Invest in and advance agricultural research, education, and extension to solve societal challenges.
The USDA SBIR/STTR grant programs are designed to support small businesses in creating innovative and disruptive technologies that have the potential for commercialization and societal impact. These programs emphasize the application of research advancements and encourage the creation of products and services from scientific discoveries. Specifically, the grants aim to foster partnerships between small businesses and research institutions to facilitate technology transfer. Projects in agriculturally-related manufacturing and alternative and renewable energy technologies are particularly encouraged. Through these grants, the USDA seeks to support diverse research areas that align with its broader vision of promoting a healthy, productive nation that exists in harmony with natural resources. Since 1983, the USDA SBIR/STTR programs have funded over 2000 R&D projects, aiding small businesses in exploring technological potential and incentivizing the commercialization of innovative ideas.