Number: 96-402
Title: Small Business Innovation Research Program
Authors: Wendy H. Schacht, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: In 1982, the Small Business Innovation Development Act (P.L. 97-219) established Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) programs within the major federal research and development (R&D) agencies designed to increase participation of small innovative companies in federally funded R&D. Government agencies with R&D budgets of $100 million or more are required to set aside a portion of these funds to finance the SBIR activity. Over $20.7 billion in awards have been made for more than 94,660 projects. Extended several times, the program is currently scheduled to sunset on September 30, 2008. On April 23, 2008, H.R. 5819, a bill to reauthorize the SBIR program through 2010 and make changes to the effort, passed the House.
Pages: 6
Date: April 29, 2008