NSF FY2026 SBIR/STTR Solicitations Are Now Open
Full proposals are due July 27, 2026, by 5:00 p.m. submitting organization’s local time.
Required Registrations
SAM.gov
SBA Company Database
Research.gov
Key Dates
The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) has released two FY2026 SBIR/STTR solicitations through America’s Seed Fund powered by NSF.
- July 27, 2026 – First full proposal deadline
- November 4, 2026 – Second full proposal deadline
- March 4, 2027 – Third full proposal deadline
- July 7, 2027 – Fourth full proposal deadline
Full proposals are due by 5:00 p.m. submitting organization’s local time.
FY2026 NSF SBIR/STTR Solicitations
NSF has released two related SBIR/STTR opportunities:
- NSF 26-510: Developing Deep Technologies that Advance U.S. Competitiveness and Security
- NSF 26-511: A Pilot Emphasis on Scientific Instrumentation
Funding Amounts
- Phase I: Up to $305,000 for 6–18 months
- Phase II: Up to $1,250,000, typically for 24 months
- Fast-Track: Phase I and Phase II funding combined through one invited proposal pathway
- Phase IIB Supplements: $50,000 to $500,000 for eligible active Phase II awardees
Project Pitch Required
NSF requires an official invitation before a Phase I or Fast-Track proposal may be submitted. To receive an invitation, companies must first submit a Project Pitch and receive an official response from NSF program staff.
NSF limits companies to two Project Pitch submissions per company per year, and no more than three Project Pitches for the same project or technology.
Typically, it takes about 1-2 months to get an official response from NSF staff.
What NSF Funds
NSF SBIR/STTR supports early-stage, high-risk technology development with strong commercial potential. The program funds work across nearly all technology areas and market sectors and does not take equity. Awardees retain ownership of their company and intellectual property.
The new Scientific Instrumentation pilot emphasizes next-generation instrumentation, novel experimental platforms, and other scientific equipment that can advance U.S. scientific discovery and engineering capability.
Before You Apply
Companies should review the solicitation carefully, confirm eligibility, evaluate SBIR vs. STTR fit, and prepare a strong Project Pitch before beginning a full proposal.
Minnesota-based small businesses seeking support may begin with the MNSBIR Start Your Journey page.