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Illinois SBIR/STTR Matching Program
R&D / Tech · Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) · IL
The Illinois SBIR/STTR Matching Program is a state grant from the Illinois DCEO that provides matching funds — up to $75,000 for Phase I or $250,000 for Phase II — to Illinois-based small businesses that have already won a federal SBIR or STTR research award.
The Illinois SBIR/STTR Matching Program is a state grant offered by the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to help small businesses that have already won a federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) award. Rather than replacing federal funding, this program supplements it with a state cash match, helping companies stretch their research and development dollars further.
Under this program, businesses that secure a Phase I federal SBIR/STTR award may receive a matching grant of up to $75,000 from the state. Companies that advance to Phase II federal awards may be eligible for a state match of up to $250,000. This structure is designed to support the full lifecycle of SBIR/STTR-funded research, from early feasibility studies through more advanced development and commercialization work.
To qualify, a business must be a for-profit company with its principal place of business located in Illinois, and it must already hold a federal SBIR or STTR award. Additionally, at least 51% of the research funded must be conducted within Illinois, ensuring the state's investment supports in-state innovation and job creation.
Applications are accepted on a rolling, first-come basis rather than through fixed annual deadlines, so businesses should check current application rounds directly with DCEO. For small businesses engaged in federally funded R&D, this program can meaningfully reduce the funding gap often faced during early-stage technology development. As details such as exact award amounts, open rounds, and eligibility criteria may change, applicants should confirm current program specifics at the official DCEO site before applying.
Who qualifies
How to apply
Questions people ask
Is this a grant or a loan?
It is a grant — a state cash match, not a loan requiring repayment.
Do I have to repay the money?
No, based on the given facts this is a matching grant, not a repayable loan.
Who is eligible?
For-profit businesses with their principal place of business in Illinois that already hold a federal SBIR or STTR award, with at least 51% of research conducted in Illinois.
How much money can I get?
Up to $75,000 for a Phase I match or up to $250,000 for a Phase II match.
What is the deadline to apply?
There is no fixed deadline listed; applications are accepted on a rolling, first-come basis, so check current rounds with DCEO.
Where do I apply?
Through the DCEO website at https://dceo.illinois.gov/whyillinois/sbir-sttr-phase1.html.
Who runs this program?
The Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO).
Is this only for Illinois businesses?
Yes, the business's principal place of business must be in Illinois.
Do I need a federal SBIR/STTR award first?
Yes, you must have already received a federal SBIR or STTR award before applying for this state match.
Is the award taxable?
This is not specified in the available facts; confirm at the official source.
Can nonprofits apply?
No, eligibility is limited to for-profit businesses based on the given facts.
What can the funds be used for?
The funds are intended to match federal SBIR/STTR research awards, supporting R&D and commercialization efforts.
Is there a minimum research location requirement?
Yes, at least 51% of the research must be conducted in Illinois.
How do I know if a round is currently open?
Check the DCEO website directly, as application rounds are rolling and change over time.
Opportunity number: not published. Source: curated + verified (official state source, 2026). GetFundedUSA is independent and not affiliated with Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO); always confirm current deadlines, amounts and eligibility on the sponsor's own page before applying.