Funding for Special   Communities

Small Business FAQ

How do I apply?

  • Beginning with the April 5, 2009 receipt date, original new applications (i.e., never submitted) and competing renewal applications submitted the NIH will accept only a single amendment to the original application. See NOT-OD-09-016.
  • As of the April, 2009 receipt date, SBIR/STTR applications must be submitted using Adobe-based forms. See NOT-OD-08-117. All applications must be submitted electronically on the SF424 (R&R) via grants.gov.
  • For questions specific to your proposed research project, please contact the NIDDK staff.

What is the SF424 form (R & R)?

  • The SF424 Research and Research Related (R&R) application form was developed for all Federal Agencies involved in research and research-related grant funding.
  • Grants.gov has been designated by the Office of Management and Budget as the single access point for all grant programs offered by 26 Federal grant-making agencies. It provides a single interface for agencies to announce their grant opportunities and for all grant applicants to find and apply for those opportunities.
  • NIH has developed the a plan to transition from the PHS 398 application form to the SF424 (R&R). This transition will occur in conjunction with the electronic receipt of competing applications through Grants.gov.


In what areas of research is NIDDK interested?

The NIDDK welcomes SBIR and STTR applications from small businesses in any biomedical or behavioral research area that falls within our mission. Areas of interest are described in the annual omnibus solicitation (PDF).

 

Does my application compete with other NIH programs for funding?

No. The funds for this program are 'set-aside' and therefore do not compete with the regular research, training, or other special programs supported by the Institute. The SBIR set-aside is 2.5% of the budget; The STTR program has an annual set-aside of 0.30%.

 

What is the difference between an SBIR and an STTR?

The Principal Investigator must have his/her primary employment (>51%) with the small business on an SBIR grant; STTR applicants are REQUIRED to have a formal collaborative relationship with a research institution in the performance of the project that will lead to a commercial product. For more information see eligibility.


Am I permitted to submit a Phase II application if I have not yet received my Phase I award?

No. Small business concerns that have received an SBIR Phase I grant or an STTR Phase I grant are eligible to apply for SBIR or STTR Phase II funding, respectively, of that program.

Are there limits on costs and length of time the project can last?

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) (R43/44) Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) (R41/R42)
Phase I normally not to exceed $100,000 for DC, F&A, and fee for a period normally not to exceed one year. May exceed this level Phase I normally not to exceed $100,000 for DC, F&A, and fee for a period normally not to exceed one year. May exceed this level
Phase II: Awards normally may not exceed $750,000/for DC, F&A, and fee for a period normally not to exceed 2 years. May exceed this level Phase II: Awards normally may not exceed $750,000 for DC, F&A, and fee for a period normally not to exceed 2 years. May exceed this level

 

Is there a way to get funded for Phase I and II at the same time?

Yes. A Fast-Track allows the submission and review of Phase I and II applications at the same time.

Can I track my application through the NIH process?

Yes. eRA Commons allows you access to your application(s) and funded grants.

Can I take my grant with me if I move?

Awards are issued to the small business, not the PI. If the business that holds the award is unable or unwilling to do the research without you and you are moving to another eligible small company, it is possible to move the grant. NIDDK considers such situations on a case by case basis.

What is the Commercialization Assessment Program (CAP)?

A program of training workshops, individual mentoring and consulting sessions for Phase II awardees, designed to help some of the nation’s most promising life science startups develop their commercial business. See NIH CAP for more information.

How can I find out about SBIR/STTR-related information?

By subscribing to the NIH listserv for small business-related information-SBIR/STTR LISTSERV – you will receive all updates as they are issued.

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Page last updated: February 24, 2011

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