# SBA Awards Nine Innovation Clusters

The Small Business Administration awarded $7 million total for nine new Regional Innovation Clusters, with two-year contracts taking effect September 30 (year not specified). The clusters focus on defense, manufacturing, biomanufacturing, and transportation while supporting broader technology commercialization. The awards may create teaming and service opportunities for firms working with selected clusters, although longer-term funding is uncertain because the White House’s initial FY2027 budget proposed eliminating the program. No new solicitation is identified.

- Companies can assess whether their services align with the selected clusters’ industry and technology focus areas and pursue relevant teaming opportunities.
- The proposed FY2027 elimination creates uncertainty beyond the current two-year contract period; it is a budget proposal, not a confirmed program termination.
- SBA follow-on announcements and RIC-related requests for information are the identified sources for potential next steps; the signal specifies no new solicitation or proposal deadline.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Information Technology
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 22, 2026

### Government Entities
- Small Business Administration (SBA)

### Key Quotes
> Here’s a legitimate hub … and we really do hope it helps build up the reputation and the business friendliness.
> — Heath Naquin, Mid-Atlantic Biomanufacturing Scale-Up Cluster leader

> So maybe groups are also just starting to read it as a little bit less risky than maybe things would have felt … a year ago.
> — Jason Rittenberg, Principal of Excel Regional Solutions

### Sources
- [SBA refocuses Regional Innovation Cluster program following DOGE cuts | FedScoop](https://fedscoop.com/sba-regional-innovation-cluster-awards-doge) - FedScoop