Start Your Journey
New to Federal R&D Funding
Start Your Federal R&D Funding Journey With Confidence.
When you’re new to federal R&D funding, everything seems complicated and overwhelming. MNSBIR exists to guide you through the process of applying for funding and support your business along the way. Following step by step will give you the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.
Step 01
Download the MNSBIR Overview
This guide provides an introduction to the SBIR/STTR programs and an overview of MNSBIR’s programs.
Step 02
Attend an Ask Us Anything session.
Once you are more familiar with the SBIR/STTR programs and MNSBIR, register to attend an Ask Us Anything session. These free events take place monthly.
Step 03
Use the Catalyst Readiness Tool.
The Catalyst Readiness Tool is a series of questions that will help determine your eligibility and readiness to start your journey.
Step 04
Apply to the Catalyst Program.
When you’re ready, apply to the Catalyst Program using our online form.
Existing Federal R&D Grantee/Contractor
Take the Next Step in Funding Your Journey.
Securing federal R&D funding is a testament to your innovation and perseverance. But advancing through new funding phases or scaling your innovation brings its own challenges. With the right support, you can navigate these hurdles faster and move toward commercialization with confidence.
Step 01
Apply to the Catalyst Program.
If your firm was awarded a Phase I, Phase II, Fast Track, or Direct to Phase II funding without our help, then apply to the Catalyst Program using our online form.
Step 02
Learn about our Transition Program.
If your firm has completed its Phase II project, we offer a Transition Program to support businesses in advancing beyond SBIR/STTR Phase II toward a sustainable, revenue-generating commercialization pathway. Learn more to see if this program is right for you.
Ready to Commercialize
Accelerate Your Path to Market.
Commercializing innovative technology is a major milestone, but the path from research to market isn’t always clear. It takes careful planning, strong partnerships, and strategic funding to scale successfully. At MNSBIR, we provide the expert support you need—from business planning to securing investment—so you can move forward with greater speed and confidence.
Step 01
Learn about our Commercialization Institute.
The MNSBIR Commercialization Institute empowers businesses to bridge the funding gap, securing Phase III sole-source contracts to successfully commercialize their products or services. Learn more about this program to see if it’s a right fit for you.
Step 02
Apply to the Commercialization Institute.
If you’ve completed your Phase II, Fast Track or Direct to Phase II, apply to the Commercialization Institute using our online form.