I am a co-founder of a tech company that won government innovation grants. Does that help with the EB-1A?

Yes, it can help. The EB-1A, designed for people with extraordinary ability, recognizes co-founding a tech company that has won government innovation grants as evidence that your work has been acknowledged by relevant authorities.

Even so, the EB-1A rarely rests on a single achievement. The category calls for building a body of evidence that, taken together, demonstrates a sustained track record of distinction and recognition in your field. The grant tends to serve as a strong piece of that body, alongside elements such as:

• Publications, patents, or original contributions with measurable impact.
• Other relevant awards and recognition within the industry.
• Participation as a reviewer or judge, and mentions in specialized media.

Each case is evaluated individually, so the weight of the grant depends on how it fits into your overall story. It is worth organizing your evidence and verifying the current requirements at the official source (USCIS) or with a specialist to build a well-rounded case.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.