STTR Research Institution Partnership
STTR Research Institution Partnership
Looking to partner with a research institution for cutting-edge research?
Launch Tennessee helps startups and entrepreneurs in the state prepare applications for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. These programs provide more than $4 billion each year in non-dilutive funding through participating federal agencies to support early-stage technology development.
From lab to market
The STTR program is designed to foster innovation through cooperative R&D between small businesses and research institutions. It encourages collaboration and the transfer of technology from the lab to the marketplace, leading to the development of new products and services that benefit society.
Why STTR?
While smaller than the SBIR program (with a budget of approximately $450 million each year), the STTR program receives significantly fewer applications and is equally competitive, while offering a unique opportunity for small businesses to tap into the expertise and resources of research institutions. By partnering with a research institution, you can gain access to cutting-edge research, specialized facilities, and talented researchers.
STTR eligibility
To be eligible for STTR funding, you must:
- Be a for-profit small business located in the United States
- Partner with a non-profit research institution (e.g., university, federal lab)
- The small business must be the applicant and awardee, while the research institution acts as a subcontractor
- The research institution must conduct a minimum of 30% and a maximum of 60% of the research and development work
- An intellectual property (IP) allocation agreement between the small business and the research institution is required, whether licensing university IP or a joint research agreement indicating IP will be owned by the company
Participating agencies
Not all federal agencies participate in the STTR program. Currently, the following five agencies offer STTR funding opportunities:
- Department of Defense (DoD)
- Department of Energy (DOE)
- Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
- National Science Foundation (NSF)
STTR+How to partner with a Tennessee research institution
Navigating the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program can be complex. Each research institution has its own unique policies and procedures, making it challenging for businesses to identify potential partners and establish successful collaborations. That's where STTR+ comes in. LaunchTN's STTR+ initiative provides clear guidance, connects you with valuable resources, and facilitates partnerships to help you navigate the STTR landscape with confidence.
Ready to tap into the power of collaborative research? STTR+ makes it easy to find the perfect partner for your technology development needs.
Identify a technology
Explore a database of available technologies from TTAC-affiliated institutions
View university processes
Learn about the STTR policies and procedures of individual TTAC institutions and initiate a partnership request
Interested in proposal support?
Connect with LaunchTN through our SBIR/STTR application support page and fill out an interest form.