E.B. Howard Consulting
@ebhc.bsky.social
· We connect you to non-dilutive funding
· We assist you with grant writing
· We evaluate & report on your funding outcomes
· Learn more at www.ebhoward.com
· We assist you with grant writing
· We evaluate & report on your funding outcomes
· Learn more at www.ebhoward.com
Choosing between grants, BAAs, CSOs, and OTs depends on readiness, flexibility, and how the Department of War plans to engage.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-choose-between-grants-baas-csos-and-ots-without-guesswork/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-choose-between-grants-baas-csos-and-ots-without-guesswork/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
February 6, 2026 at 1:06 PM
Choosing between grants, BAAs, CSOs, and OTs depends on readiness, flexibility, and how the Department of War plans to engage.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-choose-between-grants-baas-csos-and-ots-without-guesswork/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-choose-between-grants-baas-csos-and-ots-without-guesswork/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NASA’s growing SBIR/STTR budget creates opportunity, but only for teams prepared to meet higher expectations and execution scrutiny.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-prepare-for-nasa-sbir-sttr-now-that-the-budget-has-grown/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-prepare-for-nasa-sbir-sttr-now-that-the-budget-has-grown/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
February 5, 2026 at 7:05 PM
NASA’s growing SBIR/STTR budget creates opportunity, but only for teams prepared to meet higher expectations and execution scrutiny.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-prepare-for-nasa-sbir-sttr-now-that-the-budget-has-grown/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-prepare-for-nasa-sbir-sttr-now-that-the-budget-has-grown/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
Due to the absence of either a fiscal year 2026 appropriation or a Continuing Resolution for the Department of Health and Human Services, OLAW is now closed.
https://www.ebhoward.com/olaw-is-now-closed-due-to-the-lapse-in-federal-government-funding/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/olaw-is-now-closed-due-to-the-lapse-in-federal-government-funding/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
February 2, 2026 at 3:38 PM
Due to the absence of either a fiscal year 2026 appropriation or a Continuing Resolution for the Department of Health and Human Services, OLAW is now closed.
https://www.ebhoward.com/olaw-is-now-closed-due-to-the-lapse-in-federal-government-funding/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/olaw-is-now-closed-due-to-the-lapse-in-federal-government-funding/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
Why evaluation planning can make or break large USDA NIFA AFRI proposals and how to get ahead of reviewer expectations.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-decide-if-usda-nifas-afri-strengthening-agricultural-systems-program-is-worth-applying-to/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-decide-if-usda-nifas-afri-strengthening-agricultural-systems-program-is-worth-applying-to/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
January 30, 2026 at 9:30 PM
Why evaluation planning can make or break large USDA NIFA AFRI proposals and how to get ahead of reviewer expectations.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-decide-if-usda-nifas-afri-strengthening-agricultural-systems-program-is-worth-applying-to/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-decide-if-usda-nifas-afri-strengthening-agricultural-systems-program-is-worth-applying-to/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
Why evaluation is a credibility test in USDA NIFA’s AFRI Strengthening Agricultural Systems program and how strong teams prepare early.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-get-evaluation-right-for-usda-nifas-afri-strengthening-agricultural-systems-program/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-get-evaluation-right-for-usda-nifas-afri-strengthening-agricultural-systems-program/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
January 30, 2026 at 3:56 PM
Why evaluation is a credibility test in USDA NIFA’s AFRI Strengthening Agricultural Systems program and how strong teams prepare early.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-get-evaluation-right-for-usda-nifas-afri-strengthening-agricultural-systems-program/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-get-evaluation-right-for-usda-nifas-afri-strengthening-agricultural-systems-program/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
BAAs and CSOs move faster than grants and prioritize innovation over paperwork, making them an underused funding path.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-baas-and-csos-offer-a-faster-alternative-to-traditional-grants/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-baas-and-csos-offer-a-faster-alternative-to-traditional-grants/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
January 23, 2026 at 7:39 PM
BAAs and CSOs move faster than grants and prioritize innovation over paperwork, making them an underused funding path.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-baas-and-csos-offer-a-faster-alternative-to-traditional-grants/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-baas-and-csos-offer-a-faster-alternative-to-traditional-grants/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
Strong evaluation frameworks turn data into funding power, helping innovation and economic development programs prove impact and attract…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-strong-evaluation-drives-funding-and-growth-in-economic-development-and-innovation/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-strong-evaluation-drives-funding-and-growth-in-economic-development-and-innovation/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
January 9, 2026 at 2:09 PM
Strong evaluation frameworks turn data into funding power, helping innovation and economic development programs prove impact and attract…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-strong-evaluation-drives-funding-and-growth-in-economic-development-and-innovation/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-strong-evaluation-drives-funding-and-growth-in-economic-development-and-innovation/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
As of January 5, 2026, SBIR and STTR remain without reauthorization. Here’s the current status and practical next steps.
https://www.ebhoward.com/as-of-january-2026-where-things-stand-with-sbir-sttr-reauthorization/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/as-of-january-2026-where-things-stand-with-sbir-sttr-reauthorization/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
January 5, 2026 at 7:29 PM
As of January 5, 2026, SBIR and STTR remain without reauthorization. Here’s the current status and practical next steps.
https://www.ebhoward.com/as-of-january-2026-where-things-stand-with-sbir-sttr-reauthorization/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/as-of-january-2026-where-things-stand-with-sbir-sttr-reauthorization/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NIH clarifies the difference between Highlighted Topics and Funding Opportunities. Misunderstanding the distinction can undermine…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-difference-between-nih-highlighted-topics-and-funding-opportunities/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-difference-between-nih-highlighted-topics-and-funding-opportunities/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
January 2, 2026 at 1:02 PM
NIH clarifies the difference between Highlighted Topics and Funding Opportunities. Misunderstanding the distinction can undermine…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-difference-between-nih-highlighted-topics-and-funding-opportunities/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-difference-between-nih-highlighted-topics-and-funding-opportunities/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NASA’s SBIR/STTR program switches to a Broad Agency Announcement in 2026 with phased appendices offering flexible proposal timing and reset limits.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nasa-sbir-sttr-program-is-changing-for-2026/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nasa-sbir-sttr-program-is-changing-for-2026/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 26, 2025 at 1:26 PM
NASA’s SBIR/STTR program switches to a Broad Agency Announcement in 2026 with phased appendices offering flexible proposal timing and reset limits.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nasa-sbir-sttr-program-is-changing-for-2026/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nasa-sbir-sttr-program-is-changing-for-2026/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NSF’s Critical Minerals Challenge raises the bar for innovation readiness, making early evaluation essential for credibility, accountability, and…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nsf-stride-ventures-is-redefining-what-ready-means-for-innovation/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nsf-stride-ventures-is-redefining-what-ready-means-for-innovation/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 19, 2025 at 3:19 PM
NSF’s Critical Minerals Challenge raises the bar for innovation readiness, making early evaluation essential for credibility, accountability, and…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nsf-stride-ventures-is-redefining-what-ready-means-for-innovation/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nsf-stride-ventures-is-redefining-what-ready-means-for-innovation/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NIH is implementing a unified funding strategy to make award decisions more consistent and transparent. Here is what applicants need to know.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nih-unified-funding-strategy-and-why-it-matters-for-applicants/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nih-unified-funding-strategy-and-why-it-matters-for-applicants/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 19, 2025 at 1:19 PM
NIH is implementing a unified funding strategy to make award decisions more consistent and transparent. Here is what applicants need to know.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nih-unified-funding-strategy-and-why-it-matters-for-applicants/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nih-unified-funding-strategy-and-why-it-matters-for-applicants/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NSF’s expanded technical support makes evaluation a front-end strategy decision, not a back-end requirement, for…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nsfs-expanded-technical-support-signals-a-shift-in-evaluation-and-why-teams-need-evaluators-at-the-table-now/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nsfs-expanded-technical-support-signals-a-shift-in-evaluation-and-why-teams-need-evaluators-at-the-table-now/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 18, 2025 at 4:35 PM
NSF’s expanded technical support makes evaluation a front-end strategy decision, not a back-end requirement, for…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nsfs-expanded-technical-support-signals-a-shift-in-evaluation-and-why-teams-need-evaluators-at-the-table-now/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nsfs-expanded-technical-support-signals-a-shift-in-evaluation-and-why-teams-need-evaluators-at-the-table-now/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NSF rule changes raise the bar on proposal readiness. One weak submission can now close doors. Here is how to respond.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-navigate-new-nsf-review-rules-without-losing-your-shot-at-funding/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-navigate-new-nsf-review-rules-without-losing-your-shot-at-funding/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 18, 2025 at 1:18 PM
NSF rule changes raise the bar on proposal readiness. One weak submission can now close doors. Here is how to respond.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-navigate-new-nsf-review-rules-without-losing-your-shot-at-funding/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-navigate-new-nsf-review-rules-without-losing-your-shot-at-funding/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NIH introduced emergency peer-review modifications that affect evaluation, timelines, and committee operations. Here is what applicants…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nih-emergency-peer-review-modifications-and-why-they-matter-right-now/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nih-emergency-peer-review-modifications-and-why-they-matter-right-now/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 17, 2025 at 1:18 PM
NIH introduced emergency peer-review modifications that affect evaluation, timelines, and committee operations. Here is what applicants…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nih-emergency-peer-review-modifications-and-why-they-matter-right-now/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nih-emergency-peer-review-modifications-and-why-they-matter-right-now/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NSF’s NAIRR Foundations opportunity funds the operational core of a national AI research resource. Here is what applicants need to know.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nairr-and-why-this-new-nsf-opportunity-matters/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nairr-and-why-this-new-nsf-opportunity-matters/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 16, 2025 at 1:16 PM
NSF’s NAIRR Foundations opportunity funds the operational core of a national AI research resource. Here is what applicants need to know.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nairr-and-why-this-new-nsf-opportunity-matters/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nairr-and-why-this-new-nsf-opportunity-matters/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NIH will reduce discussed applications to ~30-35%, create a “competitive but not discussed” band, and simplify feedback; applicants must adapt strategy.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nih-peer-review-feedback-is-evolving/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nih-peer-review-feedback-is-evolving/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 15, 2025 at 10:13 PM
NIH will reduce discussed applications to ~30-35%, create a “competitive but not discussed” band, and simplify feedback; applicants must adapt strategy.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nih-peer-review-feedback-is-evolving/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-nih-peer-review-feedback-is-evolving/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
When you strengthen your proof, clean up your packaging, clarify your market position, and follow a clear funding pathway, you stop looking risky and start…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-use-the-four-ps-to-accelerate-funding-and-capital-readiness/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-use-the-four-ps-to-accelerate-funding-and-capital-readiness/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 15, 2025 at 1:15 PM
When you strengthen your proof, clean up your packaging, clarify your market position, and follow a clear funding pathway, you stop looking risky and start…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-use-the-four-ps-to-accelerate-funding-and-capital-readiness/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-use-the-four-ps-to-accelerate-funding-and-capital-readiness/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
The Growth Accelerator Fund Competition strengthens accelerators and ESOs that guide deep-tech founders toward SBIR and STTR success…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-growth-accelerator-fund-competition-and-why-it-matters-for-innovators/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-growth-accelerator-fund-competition-and-why-it-matters-for-innovators/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 12, 2025 at 1:12 PM
The Growth Accelerator Fund Competition strengthens accelerators and ESOs that guide deep-tech founders toward SBIR and STTR success…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-growth-accelerator-fund-competition-and-why-it-matters-for-innovators/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-growth-accelerator-fund-competition-and-why-it-matters-for-innovators/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NSF’s Translation-to-Practice opportunity supports the movement of research discoveries into real-world applications. Here is what applicants need to…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nsfs-translation-to-practice-opportunity-and-why-it-matters/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nsfs-translation-to-practice-opportunity-and-why-it-matters/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 11, 2025 at 1:11 PM
NSF’s Translation-to-Practice opportunity supports the movement of research discoveries into real-world applications. Here is what applicants need to…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nsfs-translation-to-practice-opportunity-and-why-it-matters/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-nsfs-translation-to-practice-opportunity-and-why-it-matters/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
Six new Critical Technology Areas mark the U.S. War Department’s 2025 roadmap — here’s what they are and why your organization should care.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-we-can-think-ahead-of-the-new-war-department-ctas/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-we-can-think-ahead-of-the-new-war-department-ctas/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 10, 2025 at 1:11 PM
Six new Critical Technology Areas mark the U.S. War Department’s 2025 roadmap — here’s what they are and why your organization should care.
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-we-can-think-ahead-of-the-new-war-department-ctas/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-we-can-think-ahead-of-the-new-war-department-ctas/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NIH launches a new Replication Prize that rewards rigorous replication studies and strengthens scientific credibility across biomedical…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-nih-replication-prize-and-why-it-matters-for-research-integrity/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-nih-replication-prize-and-why-it-matters-for-research-integrity/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 10, 2025 at 1:04 AM
NIH launches a new Replication Prize that rewards rigorous replication studies and strengthens scientific credibility across biomedical…
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-nih-replication-prize-and-why-it-matters-for-research-integrity/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/how-to-understand-the-nih-replication-prize-and-why-it-matters-for-research-integrity/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
Year two of Illinois Innovation Vouchers shows real momentum, and EBHC is proud to measure impact that fuels growth statewide.
https://www.ebhoward.com/wrapping-up-year-two-with-the-illinois-innovation-vouchers-program/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/wrapping-up-year-two-with-the-illinois-innovation-vouchers-program/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
December 2, 2025 at 1:03 PM
Year two of Illinois Innovation Vouchers shows real momentum, and EBHC is proud to measure impact that fuels growth statewide.
https://www.ebhoward.com/wrapping-up-year-two-with-the-illinois-innovation-vouchers-program/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/wrapping-up-year-two-with-the-illinois-innovation-vouchers-program/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
Key SBA program changes affect eligibility, compliance, and contracting pathways, requiring small businesses to stay vigilant and maintain up-to-date…
https://www.ebhoward.com/changes-to-small-business-programs-create-challenges-and-opportunities/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/changes-to-small-business-programs-create-challenges-and-opportunities/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
November 25, 2025 at 1:26 PM
Key SBA program changes affect eligibility, compliance, and contracting pathways, requiring small businesses to stay vigilant and maintain up-to-date…
https://www.ebhoward.com/changes-to-small-business-programs-create-challenges-and-opportunities/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/changes-to-small-business-programs-create-challenges-and-opportunities/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
NIH abruptly paused SBIR and STTR activity, creating uncertainty for applicants who now require strategy, preparation, and airtight…
https://www.ebhoward.com/nih-hits-pause-on-sbir-and-sttr-what-the-latest-guidance-means-for-your-funding-strategy/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/nih-hits-pause-on-sbir-and-sttr-what-the-latest-guidance-means-for-your-funding-strategy/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
November 24, 2025 at 1:19 PM
NIH abruptly paused SBIR and STTR activity, creating uncertainty for applicants who now require strategy, preparation, and airtight…
https://www.ebhoward.com/nih-hits-pause-on-sbir-and-sttr-what-the-latest-guidance-means-for-your-funding-strategy/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social
https://www.ebhoward.com/nih-hits-pause-on-sbir-and-sttr-what-the-latest-guidance-means-for-your-funding-strategy/?utm_source=bluesky&utm_medium=jetpack_social