+ AI & Deep Tech
CFIUS scrutiny, export control, and dual-use classification catch most AI founders off guard. ATA keeps you clear — and gets you in front of the right U.S. partners.
The Challenge
Dual-use AI technology faces CFIUS scrutiny and export control that most founders don't see coming — until a deal falls apart or an investor walks away.
Foreign-owned AI companies face mandatory CFIUS review when seeking U.S. investment or acquisition. Dual-use AI — anything with defense, intelligence, or critical infrastructure applications — triggers automatic scrutiny.
AI models, algorithms, and underlying hardware may fall under EAR (Export Administration Regulations) or ITAR. Most international AI founders don't realize their product is export-controlled until a deal falls apart.
CCPA in California, the Colorado Privacy Act, Virginia CDPA, and emerging federal AI legislation create a fragmented compliance landscape. Training data provenance adds another layer.
U.S. enterprise buyers — especially in defense, healthcare, and finance — require local references, security certifications, and legal structures that match their procurement requirements.
DARPA, SBIR/STTR, NIH, and other government AI initiatives are massive opportunities — but only accessible to companies with SAM.gov registration, proper entity structures, and the right advisors.
How ATA Solves It
ATA is the general contractor for AI and deep tech companies entering the U.S. We manage CFIUS risk, export classification, entity structure, and government program access — while simultaneously building the commercial credibility required for enterprise and government buyers.
Our team includes former government advisors who understand how DARPA, CISA, DoD, and NIH evaluate AI vendors — and what it takes to get on their shortlists.
CFIUS Advisory
Foreign investment risk assessment, deal structuring, mitigation agreements
Regulatory
EAR/ITAR export control, FedRAMP, NIST AI RMF, state privacy laws
Legal & Entity
C-Corp, IP protection, data licensing, AI governance frameworks
Gov. Procurement
SAM.gov, CAGE, SBIR/STTR, DARPA program access
Gov. Relations
DoD, CISA, NIH, NSF agency positioning & policy navigation
Credibility
AI advisory boards, think tank connections, U.S. positioning
Regulatory Map
Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States
Reviews foreign acquisitions and investments in U.S. businesses for national security risk. AI companies with dual-use applications, defense relevance, or access to sensitive personal data face mandatory declaration requirements when receiving foreign capital.
Export Administration Regulations
Controls the export of commercial and dual-use goods, software, and technology. AI models, algorithms, and underlying hardware may be EAR-controlled. Most international AI founders don't know what export classification their product carries until a deal triggers it.
International Traffic in Arms Regulations
Controls defense articles and services on the U.S. Munitions List. AI used in defense, surveillance, or weapons systems may be ITAR-controlled. Violations carry criminal penalties. Registration with DDTC is mandatory before any controlled product enters U.S. government conversations.
AI Risk Management Framework
The U.S. framework for identifying and managing AI risk — increasingly referenced in federal procurement and enterprise buying criteria. Alignment with the AI RMF signals governance maturity to government and regulated-sector buyers.
Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program
Required for cloud AI products sold to federal agencies. The authorization process takes 12–24 months. Companies selling to DoD, NIH, or other agencies must start FedRAMP assessment early or be locked out of procurement.
Small Business Innovation Research / Technology Transfer
The U.S. government's primary mechanism for funding early-stage technology companies. AI companies with defense or health applications can access non-dilutive DARPA, NIH, and NSF capital — but only with proper SAM.gov registration and U.S. entity structure.
Other Industries
Get Started
CFIUS risk mapped. Export classification clear. Government program access built. One engagement.
