MassVentures START Grant

MassVentures START is a three-year, multi-stage grant program providing $100K to $500K to help Massachusetts-based deep tech startups convert SBIR/STTR Phase II research into commercially viable products. The program awards 16 Round 1 grants of $100,000, selects 7 for Round 2 grants of $200,000, and ultimately awards 3 companies up to $500,000 each in seed capital for commercial spinouts. Beyond funding, participants receive business coaching, mentorship, and go-to-market support across sectors including advanced materials, quantum computing, AI, cleantech, and biotechnology. Since 2012, the START program has funded 141 companies that have gone on to employ 3,300+ people and raise $5.1 billion in follow-on capital. The application window is closed and MassVentures states it reopens February 1, 2027.