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Commercialization Institute

Accelerating Innovation to Market.

MNSBIR’s Commercialization Institute empowers businesses to bridge the funding gap, securing Phase III sole-source contracts to successfully commercialize their products or services.

MNSBIR Programs - INSTITUTEThe Commercialization Institute helps small businesses transition from SBIR/STTR Phase II and Phase IIB funding to full commercialization by providing targeted education and coaching from experienced consultants. Many firms face a “Valley of Death” between R&D funding and market entry. Our institute bridges that gap by equipping businesses with the tools and connection they need to secure Phase III funding and bring innovations to market. 

Support Includes:

  • Commercialization Strategy: Develop go-to-market plans, customer discovery, and competitive positioning.
  • Investor & Industry Engagement: Connect with investors, corporate partners, and government agencies.
  • Regulatory Guidance: Navigate regulatory compliance (FDA, FAA, etc.).
  • Reimbursement Guidance: Navigate reimbursement strategies.
  • Business Acceleration: Receive coaching on scaling, revenue models, and hiring strategies.
  • Peer-Networking Group: Join peer networking events.

Who Should Participate?

Any SBIR/STTR Phase II awardee preparing for commercialization.

How to Apply?

Please complete the Commercialization Institute Registration Form to apply. Applicants will be contacted for further screening.

Apply to the Commercialization Institute

FAQs

  • 1. What is the SBIR/STTR Phase III Commercialization Institute?

    The Commercialization Institute is a strategic program designed to help small businesses that have completed Phase II SBIR or STTR awards successfully transition to Phase III. The goal is to support commercialization through federal procurement, licensing, strategic partnerships, and private-sector investment.

  • 2. What is Phase III of the SBIR/STTR Program?

    Phase III is the commercialization phase of the SBIR/STTR program. Unlike Phases I and II, Phase III does not involve SBIR/STTR funding. Instead, it may include:

    • Sole-source federal contracts
    • Government or defense procurement
    • Private sector sales
    • Licensing, joint ventures, or mergers
    • Follow-on funding from strategic partners or investors

  • 3. Who is eligible to participate in the Institute?

    You are eligible if your company:

    • Has received an SBIR or STTR Phase II (or Fast Track) award
    • Is actively seeking to commercialize the technology
    • Is pursuing federal or private sector customers

  • 4. What types of support does the Commercialization Institute provide?

    The Institute offers tailored assistance, including:

    • Commercialization strategy development
    • Government contracting readiness (Phase III procurement)
    • Engagement with defense and civilian agencies
    • Investor and corporate partner outreach
    • Support for licensing, tech transfer, or regulatory planning
    • Market validation and go-to-market planning

  • 5. How is this different from typical SBIR coaching?

    Most SBIR/STTR support focuses on writing grant proposals or preparing for Phase I/II applications. The Commercialization Institute is focused on real-world market entry, procurement strategy, and growth capital—helping companies move beyond funding and into revenue-generating opportunities.

  • 6. Is there a cost to participate?

    No. The Institute is funded through the State of Minnesota and the Small Business Administration, Federal and State Technology Partnership Program.

  • 7. How long is the program?

    The duration and intensity vary based on your company’s needs and the intended goals for successful commercialization.

  • 8. What federal agencies support or recognize Phase III commercialization?

    Phase III government sole-source opportunities can be found across many agencies, including:

    • Department of Defense (DoD)
    • NASA
    • Department of Energy (DOE)
    • Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
    • Health and Human Services (HHS) / NIH
    • Veterans Affairs (VA)

  • 9. Can I apply if my Phase II project ended a few years ago?

    Yes. As long as the technology is still being pursued and you’re seeking commercialization, your past Phase II award may still qualify as the foundation for Phase III activity.

  • 10. How do I apply?

    To express interest, visit our Commercialization Institute – Registration – MNSBIR Inc. to complete the intake form. A member of our team will follow up to schedule a discovery call.

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