Small Business Technology Transfer(STTR)
A federal program that funds cooperative R&D between small businesses and research institutions, requiring substantive collaboration.
Overview
The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program parallels SBIR but requires small businesses to partner with a nonprofit research institution (university, federally funded R&D center, etc.) for a substantial portion of the work. STTR aims to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial application by fostering collaboration. Five agencies participate: DoD, NIH, NSF, DOE, and NASA.
Why It Matters in GovCon
STTR provides SBIR-like funding with the added requirement of research institution partnership. For small businesses with strong university relationships or access to lab facilities, STTR can be advantageous. The collaboration structure and eligibility differ from SBIR, so understanding both programs expands your R&D opportunity set.
Key Details
- Partnership Requirement: Minimum 40% of Phase I and Phase II work must be performed by the research institution.
- Eligibility: Same small business criteria as SBIR; research institution must be U.S.-based and nonprofit.
- Agency Participation: Fewer agencies than SBIR (DoD, HHS/NIH, NSF, DOE, NASA).
- Set-Aside: Statutorily reserved for small business–research institution partnerships.
- Application: Similar structure to SBIR but with collaboration plan and institution commitment.
How GovCon Data Can Help
GovCon Data surfaces STTR opportunities alongside SBIR, helping you identify topics requiring research partnerships and track agency-specific STTR solicitations.
Related Terms
- Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
- Research and Development (R&D)
- Small Business Administration (SBA)
- Technology Readiness Level (TRL)
More Programs Terms
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