Government Grants

Government Grants

Begin your search for a grant from the federal government at Grants.gov. This government site offers the most comprehensive database of funds the government is going to give away. There are thousands of grants to apply for, with opportunities for companies from all backgrounds.

• National Institute of Health Grants. The National Institute of Health (NIH) is currently funding grant opportunities related to COVID-19 research. These grants are reserved for small businesses that develop and research biomedical technology. There are multiple grants available with deadlines throughout 2021 and beyond.
• NIA Research and Entrepreneurial Development Immersion (REDI): Entrepreneurial Small Business Transition Award: Research and Entrepreneurial Development Immersion (REDI) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Grant applications are now open for those qualified. This funding opportunity aims to support early-career scientists who have an interest in entrepreneurship to make an easier transition into the industry. Those who have “strong research skills and experience in technology discovery” in addition to an interest in growing their entrepreneurial skillsets are highly encouraged to apply. Applications will be open until February 17, 2023.
• NIDILRR’s SBIR program. The SBIR program aims to support organizations to help advance technology, research, and support the social/economic benefits for the nation. The SBIR will be backing the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) through the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to provide 10 grants that support the improvement of the lives of those with disabilities. The total grant funding is estimated to be $1 million, and an outline of the available grants under this program can be found at the ACL website.
• PHS 2022-2 Omnibus Solicitation of Small Business Innovation Research Grant Applications**:** The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are sponsoring an opportunity for small businesses. Any qualifying small business — those with the research capability and technical expertise to contribute to the R&D missions of both the NIH and the CDC — is invited to apply for a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant application related to qualified topics. Interested applicants can find a list of qualified topics in the grant announcement.
• Rural eConnectivity Program: The Rural Utilities Service, a rural development agency of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), has re-opened the Rural eConnectivity Program to help develop and expand broadband deployment in rural areas. Those seeking to advance assistance to rural communities affected by COVID-19, increase equitable access in rural communities to rural development programs, and reduce climate pollution/mitigate the effects of climate change in rural communities should apply. Applications can be submitted beginning on September 6 and will close on November 2.
• Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR). The SBIR offers grants to small businesses so they can participate in federal research and development with the potential for commercialization. It’s a highly competitive awards-based program that helps businesses achieve scientific excellence and technological innovation. To qualify for SBIR grants, you must operate a for-profit company and satisfy other requirements.
• Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR). Similar to SBIR, the STTR program focuses on funding research in the R&D arena. However, what separates the STTR is the requirement that the small business have a formal collaboration with a research institution. To qualify for STTR grants, you must operate a for-profit company and satisfy other requirements.
• Small Business Transition Grant for Early Career Scientists: Both academia and small businesses help stimulate the US economy and produce products or services that benefit the US population. The NIH aims to support both industries while acknowledging there are often problems that arise when transitioning technology and products from academic laboratories to a small business setting. The Small Business Transition Grant for Early Career Scientists provides funding to those making this change to ensure that the best, most experienced teams are hired and the projects have enough resources to successfully launch in a small business setting. Requirements for applicants are detailed in the grant announcement. This grant will be open until August 23.
• Trade Adjustment Assistance For Firms: In the early 2000s, the U.S. Department of Commerce sponsored the Trade Adjustment Assistance For Firms (TAAF) program to help financially assist manufacturers affected by import competition. Through this program, firms can qualify for up to $75K in federal match funding to help them financially recover from import competition and general business decline. The Economic Development Administration (EDA) funds local assistance centers that are available to help applicable businesses apply and reduce application paperwork.
• U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA). Targeted grants and loans designed to aid minority-owned businesses are offered throughout the year. Minority-owned businesses can find information about local MBDA Business Centers at MBDA.gov.
• U.S. Small Business Administration State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). Intended to assist small businesses desiring to export product, this program distributes federal funds through state entities. Small businesses that meet the criteria set by each state can use the financial assistance to participate in foreign trade missions and shows, obtain entry to foreign markets, develop websites and design international marketing products or campaigns.
• U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). The EDA is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce offers ongoing funding opportunities for projects that support regional and national economic development. Applicants can apply for a variety of rolling-basis EDA investments that fund projects in construction, non-construction, planning, technical assistance, research and evaluation, higher education and more.