economically disadvantaged persons.
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Increase private-sector commercialization of innovations derived from Federal research and development funding.
In addition, the STTR program aims to:
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Foster technology transfer through cooperative R&D between small businesses and research institutions.
FAQs
FUNDING FACTS
Phase I
The objective of Phase I is to establish the technical merit, feasibility, and commercial potential of the proposed R/R&D efforts and to determine the quality of performance of the small business awardee organization prior to providing further Federal support in Phase II. SBIR/STTR Phase I awards are generally $50,000 - $250,000 for 6 months (SBIR) or 1 year (STTR).
Phase II
The objective of Phase II is to continue the R/R&D efforts initiated in Phase I. Funding is based on the results achieved in Phase I and the scientific and technical merit and commercial potential of the project proposed in Phase II. Typically, only Phase I awardees are eligible for a Phase II award. SBIR/STTR Phase II awards are generally $750,000 for 2 years.
Phase III
The objective of Phase III, where appropriate, is for the small business to pursue commercialization objectives resulting from the Phase I/II R/R&D activities. The SBIR/STTR programs do not fund Phase III. At some Federal agencies, Phase III may involve follow-on non-SBIR/STTR funded R&D or production contracts for products, processes or services intended for use by the U.S. Government.
For a full list of SBIR/STTR Participating Agencies, visit this link: SBIR.gov
LINKS & RESOURCES
Entity Filing
Oklahoma Secretary of State
The first step in forming a business is to select a legal business structure. This decision is based on how your business will operate and who will own it, along with legal and tax considerations. Applicants must self-certify must meet Small Business Concern criteria to apply for SBIR/STTR.
File your business entity name with the Oklahoma Secretary of State office to get started.
Business Guidance
U.S. Small Business Administration Business Guide
The SBA helps small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business and provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise as the nation’s only go-to resource and voice for small businesses.
Local Business Resources
Small Business Development Centers Oklahoma
Oklahoma SBDC assists small business owners and new entrepreneurs by providing no charge, one-on-one business management advising, business management workshops and business technical assistance.
Business Support
OU Startup Programs
I-CCEW
OCAST
E3
Builders + Backers
StitchCrew
Cultivate
Tulsa Innovation Labs
Oklahoma organizations offer a variety of programs aimed at helping early-stage businesses obtain funding, conduct market research, build strategic relationships and so much more.
Visit the organizations linked above to learn more.
SBIR/STTR Company Registry
SAM.gov
The Company Registry is a new element of the SBIR/STTR data system and application process. Once you have registered, your company will be given an SBIR/STTR ID number that you will use when applying to any SBIR/STTR agency solicitation.
Government Contracting
Oklahoma Procurement Technical Assistance Center
The Oklahoma Procurement Technical Assistance Center (OkPTAC) provides marketing and technical assistance to Oklahoma businesses interested in selling products and services to federal, state, local and tribal governments.