The Build to Scale Reauthorization Act of 2026 reauthorizes and expands the regional innovation program under the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980. The bill updates program definitions to emphasize providing capital access to innovation-based businesses and broadens the types of organizations eligible to participate, including venture development organizations that offer financing, research commercialization services, and entrepreneurial support. The legislation modifies federal cost-sharing requirements, allowing the federal government to cover up to 50 percent of project costs plus an additional amount up to 40 percent based on regional economic needs, and mandates that the Department of Commerce conduct outreach to encourage participation from rural communities, trade-impacted areas, economically distressed regions, and organizations collaborating with workforce investment boards. The bill authorizes $50 million annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to support these regional innovation initiatives and allows the Secretary to use any previously appropriated but unspent funds for the program.
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