Minnesota MNSBIR Innovation & Commercialization Programs
About the Program
Your roadmap to federal R\&D funding.
MNSBIR offers free guidance and resources to help eligible Minnesota companies navigate federal R\&D funding. From application preparation to compliance and commercialization, we guide you through the process step by step. With our support, you’ll confidently secure funding, manage your projects effectively, and successfully bring your ideas to market.
Catalyst Program
The Catalyst Program offers free, personalized coaching to startups and small businesses with fewer than 500 employees engaged in early-stage research and development with strong commercialization potential. Our support helps eligible firms to navigate the SBIR/STTR process and secure federal funding to bring innovative ideas to market.
Our Catalyst Program support spans all SBIR/STTR phases—Phase I, Phase II, Fast Track, Direct to Phase II, and Phase IIB—across 11 federal agencies. We work with eligible firms throughout the SBIR/STTR lifecycle, often over multiple years, to accelerate development and improve long-term success.
Explore the MNSBIR Support Documents below to learn how we support you from ideation to commercialization.
The goal of each project should lead to a commercial product, process, or service over years. Eligible R\&D activities include applied research and prototype development leading to scale-up.
We evaluate each project based on:
- Technological innovation
- Technical feasibility
- Technical risk
- Market potential
- Commercialization
Our mission is to equip businesses with the tools, knowledge, and expert guidance needed to secure funding and successfully transition their innovation from concept to commercialization.
Transition Program
The MNSBIR Transition Program is designed to support Minnesota-based small businesses in advancing beyond SBIR/STTR Phase II funding into sustainable commercialization. The program provides targeted coaching and direct support to help firms transition from research-driven projects to revenue-generating businesses.
Program Goals
- Guide businesses through the transition from government-funded R\&D to commercial success.
- Provide expert coaching on commercialization strategies, funding opportunities, and scaling operations.
- Assist with securing follow-on funding, including SBIR Phase III, private investments, and federal/non-federal contracts.
- Support intellectual property (IP) protection, regulatory pathways, and market positioning.
- Connect participants with industry partners, investors, and commercialization resources.
Key Program Components
- Commercialization Strategy Development – Assistance in refining go-to-market strategies, customer identification, and competitive positioning.
- Funding & Investment Support – Guidance on securing follow-on funding, private investments, and additional federal sources of investment.
- Regulatory & Compliance Assistance – Support in navigating industry regulations, certifications, and federal compliance requirements.
- Industry & Investor Connections – Introductions to potential partners, industry experts, and investors to facilitate business growth.
- Ongoing Coaching & Mentorship – One-on-one coaching sessions to help a business overcome commercialization hurdles.
Who Should Apply?
- Minnesota-based small businesses that have completed or are nearing completion of SBIR/STTR Phase II.
- Companies seeking to transition from R\&D funding to commercial viability.
- Startups and small businesses looking for expert guidance on market entry and scaling strategies.
Commercialization Institute
The Commercialization Institute helps small businesses transition from SBIR/STTR Phase II and Phase IIB funding to full commercialization by providing targeted education and coaching from experienced consultants. Many firms face a “Valley of Death” between R\&D funding and market entry. Our institute bridges that gap by equipping businesses with the tools and connection they need to secure Phase III funding and bring innovations to market.****
Support Includes:
- Commercialization Strategy: Develop go-to-market plans, customer discovery, and competitive positioning.
- Investor & Industry Engagement: Connect with investors, corporate partners, and government agencies.
- Regulatory Guidance: Navigate regulatory compliance (FDA, FAA, etc.).
- Reimbursement Guidance: Navigate reimbursement strategies.
- Business Acceleration: Receive coaching on scaling, revenue models, and hiring strategies.
- Peer-Networking Group: Join peer networking events.
Who Should Participate?
Any SBIR/STTR Phase II awardee preparing for commercialization.
How to Apply?
Please complete the Commercialization Institute Registration Form to apply. Applicants will be contacted for further screening.
Explore Business Opportunities Across Minnesota
You've learned about the program. Now explore Minnesota's business regions, growing industries, and incentives to find the market that's the best fit for your business.
Explore:
- Minnesota Business Markets
- Business Incentives
- Industry Strengths
- Workforce & Talent
- Commercial Development
- Save Minnesota Markets to Your Project Book