Stacy L. Chin warns first-time founders not to apply to multiple SBIR programs at once, saying it produces three weak proposals instead of one strong one. Ask yourself: who cares about this problem, does the agency fund startups at your stage, and will the award cover your next R&D milestones.
You found 3 SBIR opportunities and aren't too sure which one to go after because NIH looks good, NSF looks good, but also DOW too. So you're thinking, why can't I apply to all 3? Because actually, that's how first-time founders spread themselves way too thin and then end up with 3 mediocre SBIR applications instead of 1 strong one. So if you're trying to figure out which one to go after, ask yourself these 3 questions. Who actually cares about the problem you're solving? Does the opportunity fund a startup at your stage? And will help you pay the next R&D milestones that you're trying to hit. Because you don't want to go chasing the biggest awards or all the different opportunities out there. Chase the one that's the strongest fit for you, and that's usually where your best SBIR application lives.
Applying for NIH SBIR in Jan 5, 2027? You Should Be Starting NOW. Here's why...
How to Get Invited to Apply for $305K in NSF SBIR Funding || Step-by-Step Guide
