Stacy L ChinFounder, KeepYourEquity · I get the government to write you checks

SBIR Funding: NIH Council Decision-Making Process Explained #shorts

21 Dec 2025 · 0 min

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The video explains that after an SBIR application passes scientific review, it is forwarded to the relevant NIH institute or center, where the institute’s advisory council conducts a secondary review. The council examines feedback from the study sections, determines whether the proposal aligns with the institute’s strategic goals, and balances the overall research portfolio before making a final funding decision.

So after the scientific review is complete, your SBIR application proceeds and gets sent to the NIH center or institute to make a funding decision. Here, your application now goes under review by the advisory council. The council is responsible for reviewing the feedback from the study sections and then making a decision whether or not your SBIR application is aligned to the goals of that NIH center or institute. The council is also responsible for balancing the research portfolio within that NIH institute or center.