ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Subramanyam leads AI startup support Bill
The Bill seeks study of funding, talent, and regulatory hurdles facing emerging artificial intelligence startups in U.S.
-
1759953093.png)
Staff Reporter - Thu, 19, Mar 2026
- 00:07 EDT
- 14
Suhas Subramanyam / A screen grab of Congressman Suhas Subramanyan speaking on the House floor
Lawmakers in Washington have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at helping small artificial intelligence companies compete in a fast-growing industry, a move that could matter for immigrant founders, including many from India, who are active in the U.S. tech sector.
Representatives Suhas Subramanyam of Virginia and Jay Obernolte of California announced the Small AI Innovators Empowerment Act on March 17. The proposal calls for a federal study to better understand the challenges faced by small AI businesses, especially startups trying to scale in a market dominated by large technology firms.
ALSO READ: Subramanyam leads call for continued federal support to Scouting America
The bill directs the Department of Commerce, working with other federal agencies, to examine access to funding, hiring difficulties, tax credit use, and the effects of regulations on small companies. Lawmakers say the goal is to gather data that can guide future policy and support innovation.
“The future of AI will be shaped not just by big tech, but also by small businesses and startups,” Subramanyam said while introducing the bill. He added that the legislation would look into “the challenges to federal funding, recruiting and retaining top talent, and navigating regulations these businesses face.”
Obernolte said the bill reflects growing concern that early-stage companies may struggle to compete with large technology firms without stronger policy support. “America’s leadership in artificial intelligence will not only depend on large technology companies, but also on the next generation of innovators building breakthrough tools in small businesses and startups across the country,” he said.
Industry groups welcomed the proposal. Representatives from startup and app industry organizations said small AI companies are important for productivity, services, and competitiveness, but often face barriers in funding, computing resources, and hiring.
Kate Tummarello, Executive Director of Engine, said: “The Small AI Innovators Empowerment Act will shine light on the experiences of startups from the first dollar they raise to eventual successful exit—and all of the product development, regulatory hurdles, and other challenges they encounter in between. Engine is proud to endorse this legislation and is grateful to Reps. Subramanyam and Obernolte for their leadership on this issue and support of the U.S. startup ecosystem.”
The measure comes at a time when immigrant entrepreneurs, particularly from India, are playing a major role in the U.S. AI ecosystem. Recent data shows that Indian immigrants have founded or co-founded a significant share of billion-dollar startups in the country. Many of the leading AI startups also include at least one immigrant founder, with Indian entrepreneurs forming one of the largest groups.
Reports suggest that more than 100 Indian AI founders have recently moved to the United States or are planning to do so, often to be closer to customers and investors. Many startups are shifting headquarters to the U.S. as they expand.
For the Indian diaspora, the proposed legislation could help address common challenges faced by immigrant led startups, including access to capital and skilled workers. Observers say clearer policies and better support systems may encourage more innovation and strengthen ties between global talent and the U.S. technology market.
Discover more stories on NewIndiaAbroad
Related
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login