DOD Entrepreneurial Innovation Act This bill requires each military department to annually designate at least five eligible programs as Entrepreneurial Innovation Projects. Eligible programs are certain projects currently pursuing commercialization objectives that initially received funding for research and development through the Small Business Innovation Research Program or Small Business Technology Transfer Program. Once designated, programs must be included in future budgets and plans of the Department of Defense. Each military department must establish an advisory panel to identify and recommend eligible programs for designation.
If enacted, the DOD Entrepreneurial Innovation Act will amend Chapter 303 of Title 10, U.S. Code, by instituting a structured process for identifying and supporting small business initiatives that align with national security needs. Each designated program will be integrated into the future defense budget, ensuring that innovative projects receive appropriate funding and resources, which could lead to advancements in military technology and operational capabilities. The establishment of advisory panels in each military department further ensures a systematic approach to evaluating and selecting which programs should receive this important designation.
House Bill 273, known as the DOD Entrepreneurial Innovation Act, aims to enhance the Department of Defense's (DOD) commitment to fostering technological innovation within the military. This bill mandates that each military department designate at least five eligible programs annually as Entrepreneurial Innovation Projects. These programs must focus on commercialization objectives and initially receive funding through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. By formally recognizing and including these programs in their future budgets, the DOD enhances the visibility and support of promising military innovations.
Notably, the bill attempts to centralize and streamline processes associated with military innovation, which could lead to significant shifts in funding priorities. Critics may argue about the effectiveness of the designated programs and question if the advisory panels will adequately represent diverse perspectives in selecting eligible programs. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the bureaucratic implications of establishing these panels, including potential delays in addressing urgent technological needs within the armed forces as processes become formalized.