Utah R&D Grant Finder
An interactive guide to competitive R&D grants for Utah businesses.
Filter Grants
SBIR/STTR Programs
(Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer) Often called "America's Seed Fund," these are highly competitive federal grants to fund high-risk R&D with strong commercialization potential.
- Phase I (Feasibility): ~$50k - $275k
- Phase II (Development): ~$750k - $1.8M
- Agencies: Dept. of Defense, NIH, NSF, Dept. of Energy, NASA, & more.
Utah Innovation Center (GOEO)
This is the *most important resource* for Utah businesses seeking SBIR/STTR grants. As a Federal and State Technology (FAST) partner, they provide free mentoring, proposal review, and workshops to help you win.
- Provides free SBIR/STTR application support.
- Offers training and one-on-one consultation.
- Connects you with state resources.
Utah Technology Innovation Fund (UTIF)
A state-funded program specifically to help Utah companies applying for SBIR/STTR grants. This program helps cover the costs and risks of the complex federal application process.
- Microgrant: $3k - $5k for first-time SBIR/STTR Phase I applicants.
- Nonrecourse Loan: $50k - $60k for Phase II applicants.
Economic Assistance Grant (EAG)
A competitive, project-based grant from the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) for Utah businesses (for-profit & non-profit) that promote economic opportunities in the state.
- Award: Up to $200,000.
- Focus: Projects related to Utah's 5 targeted industries (Advanced Manufacturing, Aerospace, Life Sciences, etc.).
- Application window is typically in the fall.
TLO Ascender Grant (U of U)
This grant bridges the funding gap between academic research and commercialization for innovations developed at the University of Utah. It helps de-risk technologies for licensing or startup ventures.
- Eligibility: University of Utah employees/researchers.
- Purpose: Prototype development, validation testing, market prep.
- Not for the general public, but key for U of U spin-outs.
Manufacturing Modernization Grant
This was a state grant to incentivize Utah businesses to modernize, establish, or develop manufacturing in the state.
- Status: Funding for this program has been expended and it is currently closed.
- It's good to be aware of, in case similar programs are funded in future legislative sessions.
