Ever wonder why some Navy STTR proposals don’t make the cut? In this deep-dive, we analyze a real (and unsuccessful) technical volume submission, highlighting the most common mistakes, missteps, and missed opportunities that led to a rejection. Get actionable insights and learn what NOT to do when preparing your next SBIR or STTR proposal.

Discover why a Navy STTR proposal failed to secure funding. We break down the technical volume’s key mistakes and share expert tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and improve your chances of winning your next SBIR/STTR contract.

Navigating the world of Navy STTR and SBIR proposals can be challenging, especially for small businesses and startups aiming to secure non-dilutive funding. To help you avoid common mistakes and improve your chances of winning government R&D contracts, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about the STTR program, the DoD application process, technical volume requirements, and proposal best practices. Whether you’re new to SBIR/STTR or looking to strengthen your next submission, these insights and resources will support your journey to a successful proposal.

1. What is an STTR?
The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program is a federal initiative that provides non-dilutive funding to small businesses partnering with U.S.-based research institutions, such as universities or federal labs. The goal is to help commercialize innovative technology by combining business expertise with academic research. STTR contracts are available through agencies like the Department of Defense (DoD), NASA, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). We cover more details about how to leverage the program here.

2. What is the application process for a STTR for the DoD?
The Department of Defense (DoD) STTR application process involves several steps, taking anywhere from 3-6 months:

Identify a relevant DoD STTR topic through current solicitations.
Form a partnership with a qualified U.S. research institution.
Register your business with required government systems (e.g., SAM.gov, DSIP). We breakdown everything you need to know about government registration in our free guide here.
Prepare a detailed proposal including a technical volume, cost volume, and required documentation.
Submit your proposal via the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP) before the deadline.
Await evaluation and notification. If awarded, you’ll proceed to contracting and project execution.

3. Why do Navy STTR proposals get rejected?
Common reasons include unclear objectives, lack of alignment with solicitation requirements, insufficient supporting data, and failure to demonstrate team expertise. Understanding why proposals fail can help you avoid these mistakes.

4. What are the most common mistakes in SBIR and STTR technical volumes?
Typical errors include vague problem statements, poor alignment with agency needs, lack of innovation, inadequate commercialization strategies, and missing documentation. We break this down further in another post.

5. How can I improve my chances of winning a Navy STTR contract?
Focus on clearly addressing the solicitation's objectives, demonstrating technical feasibility, and showcasing your team’s experience. Learning from both successful and unsuccessful proposals can give you a competitive edge.

6. What should I include in a strong SBIR/STTR technical volume?
A strong technical volume should include a clear problem statement, innovative solution, detailed technical approach, measurable objectives, commercialization plan, supporting data, and relevant team credentials.

7. How important is proposal alignment with Navy priorities?
It’s critical. Proposals that closely align with the Navy’s needs and priorities are much more likely to be funded. Always research and tailor your submission accordingly.

8. Can reviewing failed proposals help me write a better SBIR/STTR submission?
Absolutely! Analyzing failed proposals helps identify common pitfalls and shows what reviewers are looking for, making your next submission stronger. Winning proposals can also help as tools to see language, tone and format for topics that secured funding.

9. Where can I find resources or templates for writing SBIR/STTR proposals?
You can find SBIR/STTR proposal templates, cost volume budget calculators, and free resources on the Intrepid Gov Proposals website, designed to help you streamline the writing process and boost your success rate.

While the STTR we discussed in this video did not get funded - we do have winning resources from other contracts to help you succeed. See our STTR resources below:

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