America's Seed Fund (SBIR/STTR)
Non-dilutive federal funding for small businesses developing innovative technologies.
About
America's Seed Fund powered by the Small Business Administration provides non-dilutive, equity-free funding to small businesses developing cutting-edge technologies. The program is administered through 11 federal agencies including NIH, NSF, DOE, DOD, and NASA. Phase I awards typically range from $50,000-$275,000, and Phase II awards range from $500,000-$1.5M.
America's Seed Fund powered by the Small Business Administration is a premier federal funding opportunity designed for innovative small businesses developing cutting-edge technologies. This non-dilutive, equity-free funding program is administered through 11 federal agencies including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Science Foundation (NSF), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DOD), and NASA, ensuring support across diverse technology sectors. The program is ideal for for-profit U.S. businesses with fewer than 500 employees that are at least 51% U.S.-owned and seeking to commercialize breakthrough innovations without giving up equity or control. Phase I awards typically range from $50,000 to $275,000, allowing companies to explore the feasibility of their technology concepts, while Phase II awards provide substantially larger funding between $500,000 and $1.5 million for companies ready to develop and commercialize their innovations. Entrepreneurs should apply to America's Seed Fund because it offers significant validation and credibility in the marketplace, access to federal expertise and resources, and the opportunity to accelerate technology development and commercialization timelines. Unlike traditional venture capital, SBIR/STTR funding requires no equity dilution, allowing founders to retain full ownership and control of their companies while bringing transformative technologies to market.
Grant Details
Grant Amount
$50K - $1.5M
Deadline
Varies by agency
Grant Type
Federal
Application Cycle
Varies by agency
Best For
For-profit small businesses (under 500 employees) developing innovative technologies and seeking non-dilutive, equity-free funding
Eligibility
For-profit US business, Under 500 employees, 51% US-owned
Focus Areas
Impact Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for America's Seed Fund (SBIR/STTR)?
To be eligible for America's Seed Fund, your business must be a for-profit U.S. company, employ fewer than 500 employees, and be at least 51% U.S.-owned. The program supports small businesses across diverse technology sectors through its network of 11 federal agencies. For specific eligibility requirements related to your technology area or agency of interest, consult the official America's Seed Fund website at sbir.gov.
How much funding does America's Seed Fund (SBIR/STTR) provide?
America's Seed Fund offers two primary funding phases. Phase I awards typically range from $50,000 to $275,000 and are designed to assess the feasibility of your technology concept. Phase II awards range from $500,000 to $1.5 million and support companies ready to develop and commercialize their innovations. Specific award amounts vary by agency and funding cycle, so visit sbir.gov for the most current details.
How do I apply for America's Seed Fund (SBIR/STTR)?
Applications for America's Seed Fund are submitted through the official SBIR/STTR portal at sbir.gov. The process typically involves selecting the appropriate federal agency aligned with your technology focus, reviewing the specific solicitation requirements, and submitting a comprehensive proposal. Deadlines vary by agency and program phase, so check the official website regularly for current submission dates and detailed application guidelines for your target agency.
What can America's Seed Fund (SBIR/STTR) funding be used for?
America's Seed Fund supports the development and commercialization of cutting-edge technologies across multiple sectors including healthcare, energy, defense, science, and advanced manufacturing. In Phase I, funding is used to assess technical feasibility and potential commercial viability. Phase II funding supports further technology development, prototype refinement, and preparation for market commercialization. For detailed information on allowable uses specific to your technology area, consult the solicitation requirements on sbir.gov.
Last updated: March 1, 2026