NASA SBIR

NASA SBIR Phase I (BAA, Appendix A & B)

Funds exploratory feasibility research for small businesses in aeronautics, space technology, and exploration development.

⚠ This may reflect a past cycle — verify the current call on the funder's site.

NASA SBIR Phase I is the feasibility stage of the Small Business Innovation Research program operated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Phase I establishes the scientific, technical, and commercial merit and feasibility of a proposed innovation aligned with NASA mission technology needs. Under the new 2026–2027 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) model — a structural change from the traditional annual solicitation cycle — Phase I proposals are solicited via numbered appendices released throughout the year. Appendices A and B for SBIR Phase I were released April 21, 2026 and closed May 21, 2026; selections are expected August 2026. Future appendices (C, D, and beyond) will be released on a rolling basis through September 30, 2027, with proposal limits resetting for each appendix.

The Phase I award cap was raised to $225,000 for the PY2026 cycle, up from $150,000 in recent prior cycles. The performance period for SBIR Phase I is 6 months. In the most recent comparable cycle (July 2025), NASA selected 299 small businesses totaling a $44.85 million investment, with approximately 32% being first-time SBIR recipients. Eligibility requires a U.S. small business with 500 or fewer employees, at least 51% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or other small businesses. The applicant must perform the primary research.

Successful Phase I awardees become eligible for Phase II, which carries a cap of up to $1,275,000 over 24 months. Applicants select subtopics from the published appendix that match their technology, demonstrate innovation relative to NASA's current capabilities, and articulate a credible commercialization path. Proposals are scored on scientific and technical merit, commercial potential, and the qualifications of the team. Submission is via the NASA SBIR/STTR solicitation portal (ProSAMS for PY2026).