Debunking SBIR/STTR Myths: Strategies to Protect and Optimize the Value of SBIR & STTR Program Authorities (2026 Update) - Govology
from WA Apex Accelerator
About this event
This webinar provides insight into the SBA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, including program regulations, common myths, and strategies for protecting and maximizing a participant’s rights, value, and wealth under these programs.
The session also covers significant changes included in the 2026 SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act, including new authorities that allow certain federal agencies to award SBIR Phase II contracts of up to $30 million for periods of up to four years to support the commercialization, production, and scaling of critical technologies.
What You’ll Learn
- Key SBIR and STTR program regulations and requirements
- Common myths and misconceptions surrounding the programs
- Strategies to protect and optimize SBIR/STTR rights, value, and intellectual property
- How SBIR/STTR policies differ from traditional government contracting regulations
- Ways to address government misinterpretations and reluctance to use SBIR/STTR authorities
- Major updates contained in the 2026 SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act
Program Background
The SBIR Program was established under the Small Business Innovation Development Act of 1982 to strengthen the role of innovative small businesses in federally funded research and development (R&D).
The STTR Program, created by the Small Business Technology Transfer Act of 1992, was modeled after SBIR and designed to facilitate the transfer of technology developed by research institutions through small business entrepreneurship.
Why This Matters
Although SBIR and STTR are widely recognized as two of SBA’s most successful small business programs, their unique rules, regulations, and data rights provisions are often misunderstood by both small businesses and participating federal agencies.
More than four decades after the launch of SBIR, these programs continue to face challenges stemming from lack of awareness, misunderstanding, and resistance to fully utilizing the authorities available under the law.
Target Audience: Small businesses that want to pursue non-dilutive SBIR/STTR funding to help them complete the maturation and commercialization of their innovative technological solutions, products and/or services.
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