Some projects initiated with SBIR or STTR funding require considerable financing beyond the SBIR/STTR Phase II award to achieve commercialization. The development of medical biotechnology products is often impeded by a significant funding gap (known as the Valley of Death) between the end of the SBIR/STTR Phase II award and the commercialization stage. The goal of this FOA is to assist applicants in pursuing the next appropriate milestone(s) necessary to advance a product/technology that requires Federal regulatory approval or to bring a complex research tool to market. This opportunity aims to facilitate the transition of previously funded SBIR and STTR Phase II projects to the commercialization stage by promoting partnerships between NINDS SBIR or STTR awardees and third-party investors and/or strategic partners in the Phase IIB competing renewal. Applicants are strongly encouraged to secure independent third-party funding throughout the Phase IIB project period.

Business

• Small businesses