SBIR/STTR Accelerator

SBIR/STTR Accelerator – Applications Closed

07/08/2025

Calling all CT-based innovators!

Are you planning to pursue an SBIR/STTR grant this year? Don’t undertake this highly competitive process alone – join CTSBDC’s SBIR/STTR Accelerator to get closer to submitting a successful grant proposal. Our advisors have helped guide many clients through this process, resulting in significant grant awards.

Can you commit to 6 weekly 90 minute online sessions (Tuesdays from Sept. 9 – Oct. 14 12 – 1:30 p.m.)?

Yes. Start my 5 minute application.

What is SBIR/STTR?

Through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, America’s Seed Fund awards non-dilutive funding to develop your technology and chart a path toward commercialization.

CTSBDC will guide you step-by-step toward a successful application:

Session #1: Intro to SBIR, ABCs of SBIR/STTR
Session #2: Assessing Your Business Concept and Business Model
Session #3 Market Research and the Essentials of Commercialization
Session #4: Defining Your Technological Innovation and Understanding Federal Agency Objectives
Session #5: Overview of a Phase 1 Proposal
Session #6: Final Showcase

Who are SBIR/STTR Grants for? These grants are awarded based on the quality of technological solutions and the ability to advance federal missions. Do you have an innovation ready to take the next step toward commercialization?

What industries are a good fit for SBIR/STTR? • AgTech Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Energy Technologies, Advanced, Manufacturing, Cybersecurity, Microelectronics, National Security, Border Security, Quantum, Information Science, Robotics, Sensors, Space Exploration & Technology

How do I apply for SBIR/STTR grants? The SBA works with local partners to train and support small businesses interested in receiving funding through America's Seed Fund. Use local assistance to find the help you need from organizations like Connecticut Small Business Development Center.

Am I a good fit for SBIR/STTR?

SBIR/STTR funds research and development (R&D) that advances science/engineering and can become commercial products, not general business or app development projects. Agencies look for novel technical risk and a plan to test feasibility (Phase I) and develop it further (Phase II).

Appropriate for SBIR/STTR (examples of funded work):

New science/engineering with clear R&D
Advanced medical/assistive hardware with novel sensing
Aerospace manufacturing breakthroughs
AI when it requires new methods + rigorous R&D

Typically not appropriate for SBIR/STTR:

Service or consulting models without a clear technical innovation
General business or consumer apps that assemble existing tools with no new R&D
Service/consulting concepts or projects centered on marketing, sales, or business development

Deadline Extended: Apply By August 27

Unsure if you should apply for the SBIR/STTR Accelerator?

Before applying, please email Angela Rodriguez with a sentence or two describing:

Your company
Your innovation
Why you think it has SBIR/STTR potential

Live Webinar

Connecticut Small Business Development Center