Small Business Artificial Intelligence Advancement Act
Sponsor
Mike Collins
Republican · GA-10
Latest Action · Feb 24, 2026
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Bill Progress
Bill Boosts AI Tools for Small Biz
Why it matters
AI is reshaping business, but small shops risk being left behind.
The big picture: The Small Business Artificial Intelligence Advancement Act tells the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to help small businesses understand and adopt AI. Big companies already have experts and budgets for AI — but mom-and-pop shops and other small businesses frequently don’t.
Zoom in: If enacted, NIST would roll out easy-to-understand resources, like best practices, standards, and step-by-step guides. These resources could help small businesses avoid tech mistakes, protect sensitive data, and tap into AI’s power for things like marketing or customer service.
Between the lines: This is a classic case of the government trying to reduce the digital divide. With tech evolving at warp speed, small companies face a real risk of falling further behind — hurting competitiveness and jobs. The bill doesn’t spell out funding, so its real impact may depend on future budgets and how aggressively NIST pursues outreach.
What This Bill Does
NIST creates AI resources
The bill assigns NIST to develop or find tools, guides, and standards to help small businesses use AI.
Focus on small businesses
Resources will be tailored for 'small business concerns'—firms fitting the official U.S. small business definition.
Wide range of materials
NIST's help could include everything from best practices and security advice to technical guides and sample AI processes.
Dissemination requirement
NIST must actively distribute these resources, not just post them online — making sure small businesses actually hear about and use the tools.
Dependent on funding
All efforts are 'subject to the availability of appropriations,' so more action depends on future budgets.
Who Benefits
Small businesses
Gain access to user-friendly AI guidance and resources they might not afford on their own.
Entrepreneurs and startups
Can use up-to-date information to leapfrog into new markets using AI.
Local communities
Benefit as their hometown businesses become more competitive and create better jobs.
NIST and federal agencies
Get a clear mandate to support America’s small business sector in tech adoption.
Who's Affected
Small business owners & employees
Are empowered to modernize but may need to invest time in learning new tech.
Large tech consulting firms
Could face less demand from small businesses needing basic AI guidance.
Government science and tech staff
Have new responsibilities to develop and share approachable AI resources.
AI solution vendors
May see more interest as small businesses become ready to implement AI tools.
Cosponsors (4)
Recent Actions
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2244)
Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2244)
DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3679.
Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H2244-2245)
Mr. Babin moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 429.
Committees (2)
Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee
Senate · Standing
Referred To · Feb 24, 2026
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3 articles about this bill
H.R. 3679, the Small Business Artificial Intelligence Advancement Act
NIST bill for small business AI assistance passes House | FedScoop
mbracken·Feb 24, 2026Full Committee Markup of H.R. 390, H.R. 3259, H.R. 3679, and H.R. 3705 - Markups - House Committee on Science Space & Tech - Republicans
Full Bill Text
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Source: Congress.gov