SBIR/STTR Application Assistance Act

House Votes

This bill aims to help more small businesses and researchers take part in the SBIR and STTR programs. It directs the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide hands-on help with applications, especially in states that have gotten few awards in the past. It also extends the FAST Program through September 30, 2030, so local partners can keep helping entrepreneurs for several more years.

The bill requires stronger outreach to people doing research at minority-serving and Hispanic-serving colleges. The SBA must update its policies within 90 days after the law takes effect to boost participation in the SBIR program, and add similar outreach steps in the STTR program.

• Who is affected: Small businesses; researchers at minority-serving and Hispanic-serving institutions; states with historically low SBIR/STTR award levels.
• What changes: SBA help with SBIR/STTR applications; more outreach to broaden who applies and wins; FAST Program extended to 2030 .
• When: Policy updates due within 90 days of enactment; FAST Program runs through September 30, 2030.