Step 3 of the NSF SBIR route
NSF SBIR Phase II: scale the technology you proved in Phase I
Phase II is where the money and the scrutiny both increase. Reviewers want proof that Phase I worked, a development plan that gets you to a product, and evidence that a market is waiting.
- Funding
- Up to $1,000,000
- Duration
- Typically 24 months
- Timing
- Open to Phase I awardees
- Who it suits
- NSF Phase I awardees moving from feasibility to product development
Phase I results are the foundation
Your Phase I data is the strongest asset in the proposal, and most companies present it too modestly. We turn results, including the negative ones, into a clear argument that the remaining risk is worth NSF's money.
Commercialization is no longer optional
Phase II demands a serious commercialization plan: customer discovery, pricing, route to market, competitive position and the capital plan beyond the award. This is the section that most often separates funded from declined.
Building the case with you
We run the process end to end: technical plan, milestones, budget, subawards, letters of commitment and QA. Your team stays focused on the R&D while we assemble a submission that hangs together.
What reviewers are looking for
- Did Phase I meet its objectives, and what did you learn?
- Is the development plan realistic for 24 months?
- Is there credible evidence of customer demand?
- Can the company sustain itself beyond the award?
Where applications lose marks
- Treating Phase II as a longer Phase I
- Market claims with no customer conversations behind them
- No plan for the capital needed after the award ends
- A milestone plan that hides where the risk still sits
NSF SBIR Phase II questions we get asked
How much is an NSF SBIR Phase II award?
Phase II awards are up to $1,000,000 over roughly 24 months, with supplemental funding available on top.
Can I apply for Phase II without a Phase I award?
No. NSF Phase II is open to companies that have completed an NSF Phase I award.
When should I start writing my Phase II proposal?
Start while Phase I is still running. The strongest proposals plan the Phase II story into the Phase I milestones.
Award values and deadlines follow the current NSF solicitation. Confirm figures at seedfund.nsf.gov.
Other NSF programs
NSF Project Pitch
Gateway to a Phase I invitation
Read the NSF Project Pitch guideNSF SBIR Phase I
Up to $305,000
Read the NSF SBIR Phase I guidePhase II supplements
Additional funding on top of Phase II
Read the Phase II supplements guideNSF STTR
Same award levels as SBIR Phase I and II
Read the NSF STTR guidePlanning your NSF Phase II?
Book a free consultation and we will review your Phase I results and the commercialization case reviewers will test.