Specialists, Not Generalists.
That’s the Difference
We were built to do one thing exceptionally well — R&D tax credits for businesses and accounting & advisory firms.
Built to Strengthen Your Business. Empower Your Firm.
Navatus Tax Advisors was founded on a simple belief: organizations shouldn’t have to navigate complex tax challenges alone. Whether you’re a business seeking specialized tax expertise or an accounting & advisory firm looking to expand capabilities, we provide the knowledge, capacity, and support needed to move forward with confidence.
Our foundation is built on deep expertise in R&D tax credits. We help businesses identify and substantiate valuable tax incentives, and we help accounting & advisory firms deliver specialized R&D solutions to their clients without the need to build an in-house practice.
R&D tax credits are among the most valuable, and frequently misunderstood tax incentives available to businesses. Maximizing the opportunity requires more than a surface-level review. It demands technical expertise, industry knowledge, rigorous documentation, and a proven methodology.
Navatus specializes in helping clients uncover qualifying activities, quantify eligible expenses, and develop supportable claims that withstand scrutiny. The result is greater confidence, stronger documentation, and potentially greater value.
We partner with innovative businesses across a wide range of industries, as well as accounting & advisory firms seeking a trusted specialty tax resource. Whether working directly with businesses or serving as a seamless extension of a firm’s team, we help clients access the full value of available tax incentives while navigating complexity with confidence.
Meet the Specialist
Behind the Work
Michael J. Smith, CPA
President · Navatus Tax Advisors
Phone: 872-250-1308
Email: mike.smith@navatustax.com
Michael J. Smith
Michael Smith serves as President of Navatus Tax Advisors, leading the firm’s strategic vision and delivery of specialized tax advisory services to accounting and advisory firms, businesses, and growth-focused organizations nationwide.
With more than 15 years of experience in tax consulting, Mike helps clients navigate complex tax challenges, identify opportunities, and achieve their strategic objectives. While he has deep expertise in R&D tax credits and incentives, his experience also includes strategic tax planning, tax controversy, and specialized consulting across a variety of industries.
Prior to joining Navatus, Mike held leadership roles within national tax advisory practices, where he helped drive growth, strengthen client relationships, and develop high-performing teams. Known for his collaborative leadership style and technical expertise, he is focused on delivering practical solutions that help clients navigate complexity and create long-term value.
B.S. Accounting — Northern Illinois University
Certified Public Accountant, Illinois
Finance Committee Chair & Board Treasurer — Crusader Community Health Foundation
Ready to Recover the Credits
Your Innovation Has Earned?
Schedule a no-obligation conversation with a Navatus specialist. We’ll assess your activities, estimate your potential credit, and tell you exactly what to expect.