Resources
Insights, guides, and your portals.
Federal R&D funding intelligence. Updated as we curate.
Programs We Cover
SBIR
Small Business Innovation Research — Phase I through Phase III across all DoD branches, NSF, DOE, NIH, and more.
STTR
Small Business Technology Transfer — requires a research institution partner. Same agencies, different collaboration model.
BAA
Broad Agency Announcements — open-ended R&D solicitations from DARPA, AFRL, Army Research Lab, and others.
OTA
Other Transaction Authority — non-FAR contracting for prototype development. Faster timelines, different compliance.
CSO
Commercial Solutions Openings — typically Air Force (AFWERX). Slide-deck format, short-form proposals.
Grants / NOFO
Grants.gov Notices of Funding Opportunity — NSF, DOE, NIH. CFDA-based, different compliance structure.
Latest Insights
What Is SBIR/STTR? A 5-Minute Primer for First-Time Applicants
SBIR and STTR award billions a year in non-dilutive R&D funding to small businesses. Here is what the programs are, the three phases, and why most companies never apply.
By Eric Wagner
The Real Cost of Chasing Federal R&D the Old Way
Opportunity monitoring at $5,000/mo. Consultants taking 10% of your award. A BD hire at six figures. Here is the real cost of chasing federal R&D — and the math, re-priced.
By Eric Wagner
Are You Eligible for SBIR/STTR? A Quick Check
SBIR/STTR eligibility in plain English: who qualifies, common disqualifiers, and the registrations you will need before you can be paid.
By Eric Wagner
5 Strategies That Win SBIR Proposals in 2026
After analyzing hundreds of successful proposals, these 5 patterns consistently separate winners from the pack.
By Eric Wagner
How AI is Changing the SBIR Proposal Game
AI-powered tools are leveling the playing field for small businesses pursuing SBIR contracts.
By Eric Wagner
SBIR vs STTR: Understanding the Programs That Fund Innovation
Over $4 billion in annual federal R&D funding is available through SBIR and STTR. Here is how to choose the right program.
By Eric Wagner
What is SBIR?
A comprehensive overview of the SBIR program for first-time applicants.
By RFP Pipeline
SBIR Proposal Writing Tips
10 essential tips for writing winning SBIR Phase I proposals.
By Eric Wagner
How to Use DSIP
Step-by-step guide to navigating DSIP for topic discovery and submission.
By RFP Pipeline
Grants.gov — Federal Grant Opportunities
Federal Opportunity Source