Following the introduction of the "Expanding Partnerships and Competitiveness Act" in the Senate, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), a leading think tank for science and technology policy, released a statement from Nigel Cory, associate director of trade policy:
"On behalf of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), we are writing to express our support for the introduction in the Senate of the 'Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act,' which would create a Foundation for Standards and Metrology in the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). A foundation would help NIST do even more to ensure the United States is at the forefront of global conversations on safe, responsible, and innovative artificial intelligence (AI) and other new and emerging technologies."
Cory emphasized that technical standards play an increasingly important role in geotechnical competition among nations such as the United States, China, and members of the European Union. He noted that NIST’s involvement has been pivotal in maintaining U.S. leadership in advanced technology through its support for industry engagement in developing technical standards.
"A foundation would complement NIST’s increasingly important work with U.S. stakeholders and international partners," Cory stated. He added that it could attract funding to enable more U.S. stakeholders to participate in international metrology discussions.
The ability to raise funds independently would allow this new foundation to run grant programs supporting experts from small- and medium-sized firms, academia, among others. However, Cory stressed that effective support hinges on ensuring only true experts are funded.
Despite these potential benefits, Cory highlighted ongoing funding challenges faced by NIST: "The Foundation’s ability to raise outside funding should not detract from the clear and pressing need for Congress to appropriate more funds for NIST." He pointed out that NIST's FY 2024 funding dropped by 8 percent compared to the previous year.
The legislation aims at good governance by outlining broad missions such as commercializing federally funded research, engaging in education outreach, directly supporting standards activities at NIST, among others. It draws lessons from other successful U.S. government foundations like those associated with National Health Institutes.
"The Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act positions the United States to retain its early advantages in AI," Cory remarked. He further explained that this legislation provides additional resources necessary for collaboration on technical standards crucial for national security.
Cory concluded by acknowledging broader challenges posed by emerging technologies but asserted that this act addresses significant aspects related to innovation competitiveness: "It sets out an appropriately targeted mission that will complement what NIST... already do so well."
Contact: Austin Slater
