The Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) President and CEO Eric Fanning called on the U.S. House of Representatives on March 17 to pass the Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act, which would reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research program. The program has been inactive since October 1 due to a lapse in authorization.
The issue is significant for the aerospace and defense industry, as the program supports small businesses in developing new technologies that contribute to national competitiveness. Fanning said, “The Small Business Innovation Research program is a critical driver of innovation across the aerospace and defense industry, giving small businesses the support they need to develop new technologies and strengthen the United States’ competitive advantage.” He also thanked several congressional leaders for their efforts on this legislation and urged both passage by the House and prompt signing by President Trump.
The AIA supports diversity and inclusion initiatives to improve representation within its sector, according to the official website. The association also pushes for policies aimed at bolstering national security, encouraging innovation, and supporting economic growth according to its official website.
In addition, AIA shapes U.S. policy on issues such as national security, aviation safety, space innovation, and workforce development according to its official website. The organization promotes international business ethics and compliance through leadership of the International Forum on Business Ethical Conduct since 2010 according to its official website.
AIA provides advocacy efforts for its members, networking opportunities through councils and committees, and access to more than 1,400 industry standards according to its official website. It operates in the aerospace and defense sector by supporting manufacturers and suppliers according to its official website.
Fanning concluded his remarks by urging swift legislative action: “We urge the House to pass this legislation and President Trump to swiftly sign it into law.”
