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Program

NEI Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)

Funds restoration of vision through advanced research programs for retinal neuron and sensory recovery.

NIH National Eye InstituteUnited StatesGrant
About

NEI SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) provides Phase I feasibility grants (up to 6 months – 2 years) and Phase II R&D grants (up to 2 years) to U.S. small businesses pursuing vision-related innovations with commercialization potential. NEI uses the NIH-wide SBIR omnibus mechanism (PA series) with standard cycles plus targeted RFAs.

Three program directors cover the NEI SBIR portfolio: Ret…

Industries covered
AIBiotechMedtechNeurotechPhotonics
Grants under NEI Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)

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

NEI SBIR Phase I — Feasibility
Open

Supports United States. small businesses testing vision concepts through feasibility-focused grants.

— pool
NEI SBIR Phase II — R&D
Open

Supports United States. small businesses scaling vision concepts into full development pathways.

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Last verified: 29 May 2026Source: www.nei.nih.gov