The DLA Small Business Innovation Programs (SBIP) consist of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR), Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR), and Rapid Innovation Fund (RIF) programs.
The SBIR Program was established by Congress in 1982 to fund research and development (R&D) by small businesses of 500 or fewer employees. Eleven federal agencies participate in the program.
The STTR Program was established in 1992 to fund cooperative R&D projects with small businesses and non-profit U.S. research institutions, such as universities. Five federal agencies participate.
The RIF Program was established in the fiscal year 2011 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) (Section 1073) to address technical risks, reduce acquisition lifecycle costs, and satisfy operational or national security needs.
The objectives of the SBIPs are to stimulate technological innovation and increase commercialization of R&D within the DLA managed supply chains improving service to the warfighter.
The SBIR/STTR programs are structured in the following three phases.
- Phase I projects demonstrate the feasibility of technologies.
- Phase II projects develop prototype processes or products for proof-of-concept demonstration.
- Phase III is the commercial application of the technology. (Not a set-aside)