NHLBI SBIR/STTR Funding Opportunities

Specific Funding Opportunities

The following links provide detailed information on the different types of funding opportunities for which small businesses can apply.

• Targeted Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs)
• Annual Phase I SBIR Contract Solicitation
• Omnibus Grant Solicitation (for investigator-initiated applications)
• Search the NIH Guide for other funding opportunities

General SBIR/STTR Funding Information

The NHLBI provides numerous funding opportunities for small business concerns (SBCs), using grant and contract mechanisms, and supporting targeted research areas and investigator-initiated applications.

The SBIR/STTR program is structured in three phases. The main objective in Phase I is for SBCs to establish the technical merit and feasibility of the proposed research and development (R&D) efforts, while in Phase II it is to continue the R&D efforts initiated in Phase I. The objective of Phase III is for the SBC to pursue with non-SBIR funds the commercialization of the product or service developed during its Phase II activities.

The STTR program requires a partnership between the small business and a non-profit US research institution. The small business must perform at least 40% of the work, and the research institution must perform at least 30%.

Basic information on each of the phases is described below:

• SBIR Phase I: Funding for proof-of-concept or feasibility studies. Generally, up to $150,000 for six months.
• SBIR Phase II: Funding for continued R&D effort: Generally, up to $1,000,000 for two years. Requires a previous Phase I award.
• SBIR Phase IIB: The NHLBI is no longer participating in the Phase IIB program through the NIH Omnibus Grant Solicitation. The NHLBI will be offering future Phase IIB funding opportunities, so stay tuned for more information.
• STTR Phase I: Funding for proof-of-concept or feasibility studies. Generally, up to $100,000 for one year.
• STTR Phase II: Funding for continued R&D effort: Generally, up to $750,000 for two years. Requires a previous Phase I award.

How to Apply

To learn more about applying for funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), including what forms are necessary, important deadlines, a general timeline, and guidelines for tracking your application through the process, click here.

Last Updated January 2012