By Lynn L. Bergeson

On August 12, 2019, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced its Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 Phase I Release 1 funding opportunity for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. In its announcement, DOE encourages small businesses with strong research capabilities in science or engineering to apply. DOE’s Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) includes participation from its Advanced Scientific Computing Research, Basic Energy Sciences, Biological and Environmental Research, and Nuclear Physics program offices. On August 19, 2019, DOE will host a webinar to provide an overview of the SBIR/STTR technology areas, application process, and award process. Interested parties can register for the webinar here. Additional important dates are listed below.

• September 3, 2019 -- Letters of Intent (LOI) Due
   
• September 24, 2019 -- Non-responsive LOI Feedback Provided
   
• October 15, 2019 -- Full Applications Due
   
• January 6, 2020 -- Award Notification
   
• February 18, 2020 -- Project Grant Start Date

The full FOA and its topics can be accessed on DOE’s Office of Science webpage.