SBIR-STTR Matching Funds Program
The SBIR-STTR Matching Funds Program by the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development boosts Kentucky startups’ science and tech commercialization through state grants that match federal SBIR/STTR awards.
Funder: Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development
Due Dates: October 26, 2026 (KSBIR Match Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $100,000 (Phase I match) | Up to $150,000 (Phase II match); non-dilutive, reimbursable grant; competitive.
Summary: State matching funds for Kentucky-based or relocating high-tech startups and small businesses that have secured federal SBIR or STTR awards.
Key Information: Applicants must already have a federal SBIR/STTR award and be (or willing to become) Kentucky-based.
Description
The SBIR-STTR Matching Funds Program, administered by the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development through KY Innovation, provides competitive, non-dilutive state matching grants to high-tech startups and small businesses that have secured federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) awards. The program aims to accelerate the commercialization and growth of innovative companies with a strong connection to Kentucky, leveraging federal innovation funding to strengthen the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
