SHAHEEN LAUDS EXTENSION OF SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION PROGRAM
Urges Congress to Pass Long-Term Reauthorization of Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR)
(Washington, D.C.) - A critical small business innovation program will be extended for the short-term, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) announced today. While she applauded this as a step in the right direction, Shaheen continues to fight for a long-term reauthorization of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program.
SBIR allows small companies to compete for federal research and development dollars. Despite bipartisan support, Congress has failed to pass a long-term reauthorization and the program is operating under a short-term extension, which creates uncertainty for small businesses.
"There are many New Hampshire success stories of companies that directly benefit from the Small Business Innovation Research program," said Shaheen, a member of the Senate Committee on Small Business. "But despite bipartisan support for this program, Congress has failed to ensure it has the stability and support it needs to be effective. As a member of the Senate Small Business Committee, I will work with my colleagues to get the long-term reauthorization of Small Business Innovation Research Program passed in this Congress. It is crucial we help small businesses innovate so we can stay competitive in today's global economy."
The extension passed the House and Senate and will be sent to the President for his signature. The extension will expire on May 31st.
First created in legislation from New Hampshire Senator Warren Rudman, SBIR was established in 1982 to increase participation of small innovative companies in federally funded R&D. Since its creation, New Hampshire firms have received over $330 million in research grants through the SBIR program. Over the last two years, New Hampshire firms received 80 total awards totaling $26 million in grants through SBIR. Despite its size, New Hampshire is ranked 22nd in the nation for total grants awarded through the Department of Defense over the life of the program.
Earlier this month, Shaheen visited companies in Manchester, Hudson, and Somersworth to advocate for the reauthorization of SBIR.
