National Cancer Institute (NCI) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Innovative Concept Award Program - Fiscal Year 2026

The Department of Health and Human Services outlines the submission requirements for the Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) Phase I Concept Award proposals. Key components include a complete proposal cover sheet, technical proposal content covering various sections such as problem identification, technological solutions, innovation, methodology, and potential commercial applications. Offerors must certify their status as a small business and disclose any prior related federal funding. The proposal should detail resources, authentication of key biological or chemical resources, and a scientific data sharing plan to ensure transparency and compliance with NIH policies. Submissions must also include a Statement of Work that outlines technical objectives, milestones, and timelines while providing a concise overview of the technology's significance in addressing unmet medical needs in rare or pediatric cancers. Additionally, offerors must participate in the I-Corps™ program at NIH, enhancing their understanding of customer discovery and technology commercialization. This structured approach aims to foster innovation and develop viable solutions for serious health issues, reinforcing the program's commitment to advancing public health through small business contributions.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is inviting proposals from small businesses for its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Innovative Concept Award Program. Proposals should address the development of transformative technologies, particularly for pediatric and rare cancers with low survival rates. Key deadlines include a white paper submission by July 11, 2025, and full proposals by October 17, 2025. The NCI will evaluate submissions based on scientific feasibility, commercial potential, and if prior experience aligns with the required benchmarks. A significant focus of this program is the inclusion of a new proposal requirement: disclosure of any foreign relationships which must be submitted with the proposal. Funded proposals will undergo a three-phase program: Phase I focused on feasibility and proof-of-concept, Phase II for full R&D efforts, and Phase III aimed at commercialization without SBIR funding. Participation in the I-Corps™ program is also encouraged to enhance commercialization efforts. Overall, this initiative seeks to stimulate innovation in health-related research through active engagement and support for small business concerns, contributing to advancements in cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The document is an amendment to Solicitation Number 75N91025R00005 issued by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). It provides additional information following a pre-proposal conference, including a recording and written responses to key questions from participants. The solicitation is specifically for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards related to the development of technologies for pediatric and rare cancers. Eligible applicants must be small for-profit businesses located in the U.S. with 500 or fewer employees. The document clarifies critical distinctions between SBIR awards and academic grants, emphasizing a focus on commercial product development. Concept Awards, which fund early-phase projects, target high-risk, transformative innovations. Applicants may submit White Papers for early feedback, and the proposal process includes specific requirements for eligibility and submission. The solicitation encourages innovation and permits the use of consultants, underscoring the importance of leveraging expertise for impactful technological advancements. Overall, NCI aims to drive forward research that can significantly change clinical care for the specified cancer types through this funding opportunity.