The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a branch of the U.S. Department of Commerce, has announced $3.19 million in funding for eight small businesses across seven states. These awards, provided through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, aim to advance research and development in critical technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum computing, and semiconductors.
The selected projects were chosen in September 2025 following a competitive proposal process. These Phase II SBIR awards will support the prototyping of technologies initially explored in Phase I. Each of the projects will receive funding to continue development over a 24-month period, with the potential to advance to Phase III, which involves securing funding from non-SBIR sources.
Recipients of NIST’s 2025 Phase II SBIR Funding
AMAG Consulting LLC (Schenectady, New York)
Awarded $400,000, AMAG Consulting will enhance its SimuSEM software, which models how electron beams interact with materials in scanning electron microscopes. Planned upgrades include the ability to simulate charging effects and magnetic interactions, ultimately improving the accuracy and utility of the generated images.
Applied Imaging Solutions LLC (Quincy, Massachusetts)
This company received $400,000 to develop a short-wave infrared hyperspectral imaging system combined with AI. The system will enable contactless monitoring of biopharmaceutical cell cultures, such as those produced using NISTCHO cell lines, improving safety and efficiency in drug production.
Calimetrix LLC (Madison, Wisconsin)
Awarded $399,998, Calimetrix will design imaging test objects known as phantoms to help ensure the accuracy of medical imaging technologies like MRIs and CT scans. The phantoms, which mimic fatty liver tissue, aim to enhance medical research and patient care by enabling consistent imaging comparisons.
HighRI Optics Inc. (Oakland, California)
HighRI Optics received $399,858.96 to develop an imaging system that uses a binary pseudo-random array for calibration. This innovation is expected to improve optical resolution capabilities across a wide range of applications, from healthcare to defense.
Icarus Quantum Inc. (Boulder, Colorado)
With $400,000 in funding, Icarus Quantum aims to create a scalable photon source utilizing semiconductor quantum dot technology. This plug-and-play platform will facilitate quantum research and accelerate advancements in quantum interconnects.
MyExposome Inc. (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Awarded $395,814.74, this project will enhance the use of silicone wristbands for monitoring personal exposure to environmental chemicals, including PFAS. The team will implement new solvent-free extraction methods to expand detection capabilities, benefiting both researchers and general consumers.
ObjectSecurity LLC (San Diego, California)
Receiving $399,908.58, ObjectSecurity will further develop its Operational Technology Artificial Intelligence – NIST Compliance Tool. This cybersecurity tool evaluates hardware and software manufacturers’ practices to generate a consumer-friendly cyber-hygiene score, leveraging resources like the National Vulnerability Database.
Universal Schedule and Booking LLC (Harpers Ferry, West Virginia)
With $400,000 in funding, this company will create digital infrastructure to estimate household energy consumption without the need for additional hardware sensors. The project seeks to make energy optimization more accessible, enabling a more efficient and resilient electrical grid.
These innovative projects underscore NIST’s commitment to fostering technological advancements that address national priorities. By supporting small businesses through the SBIR program, NIST continues to drive forward research and development while enabling breakthroughs in critical industries.