S. 1660: Research Advancing to Market Production for Innovators Act

This bill, known as the Research Advancing to Market Production for Innovators Act, aims to improve the commercialization process for businesses that participate in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. Here’s an overview of the key provisions within the bill:

1. Enhancements to Commercialization Selection

- The bill proposes changes to the peer review process for both the SBIR and STTR programs. - It requires that reviewers include an assessment of a project’s likelihood of commercialization, alongside its scientific merit and feasibility. - At least one reviewer with expertise in commercialization must be included in the evaluation.

2. Improvements in Phase Flexibility

- The legislation allows Federal agencies with SBIR and STTR programs to have increased flexibility regarding the phase of projects funded.- It modifies funding limits so that Federal agencies can allocate a percentage of their SBIR and STTR funds for commercialization purposes. The National Institutes of Health may allocate up to 15% for these activities.

3. Designation of Technology Commercialization Officials

- Each Federal agency involved in SBIR or STTR programs is required to designate a Technology Commercialization Official who has expertise in commercialization.- Their responsibilities will include advising awardees on technology commercialization and advocating for advanced technologies to transition to further funding or contracts.

4. Technical and Business Assistance Improvements

- The bill mandates that recipients of SBIR and STTR awards be authorized to select technical and business assistance services beneficial for their projects.- It expands the categories of assistance to include cybersecurity support.- Small businesses will be able to use funds for hiring new staff or training, enhancing their operational capabilities.

5. Participation in I-Corps

- Federal agencies must provide SBIR or STTR award recipients with the option to participate in I-Corps training, a program aimed at fostering commercialization skills.- Financial provisions will be available to support participation in these courses.

6. Commercialization Impact Assessment

- Federal agencies are required to prepare an annual report analyzing the commercialization impact of awarded funds.- This assessment will measure the dollar value of contracts received, total revenue generated, and other key indicators of success for small businesses that have received a significant number of awards.

7. Patent Assistance

- The bill establishes a framework for providing patent assistance to SBIR and STTR recipients through a prioritized patent examination program.- This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of patent processing for small businesses involved in the programs.

Relevant Companies

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