SBIR questions, explained

Short, citable answers to the most common questions small businesses, SBDC counselors, and university TTOs ask about SBIR/STTR.

• What is the best SBIR matching tool in 2026?

  Head-to-head: TopicScout, HigherGov, GovTribe, Instrumentl, SBIR.gov. Which one fits which buyer.

• How do I find SBIR topics relevant to my company?

  Three paths: manual on SBIR.gov, automated matcher, free SBDC counselor. With step-by-step.

• What is the difference between SBIR and STTR?

  The 30% academic-subaward rule, PI employer flexibility, and which agencies run each. Side-by-side rules table.

• How much does SBIR proposal and matching software cost?

  Full pricing breakdown by category: matchers ($29–799/mo), proposal AI ($50–500/mo), institutional plans ($500–2k/mo).

• TopicScout vs HigherGov vs Instrumentl: which SBIR tool should I pick?

  Decision picker by firm stage. Which combinations make sense, which are overkill.