SBIR/STTR Reauthorization: What It Means for Small Businesses and Innovation

Exciting News for Innovators!

A new bill introduced by Senator Joni Ernst aims to reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs until 2028. If passed, this legislation will ensure continued funding for small businesses engaged in cutting-edge research and development (R&D), reinforcing the U.S. as a global leader in technology and innovation.

Why This Reauthorization Matters

The SBIR and STTR programs provide non-dilutive funding to small businesses, enabling them to develop and commercialize high-impact technologies in industries like defense, healthcare, energy, and aerospace. Since their inception, these programs have been instrumental in bridging the gap between early-stage innovation and commercialization, allowing small businesses to compete alongside larger companies in the federal R&D landscape.

Here are some key facts:

  • Over $11 billion has been allocated through SBIR/STTR programs, supporting thousands of startups and small businesses.

  • More than 25% of U.S. unicorns (startups valued at over $1 billion) received SBIR/STTR funding in their early stages.

  • The DoD, NIH, NSF, DOE, and NASA are among the top agencies funding small businesses through these programs.

By extending the SBIR/STTR programs for another four years, this bill will provide stability and growth opportunities for small businesses developing the next generation of breakthrough technologies.

What’s Next for SBIR/STTR?

While the bill is a step forward, the reauthorization process requires approval from Congress. In recent years, discussions around program integrity, national security concerns, and foreign influence risks have delayed renewals, making advocacy from the small business and innovation communities more critical than ever.

If passed, the extension will safeguard billions in federal R&D investments and continue to fuel entrepreneurial innovation across the country.

How Inspiralia Can Help

At Inspiralia, we specialize in helping startups and small businesses navigate the SBIR/STTR process, from identifying the right funding opportunities to crafting competitive proposals and managing post-award compliance.

📌 Looking to secure federal funding for your innovation? Let’s talk! Our team can help you develop a winning strategy to maximize your chances of securing an SBIR/STTR award.

 

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