Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR)

Small businesses receiving federal research funding face complex grant requirements, including recordkeeping, time and effort reporting, conflict-of-interest requirements, and foreign funding disclosures. When questions arise, SBIR awardees need counsel who understand both federal grant requirements and the realities of operating a research-driven business,

The SBIR program awards approximately $5 billion annually to startups and small businesses conducting high-impact research and development (R&D). Its 2026 reauthorization through September 30, 2031, introduced significant changes, including expanded national security and foreign risk reviews, new compliance obligations, and limits on proposal submissions.

Feldesman attorneys have extensive experience advising and representing SBIR awardees on federal grant compliance and enforcement matters, including responding to federal agency subpoenas and investigations, challenging grant terminations, appealing agency disallowances, and addressing compliance concerns.  Our team also counsels clients on changes introduced by the SBIR reauthorization and their implementation by federal agencies.

Our attorneys have advised SBIR clients on matters involving conflict-of-interest disclosures, research conducted outside the United States, foreign relationships and funding, and time and effort documentation. Drawing on the firm’s experience in federal grants law, regulatory compliance, government investigations, and litigation, we help clients address agency concerns, protect their federal funding, and mitigate future risks.