New SBIR/STTR Funding Opportunities Are Just Around the Corner
The eagerly awaited reauthorization of the SBIR/STTR programs is almost here, and thousands of small businesses and startups are gearing up to seize the opportunity. These programs provide critical funding to help innovators bring their ideas to life.
How Can You Stand Out in the Crowd?
Success in the SBIR/STTR programs requires more than just a great idea. It’s about preparation, strategy, and alignment. To compete effectively:
Take the time to prepare: Align your company, technology, and goals with the mission of the agency you’re targeting.
Build your team: Surround yourself with employees, advisors, and coaches who can help you succeed.
Pursue the right opportunity: Focus on the agency and solicitation that best fits your innovation.
Join us in March for two key opportunities:
SBIR/STTR Basics Webinar – March 17
Learn the fundamentals of SBIR/STTR programs, how to align your proposal with agency priorities, and new changes in SBIR policy
Take the first step toward securing funding for your innovation. Whether you’re new to SBIR or looking to refine your approach, our workshops and accelerator program will give you the tools and support you need to succeed. Learn more about each of these programs below.
SBIR/STTR Basics Webinar on March 17
Learn about non-dilutive federal funding opportunities through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs
In our March SBIR webinar, we’ll cover:
Overview of the SBIR/STTR programs
Changes in new SBIR Reauthorization to be aware of
Getting to know the agencies, their missions and research areas
Registrations and eligibility
Finding solicitations and topics and conducting your Blue Team review to identify if an opportunity is right for your company.
We'll also take a look at some of the currently active solicitations and have open Q&A with the MTIP Program Director and MTIP consultant, Sonia Vonhout.
Apply today to participate in our 10-week accelerator starting April 2026
MTIP is launching the Big Sky SBIR Accelerator for Montana (and Montana-affiliated) companies seeking non-dilutive funding through the SBIR/STTR programs. This 10-week accelerator will guide each participant through specific steps to prepare competitive SBIR/STTR proposals.
The Spring Big Sky SBIR Accelerator will focus on SBIR/STTR contracting opportunities from DoW services/components, NASA, and other contracting agencies. In addition to active reviews by MTIP experts, individualized toolkits and resources, cohort members will learn essential skills including:
Market research and identifying mission needs
BAAs, topics, speaking with technical points of contact
Organization of your team and assets
Storytelling in technical proposal writing
Introduction to compliance and award management for federal contracts
Join us for a full-day, in-person Innovator’s Bootcamp followed by optional 1:1 legal sessions, designed to help Montana startups navigate the legal, funding, and strategic decisions that shape early-stage growth.
Co-hosted by the Montana Bioscience Alliance, the Montana Photonics and Quantum Alliance, and the Montana Technology Innovation Partnership, this workshop features experienced attorneys from Sheppard Mullin, a nationally recognized law firm advising emerging growth companies, investors, and research institutions across the country.
Whether you are forming your company, preparing for investment, protecting intellectual property, or negotiating agreements, this bootcamp provides practical, founder-focused guidance you can immediately apply.
What You’ll Learn
Choosing the right business entity and governance structure
Startup funding pathways and investment considerations
Founder equity, compensation, and hiring best practices
Intellectual property protection strategies
Licensing, collaboration, and research agreements
Each session includes dedicated Q&A time to address real-world startup scenarios.
Featured Lunch Conversation
During lunch, Claire Smith of Springtide will present “How to Approach Your Fundraising Journey,” sharing practical founder insights on preparing for capital, navigating investor expectations, and building momentum for growth.
Lunch is included with registration.
Who Should Attend
This event is ideal for:
• Entrepreneurs and Innovators • Startup Founders and Co-Founders • Executive and Leadership Teams • Investors and Venture Capitalists • Legal and Compliance Professionals • Technology Transfer and Commercialization Professionals
Why Attend?
• Gain practical legal insights tailored to early-stage companies • Avoid costly mistakes that can slow growth or deter investment • Learn directly from experienced startup attorneys • Connect with Montana’s innovation and startup ecosystem
As I type this, SBIR Reauthorization has passed the Senate. We expect a swift approval in the House and signing by the president. Until then, no SBIR/STTR solicitations are posted. We'll be poised to dig in as soon as they show up. I will be at the SBIR Spring Conference next week and look forward to sharing any key news with you all when I return. Below are links to agencies' SBIR homepages.
Most of these agencies also offer other types of research & development funding opportunities outside the SBIR/STTR programs to which small businesses may apply. Feel free to reach out to discuss support we may offer.
May the luck of the Irish be with you this month and remember that "Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity." [Seneca]
Talk soon,
Ann Peterson
MTIP Program Director
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