Federal R&D 101
There's non-dilutive money for your R&D. You probably qualify.
Federal agencies hand out billions every year to help small businesses fund innovative R&D — grant-like money you keep your equity on. Here’s what it is, whether it’s for you, and how to start without a BD department.
It's non-dilutive.
Unlike venture capital, federal R&D funding doesn't take equity. You keep ownership of your company and your IP — it's closer to a grant than an investment.
It's billions a year.
Federal agencies set aside billions every year for small-business R&D through programs like SBIR and STTR — across defense, energy, health, climate, space, and more.
You probably qualify.
If you're a U.S. small business doing genuinely innovative work, there's likely a program for you. Most companies never apply, because the process looks impenetrable. It isn't — with the right help.
Is this you?
You may qualify if you are…
- A U.S.-based, for-profit small business (500 or fewer employees)
- More than 50% owned by U.S. individuals
- Doing genuinely innovative R&D — hardware, software, materials, bio, climate, or defense-adjacent
- Willing to perform the work in the United States
- Open to non-dilutive funding instead of — or alongside — venture capital
Not sure? That’s exactly what the application is for — Eric reviews every one and tells you honestly whether it’s a fit.
Not ready to apply yet?
Get the federal R&D starter guide.
A plain-English primer on SBIR/STTR, what agencies fund, and how to position your company — plus a heads-up when a newcomer track opens.
Already know it’s for you?
Apply to the founding cohort — Eric reviews every application within 72 hours.