LaunchTN works to bolster startup activity and increase participation from Tennessee entrepreneurs in what’s colloquially known as America’s Seed Fund.
Every year, participating federal agencies allocate capital to SBIR/STTR programs.
LaunchTN supports founders’ applications to the federal programs, and if the founders land that funding, then LaunchTN invites the company to apply for matching funds.
And now is the time.
LaunchTN is opening applications for the fiscal year 2027 SBIR/STTR Matching Fund on Oct. 5.
The program provides additional funding to eligible Tennessee companies that have received federal SBIR/STTR awards or other qualifying federal commercialization awards.
Details
- Applications open Oct. 5 at 9 a.m. CT and close Oct. 16.
- Eligible companies must have received a qualifying Notice of Award between July 1, 2025 and Sept. 30, 2026.
- LaunchTN will match up to 50% of the federal award amount.
- Phase I awards may receive up to $100,000 in matching funds.
- Phase II awards may receive up to $300,000 in matching funds.
- Priority considerations include first-time Matching Fund applicants and companies in life sciences, advanced energy, agriculture and mobility, among other criteria outlined in the program guidelines.
- Applicants should review the full eligibility criteria and required application materials before applying.
- Call to action: Review the fiscal year 2027 program guidelines and apply beginning Oct. 5.
- Contact Karrie Dudek for SBIR/STTR Matching Fund questions.