These grants are offered through eleven federal agencies to encourage small businesses engaging in research with commercialization potential.
Do you have a great idea for a product or innovation and are interested in pursuing funding to conduct research and development?
Who We Are
The Innovation and Technology (IT) team at the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) exists to help innovators and entrepreneurs walk through the process of applying for SBIR/STTR grants through America's Seed Fund. The IT team is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and provides professional, confidential one-on-one advising. The goal of this work is to commercialize the technology into new products or services. Our services are available at no-cost to business owners.
Learn more about the Innovation & Technology program at NBDC
About America's Seed Fund
America’s Seed Fund represents the nation’s largest source of early stage/high-risk funding for start-ups and small businesses. Through the Small Business Innovation Research and the Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) programs, America’s Seed Fund’s mission is to support scientific excellence and technological innovation through the investment of federal funds in critical priorities that support a strong national economy.
SBIR/STTR awardees receive funding to conduct R&D with no strings attached, retain the rights to the intellectual property, and can obtain additional funding to continue the development of the technology.
Learn more about SBIR/STTR grants
Client Success Stories
Read more about how we've supported clients on their journey to receiving funding.
- Grain Weevil is Putting Research Grants Toward Grain Bin Safety, Product Quality
- agCredit Consulting, LLC Offers Unique High-Tech Solution for Next-Generation Ag Producers, Lenders
- Former Hawaii Resident Finds 'Aloha Spirit' At Work for Nebraska Small Businesses
Eligibility
To be eligible, the small business must be American owned, organized as a for-profit entity, and have fewer than 500 employees. Eleven federal agencies participate in the SBIR program, and five participate in the STTR program. Each has a unique mission and will fund innovative research to meet agency objectives.
Get Started
It all starts with an introductory meeting. Select a meeting time below, or email Josh Nichol-Caddy at jnicholcaddy@unomaha.edu to get started.