SBIR/STTR Match Program

The State of Illinois’ Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is offering a grant opportunity under its SBIR/STTR Phase I Matching Program, as authorized by 20 ILCS 605/605-1055. This initiative aims to support Illinois-based for-profit businesses that have been awarded a federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I grant. The state program seeks to match these federal awards with supplemental state funding to encourage further research and the pursuit of subsequent Phase II awards, fostering innovation, economic growth, and job creation in Illinois. The primary purpose of the SBIR/STTR Match Program is to stimulate the development and commercialization of innovative technologies and research. Awardees are eligible to receive up to $50,000 in state funds, structured in two parts: 75% of the match is provided upon verification of the Phase I federal award and submission of application materials, and the remaining 25% is granted upon submission and acknowledgment of a Phase II proposal and acceptance of the Phase I final report by the federal agency. These funds must be matched 1:1 with a federal SBIR/STTR Phase I award. The total funding available under this NOFO is $5,000,000, with approximately 100 awards expected. To qualify, applicants must be for-profit businesses headquartered in Illinois, with the principal place of business located within the state. Applicants must have received a Phase I SBIR or STTR award within the past 12 months and not have submitted the associated Phase II application before applying to this program. They must also certify that at least 51% of the proposed Phase II research will take place in Illinois and that they will remain Illinois-based throughout the duration of the project. A company may receive only one grant per fiscal year and no more than five total under the program. Prequalification through the Illinois GATA Grantee Portal is required, including registration with SAM.gov, and validation of a UEI number. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until June 30, 2026, or until program funds are exhausted. The application process is noncompetitive, evaluated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Required documents include the Uniform Grant Application, Conflict of Interest and Disclosure forms, proof of the federal award, the associated proposal, and certification of eligibility criteria. Applications must be submitted electronically via a dedicated Smartsheet form. This program is not merit-based and awards will be made as long as applicants fulfill all eligibility and documentation requirements. A technical assistance session was held on December 7, 2022, but participation is not mandatory. Program contacts are available for inquiries and support. The grant is administered according to applicable state and federal policies, including the Illinois Grant Accountability and Transparency Act and relevant civil rights and nondiscrimination statutes. Recipients are required to submit quarterly performance reports and a final closeout report, including technical outcomes, R&D spending, patent filings, investment received, and employment impact. Monitoring and audits are conducted to ensure compliance with performance expectations and financial standards. For additional information or application submission questions, applicants can contact Jamie Gladfelter at CEO.SBIR@illinois.gov or by phone at 800-252-2923. The full application link and further grant resources are available through the DCEO’s official website. The program underscores Illinois’ commitment to supporting its innovation economy and retaining high-potential businesses within the state.

Ensure eligibility through the GATA Portal and verify award timelines before applying.