The start of a new year is the ideal time for Texas business owners to review their government program eligibility, update registrations, and plan strategic investments. Many federal and state programs operate on annual cycles, and early planning improves your chances of accessing grants, tax credits, and incentives throughout the year.
Annual Registration and Renewal
SAM.gov Registration
System for Award Management (SAM.gov) registration must be renewed annually. If your registration has lapsed, renew it in January to maintain eligibility for federal contracts, grants, and programs. SAM registration is required for all federal funding.
HUB Certification Renewal
Texas HUB certification must be renewed periodically. Check your renewal date with the Texas Comptroller and submit updated documentation before your certification expires.
Business License and Permit Review
Review all business licenses and permits for renewal dates. Many grant and incentive programs require current licensing as a condition of eligibility.
Federal Grant Cycles
SBIR/STTR Solicitations
Federal agencies release SBIR and STTR solicitations on regular schedules. NSF accepts proposals year-round. DOD, NIH, DOE, and other agencies post topics in annual solicitation cycles. Review agency calendars in January to identify opportunities.
USDA Programs
USDA programs including REAP, Value-Added Producer Grants, and Rural Business Development Grants typically accept applications in the first half of the year. Check USDA Rural Development for current deadlines.
State Grant Cycles
Texas state programs including the Skills Development Fund accept applications year-round but have periodic review cycles. Planning workforce training partnerships early in the year improves chances of approval.
Tax Planning for the Year Ahead
R&D Tax Credit Documentation
If your business conducts qualifying research and development, begin tracking costs from January 1. Contemporaneous documentation of R&D activities strengthens tax credit claims.
WOTC Screening
Implement WOTC screening as a standard part of your hiring process for the entire year. Screening must occur at or before the time of hire to capture eligible credits.
Section 179 Planning
Plan major equipment purchases for the year. Understanding Section 179 limits and bonus depreciation percentages early helps optimize purchasing timing.
Strategic Business Planning
SBDC Business Review
Schedule a free business review session with your local SBDC in January. SBDCs can help identify new program opportunities, review financial projections, and plan for growth.
Workforce Planning
Review workforce needs and explore Skills Development Fund partnerships with local community colleges. Training programs require planning and partnership development that benefits from early-year initiation.
New Year Planning Checklist
- Renew SAM.gov registration: Required for all federal programs.
- Check certification dates: HUB, WOSB, 8(a), SDVOSB, and other certifications.
- Review federal grant calendars: SBIR/STTR, USDA, and other program deadlines.
- Begin R&D documentation: Track qualifying activities from January 1.
- Implement WOTC screening: Screen all new hires throughout the year.
- Schedule SBDC review: Free business consulting and program identification.
- Plan capital purchases: Optimize Section 179 and depreciation timing.
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Start the year by understanding which government programs your business may qualify for. Our screening report matches your business against federal, state, and local programs. Start your free screening →