SBIR Targeted Technologies (START) Grants

Grant Overview

Donor: MassVentures

About: The SBIR Targeted Technologies (START) Grants are a vital initiative by MassVentures aimed at fostering innovation and economic growth in Massachusetts. This program supports local startups by providing non-dilutive grant funding and comprehensive business guidance, helping them convert research developed under SBIR and STTR contracts into viable businesses and jobs within the state. Since its inception in 2012, the START program has granted $37.2 million to 125 companies, which have collectively raised over $5.1 billion and employed more than 3,200 people in the Commonwealth.

The START program offers multiple stages of funding:

– Stage I: Awards 16 grants of $100,000 each to eligible companies.
– Stage II: Provides 7 grants of $200,000 each to the most promising Stage I winners from the previous year.
– Stage III: Offers up to $500,000 each in seed capital for commercial spinouts from the most successful Stage II companies.

Beyond financial support, the program offers extensive business guidance, including introductions to potential customers, partners, employees, and capital providers, along with go-to-market strategies, pitch coaching, and mentoring.

An informative session is scheduled for February 4, 2025, at 8:00 AM ET, providing potential applicants with insights into the program and application process.

Grantaura offers a range of services to help you navigate the complexities of grant applications, including researching relevant grants, preparing essential documents like business plans and project proposals, and submitting applications on your behalf. We also provide support for crowdfunding and other related services, ensuring your application stands out and meets all eligibility criteria.

Focus: Technology commercialization, job creation, economic development in Massachusetts.

Region: Massachusetts

Eligibility:
– Massachusetts-based companies
– Companies that have received SBIR Phase II funding or equivalent federal funding
– Companies focused on commercializing technologies developed under SBIR and STTR contracts

Benefits:
– Non-dilutive grant funding ranging from $100,000 to $500,000
– Business guidance and mentoring
– Access to a network of potential customers, partners, and capital providers
– Support for commercializing innovative technologies

Terms:
– SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research): A highly competitive program that encourages domestic small businesses to engage in Federal Research/Research and Development (R/R&D) that has the potential for commercialization.
– STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer): A program that facilitates the transfer of technology developed by universities and research institutions to the commercial sector.
– Non-dilutive funding: Funding that does not require the recipient to give up equity or ownership in their company.