Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) Phase II

The Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) Phase II, administered by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is designed to stimulate technological innovation in the private sector and strengthen the role of small businesses in meeting federal research and development needs. This program is managed by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR). The SBIR initiative plays a critical role in enhancing the return on investment from federally funded research by promoting economic and social benefits nationwide. The specific aim of NIDILRR’s SBIR program is to improve the lives of people with disabilities through research and development projects carried out by small businesses. Projects funded under this program must clearly demonstrate a focus on promoting health and function, supporting community living, or advancing employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Phase II awards are intended to build upon the accomplishments of Phase I, providing the resources needed to expand results and bring research closer to commercialization. Funding for this opportunity is expected to total $1,150,000, with four awards anticipated. Each award is projected to fall within a funding range of $280,000 to $287,500, allocated over a 24-month project period, divided into two 12-month budget periods. Cost sharing or matching is not required, ensuring that small businesses can access the opportunity without additional financial burden. All funded projects must adhere to the requirement of targeting the needs of people with disabilities while pursuing technological advancement and practical application. Eligibility for Phase II is limited to small business concerns that have successfully completed an SBIR Phase I project between October 1, 2023, and December 31, 2025. Applicants may have received Phase I support from NIDILRR or other federal agencies, but their Phase II proposal must align with NIDILRR’s mission to improve disability outcomes. All applicants must maintain their status as small businesses, and foreign entities are explicitly ineligible for this program. The application window is forecasted to open on January 7, 2026, with a submission deadline of March 9, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced by June 1, 2026, which is also the anticipated project start date. The program operates on a recurring basis, with opportunities reissued annually, and the current forecasted opportunity will archive on September 30, 2026. No pre-application steps such as a letter of intent or concept paper are required based on the available forecast information. Interested applicants can access further details and guidance on the ACL website. Questions may be directed to the program officer, Brian Bard, who can be reached at (202) 795-7298 or via email at brian.bard@acl.hhs.gov. This contact is the primary resource for clarifications regarding eligibility, project scope, and submission requirements. As the opportunity is currently in forecast status, applicants should monitor the official posting for any updates to dates or requirements prior to the estimated opening in January 2026.