This article showcases why the patent system’s oft-overlooked role as a promotive tool of innovative SMEs must receive more attention, including in the antitrust context. Patents are frequently touted as detrimental to competition, but that perspective overlooks a more comprehensive view of competition in an innovation economy. We also briefly describe the less fortified U.S. patent — a result of almost twenty years of adverse judicial decisions and system deters competition and creates a David-versus-Goliath situation for smaller startups. Larger, entrenched corporations disproportionately benefit from weaker patents, leaving innovative startups with a mountain to climb. Recognizing this adverse trend, several key Congress members have introduced important legislation that would amend the Supreme Court’s past missteps. While no bill is without shortcomings, the pending legislation would restore a more equitable competition environment and steer the American focus back to innovation.