FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

Small biotechnology companies must dive into the world of fundraising to bring their concepts to reality. Following are some pathways available to Montana startups. 

MONTANA SBIR/STTR MATCHING FUNDS PROGRAM

This program provides Montana companies additional funding for technology development or other uses during the time the company is working on a Small Business Innovation Research or Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) project with a federal agency.

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

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES FROM NIA

The National Institute on Aging offers a variety of grants and other funding to support research and business development. Visit the Research and Funding page for an overview of NIA programs. You can also learn more at their webinar (Almost) Everything You Wanted to Know About NIA Funding But Were Afraid to Ask. Of particular interest to Montana enterprises is the Small Business Program where Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBTT) opportunities are listed.

FAST 2023 MICROGRANTS FROM MTIP

The Montana Innovation Partnership (MTIP) powered by MSU TechLink Center will use some of its 2023 FAST funds to provide financial assistance to Montana small businesses that are actively preparing SBIR/STTR proposals in the federal fiscal year 2023. The costs to apply for an SBIR/STTR grant or contract can be considerable. Financial assistance for early-stage companies increases their participation in the SBIR program and the quality of their proposals. MTIP will award six FAST Microgrants to eligible SBIR/STTR applicants of up to $2,000 per year.

NIH NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE SBIR DEVELOPMENT CENTER

The NIC Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs offer funding, mentoring, and networking assistance to small businesses developing innovative cancer technologies to help take ideas from lab to market.

NIA SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) offers early-stage funding opportunities to small businesses and researchers looking to commercialize innovative treatments or technologies to help people enjoy healthier lives as they age. The NIA Small Business Program is accepting applications for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) funding. Learn more about these open opportunities.