Sierra Accelerator for Growth & Entrepreneurship (SAGE)

SAGE works with inventors, innovators and entrepreneurs to:

• determine if an idea or business qualifies for the SBIR-STTR programs,
• find appropriate and available SBIR-STTR research grant opportunities,
• navigate the complex world of the government grant process, and
• help write the best possible proposal.

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.

If you’re located in southern Nevada, visit the SAGE South portal to submit your business idea.

SBIR-STTR program overview

Known as America’s Seed Fund, the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) / Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) program is 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.

SBIR is open to U.S., technology-based businesses with fewer than 500 employees.

STTR funds are allocated to promote public/private sector partnerships for joint venture opportunities with nonprofit research institutions, including universities such as University of Nevada, Reno. STTR’s most important role is to bridge the gap between the basic sciences and commercialization.