HF2920

HF2920 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

MNSBIR grant funding provided, and money appropriated.

Related bill: SF2427

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to support economic development in Minnesota by helping small businesses and startups secure federal research and development funding. It focuses on moving scientific and technological innovations into the market, thus enhancing the state's innovation economy.

Main Provisions

Appropriation of Funds: A one-time appropriation of $5,000,000 from the general fund is allocated to MNSBIR Inc. for fiscal year 2026. This funding is available until June 30, 2027.
Objectives of the Grant:
1. Facilitate the movement of scientific research and technological advancements into the commercial market.
2. Strengthen the role of small businesses and startups in fulfilling federal research and development needs.
3. Increase the commercial application of research funded by federal grants.
4. Develop the Minnesota workforce by encouraging participation from businesses owned by Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and women.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill does not amend existing laws but introduces new funding specifically aimed at boosting the capacity of small businesses to participate in federal research opportunities.

Implementation Details

Role of MNSBIR Inc.: The organization will be the primary facilitator for small businesses, providing resources and support to help them qualify for federal funding. This includes:
- Assisting in obtaining research and development funding through SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) programs.
- Supporting technology transfer and commercialization efforts, especially connected with institutions like the University of Minnesota and Mayo Clinic.
- Collaborating with corporate venture groups and large businesses on a national scale.
- Offering statewide educational outreach, training, and assistance with compliance to federal regulations.
- Helping with scientific writing and managing federal grants and contracts, including support for cost accounting and sole-source procurement.

Relevant Terms

Economic development
Federal research and development funding
Small business innovation
MNSBIR Inc.
SBIR/STTR programs
Technology transfer
Commercialization
Diversity in business ownership

Bill text versions

Introduction PDF file

Actions

Date	Chamber	Where	Type	Name	Committee Name
March 26, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Introduction and first reading, referred to	Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy
March 31, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Author added

Citations

[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Additional focus on securing federal research and development funding for Minnesota small businesses."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "This appropriates funds supporting small business research under section 3.222.",
      "modified": [
        ""
      ]
    },
    "citation": "3.222",
    "subdivision": ""
  }
]