SBIR Commercialization Improvement Act
Sponsored By: Representative Cisneros
Introduced
Summary
Phase III commercialization is the core goal of this bill. It would require the SBA to create mandatory training for contracting officers and the acquisition workforce and push agencies to simplify rules so SBIR and STTR technologies move more smoothly into Phase III contracts.
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- Acquisition workforce: Would establish training, coordinated with the Department of Defense and General Services Administration, for contracting officers and other acquisition staff. The training must cover program missions, the use of Phase III agreements, Phase III data rights, and how to execute Phase III sole source awards.
- Small businesses: Would make it easier for SBIR/STTR participants to transition to Phase III by requiring standardized solicitation provisions and contract clauses that clarify what information small firms must provide to qualify for Phase III awards.
- Federal agencies and primes: Would direct Procurement Center Representatives to advocate for maximum practicable transition to Phase III and require the SBA to update policy directives within 1 year and collect reports on agencies and federal prime contractors developing simplified procedures and model contracts.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Easier Phase III contracts for small businesses
This bill would push agencies to use Phase III awards more for SBIR/STTR small businesses. Within one year of enactment, SBA would update rules so Procurement Center Representatives advocate for these transitions. SBA would issue standard solicitation language and contract clauses that spell out what info firms must provide to show Phase III eligibility. Agencies and prime contractors would also report on creating simpler, standard procedures and model contracts for Phase I–III. If passed, this could make Phase III deals clearer and easier to pursue for eligible small firms.
Training for federal buyers on small-business R&D awards
If enacted, SBA would set up training for contracting officers and the acquisition workforce, in coordination with DoD, GSA, and other agencies. The training would cover SBIR/STTR goals and authorities, how to use Phase III agreements, Phase III data rights, and how to execute sole‑source Phase III contracts. The workforce would include employees with procurement or acquisition duties across civilian and defense agencies. This could help staff run Phase III buys correctly and faster, which may help small firms commercialize.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Cisneros
CA • D
Cosponsors
There are no cosponsors for this bill.
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
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