SBIR/STTR Application Assistance Act
Summary
H.R. 4520, the SBIR/STTR Application Assistance Act, aims to enhance the participation of small businesses, particularly those at minority institutions and Hispanic-serving institutions, in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. The bill extends the FAST program to September 30, 2030, and mandates the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide application assistance to small businesses. It also requires enhanced outreach efforts to increase participation from minority institutions and Hispanic-serving institutions in SBIR/STTR programs.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely increase the number of SBIR/STTR awards granted to small businesses, especially those affiliated with minority and Hispanic-serving institutions. This could lead to increased innovation and economic activity within these communities. The extension of the FAST program ensures continued support for small businesses seeking federal funding.
Potential Benefits
- Increased participation of small businesses in SBIR/STTR programs.
- Enhanced outreach to minority institutions and Hispanic-serving institutions.
- Extension of the FAST program, providing continued support for small businesses.
- Potential for increased innovation and economic growth within underserved communities.
- Improved access to federal funding for small businesses.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased administrative burden on the SBA.
- Possible need for additional resources to implement the enhanced outreach efforts.
- Risk that the focus on specific institutions could inadvertently disadvantage other eligible small businesses.
- The effectiveness of the outreach programs may vary, leading to uneven distribution of benefits.
- No guarantee that increased participation will translate directly into successful commercialization of technologies.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by promoting economic growth and innovation through support for small businesses. Congress's power to regulate commerce (Article I, Section 8) provides the basis for establishing and modifying programs like SBIR and STTR. The emphasis on minority institutions could be viewed under the lens of the 14th Amendment's equal protection clause, aiming to address historical disparities.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).