Funding Opportunties for Montana bioscience innovators

Explore curated programs, grants, and matching funds tailored to Montana bioscience startups and educators.

Understand Montana’s Bioscience Funding Landscape

From early feasibility research to commercialization and STEM education support, Montana innovators can leverage a powerful mix of state and federal resources. This guide brings together key programs so you can quickly identify which opportunities align with your stage, discipline, and goals.

Montana-focused SBIR/STTR matching and microgrant options
Federal programs curated for bioscience and aging research
Support for teachers advancing STEM education statewide

Researchers collaborating in a modern Montana bioscience lab

Who this page is for

• Startup founders & research teams exploring SBIR/STTR, NIA, and NCI pathways.
• University and industry partners supporting technology transfer.
• Montana educators building stronger STEM programs in their classrooms.

Funding pathways

Programs Supporting Montana Bioscience Startups

Review the summary of each opportunity below, then follow the links to confirm current eligibility, deadlines, and application requirements.

Montana SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program

This program provides Montana companies additional funding for technology development or other uses while they are working on a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) project with a federal agency.

The federal program offers funding competitions in two phases: Phase I to conduct feasibility research, and Phase II to expand and develop Phase I results into commercially viable innovations. The Montana program offers grants of up to $30,000 per phase on a yearly basis.

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Funding & Grants in Montana

Montana bioscience professionals, startups, and research organizations have access to a wide range of state and federal funding opportunities through the Montana Grants & Loans Portal. This centralized portal allows applicants to browse and apply for grants and loans across multiple agencies by creating a secure account and submitting applications online. From research and commercialization support to workforce and community development funding, these resources help bioscience innovators access capital needed to grow, conduct research, and bring new solutions to market.

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Rocky Mountain REACH Pilot Funding

The Rocky Mountain REACH (RMT-REACH) program provides pilot funding to help move promising health innovations from the lab toward commercialization. Through NIH-supported awards of up to $50,000, the program supports proof-of-concept work, product validation, and go-to-market planning for therapeutics, diagnostics, devices, and other health technologies. Designed to strengthen commercialization readiness, the program helps position projects for future SBIR/STTR funding or private investment.

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NIH National Cancer Institute SBIR Development Center

The NCI Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs provide funding, mentoring, and networking support to small businesses developing innovative cancer technologies.

From early discovery through commercialization, the NCI SBIR Development Center helps companies move promising cancer innovations from lab to market, often in partnership with academic and clinical collaborators.

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Sharon Peterson Scholarship

The Sharon Peterson Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Sharon Peterson, a passionate advocate for education and biosciences in Montana.

This scholarship is designed to support Montana teachers who are dedicated to advancing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in their schools and communities. Funds can help educators access training, classroom resources, and experiential learning opportunities that inspire the next generation of bioscience leaders.

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Montana STEM teacher working with students in a lab classroom

Ideal for: K–12 teachers, curriculum leads, and school partners committed to hands-on bioscience learning in Montana.

Frequently asked questions

Use these answers as a starting point, then follow program links for the most current and detailed information.

Who is eligible for Montana’s SBIR/STTR matching funds?

The Montana SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program is generally available to Montana-based small businesses that have received a federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II award. Specific eligibility criteria, including business size standards, location, and use of funds, are set by the administering state agency. Always review the current program guidelines before applying.

Can I apply to multiple programs at the same time?

In many cases, yes. Companies commonly combine state matching funds, federal SBIR/STTR awards, and targeted programs such as NIA or NCI opportunities. However, you must ensure there is no duplication of cost reimbursement and that you comply with each program’s rules on overlapping support. Consult your grants officer or technology transfer office when planning your funding mix.

Are university-affiliated teams eligible for these opportunities?

Academic researchers frequently partner with or spin out small businesses to access SBIR/STTR and related programs. While the business entity is typically the applicant of record, universities can participate through subawards, collaborations, or licensing agreements. Check each program’s requirements for principal investigator employment and institutional involvement.

How do Montana teachers apply for the Sharon Peterson Scholarship?

Eligible teachers usually submit a brief application outlining their STEM education plans, anticipated impact on students, and how funds will be used. Application windows, award amounts, and selection criteria may change year to year, so refer to the latest scholarship announcement for detailed instructions and deadlines.