SBIR at a Crossroads: Why the INNOVATE Act Matters Now More Than Ever
The clock is ticking for the future of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, which is a cornerstone of federal innovation and dual-use technology growth. With the House version of the INNOVATE Act now public and serving as the foundation for final negotiations, the window to shape the outcome is closing. Unless Congress acts by September 30, SBIR will expire.
That means in less than 30 days, thousands of small businesses and startups could lose access to one of the nation’s most powerful engines for innovation, funding, and commercialization.
Why This Matters to You
SBIR has been instrumental in moving startups from early-stage concepts to major federal programs of record. The INNOVATE Act contains provisions that could reshape how companies access non-dilutive funding, scale, and attract private capital. For anyone building in defense tech or dual-use innovation, understanding what’s at stake — and taking action — is critical.
What We’re Doing
To help companies navigate this pivotal moment, The Outpost recently hosted SBIR in the Hot Seat: 30 Days to Shape the INNOVATE Act, featuring:
- Warren Katz, Managing Director, Alliance for Commercial Technology in Government
- Eric Blatt, Partner, Scale LLP
- Linh Hoang, CEO, The Outpost
Watch the full webinar recording HERE
What You Can Do
This is not the time to sit on the sidelines. The perspectives of innovators, founders, and SBIR participants matter now more than ever.
Take the SBIR Participant Survey to endorse the INNOVATE Act HERE
Your input will ensure policymakers hear directly from the community on the real-world impact of SBIR — why it works, why it must continue, and how it fuels innovation for startups, small businesses, and the federal government alike.
The Bigger Picture
SBIR has always been about more than just funding. It’s about building a bridge between groundbreaking ideas and mission-critical federal needs.
Together, we can ensure this program remains a catalyst for innovation, growth, and national security.
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