Sierra Accelerator for Growth & Entrepreneurship

Helping technology entrepreneurs win competitive grant funding from the U.S. SBIR and STTR programs

A woman presenting information on a whiteboard

The Sierra Accelerator for Growth and Entrepreneurship (SAGE) program strengthens the technological competitiveness of Nevada small businesses who are seeking funding from the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs.

Services include:

access to consultants,
assistance with grant writing,
introductions to agency program managers,
solicitation matching,
assistance with Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) proposals,
and a library of resources, tools and links to navigate the proposal and award processes.

SAGE is a statewide program offered through the University of Nevada, Reno and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The program is funded by the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

SBIR-STTR program overview

Known as America’s Seed Fund, the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) programs are the nation’s largest source of early-stage, high-risk funding for startups and small businesses. The grants are available to qualified U.S. for-profit small businesses. Download the U.S. Small Business Administration Guide to SBIR/STTR Program Eligibility [PDF].

The programs provide funding for some of the best early stage innovation ideas that are still too high-risk for private investors and venture capitalists. SBIR/STTR grants support high-tech research and development that can strengthen the economy and help the United States stay at the forefront of high-tech innovation. A requirement of the STTR program is the partnership between the small business and nonprofit research institutions and universities, such as the University of Nevada, Reno and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. STTR’s most important role is to bridge the gap between the basic sciences and commercialization.

Two researchers wearing lab coats and protective glasses looking at a notebook in a lab.

How does SAGE work?

SAGE is open to all Nevada technology-based businesses. Faculty or community entrepreneurs bring their business concepts to the SAGE team. Initial discussions determine to which agency to apply, map a strategy and even determine whether the business concept is ready for an SBIR or STTR proposal.

If the decision is made to go forward with an application, SAGE will assist with proposal writing and navigating the federal grant registration system.

Tell us about your business idea!

Get started with SAGE by submitting some basic info about your business or innovation and a little about yourself and we’ll be in touch.

Submit your idea