NIH Small Business Technology Transfer Grant (Parent STTR [R41/R42] Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is a leading federal agency responsible for biomedical and public health research. Through its Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program, NIH supports partnerships between small businesses and nonprofit research institutions to advance innovative technologies that improve human health. The forecasted funding opportunity titled NIH Small Business Technology Transfer Grant (Parent STTR [R41/R42] Clinical Trial Optional) is intended to stimulate technological innovation by enabling small businesses to collaborate with research institutions in developing and commercializing biomedical products and services. This opportunity is designed to support research and development projects that align with NIH’s mission areas, which include a wide array of health-related domains such as cancer research, mental health, cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases, and more. The STTR mechanism specifically requires collaboration between small business concerns and nonprofit research institutions, encouraging the transfer of scientific discoveries into practical applications. The funding supports multiple project phases, including Phase I (feasibility), Phase II (development), Direct to Phase II, and Fast-Track options, depending on the maturity of the proposed technology. Funding under this opportunity is expected to be discretionary, though specific award amounts, ceilings, and total program funding have not yet been published in the forecast. The program does not require cost sharing or matching funds, which lowers barriers to entry for eligible small businesses. Funds are generally intended to support research personnel, equipment, supplies, and other direct project costs necessary for advancing the proposed innovation. However, final allowable cost details will be outlined in the full Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) upon release. Eligibility is limited to United States small business concerns as defined by the Small Business Administration. These entities must demonstrate the technical capability to conduct research and must engage in a formal collaboration with a nonprofit research institution. The program encourages multidisciplinary and collaborative approaches, particularly those that integrate diverse expertise to address complex health challenges. Applicants are advised to begin forming partnerships and preparing project concepts in advance of the official solicitation release. The application process is not yet open, as this is a forecasted opportunity intended to provide early notice. Once released, applicants will be required to submit proposals through the appropriate federal submission systems, typically including Grants.gov and NIH-specific platforms. Applications will likely require detailed research plans, budgets, biosketches, and institutional documentation. Evaluation criteria will focus on scientific merit, innovation, commercialization potential, and the strength of the collaborative partnership. The estimated timeline indicates that the opportunity will be posted around June 1, 2026, with an application deadline of September 5, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced by March 1, 2027, with project start dates around April 1, 2027. This program is recurring in nature, as NIH regularly issues STTR funding opportunities. Interested applicants are encouraged to monitor updates and prepare in advance to meet submission requirements. For additional information, applicants may contact NIH SEED (Small business Education and Entrepreneurial Development), which provides guidance and support for small businesses navigating NIH funding opportunities. The forecast notice emphasizes that applications are not currently being accepted, and its purpose is to allow sufficient preparation time for prospective applicants.