Strong Ideas Become Capital
Villela Ventures supports innovation-driven companies in accessing non-dilutive federal funding opportunities through programs such as SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research), STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer), and other agency-specific R&D initiatives. Whether you’re developing new technology, exploring dual-use applications, or scaling a proof-of-concept, our team provides the structure and insight to translate innovation into federally funded progress.
This service includes evaluating technical eligibility, aligning R&D efforts with current agency solicitations, and supporting the preparation of high-impact proposals. We guide businesses in navigating proposal structures, compliance protocols, and reviewer expectations—ensuring your technology is both compelling and compliant. Our expertise helps early-stage startups secure first-time funding and supports growth-stage companies in transitioning from pilot to Phase II commercialization.
For founders seeking traction without equity loss, our R&D and funding services offer a strategic gateway into one of the federal government’s most innovation-forward programs.
We Help The Innovators
An AI startup developing a predictive analytics platform for energy grid resilience sought to validate their solution through public sector funding. Villela Ventures identified two relevant Phase I SBIR solicitations from DOE and DHS, supported alignment of their technical scope to mission language, and structured the proposal narrative and budget. Within 60 days, the company submitted both proposals, receiving a reviewer score in the top 20th percentile and moving into pre-award discussions for $275,000 in initial funding.
A biotech company with a Phase I NIH grant approached Villela Ventures for assistance transitioning into Phase II. Our team performed a gap analysis on their initial performance, positioned their results within the agency’s commercialization goals, and helped draft a competitive technical volume and commercialization plan. The resulting submission secured a $1.1M award and interest from a federal prime for future teaming on defense health applications.
A mid-stage robotics firm developing autonomous inspection drones for industrial environments sought to adapt their technology for defense applications. Villela Ventures conducted a dual-use viability assessment and identified three relevant DoD research pathways, including an AFWERX open topic and a NAVSEA OTA pilot opportunity. We assisted in refining the technical concept, drafting a government-facing capabilities brief, and aligning their roadmap with future Phase II SBIR requirements. Within 90 days, the company secured an AFWERX Phase I award ($275,000), completed two exploratory calls with Navy R&D contacts, and was invited to submit for Phase II within the same fiscal year.
Innovative Spending
Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21): The SBIR and STTR programs collectively obligated approximately $3.99 billion, with $3.46 billion allocated to SBIR and $528.7 million to STTR.
Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20): Total obligations were also around $3.99 billion, comprising $3.53 billion for SBIR and $460.6 million for STTR.
Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19): The combined funding amounted to $3.72 billion, with $3.29 billion for SBIR and $429.3 million for STTR.