NAICS 541715

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)

Updated July 2026 — federal spending and agency data cross-checked against SAM.gov and USAspending.gov.

Scientific research, testing, and analysis services.

Federal Spending

$8B+ annually

Top Agencies

NSF, DoD, HHS

Market Outlook

Growing +6% annually. Federal R&D spending = sustained demand.

13 CFR § 121.201SBA Size Standard

Small Business Threshold: 1,000 employees

Calculated on a 24-month average headcount. Businesses with average revenue or headcount at or below this ceiling may qualify as small businesses for prime federal solicitations assigned NAICS 541715, subject to affiliation and program rules.

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Common Federal Contracts

1

Basic and applied research

2

Laboratory testing and analysis

3

Scientific equipment testing

4

Research support services

Contractor Competitive Advantage

SBIR/STTR grants available for innovative firms. Research expertise = premium pricing. PhD-level professionals = competitive moat.

Relevant Certifications

8(a)

WOSB

Top Procuring Agencies

How to Win in This Sector

  1. 1. Verify Your NAICS: Make sure this NAICS code matches your primary business activity. You can only claim set-asides for your primary NAICS.
  2. 2. Apply for Certifications: Most contracts in this sector allow 8(a), WOSB, HUBZone, or SDVOSB certifications. These give you advantages in bidding.
  3. 3. Target Top Agencies: Identify the top 3 agencies hiring in this sector and research their procurement needs.
  4. 4. Assess Your Advantage: Review the competitive advantages above and determine how your firm differentiates.
  5. 5. Build Relationships: Attend industry days, connect with contracting officers, and respond to RFIs (Requests for Information).
Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know Before Bidding

Straight answers on data privacy, free trial access, and federal contracting workflows.

NAICS 541715 covers Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology): Scientific research, testing, and analysis services. Federal agencies spend $8B+ annually annually on contracts in this category.

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