FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Your questions.
Clear starting answers.
Funding and patent decisions can feel complicated. Start here, then let’s discuss the details of your award.
WHAT AWARDEES ASK
Understand the options.
We already have an award. Can we still request TABA?
It depends on your agency, solicitation, and award terms. Some company-selected requests must be in the original proposal. Some programs offer agency-selected assistance after an award; other programs may have their own supplementary routes. We help you check the applicable guidance before you commit funds.
Can we choose IAF as our provider?
Where your agency permits company-selected providers, you can propose IAF for an appropriate patent-related scope. The agency must approve the request under its rules. If a provider is already named or approved, confirm whether any change is permitted before proceeding.
Will the government pay all our patent costs?
That is not automatic. Approved assistance has a defined budget and scope. Professional fees, filing fees, drawings, prosecution, and other costs need to be considered separately and checked against your award’s rules.
Is IAF an agency-preferred or government-endorsed provider?
This site does not claim agency-preferred status or government endorsement. IAF offers direct professional services and can discuss company-selected assistance where permitted.
Do we need to switch our existing patent attorney?
Not necessarily. Tell us who is already involved so we can discuss a complementary role and avoid overlapping responsibilities or duplicate work.
What happens if we do not have TABA funding?
We can discuss a company-funded engagement with a defined scope and fee. We help prioritize the work so that you can make an informed spending decision.
Can you guarantee a patent or funding approval?
No. Funding decisions belong to the agency, and patent decisions belong to the patent office. We provide guidance and agreed professional work; neither an award nor a filing guarantees a commercial outcome.
What should we share in the first message?
Your company name, awarding agency, award phase, project timing, and the type of help you need. Keep the initial message general. Do not include confidential technical details, controlled information, or sensitive award documents.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Let’s make your
options clear.
Bring your award details. We’ll walk you through the funding questions and the patent work ahead.