Stacy L. Chin argues that SBIR grants and venture capital work together, not against each other. Use a grant to build a prototype, then raise VC to scale it. Pick your funding sources based on what your startup needs right now, not some fixed playbook.
Now, before we move on, a quick reality check. These two funding routes aren't mutually exclusive. Some startups use both, and this is highly encouraged. For example, secure an SBIR grant to develop a prototype and later raise VC to commercialize and scale once the tech is proven. There's no one-size-fits-all strategy. You might ultimately leverage a mix of funding sources, but deciding what to pursue first or primarily comes down to where you are in your startup and what you need right now.
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
