What prompted SBIR CATALYST? What challenges does the SBIR CATALYST Program overcome?

The strength of our nation is rooted in a strong commercial economy comprised of small businesses that are ready, willing and able to help us build an enduring advantage. The Army has a long history of robust engagement with small businesses, leading the Department of Defense and the federal agencies for small business achievements.  Building the Army of 2030 requires close examination of our relationship with industry, and decisive action to ensure the health and resiliency of the industrial base. The Army SBIR mission is to employ capital to make modest Research and Development (R&D) investments that leverage capital to “buy-down” risk for the Army’s larger, more scalable research and development and acquisitions.