SBIR Matching Grant Program

AEDC's SBIR Matching Grant Program helps Arkansas small businesses leverage federal Small Business Innovation Research awards with state matching dollars. It is designed around firms that have already cleared the federal SBIR process, so the state money follows federal traction rather than replacing it. Phase I awards can be matched up to $50,000 and Phase II awards up to $100,000, with the state covering 50% of the federal award amount. Eligible industries include advanced materials, agriculture and food and environmental sciences, biotechnology and life sciences, IT, transportation logistics, and bio-based products. The program is rolling and only open to Arkansas companies. The prerequisite is the federal SBIR award itself, which means applicants need proof of the phase and award stage before the state will consider the match. The companies that fit best are those with an active federal research contract, a clear commercialization path, and enough Arkansas presence to satisfy AEDC's state-level eligibility rules.

Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.