FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 25, 2026

Contact: Robin Ceppos
Email: rceppos@nvca.org

Washington, D.C. — The National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) is excited to announce the recipients of the 2026 Startup Champion Award, which honors elected officials who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem and supporting innovation across the United States.

The 2026 NVCA Startup Champion Award winners are:

  • Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-IN)
  • Congressman Sean Casten (D-IL)

Both leaders have shown a deep commitment to advancing innovation, supporting the venture capital industry, and creating an environment where startups can thrive.

Bobby Franklin, President and CEO of NVCA, on Rep. Yakym: “He recognizes the critical role tax policy plays in driving capital formation, fueling startup growth, and strengthening America’s long-term economic success. Rep. Yakym has been a steadfast champion for the industry, consistently supporting policies such as R&D expensing, the qualified small business stock exclusion, and competitive capital gains treatment.”

Franklin also praised Rep. Casten: “NVCA is proud to recognize Representative Sean Casten as a 2026 Startup Champion Award winner for his leadership on the bipartisan DEAL Act. Before coming to Congress, Rep. Casten was a clean energy entrepreneur and scientist who built companies focused on innovative energy technologies. That firsthand experience informs his work in Congress and his commitment to policies that empower entrepreneurs, expands access to capital, and strengthens America’s innovation economy.”

About the NVCA Startup Champion Award

The Startup Champion Award recognizes elected officials for their significant contributions to advancing policy that supports the entrepreneurial ecosystem and creates a more positive environment for new company formation in America.

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The National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) empowers the next generation of American companies that will fuel the economy of tomorrow. As the voice of the U.S. venture capital and startup community, NVCA advocates for public policy that supports the American entrepreneurial ecosystem. Serving the venture community as the preeminent trade association, NVCA arms the venture community for success, serving as the leading resource for venture capital data, practical education, peer-led initiatives, and networking. For more information about NVCA, please visit www.nvca.org.