Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, Phase I

Background
The purpose of the Federal SBIR program is to stimulate technological innovation in the private sector, strengthen the role of small business in meeting Federal research or research and development (R/R&D) needs, and improve the return on investment from Federally-funded research for economic and social benefits to the nation. The specific purpose of NIDILRR's SBIR program is to improve the lives of people with disabilities through R/R&D products generated by small businesses, and to increase the commercial application of NIDILRR-supported research results and development products.

Grant Details
NIDILRR’s mission is to generate new knowledge and to promote its effective use to improve the abilities of individuals with disabilities to perform activities of their choice in the community and to expand society’s capacity to provide full opportunities and accommodations for its citizens with disabilities. All SBIR projects funded by NIDILRR must address the needs of individuals with disabilities. The Small Business Administration defines research or research and development (R/R&D) as a systematic, intensive study directed toward greater knowledge or understanding of a subject studied; a systematic study directed specifically toward applying new knowledge to meet a recognized need; or a systematic application of knowledge toward the production of useful materials, devices, and systems or methods, including design, development, and improvement of prototypes and new processes to meet specific requirements.

The R/R&D must be responsive to NIDILRR’s SBIR program objectives, serve as the basis for technological innovation, new commercial products, or processes or services. The specific purpose of NIDILRR’s SBIR program is to increase the commercial application of research and development results and improve the return on investment from research and development that can be used to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Eligibility Requirements
Each organization submitting an application must qualify at the time of the award as a small business concern as defined by the Small Business Administration. In addition, the primary employment of the principal investigator must be with the small business firm at the time of award and during the conduct of the proposed research. Joint ventures are permitted, provided that the business entity created qualifies as a small business in accordance with the Small Business Act. For Phase I, at least two-thirds of the research and/or analytic effort must be performed by the proposing firm.

Period of Performance
6 month project period with a corresponding six-month budget period.

Grant Value
$1,000,000 estimated total funding for 10 awards with an award ceiling of $100,000 per budget period and an award floor of $95,000 per budget period.

Place of Performance
Work must be performed in United States.