Up to $2M. Zero equity. The US government (NSF) invests in startups and takes 0% of your company. You keep full control of your team, your direction and your IP. How the money works: - Phase I: up to $305K (6–18 months) - Phase II: up to $1.25M (about 24 months) - Up to $2M total with follow-on funding What they fund: - AI, robotics, semiconductors, energy, medical devices, biotech and nearly every tech area - Real R&D only: new science or engineering, not a feature upgrade or simple app No PhD needed. No VC intro needed. No warm network needed. How it works: - Step 1: a short project pitch (4 sections, a few pages), submit anytime - Hear back in 1–2 months - If invited: full proposal (next deadline Nov 4) - Decision about 6 months later Who can apply: - US small business (under 500 people) - At least 50% owned by US citizens or green card holders - Work must happen in the US NSF backs about 400 startups a year this way. Start here: seedfund.nsf.gov/apply/ | Check if your project fits: seedfund.nsf.gov/apply/proje… Bookmark this + tag a US founder still giving away 20% for a seed round.