NIST has announced its key dates for SBIR proposals for the 2020 fiscal year!
The solicitation scheduled to open on 01/16/2020 with a due date of 04/03/2020. That is just a little under 30 days from now!!
If you have a relevant research and development (R&D) project that you think might be a good fit for the NIST SBIR program, now is your chance to apply for funding!
Phase I awards are for up to $100,000 for six months concept development, while Phase II awards are for up to $300,000 for two years of research and development. The number of Phase I and Phase II awards has varied as a function of the budget for the Department of Commerce as a whole.
NIST SBIR Evaluation Schedule
Since the NIST has also posted its tentative proposal evaluation schedule along with opening and closing dates, we will include that information as well. Here is the timeline potential awardees can anticipate after submission:
- 04/10/2020 Administrative Screening Complete
- 04/11/2020 Phase I Proposals Distributed for Evaluation
- 05/11/2020 Phase I Evaluations Complete
- 05/15/2020 Phase I Selections Complete
- 06/22/2020 Notice to Awardees
- 06/22/2020 Notice to Non-Awardees
NIST SBIR Preparation
In order to properly prepare for the NIST SBIR solicitation, there are several required registrations you must complete. As with all SBIR opportunities, begin by obtaining an EIN and DUNS number. Use these ID numbers to complete your System for Awards Management (SAM), and SBA (Small Business Association) company registry. Apply to SAM.gov ASAP, because it can take up to 6 weeks for your registration to process fully. Also, you must also register with SBIR.gov SBC Registration and a copy of the Company Registration confirmation from SBIR.gov must be included with your proposal. Registration at grants.gov is also a requirement.
There are several other ways you can prepare for your proposal. If you have human or animal subjects involved, procure the necessary certifications ahead of time as the process for obtaining these can be lengthy. Develop your budget, team, and research strategy. Decide what supplies and equipment will be needed for the project. Meet with the advisors and consultants you will need to help you submit a proposal. Attend webinars and info-sessions to learn as much as you possibly can about the SBIR program in general and NIST solicitations specifically. Visit the NIST website to learn more.
We work with high-growth startups and organizations that support the startup and innovation ecosystem. We build highly specific non-dilutive funding menus, provide proposal preparation services, and measure outcomes of funding through evaluation. Schedule a consult call with us HERE.