Ask HN: Any Advise on Filing for an SBIR Grant?

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=11084334

by sbir_help • 10 years ago

3 2 10 years ago

news.ycombinator.com

I am looking to file for an SBIR grant, but I really have no idea what I am doing. If anyone done this before, I would appreciate any tips, pitfalls, or any advice you could give.

I also noticed this article: http://johnwhale.tumblr.com/post/137379311027/grants-aka-using-government-money-to-do-good

It makes it seem super easy, but upon some digging this seems like a massive mess for my teams startup.

burkestar• 10 years ago

There are a ton of SBIR rules so you'll have to be prepared with your accounting system, timekeeping policies for employees and other legal contracting.

First, check your company's eligibility. If you're VC backed then I'm not sure your company is eligible for the SBIR program. I remember there being some proposed changes but I'm not sure they were made official or not regarding VC-funded small businesses. Also be aware that you are granting the government certain rights to the intellectual property that is generated under contract. You can still commercialize based on that IP, but the government has some rights to use of that software.

If you want a general overview of the program I think you can google for the "SBIR Coach" and he has some free online resources that give an overview of the program.

If you're planning to submit a proposal to an RFP, make sure to very carefully read all the instructions in the solicitation regarding formatting and everything.

Many government agencies participate in the SBIR program. Which agency are you considering submitting a proposal for?

Let me know if you have more specific questions. I worked in the SBIR industry for about 8 years.

hmahncke• 10 years ago

Eligibility requirements - note the VC ownership issues vary depending on the granting agency - NIH, CDC and Dept of Energy allow majority VC owned small businesses to apply: https://www.sbir.gov/faqs/eligibility-requirements

In my opinion, the government "march-in" rights are not a significant business concern. Although technically the funding agency has the right the license your IP if you do not effectively commercialize it, in the real world this has never happened: http://ipinspace.com/2012/04/11/patent-rights-and-obligation...

I agree that a maniacal focus on correct formatting is essential. My spouse had a grant bounced for a font that was 0.5 points too small.

Ask HN: Any Advise on Filing for an SBIR Grant?

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