NSF SBIR/STTR Fast-Track
A combined Phase I + Phase II NSF award for startups ready to move quickly from feasibility to prototype, with no gap between phases.
About this program
Fast-Track bundles a Phase I component (up to $400,000 over 6-12 months) and a Phase II component (up to $1,155,000 over an additional 18-24 months) in a single fixed-amount cooperative agreement. A Project Pitch invitation is required, and the full proposal must be submitted within four months of that invitation. The PI must commit at least three calendar months per six months of performance, a higher bar than standard Phase I or II. NSF takes no equity. Note: the solicitation states the total as both $1,555,000 and $1,555,555; the component amounts add to $1,555,000, which is used here.
Eligibility
U.S. for-profit small businesses with 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates). The Principal Investigator must be at least 51% employed by the company. An official Fast-Track invitation from a Project Pitch is required.
Requirements
- Submit a Project Pitch and receive a Fast-Track invitation
- Submit the full proposal within four months of the invitation
- PI effort of at least three calendar months per six months