US deep-tech founders can tap the Small Business Innovation Research program for hundreds of thousands to millions in non-dilutive funding. Unlike VC, SBIR doesn't require giving up equity, but competition is fierce and success depends on picking the right agency and nailing your application.
If you're a US deep tech founder and it's costing you $500,000, if not millions of dollars to prove your technology, then listen up because this is a deep tech founder problem. Investors can say, come back when you have the data, but getting that data can cost you money that you just don't have right now. So who pays for it? Potentially the US federal government. And that is because the SBIR program can come save the day. And if you're building a deep tech innovative technology in medical devices, AI technology, robotics, advanced materials, energy, the federal agencies These may give you hundreds of thousands, if not potentially millions of dollars to help develop and improve your technology. And unlike VC funding, they don't take your equity. But getting an SBIR award is very competitive. You need the right agency, the right strategy, and a really strong application. So if you're building an expensive technology and wondering, how the hell am I supposed to fund this? Make sure to follow along. I'll teach you how to pursue non-dilutive SBIR funding while keeping more of your equity.
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
