NIH Parent SBIR

Key information

Mechanisms

R43/R44: Phase I and Phase II; NIH also accepts Direct to Phase II and Fast-Track.

Eligibility

Eligible U.S. for-profit small businesses; up to 500 employees including affiliates, with qualifying ownership. The PI is primarily employed by the company, which performs most research.

Funding

Budgets vary by participating institute, phase and waiver topic. Use the institute-specific table in Section II; there is no single universal ceiling.

Duration

Normally up to 6 months for Phase I and 2 years for Phase II; justify the proposed duration.

Clinical trials

Optional, but not accepted by every participating component. Check Section I exclusions.

Future deadlines

January 5 and April 5, 2027, at 5 p.m. applicant organization’s local time. Expires April 6, 2027. Late applications are not accepted.

Application

Follow NIH SBIR/STTR instructions and Section IV. Submit through ASSIST, Grants.gov Workspace or an institutional system. Review Section V criteria and Section VII contacts.

Summary checked September 12, 2026. The official announcement, amendments and application guide govern eligibility and submission requirements.