Federal Grants for Tech Startups in Massachusetts
There are currently 20 federal grant programs available to tech startups in Massachusetts. Key funding agencies include NSF, SBA, SBIR. Massachusetts businesses benefit from the state's strengths in biotech, clean energy, and research-driven innovation. Typical grant awards range from $50,000–$2,000,000.
Active programs
20
Typical award range
$50,000–$2,000,000
Primary agencies
NSF, SBA
Active Federal Grant Programs
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION – MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL MULTIDISCIPLINARY INNOVATION ECOSYSTEMS
Amount varies
Closes today
ROSES25: F.19 Collaborative Opportunities for Mentorship, Partnership and Academic Success in Science
Amount varies
Closes in 3 days
Innovations in Graduate Education (IGE) Program
Amount varies
Mar 25, 2026
Deployed Warfighter Protection (DWFP) Program for the Protection of Deployed Military Personnel from Threats Posed by Arthropod Disease Vectors
Amount varies
Mar 25, 2026
ROSES 2025: B.3 Living with a Star Science
Amount varies
Mar 31, 2026
ROSES25: F.6 Science Activation Program
Amount varies
Mar 31, 2026
NRL Long Range Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for Basic and Applied Research
Amount varies
Mar 31, 2026
Tribal Colleges and Universities Program
Amount varies
Apr 1, 2026
ROSES 2025: D.5 Astrophysics Pioneers
Amount varies
Apr 2, 2026
CyberAICorps Scholarship for Service
Amount varies
Apr 3, 2026
NSF National Quantum Virtual Laboratory - Quantum Testbeds
Amount varies
Apr 7, 2026
Fire Science Innovations through Research and Education
Amount varies
Apr 7, 2026
Findable Accessible Interoperable Reusable Open Science
Amount varies
Apr 8, 2026
ROSES 2025: B.4 Space Weather Science Application Research-to-Operations-to-Research
Amount varies
Apr 10, 2026
Pilot Program to Increase Research Capacity at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Other Minority-Serving Institutions
Amount varies
Apr 10, 2026
FY 2026 Implementation of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS)
Amount varies
Apr 13, 2026
Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program - Community Living and Participation
Amount varies
Apr 13, 2026
Field Initiated Projects Program: Minority-Serving Institutions (MSI) -Research
Amount varies
Apr 13, 2026
Field Initiated Projects Program: Minority-Serving Institutions (MSI) - Development
Amount varies
Apr 13, 2026
Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program - Health and Function
Amount varies
Apr 13, 2026
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Eligibility Requirements for Tech Startups in Massachusetts
- Must be a for-profit small business (under SBA size standards for tech startups)
- Principal place of business in the United States
- At least 51% U.S. citizen or permanent resident ownership
- Registered and active on SAM.gov
- No delinquent federal taxes or outstanding federal debt
- Operates as a early-stage technology companies developing innovative software, hardware, or platforms
- R&D-focused programs (SBIR/STTR) require documented research activities
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there federal grants available for tech startups in Massachusetts?
Yes. Tech Startups in Massachusetts can apply for federal grants through multiple programs. Key agencies include NSF, SBA, SBIR. Currently there are 20 active programs with typical awards ranging from $50,000–$2,000,000. Massachusetts's focus on biotech, clean energy, and research-driven innovation creates additional opportunities for qualified businesses.
How do I apply for a NSF grant as a tech startup in Massachusetts?
To apply for a NSF grant as a tech startup in Massachusetts: (1) Register your business on SAM.gov (required for all federal grants), (2) Search for open NSF opportunities on Grants.gov filtered to your NAICS code, (3) Review eligibility requirements — most programs require you to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident operating a for-profit small business, (4) Prepare your application package including a business plan, financial statements, and project narrative, (5) Submit before the deadline. GetGrantFund's search tool can help you identify the best-fit programs.
What is the typical grant amount for tech startups in Massachusetts?
Federal grants for tech startups typically range from $50,000–$2,000,000. The exact amount depends on the program: NSF programs often fund $50,000 to $2,000,000 per award. Massachusetts businesses may also qualify for state-specific supplements.
Do tech startups in Massachusetts need to repay federal grants?
No. Federal grants are not loans — you do not repay them as long as you meet the grant's reporting and compliance requirements. However, unlike loans, grants are competitive and require a detailed application. Some programs do require matching funds (you contribute a percentage of the project cost). Always read the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) carefully for any cost-sharing requirements.
What agencies offer grants to tech startups?
The primary federal agencies offering grants to tech startups are: NSF, SBA, SBIR. The Small Business Administration (SBA) runs the SBIR/STTR program for R&D-focused businesses. USDA Rural Development supports businesses in rural areas. The Economic Development Administration (EDA) funds projects that create jobs and grow regional economies. In Massachusetts, programs related to biotech, clean energy, and research-driven innovation are particularly active.
Can a tech startup in Massachusetts apply for an SBIR grant?
Yes — SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) grants are well-suited for tech startups that develop new technology or conduct R&D. Massachusetts businesses have received significant SBIR funding through agencies like NSF and NSF. Awards are typically $50,000–$2M in two phases.
How competitive are federal grants for tech startups in Massachusetts?
Federal grants are competitive — acceptance rates vary by program but are typically 10–30%. SBA programs tend to have higher competition from across the country, while NSF programs targeting Massachusetts's biotech, clean energy, and research-driven innovation may have less competition. Tips to improve your odds: apply early, match your narrative precisely to the program's stated goals, include measurable outcomes, and consider working with a grant writer for your first application.
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