Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act
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Topic: Commerce
Sponsor: Sen. Ernst, Joni [R-IA] (R) - IA
Summary
This bill reauthorizes through FY2031 and modifies the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program, and related pilot programs. (The SBIR and STTR programs are administered by various federal agencies and provide competitive awards for domestic small businesses to conduct research and development projects that have the potential for commercialization.)
Specifically, the bill expands the requirements for federal agencies administering these programs to evaluate the security risks of the small businesses that apply for awards under the programs. If an agency denies an application for security reasons, the agency must provide the small business with the basis for such determination.
Further, each agency must set a maximum number of proposals per fiscal year that a small business concern may submit in response to Phase I and Phase II solicitations.
The bill expands the training requirements for agencies' contracting officers and acquisition workforce with respect to Phase III (commercialization of technologies) awards under the SBIR and STTR programs.
The bill also establishes strategic breakthrough allocations for critical technology areas. These are additional Phase II SBIR and STTR awards to small businesses that demonstrate an effective technology and receive matching funds.
Legislative Subjects
Advanced technology and technological innovations; Asia; China; Commerce; Computer security and identity theft; Computers and information technology; Government lending and loan guarantees; Intellectual property; Military assistance, sales, and agreements; Performance measurement; Public contracts and procurement; Research administration and funding; Research and development; Small Business Administration; Small business; Subversive activities; Technology assessment; Technology transfer and commercialization
Latest Action
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
2026-03-17
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