Federal funding programs like SBIR and STTR can launch early-stage ideas into successful ventures. But getting to a fundable proposal often requires expert guidance, technical refinement, and credible market validation—none of which come cheap. For Louisiana-based startups, LSU Innovation Park’s Phase 0 Assistance offers a timely solution.
TL;DR
Louisiana small businesses can receive $3,000 to $5,000 in Phase 0 funding from LSU Innovation Park to offset SBIR/STTR proposal costs. Funds cover activities such as proposal development, consulting, and validation. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Developing a competitive SBIR or STTR proposal takes time, funding, and expert input
Writing a successful federal grant proposal isn’t something most founders can do in a vacuum. Proposals often require extensive documentation, a clear R&D strategy, and a defined commercialization plan. For many early-stage teams, that means hiring a consultant, purchasing R&D supplies, or conducting market research—costs that can stall momentum if funding isn’t readily available.
Louisiana startups can now access $3K–$5K to prepare proposals
LSU Innovation Park, backed by state and federal resources, offers Phase 0 Assistance for qualified Louisiana-based startups. The program reimburses up to $5,000 in eligible expenses associated with developing a Phase I or Phase II SBIR/STTR proposal. Whether you’re preparing your first application or refining a second-stage submission, this support can give you the edge you need.
Covered costs may include:
- Consultant fees for proposal writing or editing
- Early-stage technical feasibility testing or materials
- Market validation and customer discovery
- Workshops or trainings that enhance your proposal’s competitiveness
Take your idea from concept to competitive with less financial strain
Most early-stage companies fall into the “ultra small” category—operating with annual revenue under $50,000. For founders in that position, accessing outside expertise without first winning a grant feels like a catch-22. LSU Innovation Park breaks that cycle. By offering reimbursement-based funding, they allow startups to invest in quality proposal development without carrying upfront risk.
This is an ideal opportunity for teams that are already planning a submission but need to strengthen specific aspects of their proposal.
Skipping Phase 0 support can reduce your odds of securing federal funding
Without adequate preparation, SBIR/STTR proposals risk being underdeveloped or misaligned with agency expectations. That can mean missed funding, wasted time, and delayed progress. But with Phase 0 support, you gain access to the resources that increase your likelihood of award, when you need them most.
A Baton Rouge biotech startup recently used LSU Innovation Park’s Phase 0 Assistance to cover proposal consulting and market validation costs for its first SBIR application. With up to $5,000 in reimbursed expenses, the team strengthened its submission and increased its chances of federal funding without straining its early budget.
Apply anytime on a rolling basis, aligned to your own timeline
The Phase 0 Assistance program is open year-round, with applications reviewed by LSU Innovation Park’s internal staff. There are no matching requirements, no disclosure of award timelines, and no pre-application hurdles. This flexibility allows you to align the support with your internal SBIR schedule.
To qualify, your company must be based in Louisiana and actively preparing an SBIR or STTR Phase I or II proposal. Applications are evaluated on a single-stage basis and awards range from $3,000 to $5,000 depending on the scope of your activities.
Learn more or plan your next step with expert support
Visit the official Phase 0 Assistance page to review eligibility and apply. If you’re unsure how this fits into your broader SBIR strategy, schedule a consult call with our team to explore how we can support your efforts.
EB Howard stays ahead of early-stage funding trends
We work with founders across the country to identify and leverage opportunities like LSU’s Phase 0 program. With a focus on non-dilutive funding and evidence-based strategy, we ensure our clients take the most efficient path toward SBIR success.
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We assist our clients in locating, applying for, and evaluating the outcomes of non-dilutive grant funding. We believe non-dilutive funding is a crucial tool for mitigating investment risks, and we are dedicated to guiding our clients through the entire process—from identifying the most suitable opportunities to submitting and managing grant applications.