About EPA's SBIR Program

Basic Information

One of 11 federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) programs launched nearly 40 years ago, EPA’s SBIR program is the small program with a big mission, to protect human health and the environment. Also known as "American's Seed Fund", EPA funds small businesses to develop and commercialize innovative environmental technologies. Broad areas of focus typically stay the same and include clean and safe water, air quality and climate, land revitalization, homeland security, sustainable materials management, safer chemicals, and risk assessment. More specific topics under each of these broad areas change from year to year.

For more information on the Federal SBIR programs, visit the Small Business Administration's SBIR website.

Phased Approach to Funding

EPA runs a yearly, two-phase process for funding SBIR projects. Each year, EPA issues a solicitation for technology proposals for specific topics. Proposals are evaluated on their technical merit, potential for commercialization and impact in the given topic area. For Phase I, EPA awards firm-fixed-price contracts of up to $100,000 for 6 months for “proof of concept” of the proposed technology. Companies that have received a Phase I can submit a proposal for a Phase II award of $400,000 to further develop and commercialize the technology.

To accelerate commercialization, EPA also offers a "Commercialization Option" of up to $100,000 in Phase II for companies that secure third-party investment.

Is EPA SBIR Right for You?

Are you ready to join hundreds of small businesses that have used EPA SBIR awards to develop and commercialize their environmental technologies? If your small business has a technology solution that helps solve one of EPA's priority topic areas, consider submitting your idea to help us protect public health and address our most pressing environmental problems. EPA welcomes proposals from small businesses and start-ups new to the program.

How to Apply for an SBIR Contract