Preparing an SBIR proposal requires a significant, if not sometimes monumental, effort. In addition to identifying the uniqueness of your idea and presenting a convincing argument as to the commercialization potential of your concept, you must present a highly detailed work plan defining very specific research objectives and detailed plans as to how they will be accomplished. This will require appropriate research and planning. Preparing a good SBIR proposal will convince even the most skeptical that, "there is no such thing as easy money."

Proposals are written to address specific topics published in solicitations prepared by the participating agencies. The topics can be very broad or highly specific. In any case, you must submit your proposal to address one of the topics outlined by the agency. You should perform a thorough topic search before beginning to write the proposal. Once you've identified one or more appropriate topics, it if often beneficial to contact the agency to further discuss the topic and ensure you have a good match.

Proposal Format

Phase I proposals are 25 pages in length and must be formatted exactly as specified by the agency in its solicitation. Failure to follow agency guidelines will normally result in rejection of the proposal prior to review. Always comply with the format instructions and deadlines outlined by the agency.

For more detailed information on preparing SBIR proposals, you can access A Proposal Preparation Handbook, located on the SBA website. Click here to examine the SBA's Proposal Preparation Handbook.

Evaluation Criteria

SBIR and STTR grants/contracts are awarded competitively and are based on scientific and technical merit, as well as the commercial potential of the idea. Proposals are usually evaluated by scientists and engineers who are highly knowledgeable in the topic area being considered. The evaluation process considers the qualifications of the principal investigator and other key staff, the soundness and technical merit of the work plan, the project's commercial potential and the adequacy of the proposal and research team to fulfill the requirements expressed in the topic.

Improving your chances

The best thing you can do to improve your chances for success is to do your homework and become very familiar with the SBIR program. Do some market research and make sure your project has commercial potential and fits the needs of the SBIR program. On the other hand, don't be discouraged if you have too many unanswered questions. If your project is a "sure thing," it's probably not an SBIR.

In getting started, you should first determine the specific agency and topics that most closely related to your business's basic line of research. Past SBIR solicitations can be useful references. Once you find related topics it is helpfull to call the topic manager/author shown for that topic. The manager should be able to answer questions concerning the topic and direct you to key players in that area of research. Talking to key scientists and technicians can be valuable since it allows the business to determine the laboratory's current research interests and its future needs while providing an excellent opportunity to discuss the business's research ideas.