The National Cancer Institute (NCI)  is accepting applications for the Commercialization Readiness Pilot, which helps small businesses with NIH-funded SBIR or STTR projects bridge the gap between late-stage research and a commercially viable product. Funding supports first-in-human clinical testing, clinical validation studies, regulatory work, and specialized technical assistance. NCI will fund up to $4,191,495 in total costs, plus up to $500,000 in non-R&D technical assistance. Unlike typical NIH research grants, applicants may subcontract a significant portion of the work to outside experts as long as the small business retains oversight.

Applicants must be U.S. small businesses that held an active NIH SBIR or STTR Phase II or Phase IIB award from a participating NIH Institute within the last 36 months, with one CRP award allowed per Phase II project. NCI prioritizes applications that can hit significant commercial milestones and that demonstrate an ability to attract third-party funding. Applications are due September 8, 2026 by 5:00 p.m. local time of the applicant organization. To review the full announcement and apply, click on the link here.