SBIR/STTR Programs Continue to Propel Business Forward
The stability of federal programs for research & development is a concern for many. And we share this concern. However, we want to reassure our clients that the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are not only operational but continue to thrive at most agencies.
Despite uncertainties, various federal agencies have active solicitations or are preparing to announce new opportunities. The Department of Defense remains a robust source of support for innovative ventures. The National Science Foundation (NSF) is actively engaging small businesses in cutting-edge research and development projects. Likewise, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) continues to be a pillar for funding health-related innovations.
Moreover, NASA's Ignite SBIR initiative is gearing up to propel small businesses into new realms of aerospace technology and research. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) websites state plans to roll out solicitations this summer that promise to support sustainability and agricultural advancements.
For entrepreneurs and small businesses navigating these uncertain times, the message is clear: the SBIR and STTR programs are very much "open for business." These programs represent ongoing opportunities to transform innovative ideas into reality, with substantial backing from federal agencies committed to fostering scientific and technological innovation.
Check out the current solicitations below and plan to attend some of their upcoming informational sessions. Watch here for dates and registration details for our 1/2-day SBIR Cost Proposal coming in June and Granting Agency SBIR Proposal 1-day intensive in July!
SBIR/STTR Spring Conference June 9-11, 2025
Co-located with TechConnect in Austin, TX
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with and hear from SBIR/STTR leaders and experts, as they learn how to submit more competitive proposals and leverage available resources. Visit other technology vendors, learn about contracting, collaboration and consortium opportunities... and take in some fine Texas BBQ while you're there. Use code 25SBIR20 to receive 20% off your registration!
Montana High Tech Business Alliance Webinar May 21
Emerging Legal Issues in AI + Software
The legal landscape for AI is evolving rapidly, presenting unique challenges and hidden risks for software entrepreneurs. Join experienced IP and software attorney, Martin Rogers, on May 21 2:00- 3:00 PM MDT for an essential discussion: Emerging Legal Issues in AI and Software. Learn more and register here.
Montana SSBCI: Final Funding Round Opens May 20
Are you an SBIR-focused startup looking to scale? The Montana State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) offers flexible funding tools, such as equity investments and loan participation, that help bridge financing gaps, attract private capital, and accelerate commercialization. For early-stage, innovation-driven businesses, SSBCI can be a powerful complement to SBIR awards.
The application portal for the final round of SSBCI funding opens May 20, 2025, and closes at midnight on June 30, 2025. Approximately $1.8 million remains available as of April 25, with potential increases before the portal opens. Applications must be submitted online by participating lenders through the ServiceNow portal. Initial reviews begin July 10, 2025, with decisions communicated promptly.
The Montana Festival is an annual gathering of entrepreneurs, business leaders, innovators, artists, investors, and policymakers from Montana and beyond. The event fosters new connections and collaboration, driving forward Made in Montana ideas, projects, companies, and policy solutions to shape a better future.
What happens after SAM? - Unlock New Business Opportunities!
Format: Live Virtual Training Date/Time: 5/21/2025 11:30 Registration Required – Zoom link
Join the Montana APEX Accelerator for an online training designed to help you develop a focused market strategy for the government sector. Any business in any industry interested in government contracting. You do not need to be registered in SAM or eMACS to attend.
Dates are subject to change. Please refer to each agency site for up-to-date information and application instructions.Contact MTIP for no-cost coaching, templates, resources, and proposal reviews from expert MTIP consultants.
Make sure your registrations are in order! A downloadable copy of our Essential Registrations for SBIR/STTR Applicants Guide is available here.
The Department of Defense currently has 192 active topics including the AFWERX Direct to Phase II Commercial Solutions Offering topics.
NASA Ignite SBIR will hold a series of Ask Me Anything webinars in June. Register here.
The next EPA SBIR solicitation is anticipated to open in June 2025. Please check back for updates or sign up for the EPA SBIR Listserv to receive notifications of new funding opportunities.
Interested in any of these opportunities? Sign up for the agencies' email lists to receive email notifications about newly posted opportunities and webinars and reach out to us to receive free expert guidance and resources to help you prepare your most competitive proposal.
SAM.gov is required for all SBIR or STTR applications. Start early! Your regional Montana APEX Accelerator procurement advisor can help with SAM registration and all things related to government contracting. Find yours here.
Thanks for reading and sharing. Book time with me here to discuss your plans.
Cheers,
Ann Peterson, Program Director
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