Army Office of Small Business Programs
Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR)
and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs

Gayna Malcolm-Packnett
Procurement Analyst

The SBIR/STTR programs provide Army access to technology that helps meet mission needs and provide “seed” funds to small businesses in the development of their technology. The objective of the programs is to stimulate technological innovation, to meet federal research and development (R&D) needs, to foster and encourage participation in innovations and entrepreneurship by socially and economically disadvantaged persons, and to increase privatesector use of innovations derived from federal R&D funding. In the case of STTR, another objective is to foster technology transfer through cooperative R&D between a small business and a research institute.

There are 3 phases of the SBIR/STTR programs. Phases I and II are funded with program funds, but Phase III is funded with other funds (a federal contract, a subcontract, a commercial contract, angel investors, or venture capital).

  • Phase I, Feasibility: a study that determines scientific, technical merit and feasibility of a selected concept. Award of up to $100k for up to 6 months of effort, with an option for up to $50k for an additional 4 months.
  • Phase II, Prototype: a continuation of the R&D that culminates in a well-defined, deliverable prototype. Award is for up to $1M for up to 2 years of effort. SBIR allows for Phase II enhancement, an option for up to an additional $500k to increase the Technical Readiness Level (TRL) of the technology. There is no Phase II enhancement for STTR, but awardees are eligible for a 2nd Phase II award.
  • Phase III, Commercialization: work that derives from, extends, or logically concludes efforts performed under Phase I or II. The objective is to pursue commercial application of the technology.

Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Research and Technology (DASA(R&T)) is responsible for the SBIR/STTR Programs, but our office serves as a liaison for program inquiries.

By clicking below, you can find out about competitive, awards-based programs and identify the top emerging technical solutions to meet critical Army priorities to modernize our world-class Army and get life-saving technology into the hands of our Soldiers.

www.armysbir.army.mil

If you would like more information, please contact the Army OSBP Front Desk at 703-697-2868.