Ascend 2.0 is reminding all small business innovators and entrepreneurs that the next deadlines for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are quickly approaching.

Key Standard Due Dates for SBIR/STTR Phase I and II (R43/R44):

  • September 5

  • January 5

  • April 5

    (All due by 5:00 PM local time)

These critical opportunities support groundbreaking biomedical and behavioral research innovations led by small businesses. Applicants pursuing R01, R21, or R34 grants under NIH’s continuous submission policy may also have flexibility with additional submission windows—but are still strongly advised not to delay.

Ascend 2.0 encourages applicants to use this early reminder to:

  • Finalize budget details

  • Secure required letters of support

  • Test and troubleshoot submission systems

Now is the time to get ahead of the game and ensure your application is competitive and complete. Don’t wait until the last minute—strategic preparation is key to a successful submission.