DOE Opens $65M for Clean Energy R&D to Small Businesses via SBIR/STTR.
Eligible applicants: for-profits. Applications are due March 12, 2024.
Announcement Type: NOFO (Notice of Funding Opportunity)
Opportunity: the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024.
Overview and Eligible: The DOE's Fiscal Year 2024 Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) introduces two funding opportunities: the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, including Phase I and Fast-Track grants. Phase I grants support the assessment of scientific or technical feasibility with commercial potential for small businesses. The Fast-Track option combines Phase I and II for expedited funding, focusing on high-commercialization potential.
The SBIR/STTR programs aim to boost private sector commercialization of DOE-supported R&D, emphasizing innovation and participation by women-owned and minority-owned small businesses. These programs prioritize high-quality research on innovative concepts addressing mission-related challenges. While both programs share goals, STTR requires collaboration with a Research Institution, distinguishing it from SBIR. Commercialization is a key goal, with Phase III utilizing non-SBIR/STTR funds for applications. Federal agencies may award follow-on grants under Phase III, eliminating the need for additional competitions. Notably, earlier Phase funding doesn't guarantee commitment to later Phases, emphasizing the competitive evaluation of each phase.
DOE is supporting 45 different SBIR/STTR research topics across its three technology sectors: transportation, renewable energy, and energy efficiency. To download the FY 2024 Phase I Release 1 and Release 2 Topics in a searchable PDF file, please visit the DOE SBIR/STTR website.
Amount: Approximately $65M is expected for new awards under this FOA, with Phase I and Fast-Track grants having maximum ceilings of $200K or $250K and $1.3M or $1.85M respectively. There is no specified floor amount for individual awards. DOE anticipates around 260 awards.
Award Type: Grants
Eligible Applicants: Applicants must be small, independent U.S. businesses, meeting criteria related to firm type, ownership, and size.
The ownership and control criteria stipulate that over 50% of the equity must be directly owned and controlled by U.S. citizens, permanent resident aliens, or eligible for-profit small business concerns.
Small Business Concerns (SBCs) eligible for Phase I and II awards must be organized for profit with a U.S. presence, contribute to the U.S. economy, and adhere to specified legal forms. The SBC, including affiliates, should not exceed 500 employees and must satisfy other regulatory requirements outlined in 13 CFR 121. These criteria ensure that the funding supports small businesses with a focus on innovation and economic impact within the U.S.
*Only awardees issued Phase I grants under this FOA are eligible to submit a Phase II application under the corresponding FY 2025 Phase II FOA, i.e., FY 2025 Phase II Release
Key Dates: Applications are due March 12, 2024
Key Links:
To learn about the topics and grant application requirements, please view the Topic Description Document and Phase 1 Release 2 FY24 Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA).
For a full list of currently available grant programs under the Infrastructure Law and other helpful tools, take a look at our Helpful Resources page.
This tracker will continue to send updates when new funding opportunities are announced.