SBIR/STTR Phase I Incentive Funds Program
The SBIR/STTR Phase I Incentive Funds Program helps North Carolina small businesses offset costs of preparing federal research grant proposals, supporting scientific innovation statewide.
Funder: North Carolina Department of Commerce
Due Dates: June 30, 2027 (final deadline or earlier if funds are exhausted)
Funding Amounts: Up to $12,000 per application (max 75% or 50% of eligible costs, depending on county tier); total FY27 funding available is $210,000; one award per company per cycle, lifetime max 10.
Summary: Reimburses qualified NC small businesses for a portion of costs incurred preparing and submitting federal Phase I SBIR/STTR proposals.
Key Information: Applications are approved on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted or the deadline passes.
Description
This program, administered by the North Carolina Department of Commerce's Office of Science, Technology & Innovation, provides reimbursement to eligible North Carolina small businesses for a portion of the costs associated with preparing and submitting Phase I proposals to federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. The goal is to increase the number, quality, and diversity of North Carolina applications to federal SBIR/STTR programs, particularly from underrepresented regions and groups, and to help companies overcome the financial hurdle of proposal preparation.
