SBIR/STTR Phase I Incentive Funds Program
SBIR/STTR Phase I Incentive Funds Program supports North Carolina small businesses with federal proposal preparation costs to increase the number and quality of applications and foster economic development.
Funder: North Carolina Department of Commerce
Due Dates: June 30, 2027 (Full application; earlier if funds are exhausted)
Funding Amounts: Up to $12,000 per proposal; reimbursement up to 75% in Tier 1–2 counties or 50% in Tier 3 counties; $210,000 available
Summary: Reimburses North Carolina small businesses for eligible costs of preparing and submitting federal SBIR/STTR Phase I proposals.
Key Information: Applicants must be for-profit small businesses with their principal place of business in North Carolina.
Description
The SBIR/STTR Phase I Incentive Funds Program helps North Carolina small businesses offset the costs of preparing and submitting proposals to participating federal agencies. It supports the proposal stage rather than directly funding the proposed research. The program is part of the One North Carolina Small Business Program, administered by the Office of Science, Technology & Innovation on behalf of the North Carolina Board of Science, Technology & Innovation.
The program seeks to foster job creation and economic development by increasing the number and quality of federal Phase I applications. Its goals include broadening company, technology, and geographic diversity, particularly participation by businesses in economically distressed counties. It also encourages applications to federal agencies where North Carolina is significantly underrepresented in Phase I awards, such as the Department of Defense.
