Episode 27: How Ecosystem Science Drives Innovation at the Small Business Administration w/Brittany Sickler and Jennifer Shieh

Episode Overview:

In this episode of Manufacturing an American Century, I get the chance to sit down with two brilliant minds from the U.S. Small Business Administration—Brittany Sickler, Director of Ecosystem Development, and Jennifer Shieh, Chief Scientist and Program Manager. We dive into how the SBA is doing more than just helping small businesses thrive—they’re pioneering a whole new way to think about entrepreneurship and innovation by using ecosystem science. It’s all about creating connections, fostering collaboration, and delivering real, tangible results for businesses and communities across the country.

We also talk about some of their key programs, like SBIR, STTR, and Regional Innovation Clusters, and how these initiatives are making waves in industries from manufacturing to ag tech. Plus, Brittany and Jennifer share how they’re working to bring underrepresented communities into the fold and why trust is at the heart of every successful ecosystem. Whether you’re a small business owner, a policy wonk, or just someone curious about what’s next for American entrepreneurship, this one’s for you!

AMCC’s podcast is made possible in part by the expertise of Mike McAllen, founder of Podcasting4Associations. Are you part of an association also looking to produce a podcast? Let us get you in touch with Mike.

Thank you to the Economic Development Administration for their partnership in producing this podcast. This podcast was prepared in part using Federal funds under award 3070145 from the Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Economic Development Administration or the U.S. Department of Commerce.

💡 Key Ideas:

• Ecosystem Science in Action: SBA integrates ecosystem science to strengthen small business networks, support innovation, and encourage regional collaboration.

• Trust as a Foundation: Building trust among stakeholders, from federal to regional, is essential for ecosystem success and sustainable partnerships.

• Interdisciplinary Connection: Translating between sectors—such as scientific research, economics, and entrepreneurship—is a key to enabling comprehensive ecosystem development.

🔗Links to Learn More:

• Learn more about SBA’s Office of Investment and Innovation, and its Regional Innovation Clusters, SBIR/STTR programs, and more!
• Find Brittany on Linkedin.
• Find Jennifer on Linkedin.
• Follow AMCC on Linkedin.
• Find Matt on Linkedin.
• Visit our website.