Topic Search
A critical component to competing in the SBIR and STTR Programs is to find a topic that matches the capabilities of your small business. This is one of the crucial steps in developing your project and proposal. There may be more than one topic match and it is your choice as to how many you respond to if they are due close to the same time. It is also recommended that you choose a topic(s) that fits within your current R&D plan.
When conducting a topic search you can search the open solicitations or even search the closed solicitations and see what topics have been included in the past. Remember this is a key word search tool so some topics may be highlighted that have nothing to do your current R&D. You may need to refine your search when this happens.
- Agencies regularly update their solicitation release and submission dates.
- Check each individual agency's SBIR web site for specific information and tips about solicitations, submitting proposals, and past award information.
- Many agencies have unique requirements for their proposals.
- Examining an agency's topics helps you select appropriate research interests for that agency. For example, the Department of Defense funds research in the medical device field.
- Don't assume that an agency is uninterested in an innovation until you examine the solicitation.
* Borrowed from Wisconsin SBIR