North Carolina helps small businesses compete on the same level as larger businesses with funding opportunities for the critical startup and development stages of a technology venture. Here, you’ll find a variety of funding resources for businesses that are fueling high-tech innovation and our region’s entrepreneurial spirit.
North Carolina is characterized by a robust business environment driven by several partnerships between private industry and government, working to make North Carolina a technological leader in the global marketplace. However, the risk and expense of conducting serious research and development efforts are often beyond the means of many small businesses.
The One North Carolina Small Business Program
This program awards state matching funds to North Carolina businesses that have received either a Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program award by the corresponding U.S. government program.
The Federal SBIR/STTR Program provides funding competitions in two phases that are relevant to the North Carolina program: Phase 1 conducts feasibility research; and Phase II expands and develops Phase I results and develops commercially viable innovations.
For more information on the One North Carolina Small Business Program, visit the North Carolina Board of Science and Technology website.
For more information on SBIR/STIR applications, eligibility and the Small Business Administrations’ role in the awards process, visit the U.S. Small Business Administration’s website.
For more information regarding other research and development funding for small businesses, visit the Small Business and Technology Development Center website.