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NEI Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)

NEI STTR Phase II — R&D

Funds collaborative small-business partnerships to mature vision innovation into market-ready healthcare technologies.

OpenNIH National Eye InstituteUnited States

The NIH National Eye Institute (NEI) STTR Phase II program (R42) funds full research and development projects conducted cooperatively by a U.S. small business and a nonprofit research institution, building directly on results from a completed NEI STTR Phase I award. NEI covers vision research across its three extramural divisions: Retina/Glaucoma/Low Vision, Anterior Segment (Cornea, Lens, Dry Eye

Vision-related R&D in partnership with a nonprofit research institution — full development through commercialization readiness.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Multiple per 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.
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.24 months
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
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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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.nei.nih.gov