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SBIR/STTR Printed Electronics Manufacturing Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of our most common questions about SBIR Projects.

What is SBIR or STTR? 

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are two of the largest bases for technology commercialization within the United States. They were created to help small businesses research and develop technology-driven products that can be commercialized. All of these products are created with the same goal, which is to improve health.  

What kind of development phases does BTI follow? 

BTI uses a three-phase product development process to develop SBIR, STTR, or other government-funded projects. Our development process is very similar to the phases to receive funding.  Phase 1 is proof of concept, phase 2 is research and development, and phase 3 is commercialization. 

How is an SBIR/STTR proposal prepared? 

After determining the feasibility of your product’s design, we must prove the solution it would provide to a technical problem. To be approved for your SBIR/STTR proposal, you must pass a series of 3 questions.

  1. The technical approach must have a reasonable chance of meeting the topic objective.
  2. The approach must be innovative, not routine, with commercial applications.
  3. The company must have the capability to implement the technical approach and has (or can) obtain the people and equipment suitable for the task.

Why should I use a consultant or subcontractor for government-funded projects? 

Oftentimes, the small businesses applying for the SBIR/STTR funding don’t have the capabilities to carry out their project’s creation in-house.

Finding the right people to work on your project can be a tough and tedious task. Our team at Butler Technologies can help you every step of the way. We are a full-scale manufacturer with vast experience in the technology arena.

With an SBIR-funded project, up to 33% of the Phase 1 project, and up to 50% of the Phase 2 project, can be subcontracted to a consultant or subcontractor. STTR-funded projects are a little different, requiring up to 30% of the project to be subcontracted. Our team can help you track our project involvement and help you up to the maximum time yielded.

How can I become an SBIR, SBTT & STTR Partner with Butler Technologies Inc.? 

Here at Butler Technologies, we pride ourselves on being the leader in the wearable technology industry. We work with both startup companies and small and mid-sized businesses to create the most innovative products on the market.  

Did you know that you might qualify to receive government funding for your next project?  President Regan started the SBIR program in 1983 to help small businesses create new technology. 

What are common SBIR Projects? 

There main two projects the BTI produces for SBIR projects are sensors and heaters.  

A variety of sensors can be printed using a variety of fine line circuitry printing.  Sensors could include biosensors, force sensors, and capacitive touch or proximity sensing.  

Heaters can be customized to fit a variety of indoor and outdoor applications.  They can be designed in many automotive applications like seat and steering wheel warmers.  

We can also produce transparent heaters.  Clear heating technology can be used to defrost windows and sensors of all-terrain military vehicles.

It is also common for military applications to include wearable technology. Heaters can be integrated into apparel for comfortable in winter conditions.  Printed heaters can also be integrated into bandages to speed up recovery time.  Other wearable military applications can include tracking locations, health, and performance through fine line printed circuitry and biometric sensors.