# SBIR Phase I: Software for Collaborative End-to-End Development of DNA Nanostructures

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · NANODESK, LLC (CA) · $305,000

## Abstract

The broader impact/commercial potential of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project is to advance structural DNA nanotechnology by developing a next-generation software platform for designing DNA origami nanostructures. DNA origami enables precise nanoscale assembly with applications in drug delivery, biosensing, materials science, and molecular computing. However, existing design tools often require researchers to use multiple disconnected applications, leading to inefficiencies in research and development. By streamlining the design-build-test-learn cycle, this technology has the potential to reduce development time and costs, accelerating the path to market for DNA origami-based innovations. The platform will be commercialized through a tiered software-as-a-service model, ensuring accessibility for academic researchers while providing robust solutions for industry users. The initial target market includes academic institutions, biotechnology startups, and pharmaceutical companies engaged in DNA nanotechnology. The broader impact of this project includes fostering scientific discovery, enabling new applications in nanotechnology, and supporting advancements in healthcare, materials science, and photonic technologies.

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will focus on developing a computer-aided design application for DNA origami nanostructures, addressing key limitations in existing software. The research will emphasize use

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2451274
- **Awardee organization:** NANODESK, LLC (CA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** KFYFSP59KVF1
- **PI:** Shawn Douglas
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** BIOINFORMATICS
- **Estimated total:** $305,000
- **Funds obligated:** $305,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2026

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2451274

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2451274, SBIR Phase I: Software for Collaborative End-to-End Development of DNA Nanostructures. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2451274. Licensed CC0.

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