Meet with National Cancer Institute SBIR Experts
Join Portal Innovations for a special information session with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) SBIR Development Center to learn how biotech or life science companies can access non-dilutive funding to accelerate innovation and move solutions from the lab to the market.
🔍 Session Topics Include:
SBIR/STTR eligibility requirements
Navigating the NIH SBIR/STTR process
Practical strategies for submitting successful and competitive research proposals
Real world-experiences from an NCI portfolio company and Portal member on their lived experiences and tips
💡 Plus: Learn about 4 key upcoming NCI opportunities for SBIR and STTR proposals (due September 5, 2025):
SBIR Program (Clinical Trial Not Allowed): PA-24-245
SBIR Program (Clinical Trial Required): PA-24-246
STTR Program (Clinical Trial Not Allowed): PA-24-247
STTR Program (Clinical Trial Required): PA-24-248
🗓 One-on-One Meetings Available
Attendees will also have the opportunity to book 1:1 meetings with NCI program staff to discuss their projects and receive tailored guidance after this webinar.
🎤 Featured Presenters
Dr. Sarra Djemil is a passionate innovation ecosystem builder and Senior Program Director at the National Cancer Institute's SBIR Development Center. With a PhD in Pharmacology and a background spanning strategic partnerships, translational science, and startup engagement, Sarra guides early-stage companies developing cutting-edge cancer therapeutics and diagnostics. She brings deep experience in portfolio management and commercialization support, helping bridge the gap between academic research and real-world impact.
Brittany Connors is a leader in biotech venture engagement and investor relations at the National Cancer Institute’s SBIR Development Center. As Director of Investor Relations, she connects innovative NCI-funded startups with private sector partners to accelerate oncology breakthroughs. With deep expertise in investor strategy, pitch development, and startup funding pathways, Brittany plays a critical role in driving capital access and strategic growth for the next generation of cancer solutions.
Sarah Hein is a serial biotech entrepreneur and the Cofounder & CEO of March Biosciences, a clinical-stage cell therapy company developing treatments for aggressive blood cancers and Portal member, operating out of Houston. As a grantee of the NCI SBIR program, Sarah brings a personal experience with the program and her experiences founding and scaling oncology-focused startups. She previously served as the inaugural Entrepreneur in Residence for the Texas Medical Center’s Accelerator for Cancer Therapeutics and was a cofounder of Courier Therapeutics, acquired by Valo Health. Sarah holds a PhD in Molecular Biology from Baylor College of Medicine and brings experience across early-stage venture, translational research, and company building at the intersection of science and impact.