SBIR Targeted Technologies START Grants

The START (SBIR TARgeted Technologies) Program, administered by MassVentures, is a strategic initiative funded by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to support high-potential local companies in commercializing innovative technologies. MassVentures, a state-backed venture capital firm with a 48-year history supporting over 250 early-stage companies, operates the START Program to bolster the commercialization prospects of businesses that have secured federal Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants or equivalents. By focusing on commercialization, employment growth, and fostering a strong innovation ecosystem in Massachusetts, the START Program plays a critical role in bridging the funding gap between research and market-ready products. The START Program is structured as a multi-round funding opportunity, allowing selected companies to receive between $100,000 and $800,000 in non-dilutive grant funding. The program not only provides financial support but also offers strategic management assistance to help recipients scale effectively. The Round I grants represent the initial entry point into the program and serve as a gateway for companies to demonstrate commercial traction and qualify for higher tiers of funding in subsequent rounds. Eligibility for START Round I is limited to Massachusetts-based companies that have previously received a Phase II SBIR or STTR award from a federal agency or an equivalent. Qualifying companies must conduct their core activities—such as research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization—primarily within Massachusetts and must demonstrate a commitment to continuing those operations in the state. Although there is no rigid time limit for when the qualifying Phase II award was received, companies must justify the ongoing commercial relevance of older awards if more than five years have passed. The application process is intentionally streamlined to reduce administrative burden. Applicants must complete and submit the 2026 Application Cover Sheet with contact information, provide a 1,000-word narrative describing the technology, its commercial potential, and the team, record and upload a 3-minute video pitch, and include the cover page of the company’s Phase II SBIR award contract to confirm eligibility. Applications must be submitted through MassVentures' online platform. Applications for START Round I are due by Monday, February 23, 2026, at 11:59 pm Eastern Time. An online information session will be held via Zoom on February 3, 2026, at 8:00 am, offering applicants insights from START program managers, former recipients, and judges. The session will also be recorded and posted on the MassVentures website for those unable to attend live. For questions not addressed in the webinar or on the program website, applicants are encouraged to contact Stacy Swider, START Program Manager, at [email protected]. While the application deadline is fixed, the START Program operates on a recurring basis, with multiple rounds held annually. Applicants whose technologies are not yet ready or who miss the current cycle may consider applying in a future round. The program supports promising Massachusetts companies that have already proven their technological capability through federal recognition and now require critical support for market transition and business expansion.