The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the funding opportunity for their Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program with applications due November 3, 2021 by 3 p.m. MT.
The USDA’s SBIR program focuses on transforming scientific discovery into products and services with commercial potential and/or societal benefit. SBIR supports small businesses in the creation of innovative, disruptive technologies, and enables the application of research advancements from conception into the market.
Projects dealing with agriculturally related manufacturing and alternative and renewable energy technologies are encouraged across all SBIR topic areas. In addition, the funding opportunity seeks technology that supports Rural Development; an agricultural focus is not required and the USDA welcomes proposals in any technology area that has the potential to provide significant benefit to rural Americans. SBIR’s flexible research areas ensure innovative projects that are consistent with USDA’s vision of a healthy and productive nation in harmony with the land, air, and water. For more information, read the full SBIR Phase I funding opportunity.
In preparation for the November 2021 deadline, the Utah Innovation Center will be holding a virtual USDA SBIR Workshop which will provide attendees with valuable tools and information to help prepare a competitive proposal. Additionally, there will be an opportunity to hear directly from a USDA program manager. Register today, free of charge.
If your Utah small business intends to apply or you have questions about this funding opportunity, please contact the Utah Innovation Center at innovationutah@utah.gov.