Qualifying Small Business

To participate in America's Seed Fund, the prime applicant must:

• be U.S.-based and majority U.S.-owned
• be a for-profit small business
• have fewer than 500 employees, including all affiliated companies

A full set of eligibility FAQs and guidelines are available here. Note that some agencies may have additional requirements.

What about companies with VC or private equity backing - can they participate? It depends. Read the FAQs and guidelines linked above and make sure to read the solicitation instructions about firm eligibility carefully.

Required Registrations

Download our infographic outlining all required registrations and a list of agency-specific registrations here.

All companies must have the following to submit SBIR/STTR proposals:

• An Employer Identification Number (EIN). This is obtained from https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online
• A Unique Entity ID or UEI. This is obtained by registering on SAM.gov. This step can take several weeks so start early. Your local APEX Accelerator advisor can provide help with SAM registration for free!
• An SBC Control ID number. This is obtained by registering at https://www.sbir.gov/registration
• Registration with the agency's SBIR/STTR submission portal. This will vary by agency and will be listed in the solicitation instructions

Some contracting agencies may require a Commercial and Government Entity or CAGE code as well. Learn more and apply at https://cage.dla.mil.