NASA SBIR/STTR Phase I: Up to $225,000, Apply by May 21, 2026

NASA has opened its 2026 Phase I SBIR and STTR funding rounds for small businesses developing new technology. Qualified applicants can compete for up to $225,000 in Phase I funding, with submissions open until May 21, 2026.

What the Funding Covers

Phase I is designed to help small businesses prove the scientific, technical, and commercial merit of an innovation.

• Early-stage research and development
• Technical feasibility work
• Commercialization planning
• Technology validation for NASA-related use cases
• Optional TABA support of $6,500 for commercialization strategy

Who Can Apply

The program is open to small businesses. NASA lists SBIR and STTR Phase I solicitations for companies pursuing relevant technical innovations. STTR applicants also work with research institution partners.

• Applicant type: Small businesses
• SBIR period of performance: 6 months
• STTR period of performance: 13 months

How to Apply

• Deadline: May 21, 2026
• Program page: NASA SBIR/STTR Phase I
• SBIR Solicitation: 2026 Appendix A SBIR
• SBIR/STTR Solicitation: 2026 Appendix B SBIR
• STTR Solicitation: 2026 Appendix B STTR

Why It Matters

This is a real non-dilutive funding path for technical founders who want to validate an innovation and build toward larger federal R&D contracts. NASA also notes that applicants can seek extra commercialization support through the program.

Source: NASA SBIR/STTR Phase I