What is Innovative Research?

What are the Agencies Funding?

Each agency has it's own definition of innovative, but it can broadly be understood to be:

  • transformation 
  • paradigm shift
  • challenges conventional wisdom
  • brings a new perspective
  • redefines boundaries

The SBIR & STTR Policy directives defines innovation and research

Innovation: Something new or improved, having marketable potential, including:
(1) development of new technologies;
(2) refinement of existing technologies; or
(3) development of new applications for existing technologies.

Research or Research and Development (R/R&D). Any activity that is:
(1) A systematic, intensive study directed toward greater knowledge or understanding of the subject studied;
(2) A systematic study directed specifically toward applying new knowledge to meet a recognized need; or
(3) A systematic application of knowledge toward the production of useful materials, devices, and systems or methods, including design, development, and improvement of prototypes and new processes to meet specific requirements.