Innovation

• The Trump Administration released a comprehensive national AI plan on March 21, 2026, designed to establish one clear federal standard and prevent state patchwork rules that could undermine U.S. competitiveness. • Key initiatives include workforce training, creator protections, safe AI tools under human oversight, and focused efforts on protecting children and supporting communities across the country. • White House Chief Technology Officer Michael Kratsios stated the framework will "unleash American ingenuity to win the global AI race," signaling administration commitment to maintaining global AI leadership.

• The U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act (S. 3971), extending the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs for five years. • SBIR and STTR provide critical federal funding helping small businesses translate research discoveries into commercial technologies, often in partnership with universities. • The bill now moves to the House for consideration, with the earliest possible vote expected after March 16, 2026.

• Senate Judiciary Committee convenes hearing on March 17, 2026, titled 'Stealth Stealing: China's Ongoing Theft of U.S. Innovation,' examining intellectual property threats. • The session addresses national security risks from Chinese espionage, amid escalating U.S.-China tensions over trade and technology. • This hearing underscores bipartisan concerns about protecting American innovation, potentially influencing future legislation on tech exports and sanctions.

• NVIDIA GTC 2026, the premier global AI conference, runs March 16-19 in downtown San Jose, focusing on physical AI, AI factories, agentic AI, and inference breakthroughs shaping industries. • Conference passes sold out, but free virtual passes are available, with in-person Exhibits Only passes offered at 20% off using code GTC26-20. • Developers, researchers, and business leaders gather to explore the next wave of AI innovation amid rapid advancements.