Build to Scale Reauthorization Act of 2026
Latest action (30 Jul 2026): Introduced
What this bill does
S. 5198, the Build to Scale Reauthorization Act of 2026, would amend the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 to reauthorize and revise the Department of Commerce's regional innovation program. It adds "increasing access to capital" as a program goal, updates the definition of "venture development organization" to clarify eligible entities, and changes program language from discretionary to required funding activity when appropriations are available. It also sets a federal cost-share limit (up to 50 percent, with an added amount up to 40 percent based on regional need), revises outreach requirements to focus on rural, trade-affected, and economically distressed areas, and expands coordination with agencies including the Department of Energy and National Science Foundation. It authorizes $50 million annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 and requires Commerce to issue a funding opportunity notice within 90 days of enactment.
The bill primarily affects the Department of Commerce, which administers the program, along with state and nonprofit organizations that support regional innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology commercialization. It could also affect rural communities, areas experiencing economic distress or trade-related job losses, and organizations working with local workforce boards, since these are prioritized for outreach and funding.
The bill was introduced on July 30, 2026, by Senator Todd Young with Senator Chris Coons, and referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. As an introduced bill, it would need committee consideration, potential amendment, and votes in both the Senate and House before it could become law.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
This bill is in the first stage of the legislative process. It was introduced into Congress on July 30, 2026. It will typically be considered by committee next before it is possibly sent on to the House or Senate as a whole.
Common questions
- What does S. 5198 do?
- S. 5198, the Build to Scale Reauthorization Act of 2026, would amend the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 to reauthorize and revise the Department of Commerce's regional innovation program. It adds "increasing access to capital" as a program goal, updates the definition of "venture development organization" to clarify eligible entities, and changes program language from discretionary to required funding activity when appropriations are available. It also sets a federal cost-share limit (up to 50 percent, with an added amount up to 40 percent based on regional need), revises outreach requirements to focus on rural, trade-affected, and economically distressed areas, and expands coordination with agencies including the Department of Energy and National Science Foundation. It authorizes $50 million annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 and requires Commerce to issue a funding opportunity notice within 90 days of enactment. The bill primarily affects the Department of Commerce, which administers the program, along with state and nonprofit organizations that support regional innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology commercialization. It could also affect rural communities, areas experiencing economic distress or trade-related job losses, and organizations working with local workforce boards, since these are prioritized for outreach and funding. The bill was introduced on July 30, 2026, by Senator Todd Young with Senator Chris Coons, and referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. As an introduced bill, it would need committee consideration, potential amendment, and votes in both the Senate and House before it could become law.
- Has S. 5198 become law?
- Not yet. As of 30 Jul 2026, S. 5198 is introduced.
- Who sponsored S. 5198?
- S. 5198 was sponsored by Sen. Todd Young [R-IN] (Republican-IN), with 1 cosponsor.
- What's the latest action on S. 5198?
- Introduced (30 Jul 2026).
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