Federal Research

The Small Business Innovation Research and Technology Transfer Programs were created to further technological innovation and to help small businesses translate research and development into new products. Both programs appear favorable, although it is too early to make a conclusive judgment about the long-term quality of the research. In addition, the agencies have taken steps to address such concerns as duplicative funding of Small Business Innovation Research projects and potential conflicts in the Technology Transfer Program. Overall, the Technology Transfer Program so far appears to be promising. More time will be needed, however, to know whether the program is meeting a unique need or duplicating the work of the Small Business Innovation Research Program. Key questions about the transfer of technology from research institutions to the marketplace need to be answered before determining the need for the Technology Transfer Program.