NASA Technology User

What are the NASA SBIR and STTR Programs?

NASA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs are a three phased approach for the small business concern or research institution to develop a technology in response to a specific set of NASA mission driven needs as presented in the NASA SBIR/STTR Annual Solicitation. Please check out the NASA SBIR/STTR schedule for important dates.

I have a technical need, how can NASA SBIR/STTR help me?

You may search for SBIR/STTR developed technologies that may meet your need by accessing the Abstract/Archives Gateway or Success Stories. This information will provide you with the name of the small business or research institution that developed the technology and provide contact information. The intellectual property as a result of the technical development is resident with the small business concern.

What can I expect to receive from participating in this Program?

You can expect to work with energetic and innovative small businesses that may be able to solve your problems at a lower cost. To view samples of the kinds of deliverables required from SBIR contractors please visit the NASA SBIR/STTR Firms Library.

How can I participate in the development of the technology?

You can participate in an ongoing SBIR/STTR contract. The government Contracting Officers Technical Representative (COTR) is able to designate technologists or technology users, primarily from within NASA, who will be given access to technical reports. These individuals will act as advisors, and can help provide insight, based on NASA's needs and missions, to the development of the technology. If you are interested in participating in the development of the technology through this avenue, please contact the Field Center Program Manager for assistance.

The NASA SBIR/STTR program uses an internet system called an Electronic Handbooks for all submissions and program management. If you are an advisor, you will have access to the NASA SBIR/STTR Advisor Handbook. This will enable you to obtain access to technical reports and propose suggestions to the COTR assigned to the contract.

NASA invites those interested in furthering the development of a specific technology for their own needs to investigate the potential for a Phase 3 contract by providing non-SBIR funds to the small business concern to further develop the technology. NASA is able to accelerate its Phase 3 procurement process by recognizing that the federal competition-in-contracting requirements have been met by the Phase 1 and 2 competitions.