ED/IES SBIR Phase I

ED/IES SBIR Phase IB — Component on Existing Product

Supports United States education teams adding marketable features to existing evidence-based ed-tech products.

The ED/IES SBIR Phase IB FY2026 program funds 9-month, $250,000 contracts for small businesses that want to develop new components or features built on top of existing research-based education technology products. Unlike Phase IA, which requires entirely novel technology with no prior development, Phase IB is designed for enhancement of an already-established product base. The applicant's existing product must be demonstrably research-based, and the proposal must explain what new capability is being added and why it addresses an unmet educational need.

The FY2026 Phase IB solicitation (SAM.gov number 91990026R0004) was released April 30, 2026, with a deadline of June 29, 2026 at 11:00 AM EDT — identical to the Phase IA schedule. Eligibility requirements are the same across all IES SBIR Phase I tracks: U.S.-based for-profit small businesses with 500 or fewer employees, at least 51% owned by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, with the principal investigator employed at the applicant company at least 51% of the time. Nonprofit and research-institution partners may receive up to one-third of the award ($83,333) as subawards. SAM.gov registration and a valid UEI are mandatory before submission.

IES funds 10–15 Phase I contracts per year across both the Phase IA and Phase IB tracks out of 175–275 total proposals, making the effective acceptance rate approximately 5–8%. Award decisions are expected within 90 days of the June 29 deadline. Phase IB awardees that successfully complete Phase I and demonstrate the component's technical feasibility and educational value are eligible to advance to Phase II ($1,000,000 over 2 years) for full-scale development. Applicants should prepare clear documentation of the existing product's research foundation and articulate measurable outcomes for the new component.