US Government offers startups up to $2M in non-dilutive grants

US Government: The U.S. government funds early-stage innovation through federal agencies to advance national priorities in technology and research. It recently reauthorized key small business innovation programs to continue supporting deep tech development through 2031. In this news, the government is directly offering non-dilutive grants to qualified startups via the National Science Foundation. National Science Foundation: The National Science Foundation runs America’s Seed Fund to support small businesses conducting high-risk research and development with commercial potential. It recently resumed the program following congressional reauthorization and is directing resources toward defensible deep technologies. The agency is highlighted in the news for providing grant opportunities that allow applicants to retain full company and intellectual property ownership. Government Backing: The U.S. Small Business Administration is partnering with organizations nationwide to help more startups access the America’s Seed Fund through training and technical assistance. Program Resumption: The National Science Foundation resumed its small business innovation programs after a period of lapse and subsequent reauthorization by Congress. Strategic Priorities: Under the current administration, the National Science Foundation is directing funding toward transformative projects in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum science, and advanced instrumentation.