The Institute of Education Sciences and the U.S. Department of Education anticipate a 2026 SBIR Phase IA solicitation for developing novel education technology prototypes. This program offers awards of $250,000 for a 9-month contract to create and evaluate a groundbreaking prototype where little to no prior development exists. Successful Phase IA awardees will be eligible to apply for a subsequent Phase II award of $1,000,000 in 2027. The priority area is for prototypes of novel education technology products for use by learners, educators, or administrators. The same day will see the release of three other related solicitations: Phase IB, Direct to Phase II, and Phase II.