Small Business Transition Grant for New Entrepreneurs (Parent R41/R42 Clinical Trial Optional)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) plans to issue a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at supporting United States small business concerns through the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I and Fast-Track grant programs. This initiative, titled the Small Business Transition Grant for New Entrepreneurs, targets early-career scientists who are transitioning to entrepreneurship. The program not only funds research and development activities but also emphasizes entrepreneurial training, mentoring, and career development for the principal investigator. The opportunity is designed to foster collaboration with industry mentors, requiring that key personnel include a committed mentor to support project success. While applications are not currently being solicited, the NIH is providing advance notice to give potential applicants ample time to prepare competitive proposals. Eligible U.S. small businesses with relevant research capabilities aligned with NIH’s mission are encouraged to consider applying. This funding opportunity will use the R41/R42 activity codes and welcomes first-time principal investigators. The NIH SEED Office of Extramural Research will serve as the point of contact for inquiries. This program represents a significant opportunity for small businesses to access funding and entrepreneurial resources to advance innovative biomedical research into commercial applications.