NASA SBIR/STTR Program Status Update (December 2025)

Our friends at MNSBIR shared a letter from NASA’s SBIR team that we wanted to share here with our readers:

Dear SBIR/STTR community,

We want to update you on the status of NASA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs as we await reauthorization of our program.

Program Status Update:

While NASA operations have resumed after the lapse in funding, congressional authorization of the SBIR and STTR programs expired Sept. 30, 2025. Without reauthorization, NASA cannot release new SBIR/STTR solicitations nor fund any new SBIR/STTR awards. We are currently making necessary schedule adjustments to our program timelines. We will announce these updated schedules and any related solicitation updates once the program is reauthorized.

Awards made prior to Sept. 30, 2025 are not impacted by reauthorization.

Partnering Reminder:

Many of our post-Phase II vehicles require an external investment partner. Continue to make connections with partners throughout the year to be ready for those opportunities when they become available. You can learn more about our requirements and solicitations from the Post-Phase II website.

NASA SBIR is developing a new and exciting platform for small business firms that have participated in our program. These firms will be able to identify and develop partnerships on this platform. An update will be sent to qualifying firms in January with additional details about the platform and how to attend an informational webinar.

We want to express our sincere gratitude for your continued participation in the NASA SBIR/STTR program. Your dedication to advancing technology and science objectives, even during periods of uncertainty, demonstrates the innovative spirit that makes our small business community such a vital partner in NASA’s mission.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to innovation and scientific advancement.

Sincerely,

NASA SBIR/STTR Program Office