The FAST program funds organizations to help small businesses compete in technology by raising awareness, providing education, and increasing participation in federal innovation grant programs.
Funder: Small Business Administration
Due Dates: July 16, 2026: Full application submission deadline
Funding Amounts: Up to $180,000 per award (project period up to 3 years); approx. $9,000,000 total program funding; 7 awards expected
Summary: Supports state/territory-based programs that increase SBIR/STTR participation and strengthen the technological competitiveness of small businesses through outreach, assistance, and financial support.
Key Information: Requires non-federal matching funds; only one application per state/territory, endorsed by the governor/designee.
The Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program, administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), aims to strengthen the technological competitiveness of small businesses in the United States. The program provides cooperative agreements to eligible organizations in specific states and U.S. territories to enhance participation in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. Funded activities include outreach, technical and business assistance, and direct financial support to small businesses to help increase the number and quality of SBIR/STTR proposals and awards. Recipients are expected to collaborate with local partners and leverage additional resources to maximize impact.