Our startup is currently funded by multiple SBIRs (DOD, not NSF), and I'm amazed at the backlash against the program here. Sure, if you have easy access to VC,

Our startup is currently funded by multiple SBIRs (DOD, not NSF), and I'm amazed at the backlash against the program here. Sure, if you have easy access to VC, your life would probably be simpler. The process is not easy or quick, and if you think you'll win on your first try, keep dreaming. Each proposal cycle is like the Olympics. And spoiler, even if you win dealing with government compliance is a huge pain, and it could easily take 9-12 months to see the first dollar. We're not insiders (some but not all topics have a recipient in mind), and beyond the NSF there's heavy bias against young, small startups. But if you're a subject matter expert and can clearly communicate a realizable benefit to the warfighter (again, DOD), it is possible. Doing hard tech out in the Midwest and having funding (VC is a myth here) is an awesome thing. Without it, I'd long since be back on the job market.