When deep-tech founders learn about the SBIR program to raise $2 Million of non-dilutive funding

I'm surprised that no one's really talking about this, but if you're a deep tech founder, please tell me that you are aware that the US government gives away billions of dollars every year to startups. Well, if you had never heard of it, it's called the SBIR program, otherwise known as America's Seed Fund, and it's designed specifically for high-risk innovative projects, kind of like what you're developing, and the kind that VCs say is way too risky or way too early. And that's why the SBIR program is literally wild, because you can get up to $2 million of non-dilutive funding without giving away a single percentage of your equity. That's right, zero dilution. And this isn't some sort of obscure grant that no one's ever heard of or some sort of scam. That's not true at all because the SBIR program funded new technologies like LASIK eye surgery. It funded 3D printing and other technologies that were able to shape entire industries. Deep tech founders— and that's why I'm so shocked how so many deep tech founders have no idea this opportunity exists. And because of that, they go straight to a pre-seed round to raise a couple hundred thousand with VCs or angels while giving up 20, 30, or even the majority of their company away. Meanwhile, there's so much money just sitting right there for you guys. And now the catch is that yes, you have to apply, and yes, these SBIR programs are wildly competitive. So for instance, Phase 1 success rates can range anywhere from like 10 to 15%. But here's the thing, if you're developing brand new innovation and something that's wildly different, those odds to me aren't really that bad, especially compared to the odds these days. Landing a VC check. And the cool thing is a lot of agencies like the NSF and the DOE are rolling something called the Project Pitch Ad, which is a simple 1 to 2 page summary of your innovation and proposal efforts. And then the agency can review it within a couple of weeks and tell you right from the get-go whether or not you are a fit. And I love that new process because this is going to save you so many months of painful writing and preparation. And this will tell you to pursue these opportunities only if you are a bullseye fit and of interest to the agency. Now, I'm not saying the SBIR program can replace VC funding. That's not what I'm saying at all. But if you are a founder in the US working on deep tech, hard tech, biotech, or anything that the US government cares about, I feel like the SBIR program should be on your radar. Because let's face it, raising startup money is super difficult. So why are you making it harder by ignoring this free capital sitting right there waiting for you guys? So if you're interested in learning more how to secure non-dilutive funding or to secure SBIR BII grants, make sure to follow this channel and to share this post with another founder so you guys can learn new ways to keep your equity throughout your fundraising journey.