NIH SBIR

NIH SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) is the largest SBIR program among federal agencies, with more than $1.2 billion set aside each year (3.2% of NIH's extramural R&D budget). It funds for-profit US-owned small businesses (≤500 employees) across all 27 NIH institutes and centers — covering drugs, devices, diagnostics, digital health, behavioral interventions, and research tools. The program runs as a two-phase ladder: Phase I funds feasibility (6-12 months, up to $323K); Phase II funds development (1-3 years, up to $2.15M). Companies that have already demonstrated feasibility can apply Direct-to-Phase II. Fast-Track lets you submit Phase I and Phase II together. Phase IIB and the Commercialization Readiness Pilot (CRP) extend funding for advanced-stage work. Following the April 2026 SBIR/STTR reauthorization, NIH is preparing successor parent NOFOs. Standard receipt dates remain September 5, January 5, and April 5; the next due date is September 5, 2026.

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