
"The grants we received from NSF were instrumental in building the first version of our product and acquiring our first customers"
Mohit Lad CEO of ThousandEyes
A microscopic image of the metals in a plant seedling being studied for its ability to clean contaminated environments. Photo courtesy of Sigray, a small business revolutionizing x-ray research equipment through its patented innovations on x-ray source and optic technology.
We offer funding for early stage R&D and take no equity in your company — you retain full control over your team, the direction of your work, and your intellectual property.
Join our regular webinars or find NSF staff and program directors at events like conferences, SBIR road tours, and more.
We fund startups across nearly all technology areas and markets like artificial intelligence, energy, medical devices, robotics, semiconductors, and many more.
We support research and development of deep technologies - those that are based on discoveries in fundamental science and engineering. As we review applications, we consider your technology’s innovativeness, commercial potential, and possible societal impact. View current awardees
America's Seed Fund
National Science Foundation
SBIR | STTR
Photo Credit: Cyclopure | Cyclopure CP analytical chemists can measure DEXSORB@ efficiency at 1-2 part per trillion concentration
Since 1977, America’s Seed Fund powered by NSF (also known as the NSF SBIR/STTR program) has helped startups develop their ideas and bring them to market. We funded about 400 companies each year.
Our program fosters and encourages participation in innovation and entrepreneurship by women and people of color as well as first-time entrepreneurs from all 50 states and U.S. territories.