SBIR & STTR Requirements
While the purpose of both the SBIR and STTR programs are to spur innovation within the small business community, the eligibility requirements under each program are a bit different.
| SBIR Eligibility Requirements | |
STTR Eligibility Requirements |
| The applicant must be a small business (500 or fewer employees), 51% of which is owned by persons in the United States. | The applicant must be a small business (500 of fewer employees). Unlike the SBIR program, there is no requirement that a majority of the small business be owned by persons in the United States. | |
| The Principal Investigator’s primary place of employment during the award period must be with the small business. | The Principal Investigator’s primary place of employment during the award period may be with the small business. | |
| The small business awardee is encouraged to partner with a research institution. However, there is no requirement to do so. | At least 40% of work performed under the award must be performed by the small business. At least 30% of work performed under the award must be performed by a research institution. |
