− Federally-funded R&D center (FFRDC). There is no size limit for nonprofit research institutions. Each year, five federal departments and agencies are required by STTR to reserve a portion of their R&D funds for award to small business/nonprofit research institution partnerships: • • • • •
Department of Defense Department of Energy Department of Health and Human Services National Aeronautics and Space Administration National Science Foundation.
Following submission of proposals, agencies make STTR awards based on small business/nonprofit research institution qualification, degree of innovation, and future market potential. Small businesses that receive awards or grants then begin a three-phase program. Additional Information
Phase I is the startup phase. Awards of up to $100,000 for approximately one year fund the exploration of the scientific, technical, and commercial feasibility of an idea or technology. Phase II awards of up to $750,000, for as long as two years, expand Phase I results. During this period, the R&D work is performed and the developer begins to consider commercial potential. The STTR only considers Phase I award winners for Phase II.
Please refer to Section XII: Appendix A Table of Contents for “SBIR and STTR Information” or contact: Office of Technology U.S. Small Business Administration 409 Third Street, SW Washington, DC 20416 (202) 205-6450; fax: (202) 205-6390 sizestandards@sba.gov
Phase III is the period during which Phase II innovation moves from the laboratory into the marketplace. No STTR funds support this phase. The small business must find funding in the private sector or other non-STTR federal agency funding. STTR funds also are usually awarded at specific times of the year, so it is important to check with the installation regarding deadlines for proposal submission. B.
GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION (GSA) OPPORTUNITIES
GSA is the federal government’s business manager, buyer, real estate developer, telecommunications manager, and IT solutions provider. GSA offers businesses the opportunity to sell billions of dollars worth of products and services to federal agencies through contract vehicles. GSA advertises locally and nationally. All GSA contracting opportunities over $25,000 are advertised on FedBizOpps available at http://www.fedbizopps.gov/. 1.
Office of Small Business Utilization (OSBU)
GSA’s OSBU advocates for small, minority, veteran, HUB Zone, and women business owners. The office’s mission is to promote increased access to GSA’s nationwide procurement opportunities. 26 How to Find an Appropriate Opportunity