Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I: eligibility, deadline, and how to apply (2026)
Key Facts
- Agency
- Small Business Administration (SBA)
- Award Range
- up to $323,090
- Deadline
- Varies by Agency (Multiple Cycles Per Year)
- Time Remaining
- Several funding announcements a year, each with its own close date. Check the current announcements on the program page.
- CFDA Number
- Not assigned
The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I program is a federal funding opportunity administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA). This guide covers everything you need to know to determine whether you qualify and how to submit a competitive application before the close date in the current funding announcement.
Use our free Grant Finder to discover additional programs you may be eligible for based on your organization type and location.
Eligibility requirements
To qualify for the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Details from the regulation (13 CFR 121.702): An STTR awardee must be a concern which is more than 50% directly owned and controlled by one or more individuals who are citizens or permanent resident aliens of the United States, other small business concerns meeting that test, an Indian tribe, ANC or NHO, or any combination of these. An SBIR or STTR awardee, together with its affiliates, must not have more than 500 employees. STTR projects are carried out with a partner research institution; each agency's solicitation sets its own topics, award sizes and deadlines.
Eligibility requirements can change between funding cycles. Always verify the current criteria on the official program page before beginning your application.
Not sure your organization qualifies? Run the free Grant Finder check → or compare other Research programs by who can apply.
How to apply: step by step
- Register on SAM.gov. Every federal grant applicant needs an active SAM (System for Award Management) registration. Allow 2-4 weeks for new registrations to process. Existing registrations must be renewed annually.
- Get a UEI number. Your Unique Entity Identifier is assigned through SAM.gov and replaces the old DUNS number. You will need this on every federal application.
- Review the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Download the full NOFO from the program page. Pay close attention to review criteria, budget limits, and required attachments.
- Prepare your application package. Most federal grants require a project narrative, budget justification, organizational capacity statement, and supporting documents. Follow the page limits and formatting rules exactly.
- Submit through the system the NOFO names. Some agencies use Grants.gov and others use their own portal. Submit before the close date in the current funding announcement; late applications are usually rejected.
- Confirm receipt. Keep the tracking number or confirmation email, and check back in 1-2 business days that your application passed the validation checks.
For detailed guidance on writing a winning narrative, see our grant writing tips article.
Grant details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Grant Name | Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I |
| Funding Agency | Small Business Administration (SBA) |
| CFDA Number | Not assigned |
| Award Minimum | Not published |
| Award Maximum | $323,090 |
| Deadline | Varies by Agency (Multiple Cycles Per Year) |
| Category | Research |
| Matching Required | No matching funds required |
| Application Link | Official program page |
Federal grant budgets and priorities shift each fiscal year. The amounts listed above reflect the most recent funding cycle. For the latest figures, check the official program page.
If you are exploring business financing beyond grants, the team at CeoCult covers loans, lines of credit, and alternative funding for founders.
Check your fit for Research grants like this one before you apply: eligibility, match and registration in one worksheet.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I program?
Details from the regulation (13 CFR 121.702): An STTR awardee must be a concern which is more than 50% directly owned and controlled by one or more individuals who are citizens or permanent resident aliens of the United States, other small business concerns meeting that test, an Indian tribe, ANC or NHO, or any combination of these. An SBIR or STTR awardee, together with its affiliates, must not have more than 500 employees. STTR projects are carried out with a partner research institution; each agency's solicitation sets its own topics, award sizes and deadlines. Requirements can change between cycles, so always verify on the official program page before applying.
What is the deadline for Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I?
The current deadline is varies by agency (multiple cycles per year). Many federal grants operate on annual or rolling cycles. If this deadline has passed, check the program page for the next funding opportunity.
Does Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I require matching funds?
No matching funds required. Matching requirements can vary by fiscal year and applicant type, so confirm with the funding agency before committing resources.