NASA's Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program is awarding Phase II funding to 21 small businesses, providing up to $850,000 each to advance innovative technologies developed during early-stage research. Collaborating with research institutions, these businesses aim to bring their technologies closer to integration into NASA missions or commercialization. Notably, one-third of the partnering institutions are Minority Serving Institutions, showcasing NASA's commitment to diversity. Awardees include SSS Optical Technologies partnering with Oakwood University to develop a protective coating converting UV radiation into energy, and Air Company Holdings, working with New York University to create sustainable rocket fuel using carbon dioxide hydrogenation. The STTR program aims to support and de-risk technologies, fostering impactful solutions both within and beyond NASA.