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Understanding the Small Business Technology Transfer Program and Its Legal Implications
Definition & Meaning
The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program is a federal initiative designed to enhance the ability of small businesses to access funding for research and development (R&D) in technology. Managed by the Small Business Administration (SBA), the program encourages partnerships between small businesses and nonprofit research institutions, such as universities and federal laboratories. The STTR Program aims to foster innovation to address the scientific and technological challenges of the 21st century.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The STTR Program is utilized primarily in the context of federal funding for innovation and technology development. It is relevant to small businesses seeking to collaborate with research institutions to develop new technologies or products. Legal practitioners may encounter this program in areas related to federal grants, research funding, and business development. Users can manage applications and proposals through various legal forms and templates available from resources like US Legal Forms.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A small tech startup partners with a local university to develop a new software application. They apply for STTR funding to conduct feasibility studies and develop their product.
Example 2: A biotechnology firm collaborates with a federally funded research center to create a new medical device, securing STTR funding to support their research and development efforts.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
A program providing funding for small businesses to engage in R&D.
SBIR does not require a partnership with a research institution, unlike STTR.
Grants
Financial aid provided to support a project or initiative.
STTR specifically focuses on technology transfer and innovation partnerships.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are a small business interested in the STTR Program, start by assessing your eligibility and identifying potential research partners. Prepare a detailed proposal that outlines your project, its feasibility, and its market potential. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates that may assist in the application process. If your project is complex, consider seeking professional legal advice to navigate the funding application process effectively.
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Funding Amount: Up to $100,000 for Phase One; up to $500,000 for Phase Two.
Eligibility: Small businesses with fewer than 500 employees.
Partnership Requirement: Must collaborate with a nonprofit research institution.
Application Phases: Three phases (startup, development, market introduction).
Key takeaways
Frequently asked questions
The STTR Program is a federal initiative that provides funding to small businesses for research and development in collaboration with nonprofit research institutions.
Eligible applicants are American-owned small businesses with fewer than 500 employees that partner with nonprofit research institutions.
To apply, prepare a proposal detailing your project and its feasibility, then submit it to one of the federal agencies that participate in the STTR Program.
The program consists of three phases: Phase One (startup), Phase Two (development), and Phase Three (market introduction).
No, STTR funds do not support the market introduction phase. Businesses must seek alternative funding sources for this stage.