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Kentucky SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program
R&D / Tech · KY Innovation, Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development · KY
The Kentucky SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program is a state grant from KY Innovation that provides non-dilutive matching funds — up to $100,000 or $150,000 — to Kentucky-based tech companies that have already won a federal SBIR or STTR award.
The Kentucky SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program is a state-run grant offered by KY Innovation, part of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. It is designed to supplement federal SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) awards for technology-focused small businesses based in Kentucky.
The program provides a non-dilutive, reimbursable matching grant — meaning recipients do not give up equity, and funds are paid back to the company as reimbursement for eligible expenses. According to the program's award note, matching funds can be up to $100,000 for Phase I federal awards or up to $150,000 for Phase II federal awards.
This program matters to small business owners in Kentucky's tech and R&D space because SBIR/STTR federal awards often don't fully cover the cost of research and commercialization. A state match can extend the runway for continued research, hiring, and product development without diluting ownership.
Eligibility is limited to for-profit, high-tech small businesses that are either based in Kentucky or willing to commit to relocating there, and that have already received a federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II award. This is not a program for companies that haven't yet secured federal SBIR/STTR funding — the state match builds on top of an existing federal award.
The deadline is listed only as 'check current rounds,' meaning there is no fixed date given here — applicants should confirm current open rounds directly with KY Innovation. Likewise, exact award amounts and eligibility details should be verified at the official Kentucky state site before applying, since program parameters can change year to year.
Who qualifies
How to apply
Questions people ask
Is this a grant or a loan?
It's a grant — specifically a non-dilutive, reimbursable matching grant, not a loan.
Do I have to repay the money?
No, it's not repaid like a loan, but funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis for eligible expenses already incurred.
Who runs this program?
KY Innovation, part of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development.
Who is eligible?
For-profit, high-tech small businesses based in Kentucky (or committing to relocate) that have already received a federal SBIR or STTR Phase I or Phase II award.
Do I need a federal SBIR/STTR award first?
Yes, this program matches an existing federal SBIR or STTR award — you must have already received one.
How much funding can I get?
Up to $100,000 for a Phase I match or up to $150,000 for a Phase II match, according to the program notes; confirm current amounts at the official source.
What is the deadline?
The listing only says to check current rounds — there's no fixed deadline given, so confirm timing at the official site.
Where do I apply?
Through the official Kentucky site at https://newkentuckyhome.ky.gov/Entrepreneurship/SBIR_STTR.
Is this only for Kentucky companies?
Yes, companies must be based in Kentucky or commit to relocating there.
What can the funds be used for?
The funds are meant to help continue R&D and support growth following a federal SBIR/STTR award, per the program summary.
Is the award amount guaranteed?
No, it's described as competitive, so award amounts and approval are not guaranteed; confirm details at the official source.
Is the funding taxable?
This isn't specified in the available information — confirm at the official source.
Opportunity number: not published. Source: curated + verified (official state source, 2026). GetFundedUSA is independent and not affiliated with KY Innovation, Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development; always confirm current deadlines, amounts and eligibility on the sponsor's own page before applying.