NSF's current SBIR/STTR solicitation (NSF 26-510) funds deep technologies advancing US competitiveness and security, with invited Phase I and Fast-Track full proposals due November 4, 2026. NSF uses a rolling Project Pitch model — founders must first submit a pitch during an open window and receive an invitation before filing a full non-dilutive proposal.
Why this matters for founders
Deep-tech and hardware founders should submit a Project Pitch now to secure an invitation, then target the November 4 full-proposal deadline for non-dilutive Phase I funding.
Source: U.S. National Science Foundation
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