Understand the basics of the Small Business Programs, including:
- Comparing SBIR and STTR
- Different funding paths and phases of the program
- Budget and timelines for funding
- Eligibility criteria
- Foreign disclosure and risk management
NIH recognizes that some biomedical innovations require additional funding to reach the marketplace. For those topics, the NIH has a waiver from the Small Business Administration to allow larger awards (Phase I and Phase II only). Please refer to NIH Institute, Center, and Office (ICO) Funding Considerations for Small Business to review approved waiver topics.
Our ULTIMATE goal is to help you successfully apply for funding AND teach you how to navigate the process so you can confidently apply again in the future. We know firsthand how demanding it is to apply for NIH funding, which is why we offer the Cohorts. Starting early is paramount!
Two Stages of Support – Stage 1: Formal Education and Stage 2: Individualized Coaching
Stage 1: Formal Education. This stage is focused on learning the NIH SBIR/STTR requirements to build the knowledge needed to prepare a competitive application, including application components, review criteria, the submission process, budgeting and cost-accounting requirements, developing an indirect cost rate, and much more. Stage 2 requires participation in all educational sessions.
NIH SBIR/STTR Overview
September 15, 2026, 1–4 PM
Participants will learn how NIH SBIR and STTR funding opportunities are structured, how to identify appropriate Institutes and Centers, understand eligibility requirements, navigate required registrations, and avoid common proposal pitfalls.
Review Criteria, Specific Aims and Research Strategy
September 17, 2026, 1–4 PM
Participants will learn how to develop a compelling Specific Aims page and Research Strategy, including Significance, Innovation, and Approach. This session is often considered the most valuable educational session because it directly supports proposal development.
Federal Electronic Registrations Required to Apply
September 30, 2026, 1–2 PM
Before an NIH SBIR/STTR application can be submitted, your company must complete several federal electronic registrations. These systems are interconnected, require consistent company information, and can take weeks to activate—making early action essential.
Budgeting and Financial Management Considerations (2 Sessions)
October 20, 2026, 1–4 PM
October 22, 2026, 1–4 PM
Participants will learn the fundamentals of creating an operational budget that supports the NIH overall budget, including direct and indirect costs, personnel effort, consultants, subawards, supplies, equipment, travel, fee/profit, budget justifications, and post-award financial management considerations.
Ready to Continue?
This is an important decision point. We understand that you have many competing demands on your time, so we want you to carefully consider whether now is the right time to apply. Moving forward means being prepared to dedicate the time, energy, and attention needed to develop a high-quality, competitive NIH application.
Next step: If you are new to MNSBIR and have not yet been accepted into our Catalyst Program, we will guide you through the next steps as shown below in the graphic. If your firm is already approved for the Catalyst Program, you can simply complete the Intent to Apply.
Stage 2: Individualized Coaching and Support. This is where the real work begins. We work alongside you throughout the application process, helping you stay on track, answer questions, and navigate challenges as they arise. At this stage, you receive one-on-one coaching and individualized support tailored to your company, research project, and NIH application. Depending on the scope of the project, our support may range up to 20 hours per project, delivered by our team including independent contractors paid by MNSBIR, Inc.