SBIR Reauthorization Stalled

One of the federal government's most potent programs for building tech-based businesses is two weeks away from expiration. Authorization for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program is due to expire September 30, and as of today, no date has been set for a House vote to reauthorize the program. 

Prior reauthorizations of the SBIR program have been relatively uneventful with passage occurring through voice votes. This year's SBIR reauthorization appeared to be headed on the same course. 

After nearly a year of hearings, meetings, and negotiations among congressional members, their staff, and constituents, a bill emerged this summer with strong bipartisan support from both chambers of Congress. This year's reauthorization bill is unique, too, in that it identifies and strengthens the roles state and local economic development organizations should play in making SBIR a more effective program. The bill would create the Federal and State Technology Partnership (FAST) to encourage technology development and commercialization in small businesses across the country. FAST was designed with significant input from state and local SBIR assistance providers and would authorize substantial funding to state SBIR assistance programs. 

Proponents for SBIR reauthorization are calling on everyone --- small businesses, state and local SBIR assistance providers, science and technology programs, governors, governors' S&T advisors, and other concerned parties -- to contact their Representatives to urge movement in the House on the SBIR bill as written and passed by the Senate (H.R. 2392). With only 14 days to go, proponents caution, immediate action is necessary. More information on how to contact your Congressional representatives can be found at: http://www.senate.gov or http://www.house.gov