DOT SBIR Phase I solicitation for innovative transportation R&D by small businesses.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), through the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, is soliciting proposals for its Fiscal Year 2026 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I program. This solicitation seeks innovative research and development proposals from small businesses in areas aligned with DOT's mission, including transportation safety, infrastructure, and mobility. Only U.S. small businesses meeting SBIR eligibility criteria (including being independently owned, for-profit, and with 500 or fewer employees) may apply. The program awards fixed-price contracts up to $250,000 for a 12-month base period, with options for additional funding. Proposals must address specific technical topics listed in the solicitation, and awardees may be eligible for subsequent Phase II funding.