Find the Best Topic Match

A key part of the SBIR Phase 1 competition process is finding the solicitation topic that matches up best with the innovative concept to be proposed. Candidate topics may include one or more in a single solicitation, or topics in more than one agency solicitation. Selecting the optimal topic can make the difference between a proposal winning and losing. Topic selection is an important part of the overall competition process. All SBIR agencies except NIH require that small businesses select a specific topic for each proposal submitted. Proposals submitted in response to a specific topic then generally are evaluated, scored and ranked as a group. For NIH grant proposals, the solicitations invite the small business to propose a project of its choosing that falls within the mission of the 21 NIH awarding components that participate in the SBIR/STTR programs. (The mission of NIH is to conduct biomedical and behavioral research to improve human health.) All grant applications submitted to NIH are sent to the Center for Scientific Review, which is the central service facility for the receipt, assignment, and review of these applications. However, small businesses may request in a cover letter that the proposal be referred to specific Institutes or Centers (awarding components) for funding consideration. While NIH promises to take these suggestions into consideration, the final determination is made by NIH. How does a small business decide the best topic and agency for its proposal??? First review the solicitations that may offer a good opportunity for the innovative concept. Become fully cognizant of the evaluation and selection process for each candidate agency solicitation and topic area, and understand key factors that will bear on this process. Home in on topics that resonate with the proposed innovation, and steer away from those that seem less appropriate after some investigation.

As with many parts of the SBIR competition process, the "customer" (key agency personnel) can provide vital information to guide the selection of the best solicitation and topic for a specific innovation. Ask, and then listen!!! In addition, these communications frequently will lead to adjustments in the innovative concept and proposed approach so that there is a better match between what is offered and what the agency wants.