At a glance
NSF SBIR Phase I - America's Seed Fund is a federal competitive grant from National Science Foundation (NSF) providing up to $305,000 for early-stage commercialization of high-risk technology innovations. Eligible applicants are us-based small businesses with fewer than 500 employees, majority us-owned, with the principal investigator primarily employed by the company at award time. The application deadline is September 17, 2026. Apply via seedfund.nsf.gov.
- Amount
- Up to $305K
- Deadline
- Sep 17, 2026
- Type
- Competitive
- Status
- Open
About this program
America's Seed Fund, powered by NSF, awards non-dilutive R&D funding to startups and small businesses developing deep technologies with strong commercial potential. Phase I supports proof-of-concept work over 6–12 months, covering technical feasibility, early prototyping and customer discovery. Successful Phase I awardees become eligible for Phase II funding of up to $1.25M. The program is technology-agnostic and reviews proposals across roughly 30 topic areas including AI, advanced materials, biotech, quantum and space.
Who can apply
US-based small businesses with fewer than 500 employees, majority US-owned, with the principal investigator primarily employed by the company at award time. Prior NSF funding is not required.
How to apply
Applications are submitted through Grants.gov using the funding opportunity number listed on the official notice. Register your organization, complete the online application form, and upload a project narrative, budget and supporting documentation before the deadline. Late or incomplete submissions are not reviewed.
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