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U.S. DOT Small Business Innovation Research Program

U.S. DOT SBIR Phase I

Funds U.S. small businesses testing the feasibility of transportation R&D innovations for DOT mission needs.

ClosedU.S. Department of TransportationUnited States
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About

The U.S. Department of Transportation administers SBIR Phase I as the feasibility stage of its Small Business Innovation Research program, a federal non-dilutive R&D contract mechanism for small businesses. The FY26 Phase I solicitation is open from June 3, 2026 through July 7, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. ET.

Phase I supports feasibility-related experimental, theoretical, or R&D work on specified DOT resea…

What this grant funds

Transportation research and development topics published in the U.S. DOT FY26 SBIR Phase I solicitation, including technologies relevant to DOT operating administrations and commercialization of transportation innovations.

Key facts
CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Twice a year
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.—
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.13 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.6 months
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Contract
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.—
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Eligibility criteria

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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.transportation.gov