STTR Phase I and II(11 Federal Agencies) — R&D businesses pursuing technical work that genuinely requires a non-profit research institution partner (university, federal lab). Read reviewGet started at 11 Federal Agencies →
USDA Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG)(USDA Rural Development) — Small businesses physically located in USDA-defined rural communities (under 50,000 population) seeking equipment, rehabilitation, training, or tech assistance funding. Read reviewGet started at USDA Rural Development →
Bottom line
SBIR Phase II — Highest-dollar non-dilutive grant — $750K–$2M+ for Phase I winners moving to development. Best for: Phase I SBIR winners with demonstrated feasibility ready to move to full R&D development over 24 months.. Compare it against alternatives before applying; the right fit depends on your situation, credit, and goals.
Questions about SBIR Phase II
Who is SBIR Phase II best for?
It's designed for Phase I SBIR winners with demonstrated feasibility who are ready to move into full R&D development, typically over a 24-month performance period.
How much funding does SBIR Phase II provide?
Phase II development grants generally range from $750K to $2M or more, depending on the agency. NIH and DoD Phase II awards routinely exceed $1.5M, and the funding is non-repayable with no equity given up.
Do I need to win Phase I before applying for Phase II?
Generally yes — successful Phase I completion is the prerequisite, though some agencies allow a Direct to Phase II path for qualifying equivalent research. All Phase I eligibility criteria continue to apply.
How long does the SBIR Phase II process take?
The application effort is substantial — plan for 40+ hours covering a full technical and commercialization narrative. Review cycles can run 6 to 12 months from submission to award at some agencies.
What makes SBIR Phase II stand out?
It's the highest non-dilutive dollar amount available to most SMBs and funds development of a technology from feasibility to working product. The technology must align with a specific agency topic area; confirm open solicitations at sbir.gov. ClearValue Lending is a platform that surfaces this information, not the awarding agency.
How we rate
Every pick gets a 1–5 ClearValue Rating computed from four weighted factors: Editorial confidence (30%), Cost (25%), Value (25%), and Accessibility (20%).
Scored consistently across every product and independent of any compensation. Full methodology →
Advertiser disclosure: some links are from our partners — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Rankings and editorial assessments are independent of compensation.