Jon Nelson, PhD
Securing non-dilutive funding is often a turning point for early-stage companies looking to scale while preserving ownership. Federal programs such as SBIR, STTR, and state-backed translational grants can provide critical capital, but the process is complex, competitive, and time-intensive without the right strategy.
In a recent presentation delivered to Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures, BioHealth Innovation’s Director of Client Engagement, Jon Nelson, shared a practical overview titled “Unlocking Federal Funding: SBIR, STTR, and Other Non-Dilutive Opportunities.” The session walks through how startups can assess eligibility, understand agency timelines, and build stronger submissions for programs supported by NIH, NSF, ARPA-H, and other federal partners. Rather than focusing on theory, the discussion centers on what reviewers look for and how teams can position both their technology and commercialization plan more effectively.
Jon brings a blend of academic and industry experience to this work. He holds a PhD in biology from Wake Forest University and has spent more than seven years supporting startups through the grant writing and commercialization process. At BioHealth Innovation, he works closely with founders on strategic grant development, pitch coaching, and aligning funding pathways with longer-term business goals.
The full presentation is available to watch and serves as a useful resource for founders, research teams, and innovation leaders exploring non-dilutive funding as part of their growth strategy.
Watch the full session here: https://vimeo.com/1146996020