NIST Grants Over $1.8 Million to Small Businesses for AI and Semiconductor Research

USA: NIST Grants Over $1.8 Million to Small Businesses for AI and Semiconductor Research

Gaithersburg, MD — The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) announced on August 2025 that it has awarded more than $1.8 million to 18 small‑business firms under the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I program. The funding supports research and development projects in artificial intelligence, additive manufacturing, standards, semiconductor devices, and related technologies, with work slated to run from August 1, 2025 through January 31, 2026.

Phase I SBIR Program Overview

The SBIR Phase I awards are intended to establish the technical merit, feasibility, and commercial potential of proposed innovations. Successful participants may later apply for Phase II funding of up to $400,000 to continue their work after the initial six‑month period.

Technology Domains Targeted

Projects span a broad spectrum of emerging fields. Initiatives include AI safety algorithms, advanced cooling structures for aerospace, real‑time strain imaging for 3D printing, biodegradable dielectric materials for printed circuit boards, and high‑resolution thermal nanoimaging of semiconductor devices.

Selected Awardees and Project Highlights

Among the recipients, AIVault Inc. (Orlando, FL) will develop an antivirus‑style algorithm to protect generative AI models from adversarial triggers. Advanced Cooling Technologies Inc. (Lancaster, PA) is tasked with standardizing 3D‑printed porous structures used in spacecraft heat‑transfer systems. FemtoSenseLabs LLC (West Lafayette, IN) aims to align nitrogen‑vacancy centers in diamond to improve magnetic‑field sensor performance. Each award ranges from $97,895 to $106,500.

Broader Implications

By funding these early‑stage projects, NIST seeks to accelerate the commercialization of technologies that could enhance manufacturing efficiency, improve environmental remediation, and strengthen AI reliability. The agency emphasizes that successful outcomes may lead to new industry standards and broader adoption across sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, and electronics.

Next Steps for Recipients

All awardees will conduct their Phase I research within the stipulated six‑month window. Upon completion, they are expected to submit Phase II proposals that could secure additional funding, thereby extending the development cycle and moving toward market readiness.

This report is based on information from NIST, licensed under Public Domain (U.S. Government Work). Source: Official U.S. Government release.