News Summary
Congressman Roger Williams has put forth legislation to extend the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs by a year, preventing their expiration in 2025. As Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, Williams emphasizes the importance of these programs in supporting small businesses and fostering innovation. The proposed legislation also addresses concerns about program effectiveness and national security, aiming for a more modernized approach to enhance resources for small business R&D.
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) has introduced legislation aimed at extending the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs for an additional year. This extension seeks to avert the expiration of the programs currently set for September 30, 2025. The legislation highlights the critical role that these programs play in supporting small businesses, which are essential to fostering innovation across the United States.
As Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, Williams underscores the significance of maintaining continuity in resources available to small businesses involved in federal research and development (R&D). The proposed legislation is aligned with discussions for a broader, long-term reauthorization of the SBIR and STTR programs, which are pivotal for the nation’s innovation ecosystem.
Significance of SBIR and STTR Programs
The SBIR program was established in 1982 by President Ronald Reagan to encourage small business participation in federal research and development initiatives. Its counterpart, the STTR program, was launched in 1992 to strengthen collaboration between small businesses and nonprofit research organizations. Together, these programs constitute fundamental elements of America’s innovation economy, providing federal funding that attracts private investments while fostering entrepreneurship.
In 2023 alone, the SBIR and STTR programs awarded more than $3.7 billion, showcasing their vital contribution to advancing technological innovation within small businesses. These programs have proven essential in stimulating growth and creativity in various sectors by making funds available to startups and emerging companies.
Modernizing for Efficiency
Williams’ new legislation also reflects ongoing critiques of the SBIR and STTR programs, emphasizing the need to modernize and enhance their effectiveness. Previous iterations of these programs have faced scrutiny over their ability to successfully transition cutting-edge technologies into the marketplace. The proposed legislation includes extending the data rights protection period for awarded businesses to 20 years, thereby enhancing the timelines for accessing federal funding and facilitating smoother transitions from research to commercialization.
Currently, concerns have been raised about the prevalence of “SBIR mills,” which refer to entities that repeatedly secure funding without following through on successful commercialization of their innovations. Such concerns highlight the necessity for more stringent oversight and screening processes within the programs.
Addressing Security Concerns
Recent findings indicate that out of the twelve federal agencies involved with the SBIR and STTR programs, only one has effectively addressed potential foreign influence risks. This has raised alarms regarding national security and the safeguarding of sensitive technologies developed through federal funding.
The National Institutes of Health, among other agencies, has been identified as needing improvement in terms of thoroughly screening applications for connections to foreign entities. The introduction of the new legislation serves as a proactive measure to address these issues, as well as enhance the overall integrity and performance of the SBIR and STTR programs.
Concurrent Legislative Efforts
In addition to Williams’ efforts, the INNOVATE Act, spearheaded by prominent senators such as Joni Ernst, aims to reform the SBIR and STTR programs with the objective of better serving the needs of the innovation community. These concurrent legislative actions reflect a growing recognition among lawmakers of the importance of adapting these programs to meet contemporary challenges and opportunities within the landscape of American innovation.
In summary, with the introduction of the legislation by Congressman Roger Williams, the future of the SBIR and STTR programs looks poised for a crucial extension that not only aims to provide stability for small businesses but also seeks to modernize practices to better foster innovation and mitigate security risks. The continued support and effective restructuring of these programs will be vital to maintaining America’s competitive edge in a rapidly evolving global economy.
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Additional Resources
- Fort Worth Business
- Wikipedia: Small Business Innovation Research
- Defense Scoop
- Google Search: Small Business Technology Transfer
- Federal News Network
- Google Scholar: SBIR programs
- Crowell & Moring
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Innovation economy
- The Malaysian Reserve
- Google News: SBIR programs
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
