$1.0M
per applicant
Grant
Cash award, application-based
Rolling
No fixed cutoff
Rolling
Or check for open cycles
Extensive
Detailed federal app
Funds small businesses partnering with research institutions to commercialize deep-tech innovations in areas including advanced manufacturing, clean energy, AI, and biotech. Phase I: $275K; Phase II: $1M.
Do I qualify?
Answer the questions below to get an instant self-assessment of your fit for this program. This is informational — final determinations are made by the administering agency.
1.Must be a US small business (≤500 employees) partnering with a US research institution
2.Research institution must perform at least 30% of the work
3.Small business must perform at least 40% of the work
4.Phase I: up to $275K for 12 months; Phase II: up to $1M for 24 months
5.Technology must align with NSF's research priorities and have clear commercial potential
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Allows businesses to deduct up to $5.65/sq ft for commercial buildings achieving significant energy savings through improvements to HVAC, lighting, and building envelope systems. IRA expanded the deduction and allowed non-profits and government to allocate it.
LPO · United States
Offers federal loan guarantees for innovative clean energy projects that struggle to access conventional financing. Supports first-of-kind commercial-scale projects in renewable energy, storage, advanced nuclear, and industrial decarbonization.
CDFI Fund · United States
Attracts private investment into low-income communities by allowing investors to receive a 39% federal tax credit over 7 years on investments made through certified Community Development Entities (CDEs).