SBIR/STTR Funding Mechanisms: Exemplars – What is it, what are the research priorities, and what types of social work research are supported by this funding

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs at the National Institutes of Health “are one of the largest sources of early-stage capital for innovative small companies in the United States.” These programs allow small businesses and academic researchers to engage in federal research and development projects that have potential for commercialization. The program funds early stage small businesses that align with NIH’s mission to “improve health and save lives.”  Academic researchers can participate in either the SBIR or STTR programs but the STTR program requires that the small business concern formally collaborate with a research institution and the principal investigator of the grant can be the academic researcher.  The SBIR/STTR program involves three phases with Phase II awards up to $1,000,000 over two years.  Several social work researchers have participated in the SBIR/STTR program.  Funded social work-led projects have included the design, development and testing of electronic devices for use with certain mental health conditions and projects involving the development of computer-based interventions for substance use disorders.  The SBIR/STTR program is highly attractive to social work researchers seeking technology-supported solutions for health and mental health conditions.  SBIR/STTR program officials can assist social work academicians as they seek out small businesses to join with them on their research projects.  The proposed panel presentation and discussion, organized by representatives of the SSWR Research Directors Special Interest Group, is designed to explore opportunities for funding through the SBIR/STTR program at NIH. It will include discussion about SBIR/STTR funding areas, strategies for proposal submission, and experience by SBIR/STTR funded researchers.  The overall objectives of this proposed session are to increase awareness about this funding opportunity and learn about its priorities and potential for ongoing support for social work research.