2027 NIA Start-Up Challenge and Accelerator

The National Institute on Aging’s (NIA) Office of Strategic Extramural Programs announces the 2027 NIA Start-Up Challenge. Through this Challenge, NIA is seeking early-stage entrepreneurs with innovative ideas for technologies to improve healthy aging. NIA will award up to $994,000 in cash prizes, as well as participation in an intensive entrepreneurial accelerator program. Submissions will be accepted from December 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027. Learn more

SBIR/STTR Training

NIH Proposal Preparation Workshop

Join this virtual series for an overview of the NIH SBIR/STTR program and proposal requirements. In addition to up-to-date information on the SBIR/STTR programs, we’ll take a deep dive into the NIH proposal specifics, so you’re equipped for the Jan. 5, 2027 deadline.

From the Sources’ Mouth with USDA

Don’t miss your chance to hear directly from Dr. Erika Kraus, Education Competitive Grant Programs at National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). This  session will include a presentation on USDAs SBIR Program. Attendees will gain insight on changes since reauthorization, learn about upcoming solicitations, and tips to help you succeed. 

SBIR/STTR Fall Innovation Conference

America’s Seed Fund is hosting its SBIR/STTR Fall Innovation Conference outside Washington, D.C., September 22 – 24. The three-day event provides attendees the valuable opportunity to connect directly with federal agencies representing America's Seed Fund, the nation’s largest source of non-dilutive funding for high-growth startups and small businesses. It will also offer programming on how to navigate the 11 participating SBIR/STTR agencies and compete for funding.

Come and visit with BBCetc staff at booth #735

 Learn more and register here

Funding Opportunities

Explore SBIR/STTR funding opportunities here.

Explore other non-dilutive funding opportunities here.

HealthTech Startup Competition

Applications are now open for the Chicago Venture Summit: Future of Health Startup Portfolio, held on Oct. 20, 2026. All high-growth startups actively raising institutional capital (Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A, or Series B) are encouraged to apply. Selected startups will receive: complimentary registration, direct access to investors from around the country, and featured placement in the official Startup Portfolio shared with every investor and strategic partner in the room. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and space is limited.

About BBCetc

BBC Entrepreneurial Training & Consulting, LLC (BBCetc) works with technology-based entrepreneurs and companies across the U.S. on strategies to advance their R&D efforts to commercialization. The BBCetc team is nationally recognized for its success in helping clients secure federal funding through the SBIR and STTR programs. BBCetc services include research grant assistance, SBIR/STTR training and proposal development assistance, and grants and contract management.

Contact us: www.bbcetc.com / 734.930.9741 / info@bbcetc.com