Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program
About
The primary mission of the FAST program is to strengthen the technological competitiveness of small businesses in the United States. The FAST program provides yearly funding to eligible organizations to execute state-based programs, which may also collaborate regionally, that raise awareness of the SBIR/STTR programs, educate small businesses on new and ongoing program requirements, increase application submission and awards, and reach all eligible small businesses.
The Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program is a nationwide initiative designed to strengthen the technological competitiveness of small businesses across the United States. This grant program provides yearly funding to eligible public and private entities, organizations, and individuals who are committed to expanding awareness and participation in the SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) programs. If your organization works directly with small businesses and wants to increase their innovation capacity, this program offers the financial support needed to execute state-based or regional outreach initiatives. The FAST program funds comprehensive assistance including awareness campaigns, educational workshops on program requirements, technical and business guidance, and financial support that help small businesses submit stronger SBIR/STTR proposals and win awards. Entrepreneurs and small business support organizations should apply because this grant enables you to access federal resources that directly boost your community's competitiveness in the technology sector. With funding ranging from $1 to $180,000 annually, organizations can scale their outreach efforts, reach underserved small businesses, and contribute to America's innovation ecosystem while building partnerships with state governments.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
July 22, 2026
Award Amount
$1 - $180K
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
$1 - $180K
Deadline
2026-07-22
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual
Best For
State and regional organizations, small business support providers, and entities committed to increasing SBIR/STTR program participation
Eligibility
•Be a public or private entity, organization, or individual that intends to use funding awarded under this Announcement to provide outreach, technical and business assistance, and/or financial support to small businesses to increase SBIR/STTR proposals and awards; and •Be endorsed by the appropriate State governor or their authorized designee as the only approved applicant from that Stat
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program?
Eligible applicants include public or private entities, organizations, or individuals that intend to use funding to provide outreach, technical assistance, business assistance, and/or financial support to small businesses to increase SBIR/STTR proposals and awards. Additionally, applicants must be endorsed by the appropriate State governor or their authorized designee as the only approved applicant from their state. For complete eligibility details and any updates, visit the official NSF or relevant federal agency website.
How much funding does the Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program provide?
The FAST program provides yearly funding ranging from $1 to $180,000 per award cycle. The specific amount awarded depends on your project scope, state needs, and proposal quality. Contact the administering agency or visit the official program website for details on typical award amounts and funding availability for your state.
How do I apply for the Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program?
Applications are typically submitted through the official federal grants portal (such as Grants.gov) during the designated application period. You will need to prepare a comprehensive proposal that outlines your outreach strategy, target audience of small businesses, specific activities to increase SBIR/STTR awareness and participation, and budget justification. Ensure you have state governor endorsement before applying. Check the official program announcement and agency website for current application deadlines, required forms, and detailed submission instructions.
What can Federal and State Technology (FAST) Partnership Program funding be used for?
FAST program funding supports state-based or regional programs that raise awareness of SBIR/STTR programs, educate small businesses on program requirements, increase application submissions and awards, and reach eligible small businesses. Funded activities may include outreach campaigns, technical assistance, business advisory services, training workshops, and financial support to help small businesses develop competitive proposals. Funds must directly support increasing SBIR/STTR participation among small businesses in your state or region.
Last updated: July 5, 2026