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How to Apply to SBIR Grants: Part I SBIR Registration

Updated: Jan 27

A Step-by-Step Guide

Part I: Registering to Government Portals to Become SBIR Eligible 

pencil and check list image

Securing SBIR funding begins with a critical first step: registering on government portals. While the process can feel daunting, this guide breaks it into manageable steps to set you up for success. This is the first article in our series, How to Apply to SBIR Grants, which walks you through the entire SBIR process—from registering on required portals to writing a winning proposal. 


At Akela Consulting, our team of SBIR grant consultants helps small businesses navigate this complex process, ensuring they meet every requirement and submit competitive proposals. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your approach, we’re here to guide you. 


Let’s dive into how to register and become eligible for SBIR grants. 


Why SBIR Registration Matters 

Before you can apply for any SBIR funding, you must complete several mandatory registrations. These registrations ensure that your business is eligible for government contracts and grants. Missing or incomplete registrations are one of the most common reasons applicants are disqualified early in the process. 


The three key registrations you’ll need are: 

  1. Login.gov Account 

  2. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) 

  3. SBIR.gov Account 


Additionally, some SBIR agencies, such as the Department of Defense (DoD), require registration in their specific portals. We’ll cover these later. 

 

Step 1: Create a Login.gov Account 

Your SBIR registration journey begins with creating a Login.gov account, the secure entry point for accessing many federal government systems, including SAM.gov

picture from Login.gov's landing page

How to Create Your Login.gov Account

login.gov sign in page
  1. Visit Login.gov

  2. Sign Up: Click on "Create an Account" and follow the prompts to enter your email address and create a secure password. 

  3. Secure Your Account: Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added security. 

  4. Save Your Credentials: Ensure you save your login information securely, as you’ll use this account to access multiple federal portals. 




Pro Tip: Use an email address associated with your business for easy identification and recovery. 

Step 2: Obtain Your Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) 


Sam.gov registration page

The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) replaced the DUNS number in April 2022 and is now the primary identification number for businesses applying for federal grants and contracts. You can obtain your UEI through SAM.gov after logging in with your Login.gov account


How to Get Your UEI

  1. Log In to SAM.gov: Use your Login.gov credentials to access SAM.gov

  2. Register Your Business: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your entity registration and obtain your UEI. Ensure that your business information matches IRS and other records exactly. 

  3. Verify Your Information: Double-check all inputs to avoid delays. 

Pro Tip: Start this process early. UEI verification can take several days, and delays are common if your business information doesn’t match IRS or other records. Also, play close attention to the NIACS codes you are using to represent your business. Certain codes can raise questions for federal contracting officers, potentially lowering your chance of being awarded for a contract 

CAGE Code

The Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code is another essential identifier for businesses contracting with the U.S. government. You’ll automatically receive a CAGE Code when you register in SAM.gov if your business is based in the U.S. 


For non-U.S. businesses, the process requires additional steps and coordination with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). Ensure that: 

  • Your address matches across all systems. 

  • You’ve completed the UEI registration first. 


Pro Tip: If you encounter issues with your CAGE Code, contact the DLA Customer Interaction Center for support. 

Step 3: Register on SBIR.gov 

After completing your SAM.gov registration, you must create an SBIR.gov account. This is the platform where you can access information about SBIR opportunities and submit proposals to the general SBIR program

SBIR.gov registration page

While SBIR.gov is used for program management across various federal agencies, some agencies, like the Department of Defense (DoD), require you to submit proposals through their own agency-specific portals. For example, the DoD has its own SBIR/STTR portal, where you will need to submit proposals for their specific funding opportunities. 


How to Register: 

  1. Login with Your SAM.gov Account: If you've already registered on SAM.gov for your UEI and CAGE Code, you can use the same account to log in to SBIR.gov

  2. Complete SBIR.gov Registration: Follow the instructions provided on SBIR.gov to register your entity specifically for submitting SBIR proposals. 

  3. Enter Banking Information: Provide your bank account details for direct deposit of funds if you receive an award. 

  4. Certify and Submit: Carefully review all your details before submitting your registration. 


Common Pitfalls to Avoid: 

  • Incomplete Registration: Ensure every section is completed. 

  • Mismatched Information: All details should match your IRS records. 

  • Expired Accounts: SBIR.gov accounts need to be kept current and may need to be renewed annually. 


What About Other Agency Portals? 

For agencies like the DoD, NASA, NIH, and others, be aware that they may require separate submissions through their own portals. Always check the specific SBIR/STTR solicitation for the agency’s submission requirements, as each may have its own process. For instance, the DoD’s SBIR Portal (DSIP) is used for submitting proposals for defense-related funding opportunities. 


Next Steps 

Once your registrations are complete, you’ll be ready to start identifying the SBIR programs that best align with your business goals. Stay tuned for our next article in the How to Apply for SBIR Grants: A Step-by-Step Guide series, where we’ll cover how to find and evaluate SBIR opportunities tailored to your industry. 


Final Thoughts 

Registering on government portals is foundational to your SBIR journey. It’s essential to get it right the first time to avoid delays in your funding application. At Akela Consulting, we specialize in helping businesses navigate these initial steps and beyond. If you need expert guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. 


Looking for more guidance? Get in touch with us today. 


Ready for the next step? Stay tuned for our upcoming article: Identifying Relevant SBIR Programs



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