The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) issues an annual Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for SBIR Phase I proposals. Science and technology-based firms with strong research capabilities in any of the areas listed in the NOFO are encouraged to participate. Phase II awards are limited to small businesses that have successfully completed Phase I projects. Please see Resources for more information on specifics of the program.

Research Areas

The NIST research programs work at the frontiers of measurement science to ensure that the U.S. system of measurements is firmly grounded in sound scientific and technical principles. Today, the NIST laboratories address increasingly complex measurement challenges, ranging from the very small (nanoscale devices for advanced computing) to the very large (vehicles and buildings), and from the physical (resilient infrastructure) to the virtual (cybersecurity and data science). As new technologies develop and evolve, NIST’s measurement research and services remain central to national defense, homeland security, trade and innovation.

NIST’s research activities provide industry, academia and other federal agencies with world-class research capabilities in measurement science that form the foundation of the global system of weights and measures and enable innovation. NIST provides measurement tools and standards to strengthen U.S. competitiveness and security in the following areas:

Advanced Communications, Networks and Scientific Data Systems

NIST’s Advanced Communications, Networks and Scientific Data Systems activities enable secure, reliable, high-speed wireless and wireline communications critical to U.S. economic competitiveness, safety and security. NIST measurement science research and support for the development of standards accelerates the deployment of next-generation communication technologies needed for commercial- scale use of connected vehicles,

“internet of things” (IoT) applications, drones and future artificial intelligence/machine learning-based systems. NIST is committed to helping solve the measurement and validation challenges of these fast-moving fields to help the U.S. achieve and maintain global leadership in these areas.

Physical Infrastructure and Resilience

NIST’s Physical Infrastructure and Resilience activities support the safety, interoperability and resilience of the nation’s infrastructure at the component, structure and system levels. NIST’s research supports the development of building codes making the built environment healthier for occupants, more resilient against hazards, and safer for both residents and first responders. In collaboration with policymakers, building officials and planning groups, NIST produces guides to help communities integrate resilience into their economic development, zoning, mitigation and other local planning activities impacting buildings, public utilities and infrastructure systems.

Exploratory Measurement Science

NIST’s mission requires deep expertise in a broad range of disciplines. To best position NIST to support U.S. technological interests well into the future, it is essential that NIST maintain a portfolio of exploratory measurement science research programs. NIST invests in higher- risk and potentially transformative measurement science research to stay on the cutting edge of technology trends.