Part II: Unlocking the Full Value of FAST: How Companies Can Leverage GMA’s Expert Support for SBIR/STTR Success

Tom Kenny
Jul 17
3 min read

For many early-stage companies, the journey through the SBIR/STTR grant process can feel like scaling a mountain. The stakes are high: these grants can be transformative, but the path is lined with complex requirements—technical writing, budgeting, regulatory compliance, and commercialization planning. Even the most innovative founders can stumble without the right support.

This is where Grant Management Associates (GMA) comes in, complementing the FAST Partnership Program by providing hands-on, strategic support that guides companies from initial opportunity identification all the way through post-award management. GMA’s expertise not only increases the odds of winning SBIR/STTR funding but also helps companies build the infrastructure and confidence needed for long-term success.

1. Strategic Grant Identification and Alignment

GMA’s research team is constantly monitoring the federal funding landscape, ensuring clients don’t miss out on the most relevant opportunities. By matching a company’s technology, industry focus (from clean energy to biotech to defense), and growth stage with the right SBIR/STTR solicitations, GMA helps clients pursue grants that are not just winnable, but strategically valuable for their future.

For example, GMA helped a California-based cleantech startup align its R&D with Department of Energy SBIR priorities, resulting in a successful Phase I award and subsequent invitations to industry showcases. Learn more about SBIR/STTR topics and solicitations.

2. Proposal Development and Technical Assistance

GMA’s team includes technical writers, scientists, and former grant reviewers who know exactly what federal agencies are looking for. Services include:

Crafting compelling, agency-aligned narratives
Leveraging a proprietary archive of successful SBIR/STTR applications
Ensuring proposals reflect current policy priorities (e.g., climate resilience, domestic manufacturing, health equity)
Preparing detailed supporting materials: budgets, milestone charts, data management plans, commercialization strategies, and biosketches

This comprehensive approach lightens the administrative load for founders, allowing them to focus on innovation while GMA elevates the quality and competitiveness of their submissions. Read about best practices for SBIR/STTR proposals.

3. Regulatory Compliance and Post-Award Management

Winning a grant is just the beginning. GMA guides clients through the maze of post-award requirements, including:

Clarifying roles (prime, subrecipient, contractor)
Aligning financial systems for compliance (procurement, time & effort tracking, indirect cost rates)
Preparing for audits and maintaining documentation

GMA’s proactive support helps companies avoid common pitfalls, maintain eligibility for future awards, and build a strong foundation for growth. Explore SBIR/STTR compliance resources.

4. Matchmaking and Ecosystem Development

Collaboration is often key to SBIR/STTR success, especially for STTR projects. GMA connects clients with:

Research institutions and universities
Industry partners and contract manufacturers
Compliance-vetted consultants

These partnerships not only strengthen applications but also foster the kind of ecosystem-building that the FAST program champions. See examples of SBIR/STTR partnerships.

5. Organizational Readiness and Long-Term Positioning

GMA conducts in-depth assessments to ensure clients are ready for federal funding. This includes aligning R&D priorities with federal agendas, refining go-to-market strategies, and improving internal processes ,making companies more attractive to both grantmakers and investors.

One GMA client, a medical device startup, credits this readiness assessment for helping them secure both SBIR funding and follow-on venture investment.

6. Scalable Engagement Models

Your needs are unique, your support should be too.

You don’t have to climb the SBIR/STTR mountain alone. Whether you're preparing your first grant or managing multiple awards across phases, GMA adapts to meet you where you are. We offer scalable support from a one-time proposal review to a long-term partnership that spans several grant cycles.

Our flexible engagement models are designed for:

Early-stage startups seeking fast, focused help to meet deadlines.
University spinouts needing specialized compliance and commercialization support.
Venture-backed innovators aiming to maximize non-dilutive capital while aligning with growth goals.

With GMA, you’re not just hiring a grant writer, you’re gaining a strategic partner who understands your business, shares your vision, and stays with you for the journey.

With GMA, you gain: