Small Business Grants Available
The USDA has released its 2014 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) solicitation for research projects, with small businesses eligible to seek up to $550,000 in grant funding through two separate phases. Currently, Phase I proposals are being sought, with applicants eligible to apply for up to $100,000. Proposals are due September 26, 2013. No match is required.
The purpose of the SBIR program is to stimulate technological innovation in the private sector, assist small businesses in meeting federal research and development priorities, and increase private sector commercialization of innovations.
Phase I projects for this grant program must determine the scientific or technical feasibility of ideas submitted by applicants for the following research topic areas. Subsequent Phase II projects would promote principal research/research & development and require a second application.
Research topic areas include:
- Forests and Related Resources
- Plant Production and Protection – Biology
- Animal Production and Protection
- Air, Water and Soils
- Food Science and Nutrition
- Rural and Community Development
- Aquaculture
- Biofuels and Biobased Products
- Small and Mid Sized Farms (under $500,000 in farm revenues)
- Plant Production and Protection – Engineering
See the Morrison Grants Blog for project examples
Following is a brief overview of the SBIR program, with key highlights noted:
Max Phase I Award: $100,000 (Subsequent Phase II applications can apply for up to $450,000)
Project Period: Usually eight months (some exceptions up to 20 months)
Closing Date (proposals due): September 26, 2013 (5:00 pm EST)
Standard Period of Performance: June 1, 2014 through January 31, 2015
Eligible Applicants: Small businesses (generally, those with under 500 employees). Universities, nonprofits and others can serve as subcontractors.
Morrison overall grant success rate since our founding in 2002 is over 83%. Please see the Morrison Grants Blog for more information on this competitive grant program.
For assistance with maximizing the competitiveness of your USDA SBIR grant application, please contact the Morrison Grants Team by email at grants@morrisonco.net or call us at 530-893-4764.