USDA Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Programs Phase II

FUNDING PROGRAM: USDA Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Programs Phase II

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NUMBER: USDA-NIFA-SBIR-011120

FUNDING AGENCY / AGENCIES: USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)

OPPORTUNITY: USDA’s SBIR/STTR programs focus on transforming scientific discovery into products and services with commercial potential and/or societal benefit. Unlike fundamental research, the USDA SBIR/STTR programs support small businesses in the creation of innovative and/or disruptive technologies and enable the application of research advancements from conception into the market. The goal of SBIR/STTR Phase II is to continue research and development while increasing the focus on commercialization.

DESCRIPTION: USDA, to the extent permitted by law, will no longer make grants or otherwise fund programs or activities that improperly discriminate on the basis of race or sex, including discrimination in the name of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies. Instead, USDA will prioritize merit and efficiency. USDA recognizes that programs and initiatives will have the greatest impact when these programs and initiatives put American farmers, ranchers, and foresters first by:

• Solving the most pressing challenges they face.
• Protecting America’s food, fuel, and fiber supply to enhance national security.
• Supporting the production of healthy and safe food for consumers.
• Expanding and developing domestic markets.
• Training the next generation of agriculturalists.
• Fueling innovation to keep American farmers at the forefront of productivity.

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is committed to advancing these principles and encourages applicants to actively engage farmers, ranchers, and foresters when applying for funding opportunities to ensure relevancy and adherence to them.

COST SHARING: No Match Required

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS: Only previous SBIR/STTR Phase I award recipients are eligible to apply for Phase II support through this RFA. NIFA is also accepting resubmissions this year from all Phase I awardees who were not successful in their first attempt at a Phase II application.

FUNDING AVAILABLE: Estimated $22,750,000 ($19,500,000 for SBIR $3,250,000 for STTR). Range of Awards: $600,000 – $650,000

APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 23, 2025