To help policymakers better understand what these issues mean for startups and their users, we’re releasing an updated version of the report, one-pager, and video explainers of the impacts of age verification and the policy proposals that prompt it.

How determining user age impacts startups

Data privacy has been top of mind for consumers, policymakers, regulators, companies, and entrepreneurs for the past several years, in the wake of broad privacy rules in the EU, and action in several U.S. states. The U.S., which has long had a sectoral approach to privacy, remains without a comprehensive privacy framework, and many states have reacted by proposing, passing, and implementing their own varying—and potentially conflicting—comprehensive privacy laws.

This week, a key House committee will consider a trove of online safety proposals, marking movement on one of the many intractable tech policy issues Congress perennially debates but rarely advances to the president’s desk. The proposed legislation comes with potential for a big impact on how startups design customer experiences, deliver their services, and interact with their users—regardless of those users’ ages. 

Today, Engine published the 2026 Startup Policy Agenda, highlighting the policy issues coming up this year that will impact startups.

Congress charges ahead on ‘kids’ safety,’ despite tradeoffs

Lawmakers in Congress and in state legislatures are under pressure from parents and advocacy groups to change Internet law to “keep kids safe online”.

Engine released the 2025 Startup Policy Agenda showcasing how smart, thoughtful policy facilitates and encourages startup activity, leading to more innovation and more economic and job growth. The Agenda gives those working on policy an overview of the issues that are currently impacting—and the debates that stand to impact—startups. 

Engine released the 2025 Startup Policy Playbook to give members of the startup ecosystem—founders, employees, investors, and support organizations—an overview of the policy conversations happening this year and how they can get involved in amplifying the startup voice. There’s lots to do, and lots to do better, and this playbook highlights why shaping innovation-friendly policies matters to startups.

Veto of controversial AI bill opens door to better approaches.

New Senate bill would improve startups’ access to capital

Startups weigh in on digital trade

Congressional Startup Day underscores importance of startups in policymaking

To help policymakers better understand what these issues mean for startups and their users, we’re releasing an updated version of the report, one-pager, and video explainers of the impacts of age verification and the policy proposals that prompt it.

Tax package fails Senate vote in blow to innovation 

Senate advances Internet regulation rife with unintended consequences

Startups call for better access to capital for entrepreneurs of color

Congress needs to act on child care challenges

Privacy bill stumbles, but startups still need a uniform federal framework

Startup founders come to D.C. calling for policies to enable innovation for all

Legal setback threatens resources for underrepresented founders

Engine defends key Internet law to Congress

Key lawmakers propose rolling back crucial Internet framework

State AI laws spark specter of burdensome patchwork

Ownership disclosure law creates burdens for startups

Net neutrality revival set to ensure level startup playing field

Lawmakers lament detriment to startups of Trade Rep’s digital trade reversal

Congress is taking another crack at data privacy legislation

Congress is taking another crack at data privacy legislation, a universally regarded but elusive policy priority for lawmakers and industry alike.

Openness in AI beneficial for startups, innovation

Bipartisan tax legislation needed by startups remains in Senate limbo

Rule takes effect restricting startups’ ability to hire contract labor

House passes package expanding capital access for startups