Stacy L. Chin explains why SBIR applicants lose funding: they list impressive titles without showing how each person's skills actually fit the project. Reviewers need to see the direct line between a team member's expertise and the specific tasks they'll do.
And I'm shocked how so many founders completely miss this entirely. First, make sure your team section can actually prove that your key personnel can actually do the work. I know it sounds simple, but many founders just put impressive titles on their application and never really explain explicitly what those people can do in relation to your SBIR grant. And reviewers need to see this direct line between someone's expertise and how they're going to play a role in the specific part of your proposal.
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
