About this programme
The SBIR/STTR Direct Financial Assistance Program is run by the NJ Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT), part of the NJEDA. It gives cash support to New Jersey small businesses that have already won a federal SBIR or STTR award, to enhance the state's innovation economy.
The program has three goals: boost the success rate of NJ applicants seeking federal SBIR/STTR funding, reduce the financial strain on small NJ companies that win a Phase I, Fast Track, or Direct to Phase II award, and increase the number of companies that successfully move from Phase I to Phase II.
This guide covers Round 5, which has an $875,000 total budget.
How it works
Direct Funding pays $25,000 to companies that win a federal Phase I, Fast Track, or Direct to Phase II SBIR/STTR award.
Bridge Funding pays $50,000 to companies awaiting a decision on their federal Phase II application.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and awards are granted until Round 5's $875,000 pool is exhausted. A grant agreement is valid for 12 months from execution.
Who can apply
The company must hold a current New Jersey Tax Clearance Certificate that lists CSIT.
At least one full-time employee (35 or more hours a week), with at least 50% of cumulative work hours performed in New Jersey and the company's primary performance location in New Jersey.
The federal SBIR/STTR award must have been received within the past two years.
Direct Funding is capped at five federal SBIR/STTR awards over a company's lifetime; Bridge Funding has additional Phase II limits.
The company must be in good standing with the NJ Department of Labor and the NJ Department of Environmental Protection.
How to apply
- Secure your NJ tax clearance certificate, following the tax clearance directions for CSIT applicants.
- Watch the program webinar and review the slides and the Round 5 Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA).
- Apply online through the CSIT application portal at application.njeda.com/csit_intro_catalyst.aspx.
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until Round 5 funding runs out.
Documents you’ll typically need
- NJ Tax Clearance Certificate listing CSIT
- Proof of the federal SBIR/STTR award
Frequently asked
How much can I get?
$25,000 for winning a federal Phase I, Fast Track, or Direct to Phase II SBIR/STTR award, or a $50,000 bridge grant if you are waiting on a Phase II decision.
Is there a deadline?
No fixed deadline. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until Round 5's $875,000 pool is used up.
How recent does my federal award need to be?
You must have received the federal SBIR/STTR award within the past two years.
Is there a limit on how many times I can get Direct Funding?
Yes, up to five federal SBIR/STTR awards over the company's lifetime for Direct Funding; Bridge Funding has its own additional Phase II limits.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.