Frequently Asked Questions
Can the same individual serve as the University PI and small business (SB) PI?
12/12/2022
- SBIR: SB PI must be primarily employed by the SB and, therefore, full-time faculty cannot serve as PI for the SB. To serve as PI for the SB that faculty member cannot have an appointment of greater than 49%.
- STTR: The PI named on the award may be primarily employed by either the SB or the University. The exception is for NSF STTR awards, in which the PI named on the award must be primarily employed by the SB.
- Serving as both SB and University PI: For both SBIR and STTR awards, the SB PI and the RI PI may not be the same individual. While not explicitly stated, the STTR/SBIR policy, instructions, and project percentage requirements make clear that establishing a separation of entities and roles is important. Having the same person on both sides of the collaboration blurs the respective parties’ project roles, responsibilities, and effort/time commitments.
