SBIR/STTR microAwards
SBIR/STTR microAwards support Kentucky small businesses with market research, testing, prototype materials, and technical expertise to explore technology feasibility and strengthen federal proposals.
This grant was recently updated
Rolling applications are no longer confirmed on the page, so contact sbir@kstc.com to check upcoming pitch competition dates and application timing. You can also explore KSEF’s SBIR/STTR Proposal Labs for proposal preparation support; the $5,000 award limit and eligibility requirements remain unchanged.
Funder: Kentucky Science & Engineering Foundation
Due Dates: Not specified
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000 per microAward
Summary: Supports Kentucky small businesses with targeted research, testing, and preparation expenses that address gaps in federal SBIR/STTR proposals.
Key Information: Applicants must commit to submitting an SBIR/STTR proposal within the next six months.
Description
The Kentucky Science & Engineering Foundation (KSEF) runs the SBIR/STTR microAwards program to help Kentucky small businesses explore the feasibility of innovative technologies and prepare competitive federal Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer proposals. Awards are made through a pitch competition in which companies present their innovation and proposed use of funds to a panel of judges.
The program targets specific gaps in proposal preparation, including market research, testing, prototype materials, and access to outside technical expertise. It also supports conference and training fees and project-related travel, including customer discovery and lab testing. The focus is on practical activities and services that strengthen a planned SBIR/STTR proposal, rather than equipment purchases or routine operating costs.
