The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) seeks public comment for two Requests for Information. The first, Supply Chain Gaps and Entrepreneur Assistance, is focused on the future of SBA’s Innovation Network Programs—FAST, GAFC, RICs—and how each program can align entrepreneur support in critical industry areas. These are programs that are relevant to TBED organizations, accelerators, incubators, investors, universities, research institutions, and tech transfer offices. Organizations interested in applying to future solicitations for any of the Innovation Network Programs should consider:
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The current and historic industries driving the economic activity of your community and specific actions needed to strengthen those industries.
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The strengths and weaknesses of your innovation network with relevant qualitative and quantitative data.
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The small business programs or assistance needed to support technology entrepreneurs.
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The coordination, assets, or knowledge that is needed in your innovation network to enhance technology development and small business success.
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Partnerships, formal or informal, that are needed within your innovation network.
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The anticipated outcomes of strengthened innovation networks and impacts to small business success, including obtaining capital and job creation.
The second, Scaling Critical Suppliers in Domestic Supply Chains, focuses on how to scale the production capacity of domestic small business suppliers and resource providers to address supply chain choke points. SBA is seeking responses from small manufacturers, small businesses in critical industries, and support organizations focused on critical industries and supply chain choke points.
Submit comments for either on or before May 18, 2026.