Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, Phase I

The Administration for Community Living within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is forecasting the release of the Small Business Innovation Research program, Phase I, under the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research. The SBIR program is a long-standing federal initiative designed to stimulate technological innovation within the private sector and strengthen the role of small businesses in addressing federal research and development needs. This specific funding opportunity emphasizes research and development projects that can improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. The program also aims to expand the commercial application of federally supported research results by encouraging small businesses to bring new products and technologies to the marketplace. The purpose of this grant opportunity is to support small businesses in conducting preliminary research to determine the scientific and technical feasibility of new concepts, topics, or ideas that may benefit individuals with disabilities. Projects supported under this funding announcement are intended to lay the groundwork for future product development that can address critical needs in independent living and rehabilitation. Phase I awards are exploratory in nature and focus on testing the potential for innovation before further phases may be considered. The scope of this program includes projects that contribute to the mission of NIDILRR by advancing knowledge and technology in disability, rehabilitation, and independent living. Applicants are expected to use the funding to conduct targeted research and feasibility studies rather than large-scale product deployment. The program is structured to allow for innovation at early stages, providing resources to validate whether an idea is viable before proceeding to more extensive development. Awarded funds are to be applied exclusively toward eligible research and development activities and are not intended for unrelated expenses. Eligibility for this program is restricted to small business concerns as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Each applying organization must meet SBA’s criteria for small business status at the time of the award. Importantly, foreign entities are not eligible to apply or receive funding through this opportunity. The restriction ensures that program resources are dedicated to strengthening U.S.-based small businesses and their capacity for innovation in federally relevant research areas. The forecast outlines an anticipated release of the full funding announcement on October 15, 2025. Applications are expected to be due by December 15, 2025. Awards are projected to be announced on June 1, 2026, with funded projects commencing on the same date. Each project will run for six months, with both the project period and budget period aligned. A total of ten awards are anticipated, with an award floor of $95,000 and a ceiling of $100,000 per project. The estimated total program funding is set at $1,000,000 for this cycle. Cost sharing or matching contributions are not required. Interested applicants can obtain further information about the grant process through the Administration for Community Living’s website at www.acl.gov/grants/applying-grants. Questions regarding the program should be directed to the designated program contact, Brian Bard, who can be reached at (202) 795-7298 or by email at brian.bard@acl.hhs.gov. The forecast notes that the opportunity is currently in its early engagement phase, and potential applicants are encouraged to prepare in advance of the official posting.