NIH, CDC and FDA Small Business Innovation Research Grant (Parent SBIR [R43/R44] Clinical Trial Optional)
About
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program helps United States small business concerns (SBCs) bring scientific innovations to the marketplace. The SBIR program supports feasibility studies to later research and development (R&D) needed to develop a commercial product.
The NIH, CDC and FDA Small Business Innovation Research Grant (Parent SBIR [R43/R44] Clinical Trial Optional) is a federal funding opportunity designed to support United States small business concerns in developing innovative scientific solutions for the healthcare and life sciences marketplace. This grant program is ideal for entrepreneurs and small business owners who have developed cutting-edge technologies, medical devices, diagnostics, or therapeutic approaches that need feasibility studies and research and development to reach commercialization. The SBIR program helps bridge the gap between early-stage scientific innovation and market-ready products by providing funding for both Phase I (feasibility studies) and Phase II (R&D) activities. The Clinical Trial Optional component allows businesses to incorporate clinical validation into their development pathway. If your small business has a promising innovation in healthcare, biomedical research, disease prevention, or related fields, this grant can accelerate your product development timeline and reduce financial risk. The program is particularly valuable for companies seeking non-dilutive funding to prove concept viability and advance toward commercialization without giving up equity.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
April 5, 2027
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Funding Range
Varies by phase (R43/R44) and funding cycle
Deadline
2027-04-05
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual with specific deadline (April 5, 2027 for this cycle)
Best For
U.S. small business concerns with innovative healthcare, biomedical, diagnostic, or life sciences technologies seeking non-dilutive funding
Eligibility
Only United States small business concerns (SBCs), as defined by the Small Business Administration (SBA)(sbir.gov/apply) are eligible to submit applications for this opportunity.Refer to Section III. Eligibility Information in the NOFO for additional information on eligibility. Foreign Organizations/International Collaborations:Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Organizations) are not eligi
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for NIH, CDC and FDA Small Business Innovation Research Grant (Parent SBIR [R43/R44] Clinical Trial Optional)?
Only United States small business concerns (SBCs), as defined by the Small Business Administration (SBA), are eligible to apply. Foreign organizations and non-U.S. entities are not eligible. For detailed eligibility requirements, including specific definitions of small business concerns and any additional criteria, refer to Section III of the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and visit sbir.gov/apply.
How much funding does NIH, CDC and FDA Small Business Innovation Research Grant (Parent SBIR [R43/R44] Clinical Trial Optional) provide?
Funding amounts vary by grant cycle and phase. Phase I (R43) and Phase II (R44) awards provide different funding levels based on the complexity and scope of research. Visit the official NIH, CDC, or FDA SBIR website or the specific NOFO for current funding ranges and award amounts.
How do I apply for NIH, CDC and FDA Small Business Innovation Research Grant (Parent SBIR [R43/R44] Clinical Trial Optional)?
Applications are submitted through the appropriate federal agency portal (NIH, CDC, or FDA depending on your research focus). Visit sbir.gov for comprehensive application guidance, eligibility verification, and submission instructions. Review the specific NOFO for your agency to understand submission requirements, deadlines, and evaluation criteria.
What can NIH, CDC and FDA Small Business Innovation Research Grant (Parent SBIR [R43/R44] Clinical Trial Optional) funding be used for?
Funding supports feasibility studies and research and development activities needed to develop commercial products in healthcare and life sciences. This may include preliminary technical data, proof-of-concept work, R&D activities, and optional clinical trial activities to advance your innovation toward commercialization. Consult the NOFO for specific allowable uses of funds.
Last updated: July 5, 2026