DOD Entrepreneurial Innovation Act
Summary
The DOD Entrepreneurial Innovation Act aims to enhance the integration of small business research and technology into the Department of Defense (DOD). It mandates the Secretaries of each military department to identify promising research programs from the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. These programs are then considered for inclusion in future DOD budgets and plans.
The act establishes advisory panels within each military department. These panels will recommend eligible programs for designation as Entrepreneurial Innovation Projects. The selected projects will receive prioritized consideration in the DOD's planning, programming, budgeting, and execution processes.
Ultimately, the act seeks to streamline the process of incorporating innovative technologies developed by small businesses into the DOD, potentially leading to advancements in national security capabilities and cost savings.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to a more structured and prioritized approach to incorporating small business innovations into the Department of Defense. It will create a formal mechanism for identifying and supporting promising research programs.
The establishment of advisory panels will provide expert guidance and oversight in the selection process. This could result in more effective allocation of resources and faster adoption of cutting-edge technologies.
Furthermore, the required reporting to Congress will increase transparency and accountability in the DOD's efforts to leverage small business innovation.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced National Security: By prioritizing innovative technologies, the act could lead to advancements in defense capabilities.
- Economic Growth: Supporting small businesses through the SBIR and STTR programs can stimulate economic growth and job creation.
- Improved Efficiency: Streamlining the integration of new technologies can lead to cost savings and improved operational efficiency within the DOD.
- Increased Innovation: The act encourages a culture of innovation within the DOD by providing a dedicated pathway for small businesses to contribute.
- Greater Transparency: The requirement for annual reports to Congress ensures accountability and transparency in the implementation of the act.
Potential Disadvantages
- Bureaucratic Overhead: The establishment of advisory panels and the required reporting could create additional bureaucratic overhead.
- Potential for Bias: The selection process may be subject to bias, potentially favoring certain types of technologies or companies.
- Limited Scope: The act focuses specifically on SBIR and STTR programs, potentially overlooking other sources of innovation.
- Implementation Challenges: The effectiveness of the act will depend on the successful implementation of the new processes and procedures.
- Uncertainty of Funding: While the act encourages inclusion in future budgets, there is no guarantee that designated programs will receive adequate funding.
Constitutional Alignment
The DOD Entrepreneurial Innovation Act aligns with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. By promoting innovation and technological advancement within the Department of Defense, the act seeks to strengthen national security and improve the efficiency of government operations. The act does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights or other constitutional amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).