USDA accepting applications for 2015 SBIR grant program
The USDA has released its FY2015 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) solicitation for research projects, with small businesses historically eligible to seek up to a $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 October 2, 2014. 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
The following is a brief overview of the SBIR program, with key highlights noted:
Max Phase I Award: $100,000 (Subsequent Phase II applications have been historically funded up to $450,000 in grant awards)
Project Period: Usually eight months (some exceptions up to 20 months)
Closing Date (proposals due): October 2, 2014 (5:00 pm EST)
Standard Period of Performance: June 1, 2015 through January 31, 2016
Eligible Applicants: Small businesses (generally, those with under 500 employees). Universities, nonprofits and others can serve as subcontractors.
If you are interested in applying for grant funding or learning more about the SBIR program, please contact the Morrison Grants Team by email at grants@morrisonco.net or call us at 530-893-4764. We have also posted extended information on the program here.
With Morrison’s overall grant success rate of more than 80% and our expertise working with competitive grant programs since our founding in 2002, we can help you maximize the competiveness your USDA SBIR grant application.
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