About this programme
The New Mexico Science and Technology Business Startup Grant is a competitive, state-funded program run by the Technology and Innovation Office (TIO) to support small businesses doing research and development. It helps early-stage companies commercialize a unique technology or product with strong growth potential while staying based in New Mexico.
The grant funds activities tied to market entry, customer acquisition, business expansion, and job creation for New Mexico-headquartered technology companies. It has run every year since at least 2020, awarding to companies across advanced energy, advanced computing, aerospace and defense, and biosciences.
The 2026 round alone made 20 awards, mostly at $50,000, split across the four priority sectors. Advanced computing awardees included Aperi CMC (engineering simulation software for extreme events) and Dash2 Labs (an AI system for additive manufacturing workers). Advanced energy awardees included GridFlow (a lithium-sulfur flow battery licensed from Sandia National Laboratories) and Halo Materials (a reactor producing battery-grade graphite from natural gas). Aerospace awardees included DFA Systems (compact military drones) and Rarefied Technologies (near-space flight hardware). Bioscience awardees included Sandia Medical Technologies (a patent-pending joint implant) and ViBo Health (a metabolic scanner using magnetic resonance).
How it works
Awards range from $25,000 to $50,000 per project, awarded competitively. Most 2026 awards were the full $50,000, though at least one project received $45,000 and another $30,000.
Who can apply
The company must be developing a technology or product, operate as a small business engaged in R&D, and be headquartered in New Mexico.
The work must fall in one of four TIO priority sectors: advanced energy, advanced computing, aerospace and defense systems, or biosciences.
Frequently asked
Is the Startup Grant currently open?
No, applications are currently closed.
How much can I receive?
Between $25,000 and $50,000 per project; most 2026 awards were the full $50,000.
What sectors qualify?
Advanced energy, advanced computing, aerospace and defense systems, or biosciences.
How many companies get funded each round?
The 2026 round made 20 awards across the four priority sectors.
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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.