A look at how punitive trade policy that focuses on the imposition of new tariffs undermines goodwill with trading partners, invites retaliatory trade barriers, and threatens the vitality of digital trade policies relied upon by startups.

At the end of this month, a critical digital trade policy relied upon by startups is set to expire unless policymakers act. March 26–29, the World Trade Organization's (WTO) 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) will convene in Yaoundé, Cameroon, where the WTO Moratorium on Customs Duties on Electronic Transmissions will expire if it is not renewed.

Trump pivots to new tariffs after Supreme Court loss

Startups need trade certainty to compete globally

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

SCOTUS considers legality of Trump tariffs

Next week, the Trump administration is poised to use national security authorities to impose tariffs on semiconductors, key components in nearly all electronics.

Amid trade pronouncements, startups look for digital trade details

A look at how punitive trade policy that focuses on the imposition of new tariffs undermines goodwill with trading partners, invites retaliatory trade barriers, and threatens the vitality of digital trade policies relied upon by startups.

Trade uncertainty revived amid new threats, moving deadlines

Trade uncertainty stalls American innovation

 Trade policy should reduce barriers, not invite new ones

Tariffs invite retaliation that will harm startups

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.

Stakeholders across the economy — including startups — are telling the U.S. trade chief about harmful trade barriers, but it’s unclear if the agency will do anything to address them.

Startup policy outlook under second Trump term

Startups call for pro-innovation tax reforms 

Veto of controversial AI bill opens door to better approaches.

Congressional Startup Day underscores importance of startups in policymaking

Controversial California legislation threatens AI innovation

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

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

Foreign nations are saddling U.S. companies — including startups — with discriminatory burdens.

Internet affordability funding to run out, reversing progress on digital divide