The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program offers a unique model for funding technology innovation. The SBIR serves as a portal to connect small businesses, academics, and startup with partners in agencies across the government. It also provides assistance to ensure that small companies are treated fairly during their engagement with the federal government. Nagesh Rao currently serves as Chief Technologist with the US Small Business Administration’s Office of Investment & Innovation. His portfolio of work includes the SBIR/STTR program and coordination of the Fueling Small Business Innovation Interagency Policy Committee for the White House’s Lab to Market Commercialization Agenda.