Political Quotes

“I wish to express my disappointment with this body's failure to move forward with the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer reauthorization. The SBIR and STTR programs, as they are known, are key components in our Nation's commitment to being a global leader in research and development. If we allow these programs to expire, as they are scheduled to do at the end of this month, we will forfeit one of the best tools we have to support innovation. Big companies do not hold a monopoly on big ideas. Small businesses, however, often lack the resources necessary to get a good idea off the ground. The SBIR and STTR programs have a long track record in helping small businesses leverage Federal support into innovative new technologies. Products developed with assistance from these programs can be found inside everything from the B-2 bomber to the electric toothbrush. I am proud to say that some of these innovations were made in my home State of Rhode Island. Since the SBIR and STTR programs were created, Rhode Island companies have received 277 awards and almost $100 million in Federal support. One of those companies is EpiVax, a biotech firm located in Providence. EpiVax focuses its work in the field of immunology and has received several SBIR awards over the years. Its most recent grant supports research on the development of a type I diabetes treatment.…”