NCRRs Division of Research Infrastructure (DRI) participates, along with other
NIH components, in two Federal grant programs that provide funding to small businesses.
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program and the Small Business Technology
Transfer (STTR) Program both seek to increase the participation of small businesses
in Federally supported research and development (R&D) and to increase private
sector commercialization of technology developed through Federally supported R&D.
However, there are significant differences between the two programs. For detailed
program information, refer to the NIH Small Business Opportunities Web site.
Typically, the DRI requests applications for grants, but it may solicit contract proposals.
DRI is especially interested in funding the development of discovery-oriented software for
education on health science topics that targets K-12 and undergraduate students. Areas of
interest to DRI include, but are not limited to, the development of new discovery-oriented
educational software on topics that range from basic molecular and cellular biology to human
diseases, including areas of health disparities such as diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular, and
cancer that disproportionately affect minority populations. To meet the information needs of
these growing target audiences, health education materials must take into account not only
cultural sensitivities, but also language preferences. Development of this software may be
directed toward the adapting existing or recently developed educational programs for interactive
learning. This effort is intended to yield efficient and user-friendly educational units
for K-12 and undergraduate students that can be extended to enhance the health science literacy
of the general public. A broad dissemination is strongly encouraged.
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(R43-R44) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants support domestic
small business concerns to engage in research/research and development that has
the potential for commercialization. Phase I, which uses the R43 funding mechanism,
is normally for six months or longer for an amount up to $100,000. Phase II, which
uses the R44 funding mechanism, is for two years and for up to $750,000. Receipt
deadlines for applications are April 1, August 1, and December 1 of each year.
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(R41-R42) Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants support innovative
research in the United States that results in commercial products or services
that benefit the public. An STTR grant requires research partners at universities
and other non-profit research institutions to have a formal collaborative relationship
with the small business concern. At least 40 percent of the STTR research project
is to be conducted by the small business concern and at least 30 percent of the
work is to be conducted by the single, "partnering" research institution.
Phase I, which uses the R41 funding mechanism, is for one year for an amount up
to $100,000. Normally, Phase II, which uses the R42 mechanism, is for two years
and for up to $500,000. This total includes direct costs, indirect costs, and
fixed fees. If justified, applicants may propose longer periods of time and greater
amounts of funds. Receipt deadlines for applications are April 1, August 1, and
December 1 of each year.
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