Opportunity
Simpler Grants.gov #26-511
NSF SBIR/STTR Pilot Solicitation for Scientific Instrumentation R&D
Buyer
National Science Foundation
Posted
May 22, 2026
Respond By
July 27, 2026
Identifier
26-511
NAICS
541715, 541713, 334516
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is inviting small businesses to submit proposals for the development of next-generation scientific instrumentation under its SBIR/STTR pilot program. - Government Buyer: - U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; the solicitation is for new technology development by eligible small businesses - Products/Services Requested: - Research and development of enabling technologies, novel experimental platforms, and scientific equipment - Focus on innovations that advance scientific discovery, including AI-driven solutions - No specific part numbers or quantities; proposals should address new, original R&D concepts - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Applicants must be U.S. small businesses (SBIR/STTR eligibility) - STTR applicants require a partner research institution - Funding available through Phase I, Phase II, Fast-Track, and Supplements - Each company may receive up to $2 million for R&D - Place of Performance: - NSF is the contracting office; work is performed by small businesses and, for STTR, their research partners - No specific delivery locations or federal facilities beyond NSF contracting office
Description
The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is initiating a pilot emphasis area within its SBIR/STTR programs to invest in startups and small businesses developing next-generation scientific instrumentation and enabling technologies. This pilot focuses on novel instrumentation and experimental platforms to advance scientific discovery and strengthen the American scientific and engineering enterprise, including AI-driven discoveries. Funding opportunities are available through Phase I, Phase II, Fast-Track, and Supplements, with companies eligible to receive up to $2.0 million for research and development. The program supports small businesses compliant with SBIR/STTR policies and encourages proposals that align with the goal of advancing scientific instrumentation in the United States.