Technical and Business Assistance (TABA)

Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) is a program that allows federal agencies to provide funding to SBIR/STTR Phase I and Phase II awardees to enhance their project’s commercialization potential. The program focuses on overcoming technical challenges, optimizing commercialization strategies, and minimizing risks associated with bringing innovative products or processes to market. TABA funding can be used to help businesses:

  • Make better technical decisions
  • Solve technical problems that arise during SBIR/STTR projects
  • Minimize technical risks associated with SBIR/STTR projects
  • Commercialize SBIR/STTR products or processes, including intellectual property protections

Funding Details

The processes and criteria for TABA applications, decisions, and funding can differ significantly across federal agencies. TEDCO will help applicants understand which agencies offer TABA and the specific terms associated with their programs. Please be aware that agencies are not required to offer TABA. Applicants are encouraged to review individual agency solicitations and program sites for detailed information.

Phase I: Offers up to $6,500 per award, which may be in addition to the award amount, depending on the federal agency.

Phase II: Provides up to $50,000 per project, with the funding approach varying by agency—either as part of the award budget or in addition to it.

Eligibility

  • Maryland company with fewer than 250 employees
  • CEO and 50% of the company are in Maryland

TEDCO’s TABA Application Process

  • Application: Interested parties should apply early in the SBIR/STTR funding cycle.
  • Initial Assessment: TEDCO will perform an initial assessment and schedule conversations with the applicant to identify specific technical and business needs.
  • SOW Development: TEDCO will work with the applicant and expert to develop a Statement of Work (SOW) that outlines specific TABA support services.

Ongoing Oversight and Evaluation

To ensure the effectiveness of our TABA support, TEDCO maintains continuous engagement with awardees. Monthly check-ins are scheduled to monitor progress, address emerging needs, and make necessary adjustments. At the conclusion of the support period, TEDCO conducts a comprehensive evaluation with each TABA recipient to assess the impact and efficacy of the program, ensuring that it meets the intended goals and outcomes.

TABA Support

TABA funds can be used to help with business strategy, operations, product sales, IP protection, market research, market validation, regulatory planning, and manufacturing plans. TEDCO experts assist companies with:

  • Technology Assessment: Assess and enhance your technology’s capabilities with a thorough evaluation that pinpoints features, benefits, opportunities, and gaps.
  • Market Analysis and Strategy: Provide market analysis to validate your product's fit and help define strategic entry points into the market.
  • Business Model Development: Assist in market entry strategies that align with your technology’s strengths and market demands and help build your Business Model.
  • Commercial Road Mapping: Suggest commercialization path from product development to market launch and expansion, including key milestones and timelines.
  • Investment Readiness Assessment and Strategy: Assess the readiness of investment and help define strategies for engaging investors.
  • IP and Regulatory Affair Support: Help navigate the complex IP and regulatory landscape with expert guidance.

Contact 

For information about TEDCO’s TABA program, contact sbir-ta@tedcomd.com