SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Awaits Trump's Signature

Congress passed long-awaited legislation to reauthorize the SBIR and STTR programs, sending the bill to President Trump on April 1, 2026, for signature. 

The bipartisan measure would extend these critical small business innovation programs through 2031, restoring a key source of early-stage, non-dilutive funding for emerging biotech and technology companies following their lapse in September 2025. 

Under federal law, the President has 10 days (excluding Sundays) to act. If no action is taken, the bill will automatically become law on April 13, 2026, assuming Congress remains in session. 

If enacted, federal agencies are expected to quickly resume SBIR/STTR solicitations, with updated funding opportunity announcements and new submission deadlines likely to be released within weeks. Companies should be prepared for: 

• Compressed application timelines as agencies work through backlog 

• Potential updates tied to new program requirements (e.g., security reviews, proposal limits) 

For Michigan’s life sciences sector, SBIR/STTR funding is foundational - helping early-stage companies generate data, attract investment, and advance new therapies. Reauthorization restores critical funding pathways, with near-term activity expected as agencies restart the pipeline.