2025 SBIR Deadlines
Tapping into the SBIR schedule with Akela Consulting
For innovative small businesses looking to secure non-dilutive funding, the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program offers an unparalleled opportunity. However, many startups miss deadlines and many more fall short of maximizing the potential of relevant programs. We're talking about $4 Billion of SBIRs annually which translates in to a lot individual opportunities. That’s where Akela Consulting comes in—we help startups and tech companies identify multiple funding opportunities and navigate the SBIR process step by step, ensuring competitive, winning proposals.
Comprehensive 2025 SBIR Deadlines Table
Logo | Agency | Phase I Deadlines | Phase II Deadlines | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
National Institutes of Health (NIH) |
| Rolling | Annual standard deadlines | |
National Science Foundation (NSF) |
| Rolling | Varies by topic | |
Department of Defense (DoD) |
| Varies | Includes Army, Navy, DARPA, DLA, DHA and others | |
AFWERX | 1. Mar 6, 2025 2. Jun 5, 2025 *Direct to Phase II | Direct to Phase II only | Two planned proposal periods | |
Department of Energy (DOE) |
| May 6, 2025 | Annual cycles | |
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) | Mar 10, 2025 | Varies | Annual cycle | |
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) | June 2025 (anticipated) | Varies | Usually one release per year | |
Department of Agriculture (USDA) | ~ Sept 2025 (anticipated) | Varies | Subject to change | |
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) | ~ Dec / Jan (anticipated) | Varies | Rolling based on agency needs | |
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) | Jan 2025 | Varies | One solicitation per year | |
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) | TBD | TBD | Irregular solicitations |
Understanding SBIR Deadlines
SBIR deadlines follow predictable cycles for some agencies, while others have less structured solicitations. Here’s what you need to know:
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Predictable Deadlines: Agencies like NIH, NSF, DoD, DOE, NASA, and USDA follow annual schedules, meaning companies can plan well in advance.
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Unpredictable Deadlines: Agencies like DHS, NOAA, and NIST release solicitations based on their evolving needs.
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Predictably Out of Cycle
Department of Defense (DoD)
In addition to its three major solicitation cycles, the DoD releases new opportunities on the first Wednesday of every month. This makes it one of the most active agencies for SBIR funding throughout the year, and with the largest budget the DoD is also the most generous agency.
U.S. Army
Although part of the DoD, the U.S. Army regularly releases SBIR opportunities outside of the standard cycles such as the Army's XTech Search program. ​​​​
Required Pre-Submission
Some agencies require a pre-submission step before the actual SBIR deadline:
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Department of Energy (DOE): Companies must submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) before applying. This helps the DOE filter serious applicants and plan for the proposal review process.
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National Science Foundation (NSF): The NSF requires a Project Pitch, which acts as a pre-application. It’s significantly shorter than a Phase I proposal, and NSF takes 2-4 weeks to review it. Only approved pitches receive an invitation to apply for Phase I.
Key Takeaway: Don’t wait until the last minute to apply for these programs, or you may miss your chance entirely!
AFWERX
AFWERX operates on a Direct to Phase II model with two planned submission deadlines in 2025: March 6 and June 5. In addition, AFWERX's Tactical Funding Initiative (TACFI) has a deadline of March 31.
How to Stay Updated on SBIR Deadlines
Missing a deadline could mean waiting another 6–12 months for the next opportunity. Stay ahead by:
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Checking agency websites regularly for updates
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Working with Akela Consulting—we help companies track deadlines, identify the best-fit opportunities, and craft winning proposals.
Akela Consulting: Your Partner in Winning SBIR Grants
At Akela Consulting, we specialize in helping startups and small businesses navigate the complex SBIR process. From identifying opportunities to proposal writing and submission, our team ensures you’re on the fast track to securing funding.
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