National Science Foundation · NSF 26-510

NSF SBIR/STTR

Early-stage technology R&D with commercial potential, including life-science tools and medical technologies.

Next deadline: March 4, 2027

Key information

Scope: Phase I, Phase II and Fast-Track for high-risk technology development.
Eligibility: Eligible U.S. small businesses with no more than 500 employees, including affiliates. STTR requires a research institution partner. The PI’s primary employment must be with the company.
Entry requirement: Phase I and Fast-Track require a Project Pitch invitation. Phase II is restricted to NSF Phase I awardees. Check invitation validity before choosing a deadline.
Funding & duration: Phase I: up to $305,000 over 6–18 months. Phase II: up to $1.25 million, typically 24 months. Fast-Track amounts differ between the solicitation’s summary and detailed text; confirm with NSF before budgeting.
Future deadlines: March 4 and July 7, 2027. Full proposals are due at 5 p.m. submitting organization’s local time.
Application: Complete SAM.gov, Research.gov and SBA company registrations. Submit through Research.gov, following the solicitation and proposal preparation guidance.
Review: Scientific merit, societal benefit and commercial potential. No voluntary committed cost sharing.
Contact: sbir@nsf.gov

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

Application & review timeline

NowStart Project PitchInvitation required
Before submissionConfirm eligibilityInvitation & registrations
Mar 4, 2027Full proposal due5 p.m. local time
After submissionMerit reviewTiming varies
After reviewFunding decisionSubject to due diligence

A Project Pitch invitation is required before a Phase I or Fast-Track proposal. March 4, 2027 is the next listed deadline; start required registrations early and confirm invitation status before committing to a proposal. Later stages have no fixed calendar dates here.

Official sources

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