As an eligible small business looking to partner with a Research Institute you may participate in the SBIR/STTR programs. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are highly competitive programs that encourage domestic small businesses to engage in Federal Research/Research and Development (R/R&D) with the potential for commercialization.
Having an identified research partner is required to be allowed to propose to STTR solicitations. STTR is a parallel program to SBIR with the added requirement that SBCs partner with colleges/universities, Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) or qualified non-profit research institutions on cooperative R/R&D. Through a competitive awards-based program, SBIR and STTR enable small businesses to explore their technological potential and provide the incentive to profit from its commercialization. By including qualified small businesses in the nation's R&D arena, high-tech innovation is stimulated, and the United States gains entrepreneurial spirit as it meets its specific research and development needs.. Below is information that will assist you in getting involved with these programs.