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Massachusetts MassVentures START Program
R&D / Tech · MassVentures (quasi-public state agency) · MA
The Massachusetts MassVentures START Program is a non-dilutive state grant, ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, for Massachusetts-based deep-tech companies that have already won a federal SBIR or STTR Phase II award within the past five years.
The Massachusetts MassVentures START Program is a non-dilutive grant offered by MassVentures, a quasi-public state agency, to help Massachusetts-based deep-tech startups commercialize their federally funded research. The program is specifically aimed at companies that have already won a federal SBIR/STTR Phase II award within the past five years, and it provides follow-on funding to bridge the gap between federal research grants and private investment or revenue.
Grants under START range from $100,000 to $500,000 and are designed to support commercialization activities such as market validation, business development, and intellectual property strategy — the kinds of work that Phase II SBIR/STTR funding often doesn't cover but that are critical to bringing a technology to market. Because the funding is non-dilutive, companies do not give up equity or ownership stake in exchange for the award, which is a meaningful advantage for early-stage founders trying to preserve control of their company.
Since 2012, the program has distributed more than $40 million to Massachusetts deep-tech startups, indicating a long track record of supporting the state's innovation economy. This grant matters to small business owners in R&D and technology sectors because it offers a way to extend the runway created by federal SBIR/STTR awards without taking on debt or diluting ownership.
Deadlines and specific award amounts should be confirmed directly with MassVentures, as application rounds open periodically rather than on a fixed annual schedule. Business owners should check the official site for the most current information on open rounds, exact funding amounts, and any updated eligibility requirements before applying.
Who qualifies
How to apply
Questions people ask
Is this a grant or a loan?
It is a non-dilutive grant, not a loan, meaning it does not need to be repaid.
Do I have to give up equity for this funding?
No, the grant is non-dilutive, so you keep full ownership of your company.
Who is eligible?
Massachusetts-based companies that won a federal SBIR/STTR Phase II award within the past five years.
How much money can I get?
Grants range from $100,000 to $500,000, according to the program's award amount note.
What is the deadline to apply?
The listing says to check current rounds; confirm at the official source for exact dates.
Where do I apply?
Apply through the official MassVentures site at https://www.mass-ventures.com/start-program-info.
Who runs this program?
MassVentures, a quasi-public Massachusetts state agency, administers the START Program.
What can the money be used for?
Funds support commercialization activities such as market validation, business development, and IP strategy.
Is this only for Massachusetts companies?
Yes, eligibility is limited to Massachusetts-based companies.
Do I need a federal SBIR/STTR award first?
Yes, you must have already won a federal SBIR/STTR Phase II award within the past five years.
Is the funding taxable?
This is not stated in the available information; confirm at the official source.
How much has this program awarded historically?
Since 2012, MassVentures has granted over $40 million to Massachusetts deep-tech startups through this program.
Is there a specific industry focus?
The program focuses on deep-tech and R&D-oriented startups, consistent with its SBIR/STTR Phase II eligibility requirement.
Opportunity number: not published. Source: curated + verified (official state source, 2026). GetFundedUSA is independent and not affiliated with MassVentures (quasi-public state agency); always confirm current deadlines, amounts and eligibility on the sponsor's own page before applying.