NHLBI Catalyze RFA-HL-26-019: Product Definition for Medical Devices, Diagnostics and Research Tools

Status: Open. Next due dates October 21, 2026 and February 11, 2027, 5:00 PM local time. Up to $300,000 in direct costs a year per phase. Companies of any size, universities and nonprofits are eligible.

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What is the NHLBI Catalyze Product Definition program for medical devices?

The NHLBI Catalyze Product Definition program (RFA-HL-26-019) is an NIH grant from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute that funds early-stage development of medical device prototypes, diagnostic assays, and research tools for heart, lung, blood, and sleep (HLBS) diseases and disorders.

It uses a two-phase R61/R33 structure. The R61 phase supports initial prototype design and testing, disease target identification, and pilot work on research tools. The R33 phase supports continued development, larger-scale testing, and data integration, with the goal of positioning the product for preclinical development such as the NHLBI Catalyze Preclinical Program.

Unlike SBIR and STTR, Catalyze is open to for-profit companies of any size as well as universities and nonprofits, and it puts heavy weight on milestones, regulatory planning, and commercialization partners.

What are the key dates and funding amounts?

• Next recommended deadline: February 11, 2027 (5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization)
• Remaining due dates: October 21, 2026, February 11, 2027, June 17, 2027, and October 21, 2027
• Earliest start dates: July 2027 (October 2026 cycle), December 2027 (February 2027 cycle), April 2028 (June 2027 cycle), July 2028 (October 2027 cycle)
• Budget: up to $300,000 in direct costs per year in both the R61 and R33 phases
• Project period: up to 3 years combined, with no more than 2 years in either phase
• NHLBI plans up to $4,466,000 per fiscal year (FY 2026 through FY 2028) for up to 8 new awards per year across this NOFO and its companion NOFOs
• Notice expires December 24, 2027

Who is eligible to apply?

• For-profit organizations, including small businesses and larger companies
• Public and private institutions of higher education
• Nonprofits, with or without 501(c)(3) status
• State, local, and tribal governments, federal agencies, and certain other organizations

Foreign organizations are not eligible, although non-U.S. components of U.S. organizations are allowed. Any individual with the needed skills and resources can serve as PD/PI, and every PD/PI needs an eRA Commons account. An organization may submit multiple applications if each is scientifically distinct.

What does Catalyze Product Definition fund?

Medical devices

R61 work can include key component testing, a first prototype or benchtop unit, in vitro and acute in vivo testing, and small animal studies. R33 work can include system integration, design for manufacturing, performance comparison against gold standard devices, chronic in vivo and large animal testing, and an FDA pre-submission meeting.

Diagnostics and assays

R61 work can include testing with limited human samples, building a working prototype, and incorporating assays onto an existing sensing platform. R33 work can include validation in large sample panels or clinical datasets, sensitivity and precision improvements, and an FDA pre-submission meeting.

Research tools

R61 work can include algorithm design, smartphone interface development, limited user and focus group testing, and pilot feasibility studies. R33 work can include large population testing, EHR integration, extension to iOS or Android, and multi-site studies.

What is out of scope

• Therapeutic agent development (covered by companion NOFOs RFA-HL-26-017 and RFA-HL-26-018)
• Development of risk, detection, diagnostic, prognostic, predictive, and prevention biomarkers
• Clinical research and clinical trials

How does the R61 to R33 transition work?

Applicants propose two separate sets of quantifiable milestones, one for R61 and one for R33. Milestones must be specific, measurable, and time-bound, and every Specific Aim needs at least one. Specific Aims or activity lists alone do not count as milestones.

NHLBI decides whether to fund the R33 phase based on three factors:

• Achievement of the R61 milestones
• Third-party investment, shown by a recommended minimum 0.25:1 non-Federal cash match of R33 Federal direct costs (in-kind contributions do not count toward the match)
• An Accelerator Partner, a commercialization expert who mentors the team on business development, regulatory submissions, IP, reimbursement, and market analysis

Neither the cash match nor the Accelerator Partner is required at application, but the application must explain how a partner would fill development gaps, and NHLBI expects you to secure one early in the R61 phase.

How do you apply?

• Register your organization in SAM.gov, Grants.gov, and eRA Commons well before the deadline
• Contact NHLBI program staff early to confirm your project fits the HLBS scope
• Build R61 and R33 milestone plans and place the project timeline as the last element of the Research Strategy
• Prepare the required "IP and Regulatory Strategies.pdf" attachment covering IP position, patents, third-party IP limits, and your planned FDA pathway (for example 510(k) or IDE). Applications without it will not be peer reviewed.
• Submit through Grants.gov using NIH application forms by 5:00 PM local time on the due date

Reviewers score importance of the research, rigor and feasibility (including whether milestones are measurable and timelines realistic), and expertise and resources. Applications may be triaged, with only the top half discussed.

Is this a fit for your company?

Catalyze Product Definition suits medtech, diagnostics, and digital health companies with a heart, lung, blood, or sleep application, solid preliminary data, and a clear path to an FDA pathway. It is especially useful for companies that are not SBIR eligible or have already used SBIR, because there is no company size limit. The milestone plan, IP and regulatory attachment, and Accelerator Partner strategy are where many applications win or lose.

BW&CO has helped clients secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. Book a free funding fit call and we will tell you whether Catalyze, NIH SBIR, or another program is the strongest route for your technology.

Frequently asked questions

How much funding does NHLBI Catalyze Product Definition provide?

Up to $300,000 in direct costs per year in each of the R61 and R33 phases, over a combined project period of up to 3 years with no more than 2 years in either phase.

When is the next deadline for RFA-HL-26-019?

The remaining due dates are October 21, 2026, February 11, 2027, June 17, 2027, and October 21, 2027, each at 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

Can companies apply, or only universities?

Companies can apply. For-profit organizations of any size, including small businesses, are eligible, along with universities, nonprofits, and government entities. Foreign organizations are not eligible.

Do I need an Accelerator Partner or cost match to apply?

No. Both are needed to transition from R61 to R33, not at application. NHLBI recommends a minimum 0.25:1 non-Federal cash match for the R33 phase and requires an Accelerator Partner before R33 funding.

Does Catalyze fund therapeutics or clinical trials?

No. Therapeutics are covered by companion NOFOs RFA-HL-26-017 and RFA-HL-26-018. Clinical trials, clinical research, and biomarker development are not responsive to this NOFO.

What attachment is required with the application?

An "IP and Regulatory Strategies.pdf" attachment describing your IP position and planned FDA regulatory pathway is required. Applications without it are considered incomplete and will not be peer reviewed.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Leveraging All of Us Biospecimens to Advance Precision Medicine Research

Overview

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is encouraging researchers to analyze biospecimens donated by participants in the All of Us Research Program, one of the most diverse and richly characterized biobanks in existence. About 600,000 participants have provided biospecimens, linked to genomic data, electronic health records, wearables data, surveys, and physical measurements.

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Researchers approved for access to All of Us biospecimens are expected to secure their own funding for sample processing, data generation, analysis, and return of value to participants. More than 20 NIH Institutes, Centers, and Offices participate, so companies with multiomic, biomarker, or AI capabilities can fund this work through the NIH SBIR program.

Key dates and funding

• Next SBIR due dates: January 5, 2027 and April 5, 2027 (5:00 PM local time of your organization)
• Application route: NIH, CDC and FDA Parent SBIR (R43/R44), PA-27-100, Clinical Trial Optional
• Project period: normally up to 6 months for Phase I and up to 2 years for Phase II
• Topic window: NIH lists this Highlighted Topic through September 18, 2028, so it can support more than one submission cycle

Budget guidelines in PA-27-100 vary by participating Institute or Center. Total costs (direct, indirect, and fee) normally stay within these amounts:

• National Cancer Institute (NCI): Phase I $700,000, Phase II $2,500,000
• National Institute on Aging (NIA): Phase I $700,000, Phase II $3,000,000
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Phase I $700,000, Phase II $3,000,000
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS): Phase I $700,000, Phase II $3,000,000
• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): Phase I $700,000, Phase II SBA guideline
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $3,000,000
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $3,000,000
• National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $3,000,000
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $2,500,000
• Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $2,500,000
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $2,500,000
• National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $2,500,000
• National Eye Institute (NEI): Phase I $400,000, Phase II SBA guideline
• National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI): Phase I $400,000, Phase II SBA guideline
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS): SBA guideline for both phases
• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR): SBA guideline for both phases
• National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS): SBA guideline for both phases
• National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD): SBA guideline for both phases
• National Library of Medicine (NLM): SBA guideline for both phases

NIH notes that researchers must have approval to access All of Us biospecimens. Plan for that access step alongside your SBIR timeline.

Who is eligible?

Only United States small business concerns can apply through the NIH Parent SBIR announcement. In plain terms, your company must meet these requirements:

• A for-profit business with a place of business in the United States and no more than 500 employees, including affiliates
• Generally more than 50% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, or by qualifying venture capital, hedge fund, or private equity owners under SBA rules
• The Principal Investigator is primarily employed by the small business at the time of award and for the duration of the project
• No foreign organizations, foreign components, or foreign subawards (unfunded foreign collaborators and foreign consultants are permitted)
• Companies selected for funding submit the SBA foreign affiliations disclosure during the Just-in-Time process

What NIH wants funded

NIH is most interested in broad-scale biomarker and omics analyses that reduce the need for new sample collection and produce datasets other researchers can build on. Possible assays include long-read sequencing, genome-wide methylation profiling, proteomics, metabolomics, immune profiling, and other multiomic analyses.

Genomics, data science, and AI

• NHGRI: long-read sequencing to capture structural variants and repeat expansions missed by short reads, and population-scale multiomic reference datasets
• NLM: informatics and data science tools, including trustworthy and reproducible AI, scalable data integration, and benchmarking frameworks
• NEI: AI and machine learning combining molecular, retinal imaging, and health record data

Disease-focused interests

• NCI: multiomic data on cancer susceptibility and biomarkers for screening, early detection, and treatment response
• NIDDK: biomarkers for diabetes, obesity, liver, GI, and kidney disease, including links to continuous glucose monitoring data
• NIMH, NINDS, and NIA: genomic and molecular discovery in mental illness, neurological disorders, dementia, and aging
• NIAAA and NIDA: biomarkers and molecular endotypes for alcohol and substance use disorders

Environment, lifestyle, and health differences

• NIEHS: exposomics and precision environmental health
• NIMHD: biomarkers linking social, environmental, and wearable data to health outcomes
• NCCIH, NINR, NICHD, NIAMS, NIDCD, NIDCR, and NHLBI: additional mission-specific interests listed on the topic page

How to apply

NIH Highlighted Topics are not funding opportunities on their own. Small businesses apply through the NIH, CDC and FDA Parent SBIR announcement (PA-27-100) and write the application to match the interests of at least one participating Institute or Center. Read the full NIH Highlighted Topic before you start.

• Register early: SAM.gov (which issues your UEI and can take six weeks or more), Grants.gov, eRA Commons (a Signing Official plus a PI account with a linked ORCID iD), and the SBA Company Registry (proof of registration is attached to the application)
• Talk to the program officer: each Institute lists its own scientific contact, NICHD strongly encourages contact before submission, and the All of Us Research Program, ODS, ONR, and ORWH participate but do not award grants
• Check the budget: contact the participating Institute or Center early if you plan to request more than the SBA budget guideline
• Submit electronically: through NIH ASSIST, a system-to-system solution, or Grants.gov Workspace by 5:00 PM local time on January 5, 2027 or April 5, 2027

Is this a fit for your company?

This topic suits companies offering multiomic assays (proteomics, metabolomics, methylation, long-read sequencing), biomarker discovery platforms, and AI or data integration tools that can work at population scale. The strongest applications produce data that goes back into the All of Us Researcher Workbench and supports a clear commercial product, such as a diagnostic panel or analytics platform.

If that sounds like your company, book a free funding fit call with BW&CO. Our team has helped secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding and can tell you quickly whether this topic, and which Institute, is the right target for your January or April submission.

Frequently asked questions

Is the NIH All of Us biospecimens Highlighted Topic a funding opportunity?

No. It is an NIH Highlighted Topic, which signals scientific interest but is not a notice of funding opportunity. Small businesses apply through the NIH Parent SBIR announcement (PA-27-100), with the next due dates on January 5, 2027 and April 5, 2027.

How much NIH SBIR funding is available for All of Us biospecimen research?

It depends on the Institute. Under PA-27-100, NCI, NIA, NIMH, NINDS, and NCCIH allow up to $700,000 for Phase I. NHLBI, NIA, NIDA, NIDCD, NIMH, and NINDS allow up to $3,000,000 for Phase II. Several Institutes, including NIEHS, NIMHD, and NLM, follow the SBA guideline.

Do I need approval to use All of Us biospecimens?

Yes. NIH states that researchers who have approval for access to All of Us biospecimens are expected to secure additional funding for sample processing, data generation, analysis, and return of value to participants.

What kinds of assays does NIH want run on All of Us biospecimens?

Examples include long-read sequencing, genome-wide methylation profiling, proteomics, metabolomics, immune profiling, and other multiomic analyses that produce broadly useful datasets.

Who is eligible to apply through NIH SBIR?

U.S. for-profit small businesses with no more than 500 employees, majority owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents (or qualifying investors under SBA rules), whose Principal Investigator is primarily employed by the company. Foreign organizations and foreign subawards are not allowed.

Can BW&CO help with an NIH SBIR application for this topic?

Yes. BW&CO helps small businesses choose the right NIH Institute, align the Specific Aims with the Highlighted Topic, and build a competitive SBIR application. The firm has helped clients secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. Book a free funding fit call to see if your technology is a match.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Advancing Precision Research for Lung Cancer in Never Smokers and Its Risk Factors

Overview

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is encouraging precision cancer research and technology development for lung cancer in never smokers (LCINS). The goal is to identify risk factors, understand the biology, develop early detection and prevention strategies, and advance diagnosis and therapy.

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LCINS accounts for roughly 10% to 20% of U.S. lung cancers each year and is estimated to be the eighth leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Many patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, and the disease responds differently to therapies, including immunotherapy, than smoking-associated lung cancer. Companies with diagnostic, therapeutic, or AI technology can pursue this through the NIH SBIR program.

Key dates and funding

• Next SBIR due dates: January 5, 2027 and April 5, 2027 (5:00 PM local time of your organization)
• Application route: NIH, CDC and FDA Parent SBIR (R43/R44), PA-27-100, Clinical Trial Optional
• Project period: normally up to 6 months for Phase I and up to 2 years for Phase II
• Topic window: NIH lists this Highlighted Topic through October 4, 2028, so it can support more than one submission cycle

Budget guidelines in PA-27-100 vary by participating Institute or Center. Total costs (direct, indirect, and fee) normally stay within these amounts:

• National Cancer Institute (NCI): Phase I $700,000, Phase II $2,500,000
• National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS): SBA guideline for both phases
• National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD): SBA guideline for both phases

Who is eligible?

Only United States small business concerns can apply through the NIH Parent SBIR announcement. In plain terms, your company must meet these requirements:

• A for-profit business with a place of business in the United States and no more than 500 employees, including affiliates
• Generally more than 50% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, or by qualifying venture capital, hedge fund, or private equity owners under SBA rules
• The Principal Investigator is primarily employed by the small business at the time of award and for the duration of the project
• No foreign organizations, foreign components, or foreign subawards (unfunded foreign collaborators and foreign consultants are permitted)
• Companies selected for funding submit the SBA foreign affiliations disclosure during the Just-in-Time process

Focus areas by NIH Institute

NCI: biology, detection, and precision therapy

• Biological and environmental factors, including sex and ancestry, behind LCINS initiation and progression
• Mechanisms that distinguish LCINS biology from tobacco-associated lung cancer
• Early detection and diagnostic strategies, including biomarker development
• Mechanism-driven interventions such as overcoming therapeutic resistance, targeting rare mutations, cancer vaccines, and immunotherapies
• Human-relevant research models, databases, computational methods and AI, and other emerging technologies

NIEHS: environmental carcinogens

• New Approach Methodologies to identify chemicals and exposures that are potential lung carcinogens
• Early detection based on disease characteristics in patients exposed to known lung carcinogens

NIMHD: disparities

• Interventions to improve risk prediction, early detection biomarkers, imaging, prevention, treatment selection, and guideline-concordant care
• NIMHD may give special consideration to meritorious applications

How to apply

NIH Highlighted Topics are not funding opportunities on their own. Small businesses apply through the NIH, CDC and FDA Parent SBIR announcement (PA-27-100) and write the application to match the interests of at least one participating Institute or Center. Read the full NIH Highlighted Topic before you start.

• Register early: SAM.gov (which issues your UEI and can take six weeks or more), Grants.gov, eRA Commons (a Signing Official plus a PI account with a linked ORCID iD), and the SBA Company Registry (proof of registration is attached to the application)
• Talk to the program officer: the topic lists a central NCI contact plus NIEHS and NIMHD contacts, and ODP also participates but does not award grants
• Check the budget: contact the participating Institute or Center early if you plan to request more than the SBA budget guideline
• Submit electronically: through NIH ASSIST, a system-to-system solution, or Grants.gov Workspace by 5:00 PM local time on January 5, 2027 or April 5, 2027

Is this a fit for your company?

This topic suits companies developing liquid biopsy or other early detection assays, imaging and AI risk prediction tools, targeted therapies, cancer vaccines, or immunotherapies, including approaches to rare mutations and therapeutic resistance, and human-relevant models such as organoids. NCI's $700,000 Phase I guideline makes it the strongest target for most product companies.

If that sounds like your company, book a free funding fit call with BW&CO. Our team has helped secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding and can tell you quickly whether this topic, and which Institute, is the right target for your January or April submission.

Frequently asked questions

Is the NIH lung cancer in never smokers Highlighted Topic a funding opportunity?

No. It is an NIH Highlighted Topic, which signals scientific interest but is not a notice of funding opportunity. Small businesses apply through the NIH Parent SBIR announcement (PA-27-100), with the next due dates on January 5, 2027 and April 5, 2027.

How much NIH SBIR funding is available for lung cancer in never smokers research?

Under PA-27-100, NCI allows up to $700,000 for Phase I and up to $2,500,000 for Phase II. NIEHS and NIMHD follow the SBA guideline.

Which NIH Institutes participate in the lung cancer in never smokers topic?

NCI, NIEHS, and NIMHD are the awarding participants. ODP also participates but does not award grants.

What research does NIH want on lung cancer in never smokers?

Risk factors and biology, early detection and diagnostic biomarkers, precision therapies including immunotherapies and cancer vaccines, environmental carcinogen identification, and human-relevant models, databases, and AI.

Who is eligible to apply through NIH SBIR?

U.S. for-profit small businesses with no more than 500 employees, majority owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents (or qualifying investors under SBA rules), whose Principal Investigator is primarily employed by the company. Foreign organizations and foreign subawards are not allowed.

Can BW&CO help with an NIH SBIR application for this topic?

Yes. BW&CO helps small businesses choose the right NIH Institute, align the Specific Aims with the Highlighted Topic, and build a competitive SBIR application. The firm has helped clients secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. Book a free funding fit call to see if your technology is a match.

NIH Highlighted Topic: Intergenerational Interventions to Promote Health and Reduce Risk for Chronic Disease

Overview

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is encouraging the development, adaptation, and testing of preventive interventions that involve two or more generations. The interaction between generations must be an explicit mechanism of change, supported by a conceptual model with measured mechanisms.

Book a Free Funding Fit Call

NIH is especially interested in populations at elevated risk of chronic disease or with limited access to preventive services. Nine awarding Institutes and Centers participate, which gives small businesses with family-centered digital health or prevention products several possible homes through the NIH SBIR program.

Key dates and funding

• Next SBIR due dates: January 5, 2027 and April 5, 2027 (5:00 PM local time of your organization)
• Application route: NIH, CDC and FDA Parent SBIR (R43/R44), PA-27-100, Clinical Trial Optional
• Project period: normally up to 6 months for Phase I and up to 2 years for Phase II
• Topic window: NIH lists this Highlighted Topic through July 28, 2028, so it can support more than one submission cycle

Budget guidelines in PA-27-100 vary by participating Institute or Center. Total costs (direct, indirect, and fee) normally stay within these amounts:

• National Cancer Institute (NCI): Phase I $700,000, Phase II $2,500,000
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $3,000,000
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Phase I $700,000, Phase II $3,000,000
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $3,000,000
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $2,500,000
• National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR): Phase I $400,000, Phase II $2,500,000
• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): Phase I $700,000, Phase II SBA guideline
• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR): SBA guideline for both phases
• National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD): SBA guideline for both phases

Who is eligible?

Only United States small business concerns can apply through the NIH Parent SBIR announcement. In plain terms, your company must meet these requirements:

• A for-profit business with a place of business in the United States and no more than 500 employees, including affiliates
• Generally more than 50% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, or by qualifying venture capital, hedge fund, or private equity owners under SBA rules
• The Principal Investigator is primarily employed by the small business at the time of award and for the duration of the project
• No foreign organizations, foreign components, or foreign subawards (unfunded foreign collaborators and foreign consultants are permitted)
• Companies selected for funding submit the SBA foreign affiliations disclosure during the Just-in-Time process

What NIH wants funded

Across the topic, interventions should account for correlated outcomes within clusters such as families, nursing homes, or neighborhoods. Institute interests include:

Cardiovascular, cancer, and nutrition prevention

• NHLBI: family-based dietary interventions, digital tools and wearables, family cohorts, and Life's Essential 8
• NCI: cancer preventive behaviors such as diet, exercise, tobacco, alcohol, sun safety, sleep, HPV vaccination, screening, and genetic testing, including families affected by cancer

Mental health, alcohol, and substance use

• NIMH: mental health, neurocognitive function, HIV prevention, social isolation, loneliness, suicide prevention, and perinatal populations
• NIDA: intergenerational substance use risk and family-centered treatment and prevention models, including child welfare and juvenile justice settings
• NIAAA: preventing alcohol misuse and related harms, and parenting in families affected by alcohol misuse or fetal alcohol spectrum disorders

Community, oral health, and integrative approaches

• NINR: chronic disease prevention in community settings such as schools and faith-based organizations, including AI in populations experiencing disparities
• NIDCR: oral, dental, and craniofacial health, including technology-based prevention
• NIMHD: community-engaged and co-designed interventions for physical and mental health
• NCCIH: may give special consideration to meritorious applications

How to apply

NIH Highlighted Topics are not funding opportunities on their own. Small businesses apply through the NIH, CDC and FDA Parent SBIR announcement (PA-27-100) and write the application to match the interests of at least one participating Institute or Center. Read the full NIH Highlighted Topic before you start.

• Register early: SAM.gov (which issues your UEI and can take six weeks or more), Grants.gov, eRA Commons (a Signing Official plus a PI account with a linked ORCID iD), and the SBA Company Registry (proof of registration is attached to the application)
• Talk to the program officer: the topic lists scientific contacts for each Institute, and ODP, OAR, OBSSR, ONR, and THRO also participate but do not award grants
• Check the budget: contact the participating Institute or Center early if you plan to request more than the SBA budget guideline
• Submit electronically: through NIH ASSIST, a system-to-system solution, or Grants.gov Workspace by 5:00 PM local time on January 5, 2027 or April 5, 2027

Is this a fit for your company?

This topic suits companies building family-based digital health programs, caregiver and parent-child apps, wearables or remote monitoring used across generations, or community prevention platforms. The key test is whether your product deliberately uses interaction between generations to change health behavior, and whether you can measure that mechanism.

If that sounds like your company, book a free funding fit call with BW&CO. Our team has helped secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding and can tell you quickly whether this topic, and which Institute, is the right target for your January or April submission.

Frequently asked questions

Is the NIH intergenerational interventions Highlighted Topic a funding opportunity?

No. It is an NIH Highlighted Topic, which signals scientific interest but is not a notice of funding opportunity. Small businesses apply through the NIH Parent SBIR announcement (PA-27-100), with the next due dates on January 5, 2027 and April 5, 2027.

How much NIH SBIR funding is available for intergenerational health interventions?

Budget guidelines in PA-27-100 depend on the Institute. NCI, NIMH, and NCCIH allow up to $700,000 for Phase I, and NHLBI, NIDA, NIAAA, and NINR allow up to $400,000. Phase II guidelines reach $3,000,000 at NHLBI, NIMH, and NIDA. NIDCR and NIMHD follow the SBA guideline.

Which NIH Institutes participate in the intergenerational interventions topic?

Awarding participants are NCI, NHLBI, NIMH, NIDA, NIAAA, NINR, NCCIH, NIDCR, and NIMHD. ODP, OAR, OBSSR, ONR, and THRO also participate but do not award grants.

What makes an intervention intergenerational for this NIH topic?

It must involve two or more generations, and the interaction between generations must be an explicit mechanism of change. NIH expects a conceptual model with measured mechanisms and a design that accounts for correlated outcomes within families or other clusters.

Who is eligible to apply through NIH SBIR?

U.S. for-profit small businesses with no more than 500 employees, majority owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents (or qualifying investors under SBA rules), whose Principal Investigator is primarily employed by the company. Foreign organizations and foreign subawards are not allowed.

Can BW&CO help with an NIH SBIR application for this topic?

Yes. BW&CO helps small businesses choose the right NIH Institute, align the Specific Aims with the Highlighted Topic, and build a competitive SBIR application. The firm has helped clients secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. Book a free funding fit call to see if your technology is a match.

Army SBIR ARM27BX01-DP001: G-TEAD USAREUR-AF ACE 27-02: Spectrum Enabled Warfare Powered by xTech

Quick Answer

ARM27BX01-DP001 is an Army SBIR Direct to Phase II topic in the DoW SBIR 2027 CSO, Release 1, tied to the xTech competition G-TEAD USAREUR-AF ACE 27-02: Spectrum Enabled Warfare. The Army wants electromagnetic spectrum operations solutions for U.S. forces on NATO's Eastern Flank, with awards up to $2,000,000 over 12 to 18 months.

The first deadline is the one that matters: a white paper on xtech.army.mil by October 23, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET. Only competition finalists and final winners can submit a DSIP proposal, in a window from April 19 to May 7, 2027.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: ARM27BX01-DP001
• Title: G-TEAD USAREUR-AF ACE 27-02: Spectrum Enabled Warfare Powered by xTech
• Component: U.S. Army
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 CSO, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Direct to Phase II
• Award ceiling: $2,000,000
• Period of performance: 12 to 18 months
• Entry route: xTech prize competition (finalists and winners only may submit to DSIP)
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Not marked as ITAR restricted on DSIP
• Focus areas: Emerging Threat Reduction
• Keywords: electromagnetic support, autonomous network management, electromagnetic environment visualization, electromagnetic spectrum operations, distributed RF systems
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• xTech white paper deadline: October 23, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET
• DSIP proposal window (finalists and winners only): April 19, 2027 to May 7, 2027
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Army Is Looking For

The Army FUZE program and U.S. Army Europe and Africa are running this Accelerated Capability Event to help V Corps sense, understand, exploit, attack, and protect across a contested electromagnetic environment and connected cyberspace, protecting tactical command and control while delivering non-lethal and lethal effects against adversary C3 and targeting architectures.

Solutions should be modular, coalition interoperable, effective in congested RF, scalable, upgradeable, intuitive for Soldiers across specialties, and maintainable at the tactical edge without routine field service representative support. Selected solutions will be integrated into live USAREUR-AF exercises.

Three demonstration tracks

• Capability 1: Electromagnetic Support and Tactical Surveillance.
• Capability 2: Autonomous Network Management.
• Capability 3: Electromagnetic Environment Visualization and Battle Damage Assessment Tools.
• Full details are in Appendix A of the competition RFI on xtech.army.mil/competitions.

How the Phases Are Structured

There is no Phase I. Finalists and winners submit a Direct to Phase II proposal with justification documentation (technical reports, test data, prototype designs, and performance results) showing scientific and technical merit and feasibility plus military and commercial applications.

Phase II produces Soldier-friendly prototypes for testing and experimentation with select Army units in realistic field conditions, with direct feedback for rapid iteration, plus a draft transition and commercialization plan.

Phase III matures the technology to TRL 8 or 9 and produces prototypes to support scaling and fielding with the Army and commercial pathways.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Direct to Phase II cost limit: $2,000,000.
• Period of performance: 12 to 18 months.
• TABA: the Army may provide up to $50,000 per Direct to Phase II project, in addition to the award limit, if the need is supported.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Only finalists and final winners of the xTech competition may submit a Direct to Phase II proposal. Proposals from anyone else will not be evaluated.
• To be considered at all, you must submit a white paper on the xTech competition site by October 23, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET. xTech applications are not submitted through DSIP.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• October 7, 2026: the xTech application window opens. Read the full competition announcement and Appendix A topic details on xtech.army.mil/competitions.
• October 23, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET: white paper deadline on the xTech site. Firms that miss it cannot compete or submit a DSIP proposal under this topic.
• Finalists and final winners are invited to submit a Direct to Phase II proposal in DSIP between April 19, 2027 and May 7, 2027, with justification documents showing scientific and technical merit and feasibility.
• Keep SAM.gov and DSIP registrations current so you are ready if you advance.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

EW, RF sensing, spectrum management, and network autonomy companies with demonstrable hardware or software fit this competition. The white paper is short and due in a few weeks, so the decision to compete should be made now.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Army SBIR topic ARM27BX01-DP001?

It is an Army SBIR Direct to Phase II topic in the DoW SBIR 2027 CSO, Release 1, tied to the xTech competition G-TEAD USAREUR-AF ACE 27-02: Spectrum Enabled Warfare, seeking electromagnetic spectrum operations solutions.

How do I apply?

Submit a white paper through the xTech competition site at xtech.army.mil/competitions by October 23, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET. xTech applications are not submitted through DSIP.

Who can submit a DSIP proposal?

Only finalists and final winners of the xTech competition. Proposals from anyone else will not be evaluated.

How much funding is available?

Up to $2,000,000 for a 12 to 18 month Direct to Phase II, plus possible TABA of up to $50,000. Participants can also earn xTech prize money.

When is the DSIP window?

The DSIP proposal window for finalists and winners runs from April 19, 2027 to May 7, 2027.

What capability tracks are included?

Electromagnetic Support and Tactical Surveillance, Autonomous Network Management, and Electromagnetic Environment Visualization and Battle Damage Assessment Tools.

OSW SBIR OSW27BZ01-NV001: Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems Rapid Maturation

Quick Answer

OSW27BZ01-NV001 is an Office of the Secretary of War SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for counter-UAS technology that detects, tracks, identifies, or defeats small, low-flying Group 1 and Group 2 drones in hostile or contested areas. Phase I awards are up to $300,000 over 6 months with no priced option, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

The technical volume is only 2 pages on a required template, and cost is not an evaluation criterion. The same scope is offered as a Direct to Phase II under OSW27BZ01-DV002.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: OSW27BZ01-NV001
• Title: Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems Rapid Maturation
• Component: Office of the Secretary of War (OSW)
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $300,000
• Period of performance: 6 months
• Technical volume limit: 2 pages
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Restricted under ITAR (22 CFR 120-130) or EAR (15 CFR 730-774). Foreign national participation must be disclosed and may be restricted.
• Focus areas: Advanced Manufacturing; Integrated Network Systems-of-Systems; Integrated Sensing and Cyber; Trusted AI and Autonomy
• Keywords: counter-UAS, C-sUAS, Group 1 UAS, Group 2 UAS, autonomous threat detection, edge AI, multi-sensor fusion, denied environment
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What OSW Is Looking For

Cheap, maneuverable commercial drones threaten tactical forces, critical infrastructure, and installations, and current defenses are limited by cost, operator attention, and vulnerability to countermeasures. OSW wants mature or maturing technology anywhere in the counter-UAS kill chain against Group 1 and Group 2 UAS.

Three example areas are listed, and a proposal can address one, several, or a gap not listed. Detection and tracking: hold track on agile targets in cluttered low-altitude airspace with a modality you choose, preferably when the target is not emitting; fixed-site or mains-powered solutions are out of scope, since the system must move with the force. Identification and decision support: classify and identify unauthorized platforms on tactical computing carried or emplaced with the force, with a pathway to existing command and control. Mitigation and defeat: kinetic, non-kinetic, or cyber defeat in remote theaters and dense urban areas, with collateral effects addressed.

Four operating preferences every proposal must address

• (a) The system does not require the target to emit RF. Passive RF can be part of a solution, but track should hold when the target is silent.
• (b) The system does not radiate. Kinetic and cyber defeat are favored. Jamming, active illumination, and transmitting into a target's links are in scope but must be declared with their operational effect.
• (c) The system does not require cloud services or reachback and keeps working with all external network interfaces disabled.
• (d) The system does not require a dedicated operator whose only task is attending it. Human judgment over use of force is still expected.
• Out of scope: work requiring classified access or a facility clearance at award, and approaches that depend on cooperative identification such as Remote ID.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I determines technical, scientific, and commercial feasibility. Work may include a concept architecture, modeling critical software, or bench testing key hardware. Deliverables are a feasibility study, a technical report, and an initial system design package showing the path to a prototype. The report must state test conditions, dates, target or surrogate, and measured results, and where the approach stands on each operating preference.

Phase II follow-on depends on future-year funds and will be considered among Phase I awardees. It is scoped to 12 months to reach TRL 6 and a transition decision, and a Government showcase may be held about six months after award.

Phase III commercial markets are deploy-with-a-team uses: temporary airspace security for events, venues, construction, and energy sites; convoy and executive protection; wildfire, disaster, and infrastructure response; and mobile detection kits for law enforcement and allies. Defeat authority in the United States is limited by statute to covered federal entities, so defeat-focused proposals are not expected to show a near-term domestic market for that function. Military uses include point defense for tactical units, forward operating bases, and naval vessels.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I award maximum: $300,000, with no priced option.
• Maximum Phase I period of performance: 6 months.
• Cost is not an evaluation criterion under this topic.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 2 pages, prepared on the required OSW Phase I Technical Volume Template. Anything past two pages is not evaluated.
• TABA: Phase I awardees may request up to $6,500, in addition to the Phase I ceiling.
• Phase II follow-on depends on future-year funds and will be considered among Phase I awardees.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• The feasibility you rely on may not rest solely on prior or ongoing federally funded SBIR or STTR work, must have been substantially performed by your firm or principal investigator, and you must own or license the related IP before submission.
• Work requiring classified access or a facility clearance at the time of award is out of scope.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

This is a good entry point for early counter-UAS teams with a credible approach and some bench or field data, particularly passive sensing, edge AI classification, or low-collateral defeat concepts. Writing a compelling 2 page volume takes discipline, so plan your argument around the evaluation rubric.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is OSW SBIR topic OSW27BZ01-NV001?

It is an Office of the Secretary of War SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for counter-UAS technologies that detect, track, identify, or defeat Group 1 and Group 2 drones in contested areas.

How much funding is available?

Up to $300,000 for Phase I with a maximum 6 month period of performance and no priced option. Up to $6,500 in TABA may be requested.

How long is the technical volume?

Two pages, prepared on the required OSW Phase I Technical Volume Template. Pages beyond two are not evaluated.

Is cost evaluated?

No. Cost is not an evaluation criterion under this topic.

Is there a Direct to Phase II option?

Yes. OSW27BZ01-DV002 offers the same scope as a Direct to Phase II of up to $2,000,000 over 12 months for firms with documented test evidence.

When is the deadline?

The topic opens October 28, 2026 and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

OSW SBIR OSW27BZ01-DV002: Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems Rapid Maturation

Quick Answer

OSW27BZ01-DV002 is an Office of the Secretary of War SBIR Direct to Phase II topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 to rapidly mature commercial and dual-use counter-UAS technology that detects, tracks, identifies, or defeats small, low-flying Group 1 and Group 2 drones in contested areas. Awards are up to $2,000,000 over a compressed 12 month period of performance, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

The format is unusually tight: a 5 page technical volume on a required template plus 5 pages of feasibility evidence, which must include a documented test. A companion Phase I topic, OSW27BZ01-NV001, covers less mature approaches.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: OSW27BZ01-DV002
• Title: Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems Rapid Maturation
• Component: Office of the Secretary of War (OSW)
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Direct to Phase II
• Award ceiling: $2,000,000
• Period of performance: 12 months
• Technical volume limit: 5 pages
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Restricted under ITAR (22 CFR 120-130) or EAR (15 CFR 730-774). Foreign national participation must be disclosed and may be restricted.
• Focus areas: Advanced Manufacturing; Integrated Network Systems-of-Systems; Integrated Sensing and Cyber; Trusted AI and Autonomy
• Keywords: counter-UAS, C-sUAS, Group 1 UAS, Group 2 UAS, autonomous threat detection, edge AI, multi-sensor fusion, denied environment
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What OSW Is Looking For

Cheap, maneuverable commercial drones threaten tactical forces, critical infrastructure, and installations, and current defenses are limited by cost, operator attention, and vulnerability to countermeasures. OSW wants mature or maturing technology anywhere in the counter-UAS kill chain against Group 1 and Group 2 UAS.

Three example areas are listed, and a proposal can address one, several, or a gap not listed. Detection and tracking: hold track on agile targets in cluttered low-altitude airspace with a modality you choose, preferably when the target is not emitting; fixed-site or mains-powered solutions are out of scope, since the system must move with the force. Identification and decision support: classify and identify unauthorized platforms on tactical computing carried or emplaced with the force, with a pathway to existing command and control. Mitigation and defeat: kinetic, non-kinetic, or cyber defeat in remote theaters and dense urban areas, with collateral effects addressed.

Four operating preferences every proposal must address

• (a) The system does not require the target to emit RF. Passive RF can be part of a solution, but track should hold when the target is silent.
• (b) The system does not radiate. Kinetic and cyber defeat are favored. Jamming, active illumination, and transmitting into a target's links are in scope but must be declared with their operational effect.
• (c) The system does not require cloud services or reachback and keeps working with all external network interfaces disabled.
• (d) The system does not require a dedicated operator whose only task is attending it. Human judgment over use of force is still expected.
• Out of scope: work requiring classified access or a facility clearance at award, and approaches that depend on cooperative identification such as Remote ID.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I is skipped. You must show Phase I equivalent feasibility achieved outside SBIR/STTR, with a written record of at least one test stating conditions, dates, target or surrogate, measured result, and how it was measured. Test data, technical reports, and third-party evaluations count. A design alone or a self-declared TRL does not. Direct to Phase II proposals first go through a feasibility determination using the Volume 5 evidence, and only those that pass are evaluated further.

Phase II refines the approach into an operational prototype ready for test and evaluation in a militarily relevant or simulated field environment, reaching TRL 6 in 12 months so the capability can reach a transition decision within a year. Budget for your own test authority, range access, spectrum authorization, threat surrogates, and facilities. A Government showcase may be held about six months after award, by invitation based on end user interest, but every performer must provide operational evidence to support follow-on funding.

Phase III commercial markets are deploy-with-a-team uses: temporary airspace security for events, venues, construction, and energy sites; convoy and executive protection; wildfire, disaster, and infrastructure response; and mobile detection kits for law enforcement and allies. Defeat authority in the United States is limited by statute to covered federal entities, so defeat-focused proposals are not expected to show a near-term domestic market for that function. Military uses include point defense for tactical units, forward operating bases, and naval vessels.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Direct to Phase II award maximum: $2,000,000.
• Period of performance: 12 months, not the 24 months the BAA otherwise allows.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 5 pages on the required Direct to Phase II template. Feasibility documentation goes in Volume 5, also limited to 5 pages.
• TABA: Phase II awardees may request up to $50,000 per project, in addition to the award ceiling.
• The Government may host a showcase about six months after award, by invitation based on end user interest.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• You must show Phase I equivalent feasibility achieved outside SBIR/STTR: a written record of at least one test with conditions, dates, target or surrogate, measured result, and measurement method. A design alone or a self-declared TRL is not enough.
• You must own or license the associated IP before proposal submission.
• Work requiring classified access or a facility clearance at award is out of scope.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Counter-UAS companies with fielded or field-tested hardware and documented test results fit this topic. If your test evidence is thin, the Phase I companion topic OSW27BZ01-NV001 may be a better use of this cycle.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is OSW SBIR topic OSW27BZ01-DV002?

It is an Office of the Secretary of War SBIR Direct to Phase II topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 to mature counter-UAS technologies that detect, track, identify, or defeat Group 1 and Group 2 drones in contested areas.

How much funding is available?

Up to $2,000,000 with a 12 month period of performance. Phase II awardees may also request up to $50,000 in TABA.

What counts as feasibility?

A written record of at least one test of your approach with conditions, dates, target or surrogate, measured result, and measurement method. A system design alone or a self-declared TRL is not sufficient.

How long is the proposal?

The technical volume is limited to 5 pages on the required template, and the feasibility documentation in Volume 5 is also limited to 5 pages.

What are the operating preferences?

No requirement for the target to emit RF, no friendly emissions, no cloud or reachback dependence, and no dedicated operator. They are preferences, not eligibility rules, but every proposal must say where it stands on each.

When is the deadline?

The topic opens October 28, 2026 and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

Navy SBIR DON27BZ01-NV005: Intermediate Temperature Cooling Unit

Quick Answer

DON27BZ01-NV005 is a Navy SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a compact cooling unit (chiller, pump, piping, instrumentation, and controls) that supplies about 65 F water to cool DDG 51 electronics more efficiently than the ship's 42 F chilled water system. Phase I is up to $315,000 including the option, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

There are no Navy-qualified intermediate temperature chillers today. The Navy estimates about 200 refrigeration tons of load could move to an intermediate loop.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DON27BZ01-NV005
• Title: Intermediate Temperature Cooling Unit
• Component: Department of the Navy
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $315,000
• Period of performance: 6 month base plus 6 month option
• Technical volume limit: 10 pages
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Not marked as ITAR restricted on DSIP
• Focus areas: Sustainment and Logistics
• Keywords: electronic cooling water, energy efficiency, chiller, HVAC, thermal management
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Navy Is Looking For

DDG 51 destroyers are approaching their power and cooling limits. Running all electronics on 42 F chilled water consumes significant power and causes condensation that can create electrical hazards. Equipment that tolerates warmer water could be served by a more efficient intermediate loop, preserving margin for future upgrades.

The unit must have a small footprint, meet Navy shock, noise, vibration, EMI, reliability, and maintainability standards, and be galvanically compatible with copper-nickel piping. Cooling mediums may include water, seawater, or glycol mixes. Proposers define cooling capacity, efficiency, power draw, output pressure and flow, and not-to-exceed dimensions.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I develops a concept and shows it can meet Navy needs and become a useful product. The Option covers initial prototype design specifications.

Phase II delivers a prototype, demonstrates capacity, efficiency, power draw, pressure, and flow, participates in extended testing at a maritime facility, and prepares a manufacturing and development plan.

Phase III supports Navy transition with installation and maintenance manuals. Commercial markets include maritime, industrial facility cooling, and data centers.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I Base: up to $200,000 over 6 months.
• Phase I Option: up to $115,000 over 6 months, so the Phase I total is up to $315,000. Base and Option costs must be separated in Volume 3.
• Phase II: up to $2,000,000 including all options and TABA, with structure provided to Phase I awardees.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 10 pages, 10-point minimum font, and the Option tasks must be inside the 10 pages.
• TABA: up to $6,500 for Phase I, in addition to the Phase I amount. Cost sharing is not accepted on Navy Phase I proposals.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Your firm must perform at least two-thirds of the work in both the Phase I Base and the Option. The Navy does not accept deviations from this rule for Phase I.
• Firms more than 50 percent owned by multiple venture capital operating companies, hedge funds, or private equity firms are eligible to propose to Navy topics.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

HVAC and chiller manufacturers, marine thermal management firms, and data center cooling companies looking for a defense entry point fit well. Experience with shock-qualified or naval equipment is a plus.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Navy SBIR topic DON27BZ01-NV005?

DON27BZ01-NV005 is a Navy SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a compact intermediate temperature cooling unit supplying about 65 F water to cool DDG 51 shipboard electronics.

How much funding is available?

Phase I has a Base of up to $200,000 over 6 months and an Option of up to $115,000 over 6 months, for up to $315,000 total. Phase II can be up to $2,000,000 including options and TABA.

When is the deadline?

The topic pre-released October 7, 2026, opens October 28, 2026, and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

How long can the technical volume be?

Navy Phase I technical volumes are limited to 10 pages, with a 10-point minimum font, and the Phase I Option tasks must fit inside those 10 pages.

Why an intermediate temperature?

Running warmer water than the 42 F chilled water system uses less energy, reduces condensation hazards, and preserves power and cooling margin for future DDG 51 upgrades.

Can I talk to the topic author?

Yes, during pre-release only, from October 7 until the topic opens on October 28, 2026. After that, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A.

Navy SBIR DON27BZ01-NV004: Input-Output Unit (IOU) for Secure Processing and Routing of Hull, Mechanical, & Electrical (HM&E) and Navigation Signals

Quick Answer

DON27BZ01-NV004 is a Navy SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for an IP54-rated Input-Output Unit (IOU) that interfaces legacy and modern shipboard equipment and routes steering, machinery control, damage control, alarm, synchro, and navigation signals over redundant Ethernet. Phase I is up to $315,000 including the option, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

The Navy wants a simpler, more open and modular design built from commercially available components to cut lifecycle cost and end reliance on proprietary legacy hardware.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DON27BZ01-NV004
• Title: Input-Output Unit (IOU) for Secure Processing and Routing of Hull, Mechanical, & Electrical (HM&E) and Navigation Signals
• Component: Department of the Navy
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $315,000
• Period of performance: 6 month base plus 6 month option
• Technical volume limit: 10 pages
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Restricted under ITAR (22 CFR 120-130) or EAR (15 CFR 730-774). Foreign national participation must be disclosed and may be restricted.
• Focus areas: Integrated Network Systems-of-Systems; Microelectronics; Sustainment and Logistics
• Keywords: Ethernet networks, input output unit, Parallel Redundancy Protocol, PRP, dust-protected, water splash-resistant
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Navy Is Looking For

IOUs are used on all DDG 51 ships, LHA(R) ships, Aegis Ashore, and Foreign Military Sales cases to translate non-Ethernet traffic such as synchro and serial data for Ethernet users. The Navy's move from Halon to water mist fire suppression makes splash resistance essential, and today's many circuit card types complicate support.

The base technology exists in industry. The topic asks you to integrate it into one product.

Selected requirements

• IEC 60529 IP54 enclosure with adequate internal cooling, RoHS compliant, and 50 percent spare capacity for growth.
• Interfaces: RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, NTDS-E, fiber and Cat 5 Ethernet (unicast, multicast), analog synchro (60 and 400 Hz), and analog AC and DC voltage, with triaxial, 42-pin, 92-pin, and fiber connectors.
• Maximum 188 lb and 17 x 26 x 27 inches, mountable from rear or bottom.
• Dual 120V 60Hz power, under 600 W fully loaded, MIL-STD-1399-300 Type I and II, MIL-STD-461 EMI/EMC, restart within 30 seconds after power restoration.
• MIL-STD-810, MIL-DTL-901, MIL-STD-167, and MIL-HDBK-2164 environmental compliance; MTBF above 10,000 hours for all components.
• IPv4, IPv6, IP multicast, and Parallel Redundancy Protocol (IEC 62439-3); repair possible while energized.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I develops a concept that meets the requirements and demonstrates its efficacy through modeling, simulation, and supporting documentation. The Option covers initial prototype design specifications.

Phase II builds, tests, and delivers a prototype for a network lab to verify continuity and throughput of all signal types with legacy connections, including cooling under sustained heavy load and IP54 verification per IEC 60529 and MIL-STD-1399.

Phase III supports fleet-wide transition, with commercial uses in maritime systems, offshore extraction, and industrial networks.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I Base: up to $200,000 over 6 months.
• Phase I Option: up to $115,000 over 6 months, so the Phase I total is up to $315,000. Base and Option costs must be separated in Volume 3.
• Phase II: up to $2,000,000 including all options and TABA, with structure provided to Phase I awardees.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 10 pages, 10-point minimum font, and the Option tasks must be inside the 10 pages.
• TABA: up to $6,500 for Phase I, in addition to the Phase I amount. Cost sharing is not accepted on Navy Phase I proposals.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Your firm must perform at least two-thirds of the work in both the Phase I Base and the Option. The Navy does not accept deviations from this rule for Phase I.
• Firms more than 50 percent owned by multiple venture capital operating companies, hedge funds, or private equity firms are eligible to propose to Navy topics.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Rugged industrial networking, shipboard electronics, and protocol gateway companies are the right fit. Firms with MIL-STD-901 and 461 test experience will move faster. Plan for the ITAR restriction.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Navy SBIR topic DON27BZ01-NV004?

DON27BZ01-NV004 is a Navy SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a dust-protected, splash-resistant Input-Output Unit that processes and routes hull, mechanical, electrical, and navigation signals on Navy ships.

How much funding is available?

Phase I has a Base of up to $200,000 over 6 months and an Option of up to $115,000 over 6 months, for up to $315,000 total. Phase II can be up to $2,000,000 including options and TABA.

When is the deadline?

The topic pre-released October 7, 2026, opens October 28, 2026, and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

How long can the technical volume be?

Navy Phase I technical volumes are limited to 10 pages, with a 10-point minimum font, and the Phase I Option tasks must fit inside those 10 pages.

Is this topic export controlled?

Yes. It is restricted under ITAR or EAR, and foreign national participation must be disclosed and may be restricted.

Can I talk to the topic author?

Yes, during pre-release only, from October 7 until the topic opens on October 28, 2026. After that, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A.

Navy SBIR DON27BZ01-NV003: Improved Cargo Door Actuator

Quick Answer

DON27BZ01-NV003 is a Navy SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for an improved, corrosion-resistant actuator for the roughly 2,500 pound cargo doors on DDG 51 destroyers. Phase I is up to $315,000 including the option, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Saltwater spray routinely corrodes current actuators to failure, forcing crews to hand-carry cargo in port. The new design should be close to a form and fit replacement and must never allow a sudden door closure.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DON27BZ01-NV003
• Title: Improved Cargo Door Actuator
• Component: Department of the Navy
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $315,000
• Period of performance: 6 month base plus 6 month option
• Technical volume limit: 10 pages
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Not marked as ITAR restricted on DSIP
• Focus areas: Advanced Materials; Sustainment and Logistics
• Keywords: nanocoatings, saltwater corrosion, corrosion resistant materials, actuator, reliability and maintainability
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Navy Is Looking For

The Navy needs an actuator that withstands saltwater, marine fuel, and chemicals; is as close as possible to a form and fit replacement; is cost effective on a life-cycle basis; holds heavy doors open for long periods without failure; and is easy for sailors to repair or replace.

The Navy notes that corrosion-resistant steels and Inconel alloys exist but are often cost-prohibitive or unproven for Navy use, and nanomaterials can improve corrosion resistance but may lack needed mechanical properties. Design improvements are also welcome.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I develops a concept and demonstrates feasibility against corrosion resistance, mechanical performance, form, fit, function, maintainability, and life-cycle cost through small-scale test, modeling, or simulation. The Option covers initial prototype design specifications.

Phase II delivers a prototype actuator, demonstrates performance, completes an extended maritime environment test, and prepares a manufacturing and development plan.

Phase III supports fleet transition with installation, maintenance, and operations manuals. Commercial markets include shipping, offshore extraction, and industrial processes.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I Base: up to $200,000 over 6 months.
• Phase I Option: up to $115,000 over 6 months, so the Phase I total is up to $315,000. Base and Option costs must be separated in Volume 3.
• Phase II: up to $2,000,000 including all options and TABA, with structure provided to Phase I awardees.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 10 pages, 10-point minimum font, and the Option tasks must be inside the 10 pages.
• TABA: up to $6,500 for Phase I, in addition to the Phase I amount. Cost sharing is not accepted on Navy Phase I proposals.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Your firm must perform at least two-thirds of the work in both the Phase I Base and the Option. The Navy does not accept deviations from this rule for Phase I.
• Firms more than 50 percent owned by multiple venture capital operating companies, hedge funds, or private equity firms are eligible to propose to Navy topics.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Actuator, hydraulic, and motion control manufacturers with marine products, and corrosion engineering or coatings companies willing to team with one, are the strongest fits.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Navy SBIR topic DON27BZ01-NV003?

DON27BZ01-NV003 is a Navy SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for an improved, corrosion-resistant cargo door actuator for DDG 51 class destroyers.

How much funding is available?

Phase I has a Base of up to $200,000 over 6 months and an Option of up to $115,000 over 6 months, for up to $315,000 total. Phase II can be up to $2,000,000 including options and TABA.

When is the deadline?

The topic pre-released October 7, 2026, opens October 28, 2026, and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

How long can the technical volume be?

Navy Phase I technical volumes are limited to 10 pages, with a 10-point minimum font, and the Phase I Option tasks must fit inside those 10 pages.

What are the key design constraints?

Corrosion resistance to saltwater, fuel, and chemicals; near form and fit replacement; life-cycle cost effectiveness; the strength to hold roughly 2,500 pound doors open for long periods with no sudden closure; and easy maintenance.

Can I talk to the topic author?

Yes, during pre-release only, from October 7 until the topic opens on October 28, 2026. After that, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A.

Navy SBIR DON27BZ01-NV002: Fire Resistant Joiner Bulkhead

Quick Answer

DON27BZ01-NV002 is a Navy SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a more fire-resistant joiner bulkhead that improves compartment-level fire containment on ships without adding significant weight, width, or installation cost. Phase I is up to $315,000 including the option, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

The bulkhead must meet AN-30 class shock and fire performance per MIL-STD-3020 and pass Navy Fire, Smoke, and Toxicity testing per MIL-STD-1623.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DON27BZ01-NV002
• Title: Fire Resistant Joiner Bulkhead
• Component: Department of the Navy
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $315,000
• Period of performance: 6 month base plus 6 month option
• Technical volume limit: 10 pages
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Not marked as ITAR restricted on DSIP
• Focus areas: Advanced Materials; Sustainment and Logistics
• Keywords: fire safety, intumescent coatings, bio-composites, bulkhead fire containment, fire protection, high-performance fibers
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Navy Is Looking For

Recent and historical ship fires (the topic cites USS Oscar Austin, USS Conyngham, USS Stark, and the cruise ship Star Princess) spread through joiner bulkheads. Better panels would let damage control teams contain fires before they threaten the ship and crew.

Constraints matter as much as performance: no significant weight increase given how many panels a ship carries, little added width in tight destroyer spaces, and no expensive edge treatments since panels are often cut to fit at the shipyard.

The Navy points to intumescent coatings, nanomaterial-enhanced thermal coatings, and high-performance fibers, and is also open to bio-composites and bio-polymers with lower toxicity.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I develops a concept, shows it can meet the requirements, and establishes feasibility of the material or system through small-scale testing. The Option, if exercised, covers initial design specifications for a Phase II prototype.

Phase II delivers a prototype bulkhead for evaluation, demonstrates performance over the required parameters, completes an extended land-based evaluation, and prepares a manufacturing and development plan with connection detail drawings.

Phase III supports Navy transition with installation and maintenance manuals. Commercial markets include shipping, construction, aerospace, and automotive.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I Base: up to $200,000 over 6 months.
• Phase I Option: up to $115,000 over 6 months, so the Phase I total is up to $315,000. Base and Option costs must be separated in Volume 3.
• Phase II: up to $2,000,000 including all options and TABA, with structure provided to Phase I awardees.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 10 pages, 10-point minimum font, and the Option tasks must be inside the 10 pages.
• TABA: up to $6,500 for Phase I, in addition to the Phase I amount. Cost sharing is not accepted on Navy Phase I proposals.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Your firm must perform at least two-thirds of the work in both the Phase I Base and the Option. The Navy does not accept deviations from this rule for Phase I.
• Firms more than 50 percent owned by multiple venture capital operating companies, hedge funds, or private equity firms are eligible to propose to Navy topics.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Fire-resistant materials, coatings, and composite panel manufacturers are the right audience. Firms that already test to marine or aerospace fire, smoke, and toxicity standards will have the easiest feasibility story.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Navy SBIR topic DON27BZ01-NV002?

DON27BZ01-NV002 is a Navy SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a fire-resistant joiner bulkhead that improves compartment-level fire containment while meeting Navy limits on weight, fit, cost, and fire, smoke, and toxicity.

How much funding is available?

Phase I has a Base of up to $200,000 over 6 months and an Option of up to $115,000 over 6 months, for up to $315,000 total. Phase II can be up to $2,000,000 including options and TABA.

When is the deadline?

The topic pre-released October 7, 2026, opens October 28, 2026, and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

How long can the technical volume be?

Navy Phase I technical volumes are limited to 10 pages, with a 10-point minimum font, and the Phase I Option tasks must fit inside those 10 pages.

What standards must the bulkhead meet?

It must meet or exceed AN-30 class shock and fire certification per MIL-STD-3020 and pass Navy Fire, Smoke, Toxicity testing per MIL-STD-1623.

Can I talk to the topic author?

Yes, during pre-release only, from October 7 until the topic opens on October 28, 2026. After that, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A.

Navy SBIR DON27BZ01-NV001: Cleaner for the Time Domain Reflectometer Tank Level Indicator

Quick Answer

DON27BZ01-NV001 is a Navy SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a technology that cleans, and ideally reverses, fouling on Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR) Tank Level Indicator (TLI) sensors in place inside compensated fuel tanks on DDG 51 destroyers, without depressurizing, defueling, or dewatering. Phase I is up to $315,000 including the option, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

One application should restore full operability for 36 months (objective) and no less than 8 months (threshold).

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DON27BZ01-NV001
• Title: Cleaner for the Time Domain Reflectometer Tank Level Indicator
• Component: Department of the Navy
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $315,000
• Period of performance: 6 month base plus 6 month option
• Technical volume limit: 10 pages
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Not marked as ITAR restricted on DSIP
• Focus areas: Sustainment and Logistics
• Keywords: time domain reflectometry, tank level indicator, fuel fouling, TDR rods and tubes, compensated fuel tanks, crystallization
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Navy Is Looking For

Crystallization and contaminants on TDR rods and tubes cause false readings, electrical shorts, and fuel tracking errors that affect ship stability and have contributed to fuel spills. Today's fix takes tanks offline, removes fuel and compensating seawater, and pulls sensors for manual cleaning, which is costly, rarely feasible underway, and can cause miscalibration on reinstallation.

The DDG 51 Program Office treats this as a high priority. The Navy wants a product that cleans the entire TDR assembly, works with the existing sensor architecture, and can be used on in-service ships while underway.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I develops a concept to clean a fouled TDR TLI in situ in a compensated fuel tank, explains how it would be employed underway, and establishes feasibility through small-scale testing, analysis, or modeling. The Option, if exercised, covers initial design specifications for a Phase II prototype.

Phase II builds and demonstrates a prototype that returns a fouled TDR TLI to full operability in a simulated confined space without emptying the tank or causing spills, minimizes personnel tank access, identifies the Navy testing needed for shipboard certification, and delivers a transition plan.

Phase III supports fleet-wide transition with equipment, training, and logistics documentation, with likely extension to LHD 1 and LHA 6 classes and commercial fuel tank farms.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I Base: up to $200,000 over 6 months.
• Phase I Option: up to $115,000 over 6 months, so the Phase I total is up to $315,000. Base and Option costs must be separated in Volume 3.
• Phase II: up to $2,000,000 including all options and TABA, with structure provided to Phase I awardees.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 10 pages, 10-point minimum font, and the Option tasks must be inside the 10 pages.
• TABA: up to $6,500 for Phase I, in addition to the Phase I amount. Cost sharing is not accepted on Navy Phase I proposals.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Your firm must perform at least two-thirds of the work in both the Phase I Base and the Option. The Navy does not accept deviations from this rule for Phase I.
• Firms more than 50 percent owned by multiple venture capital operating companies, hedge funds, or private equity firms are eligible to propose to Navy topics.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Industrial cleaning chemistry, ultrasonic or in-line cleaning tool makers, and fuel system maintenance companies are the natural fit. Experience with sensor maintenance in fuel or marine environments will help your feasibility case.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Navy SBIR topic DON27BZ01-NV001?

DON27BZ01-NV001 is a Navy SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 to clean fouled Time Domain Reflectometer tank level indicator sensors in place inside compensated fuel tanks on DDG 51 class destroyers.

How much funding is available?

Phase I has a Base of up to $200,000 over 6 months and an Option of up to $115,000 over 6 months, for up to $315,000 total. Phase II can be up to $2,000,000 including options and TABA.

When is the deadline?

The topic pre-released October 7, 2026, opens October 28, 2026, and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

How long can the technical volume be?

Navy Phase I technical volumes are limited to 10 pages, with a 10-point minimum font, and the Phase I Option tasks must fit inside those 10 pages.

How long must one cleaning last?

The technology must restore full TDR TLI operability for an objective of 36 months and a threshold of no less than 8 months from a single application.

Can I talk to the topic author?

Yes, during pre-release only, from October 7 until the topic opens on October 28, 2026. After that, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A.

Navy SBIR DON27BX01-NP001: ONR Open Topic for Low-Cost Heads Up Displays (HUDs) for Virtual & Augmented Reality (VR/AR)

Quick Answer

DON27BX01-NP001 is an Office of Naval Research SBIR Phase I open topic in the DoW SBIR 2027 Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO), Release 1, for low-cost, domestically sourced, NDAA-compliant heads-up displays (HUDs) with on-board 6 degrees of freedom (6DOF) tracking for Navy and Marine Corps users. Phase I is up to $315,000 ($200,000 base plus $115,000 option), closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

ONR wants existing hardware: demonstration platforms, prototypes, and commercial products for first-person view (FPV) drone pilots and AR for Forward Observers and Joint Terminal Air Controllers.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DON27BX01-NP001
• Title: ONR Open Topic for Low-Cost Heads Up Displays (HUDs) for Virtual & Augmented Reality (VR/AR)
• Component: Department of the Navy (Office of Naval Research)
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 CSO, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $315,000
• Period of performance: 6 month base plus 6 month option
• Technical volume limit: 10 pages
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Not marked as ITAR restricted on DSIP
• Focus areas: Human-Machine Interfaces; Integrated Sensing and Cyber
• Keywords: heads up display, augmented reality, human-machine interface, first person drone, virtual reality, mixed reality
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Office of Naval Research Is Looking For

The Navy and USMC have gaps in affordable, NDAA-compliant HUDs. ONR will give Phase I awardees operational context and technical thresholds, assess technologies against them, and provide feedback to align with warfighting needs.

Your existing hardware should meet one or both areas

• A HUD for FPV pilot operations with integrated display, signal inputs, and mounting locations for organic FPV equipment such as antennas, transmitters, and power supplies.
• An integrated HUD with native 6DOF tracking using on-board sensors (cameras, IMUs, magnetometers), compute, and battery power.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I describes your existing technology, the Navy system it would improve or replace, expected improvements, and a transition approach to both the Navy and commercial markets. Deliverables are a kick-off brief at 15 days, progress report at 90 days, and a final report, quad chart, and Initial Phase II proposal at 180 days. The Option, if exercised, covers initial design specifications for a Phase II prototype.

Phase II is open to all Phase I awardees through an Initial Phase II proposal, evaluated on the same criteria as Phase I. It generally includes a functional prototype, a transition plan covering production, fielding, logistics, and safety, and further commercialization.

Phase III supports incorporating low-cost HUDs into USMC Fires programs of record for Forward Observers, JTACs, and FPV drone attack operators.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I Base: up to $200,000 over 6 months.
• Phase I Option: up to $115,000 over 6 months, for a Phase I total of up to $315,000 (less TABA).
• Phase II: up to $2,000,000 including all options and TABA. All Phase I awardees may submit an Initial Phase II proposal.
• Navy instructions state awards under this CSO are executed as Other Transaction (OT) agreements.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 10 pages, with the Option tasks inside the 10 pages. TABA of up to $6,500 is available for Phase I.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Your firm must perform at least two-thirds of the Phase I work.
• ONR wants existing hardware: demonstration platforms, prototypes, or commercial products, not a paper concept.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

This open topic is built for XR hardware startups and FPV goggle makers with a domestic supply chain story and a product already working. If your components are sourced from covered foreign countries, address NDAA compliance directly in the proposal.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Navy SBIR topic DON27BX01-NP001?

DON27BX01-NP001 is an Office of Naval Research SBIR Phase I open topic under the DoW SBIR 2027 CSO, Release 1, for low-cost, domestically sourced, NDAA-compliant heads-up displays with 6DOF tracking for FPV drone pilots, Forward Observers, and JTACs.

How much funding is available?

Phase I has a Base of up to $200,000 over 6 months and an Option of up to $115,000 over 6 months, for up to $315,000 total. Phase II can be up to $2,000,000 including options and TABA.

When is the deadline?

The topic pre-released October 7, 2026, opens October 28, 2026, and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

How long can the technical volume be?

Navy Phase I technical volumes are limited to 10 pages, with a 10-point minimum font, and the Phase I Option tasks must fit inside those 10 pages.

Does ONR want new concepts?

No. ONR is requesting existing technology demonstration platforms, prototypes, and commercial products. The proposing small business should already have a hardware solution that meets one or both technical areas.

What contract type is used?

Navy instructions state awards under this CSO are executed as Other Transaction agreements.

Can I talk to the topic author?

Yes, during pre-release only, from October 7 until the topic opens on October 28, 2026. After that, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A.

DAF STTR DAF27TZ01-DV003: Fusion of Cooperative Information Sharing for Uncrewed Air Systems (FOCISAUS)

Quick Answer

DAF27TZ01-DV003 (FOCISAUS) is a Department of the Air Force STTR Direct to Phase II topic in DoW STTR 2027 BAA Release 1 for cooperative perception: letting multiple uncrewed and ground sensing nodes share, prioritize, and fuse mission-relevant data in near real time under tight bandwidth. Awards are up to $2,000,000 over up to 24 months, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Data fusion is a core requirement, not an add-on. Proposals must show how fused outputs reach autonomy software, edge analytics, or operators, and how the system copes with degraded or intermittent links.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DAF27TZ01-DV003
• Title: Fusion of Cooperative Information Sharing for Uncrewed Air Systems (FOCISAUS)
• Component: Department of the Air Force
• Solicitation: DoW STTR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: STTR Direct to Phase II
• Award ceiling: $2,000,000
• Period of performance: 24 months
• Technical volume limit: 35 pages or slides
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Restricted under ITAR (22 CFR 120-130) or EAR (15 CFR 730-774). Foreign national participation must be disclosed and may be restricted.
• Focus areas: Integrated Network Systems-of-Systems; Trusted AI and Autonomy
• Keywords: cooperative perception, sensor fusion, data fusion, uncrewed air systems, autonomy, adaptive transmission, compression, edge processing, distributed sensing
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Air Force Is Looking For

Distributed air operations need awareness beyond any single platform's field of view. Cooperative perception can extend coverage and reduce blind spots, but large sensor data, variable wireless links, and the challenge of combining different geometries and modalities limit it.

The Air Force wants prototype-ready solutions for distributed organization, discovery, and retrieval of sensor data; adaptive selection, fidelity control, compression, and transmission; near real-time fusion across platforms and sensor types (point cloud, image, radar, feature or object level, or track association); delivery of fused products to applications; and measurable gains in latency, bandwidth efficiency, blind-spot reduction, and detection or tracking.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I is skipped. No Phase I proposals will be accepted. You must show Phase I type feasibility from prior research, lab validation, commercial development, or operational demonstrations performed outside the SBIR/STTR program. Your Phase I type effort should have identified operational needs and stakeholders, shown feasibility in distributed information exchange, compression, or adaptive transmission, established a credible fusion approach, produced evidence of prototype readiness, and laid out a clear path to Phase II.

Phase II builds and demonstrates an integrated prototype across multiple air and ground nodes, with performance results on latency, bandwidth, perception quality, and mission relevance, plus documentation and a transition plan.

Phase III targets counter-UAS, tactical reconnaissance, base and perimeter security, special operations, disaster response, and search and rescue, with commercial use in public safety, infrastructure inspection, autonomous delivery, and remote operations.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Direct to Phase II award maximum: $2,000,000. Proposals above this amount will not be considered for evaluation or award.
• Award maximum duration: 24 months.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 35 pages or slides.
• No Phase I proposals will be accepted and no Phase I awards will be made under this topic.
• TABA: DAF will provide up to $50,000 per Phase II award in addition to the topic amount. The detailed request must be in Volume 5.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR/STTR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• This is an STTR topic, so you need a formal partner research institution (a university, FFRDC, or qualifying nonprofit). At least 40 percent of the work must be done by your firm and at least 30 percent by a single research institution, measured by direct and indirect costs. Deviations are not allowed.
• You must document Phase I type feasibility completed outside the SBIR/STTR program, substantially performed by your firm or principal investigator.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Autonomy, collaborative perception, and networked sensing companies, particularly those working on V2X style data sharing or multi-drone mapping, fit well. Universities with cooperative perception research are natural STTR partners.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DAF STTR topic DAF27TZ01-DV003?

FOCISAUS is a Department of the Air Force STTR Direct to Phase II topic in DoW STTR 2027 BAA Release 1 for cooperative perception and sensor data fusion across distributed uncrewed and ground sensing nodes.

How much funding is available?

Up to $2,000,000 over up to 24 months, plus up to $50,000 in TABA per Phase II award if requested.

Is data fusion required?

Yes. The topic says offerors should address data fusion as a core requirement, whether through point cloud fusion, image or radar correlation, feature or object fusion, track association, or another mission-appropriate method.

Do I need a research institution partner?

Yes. As an STTR, at least 40 percent of the work must be done by your firm and at least 30 percent by a single research institution.

When is the deadline?

The topic opens October 28, 2026 and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

DAF STTR DAF27TZ01-DV002: Cyber Resiliency for Fog and Edge Computing Devices

Quick Answer

DAF27TZ01-DV002 is a Department of the Air Force STTR Direct to Phase II topic in DoW STTR 2027 BAA Release 1 to prevent and mitigate cyber attacks on fog and edge computing (FEC) devices and their networks so missions can continue in highly contested environments. Awards are up to $2,000,000 over up to 24 months, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Your feasibility package must include an approach, an architecture, and a prior demonstration of a limited-scope prototype that prevents or mitigates at least one class of attack on an edge node or embedded device and can scale to many nodes with autonomous detection and response.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DAF27TZ01-DV002
• Title: Cyber Resiliency for Fog and Edge Computing Devices
• Component: Department of the Air Force
• Solicitation: DoW STTR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: STTR Direct to Phase II
• Award ceiling: $2,000,000
• Period of performance: 24 months
• Technical volume limit: 35 pages or slides
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Restricted under ITAR (22 CFR 120-130) or EAR (15 CFR 730-774). Foreign national participation must be disclosed and may be restricted.
• Focus areas: Advanced Computing and Software
• Keywords: cyber resiliency, cyber security, fog and edge computing, Internet of Things, avionics systems, space systems
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Air Force Is Looking For

Edge and embedded devices increasingly carry mission functions in avionics and space systems, and they are exposed to supply chain and remote exploit attacks. The Air Force wants protections that scale across large numbers of edge nodes and autonomously detect and respond to attacks.

The Direct to Phase II effort should broaden the classes of threats covered, improve detection and response, and show that FEC devices can fight through a supply chain or remote exploit attack and still accomplish mission objectives.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I is skipped. No Phase I proposals will be accepted. You must show Phase I type feasibility from prior research, lab validation, commercial development, or operational demonstrations performed outside the SBIR/STTR program. The feasibility study should include the approach, architecture, and the limited-scope prototype demonstration described above.

Phase II expands robustness and threat coverage, improves detection and response, and demonstrates fight-through capability against supply chain or remote exploit attacks.

Phase III targets military and commercial avionics and space systems plus commercial IoT, Internet of Battle Things, and Internet of Space Things markets.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Direct to Phase II award maximum: $2,000,000. Proposals above this amount will not be considered for evaluation or award.
• Award maximum duration: 24 months.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 35 pages or slides.
• No Phase I proposals will be accepted and no Phase I awards will be made under this topic.
• TABA: DAF will provide up to $50,000 per Phase II award in addition to the topic amount. The detailed request must be in Volume 5.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR/STTR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• This is an STTR topic, so you need a formal partner research institution (a university, FFRDC, or qualifying nonprofit). At least 40 percent of the work must be done by your firm and at least 30 percent by a single research institution, measured by direct and indirect costs. Deviations are not allowed.
• You must document Phase I type feasibility completed outside the SBIR/STTR program, substantially performed by your firm or principal investigator.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Embedded security, firmware integrity, and runtime attestation companies with a working edge prototype fit this topic. Pair with a university cyber lab to meet the STTR research institution requirement, and check ITAR constraints on your staff.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DAF STTR topic DAF27TZ01-DV002?

It is a Department of the Air Force STTR Direct to Phase II topic in DoW STTR 2027 BAA Release 1 to prevent and mitigate cyber attacks on fog and edge computing devices and networks for mission assurance in contested environments.

How much funding is available?

Up to $2,000,000 over up to 24 months, plus up to $50,000 in TABA per Phase II award if requested.

What feasibility evidence is required?

An approach, an architecture, and a prior demonstration of a limited-scope prototype that prevents or mitigates a single class of cyber attack on an edge node, embedded device, or similar device, with a path to scale and autonomous detection and response.

Do I need a research institution partner?

Yes. As an STTR, at least 40 percent of the work must be done by your firm and at least 30 percent by a single research institution.

Is this topic export controlled?

Yes. It is restricted under ITAR or EAR, and foreign national participation must be disclosed and may be restricted.

When is the deadline?

The topic opens October 28, 2026 and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

DAF STTR DAF27TZ01-DV001: AI-Enabled Computed Vision Air-to-Air Refueling Performance Assessment and Automated Pilot Debrief System

Quick Answer

DAF27TZ01-DV001 is a Department of the Air Force STTR Direct to Phase II topic in DoW STTR 2027 BAA Release 1 for an AI computer vision system that analyzes tanker camera video (especially KC-46) after aerial refueling and produces objective pilot performance scores and automated debrief products. Awards are up to $2,000,000 over up to 24 months, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Targets include debrief products within 15 minutes of video ingestion and at least 95 percent agreement with experienced instructors. As an STTR, you need a research institution partner performing at least 30 percent of the work.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DAF27TZ01-DV001
• Title: AI-Enabled Computed Vision Air-to-Air Refueling Performance Assessment and Automated Pilot Debrief System
• Component: Department of the Air Force
• Solicitation: DoW STTR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: STTR Direct to Phase II
• Award ceiling: $2,000,000
• Period of performance: 24 months
• Technical volume limit: 35 pages or slides
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Not marked as ITAR restricted on DSIP
• Focus areas: Human-Machine Interfaces; Trusted AI and Autonomy
• Keywords: AI, machine learning, computer vision, aerial refueling, pilot training, flight analytics, human machine interface, VR, AR, aviation safety, KC-46, KC-135
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Air Force Is Looking For

Aerial refueling is one of the most demanding and safety-critical tasks aircrews perform, yet assessment still relies on instructor observation, self-assessment, and manual video review. The Air Force wants to turn each refueling sortie into objective, data-driven feedback that improves proficiency, reduces mishaps and equipment damage, and raises readiness.

The system should detect and track the boom or hose and the receiver, measure relative position, closure rate, approach vector, stability, and envelope adherence, correlate with available aircraft data, score performance and trends, and generate visual debriefs such as overlays, heat maps, timelines, and VR or AR replays. It must also automatically protect sensitive video, including masking unauthorized aircraft and sensitive geography. The vendor may choose the first 3 to 5 receiver platforms with Government concurrence.

Phase II tasks

• Task 1: system architecture, data acquisition, and secure CUI processing.
• Task 2: computer vision model adaptation and performance analytics, demonstrated at TRL 6+.
• Task 3: automated performance assessment, pilot feedback, and an instructor or master debriefer review interface (stretch goal: detect bent or broken boom, probe, or hose and FOD).
• Task 4: automated data protection and video processing.
• Task 5: pilot debrief visualization and training integration, including a VR/AR trade study.
• Task 6: operational demonstration with at least one aerial refueling training organization and a Phase III transition plan.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I is skipped. No Phase I proposals will be accepted. You must show Phase I type feasibility from prior research, lab validation, commercial development, or operational demonstrations performed outside the SBIR/STTR program. Offerors must show experience in at least half of the listed technical areas (computer vision on dynamic objects, high-speed motion imagery, tracking, aviation analytics, VR/AR and HMI, sensor and telemetry integration, controlled aviation data handling, automated video masking, and secure government software) and TRL 4 or greater at award.

Phase II executes the six tasks above and delivers an operational prototype.

Phase III transitions the capability to KC-46, KC-135, C-17, fighter, Navy, and Marine Corps refueling communities and autonomous refueling programs, with commercial aviation training as a dual-use market.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Direct to Phase II award maximum: $2,000,000. Proposals above this amount will not be considered for evaluation or award.
• Award maximum duration: 24 months.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 35 pages or slides.
• No Phase I proposals will be accepted and no Phase I awards will be made under this topic.
• TABA: DAF will provide up to $50,000 per Phase II award in addition to the topic amount. The detailed request must be in Volume 5.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR/STTR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• This is an STTR topic, so you need a formal partner research institution (a university, FFRDC, or qualifying nonprofit). At least 40 percent of the work must be done by your firm and at least 30 percent by a single research institution, measured by direct and indirect costs. Deviations are not allowed.
• You must document Phase I type feasibility completed outside the SBIR/STTR program, substantially performed by your firm or principal investigator.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Computer vision and aviation analytics companies with tracking experience on fast-moving objects are the core fit, especially those with flight training or simulation products. Line up the university or research institution partner early, since the STTR 30 percent minimum cannot be waived.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DAF STTR topic DAF27TZ01-DV001?

It is a Department of the Air Force STTR Direct to Phase II topic in DoW STTR 2027 BAA Release 1 for an AI computer vision system that assesses aerial refueling performance from tanker video and produces automated pilot debriefs.

How much funding is available?

Up to $2,000,000 over up to 24 months, plus up to $50,000 in TABA per Phase II award if requested in Volume 5.

Do I need a research institution partner?

Yes. As an STTR, at least 40 percent of the work must be performed by your small business and at least 30 percent by a single research institution.

What performance does the Air Force want?

Debrief products within 15 minutes of video ingestion, accurate tracking of position and refueling geometry, and at least 95 percent agreement with experienced instructors during validation.

Can I submit a Phase I proposal?

No. No Phase I proposals will be accepted. You must show Phase I type feasibility from work outside the SBIR/STTR program and TRL 4 or greater at award.

When is the deadline?

The topic opens October 28, 2026 and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET in DSIP.

DAF SBIR DAF27BZ01-NV006: High Speed, Low Temperature Hyperspectral Imager for High Enthalpy Ground Testing

Quick Answer

DAF27BZ01-NV006 is a Department of the Air Force SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a hyperspectral imager that resolves surface temperature and emissivity of test articles at high speed and low temperature in AEDC high enthalpy ground test facilities. Phase I awards are up to $300,000 over 6 months, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Threshold specs are 0 to 1500 F (2000 F objective), 4000 Hz (5000 Hz objective), a pixel footprint of 0.1 inch or less (0.05 inch objective), and accuracy of plus or minus 10 F (5 F objective).

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DAF27BZ01-NV006
• Title: High Speed, Low Temperature Hyperspectral Imager for High Enthalpy Ground Testing
• Component: Department of the Air Force
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $300,000
• Period of performance: 6 months
• Technical volume limit: 20 pages or slides
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Restricted under ITAR (22 CFR 120-130) or EAR (15 CFR 730-774). Foreign national participation must be disclosed and may be restricted.
• Focus areas: Advanced Materials; Hypersonics; Nuclear
• Keywords: temperature measurement, emissivity, hyperspectral imager, high enthalpy ground testing, hypersonics, materials
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Air Force Is Looking For

AEDC needs a high-speed, low-temperature measurement capability that overlaps with its existing higher-temperature instruments, so material response can be tracked across the full test range.

Threshold and objective requirements

• Temperature range: 0 to 1500 F threshold, 2000 F objective.
• Sampling rate: 4000 Hz threshold, 5000 Hz objective.
• Pixel footprint: 0.1 inch or less threshold, 0.05 inch objective.
• Accuracy: plus or minus 10 F threshold, plus or minus 5 F objective.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I compiles feasibility research on a low-temperature, high sampling rate hyperspectral imager against the threshold requirements and delivers a feasibility report describing a benchtop proof of concept that will guide Phase II fabrication.

Phase II fabricates a well-defined prototype that meets the objectives and can become operationally viable.

Phase III deploys the hyperspectral imager.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I award maximum: $300,000. Proposals above this amount will not be considered for evaluation or award.
• Phase I award maximum duration: 6 months.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 20 pages or slides.
• Technical and Business Assistance (TABA): DAF will provide up to $6,500 per Phase I award, in addition to the topic award amount. The detailed TABA request must be in Volume 5.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Your firm must perform at least two-thirds of the Phase I research or analytical work.
• Firms majority owned by multiple venture capital operating companies, hedge funds, or private equity funds are eligible to propose to DAF topics.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic rather than several variations.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Infrared and hyperspectral camera developers, thermography specialists, and photonics firms with fast detector readout experience are the best fit. Note the ITAR restriction when planning your team.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DAF SBIR topic DAF27BZ01-NV006?

DAF27BZ01-NV006 is a Department of the Air Force SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a high-speed, low-temperature hyperspectral imager to measure surface temperature and emissivity in high enthalpy ground testing.

How much funding is available?

Phase I awards are up to $300,000 over up to 6 months. The DAF also provides up to $6,500 in Technical and Business Assistance per Phase I award, in addition to the topic amount.

When is the deadline?

The topic pre-released October 7, 2026, opens October 28, 2026, and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET. Proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP.

How long can the technical volume be?

Volume 2 is limited to 20 pages or slides for this topic. Pages beyond the limit are not considered.

Is this topic export controlled?

Yes. It is restricted under ITAR or EAR. You must disclose any proposed foreign nationals, and their participation may be restricted.

Can I talk to the topic author?

Yes, during pre-release only, from October 7 until the topic opens on October 28, 2026. After that, technical questions must go through DSIP Topic Q&A.

DAF SBIR DAF27BZ01-NV005: Luminescence-Based Surface Measurement Technique for Simultaneous Pressure and Temperature Measurements within Non-Oxygen Based Hypersonic Ground Test Facilities

Quick Answer

DAF27BZ01-NV005 is a Department of the Air Force SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a non-intrusive, luminescence-based surface technique that measures pressure and temperature simultaneously in hypersonic wind tunnels that use nitrogen instead of air, such as AEDC Tunnel 9. Phase I awards are up to $300,000 over 6 months, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Conventional pressure sensitive paint relies on oxygen quenching, so it does not work in oxygen-free flows. That leaves these facilities limited to discrete measurements.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DAF27BZ01-NV005
• Title: Luminescence-Based Surface Measurement Technique for Simultaneous Pressure and Temperature Measurements within Non-Oxygen Based Hypersonic Ground Test Facilities
• Component: Department of the Air Force
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $300,000
• Period of performance: 6 months
• Technical volume limit: 20 pages or slides
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Not marked as ITAR restricted on DSIP
• Focus areas: Hypersonics
• Keywords: hypersonic, instrumentation, non-intrusive, wind tunnel
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Air Force Is Looking For

Pressure sensitive paint (PSP) gives global surface pressure data used to calculate aerodynamic loads and spot small-scale flow features. Its luminophores fluoresce inversely with local oxygen concentration, which rules it out in nitrogen blowdown facilities.

The Air Force wants a new technique, paint or luminophore system plus data reduction, that captures simultaneous global pressure and temperature in non-oxygen hypersonic tunnels.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I develops the technique or paint and establishes feasibility through thorough characterization of paint properties, sensitivities, and the data reduction process, using benchtop tests and small-scale educational supersonic or hypersonic facilities.

Phase II demonstrates the full-scale prototype in a hypersonic test facility using test probes or a well-known standard test article, and delivers the completed technique and refined data reduction process.

Phase III markets the technique for non-intrusive simultaneous pressure and temperature measurement in non-oxygen high-speed tunnels.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I award maximum: $300,000. Proposals above this amount will not be considered for evaluation or award.
• Phase I award maximum duration: 6 months.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 20 pages or slides.
• Technical and Business Assistance (TABA): DAF will provide up to $6,500 per Phase I award, in addition to the topic award amount. The detailed TABA request must be in Volume 5.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Your firm must perform at least two-thirds of the Phase I research or analytical work.
• Firms majority owned by multiple venture capital operating companies, hedge funds, or private equity funds are eligible to propose to DAF topics.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic rather than several variations.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Optical diagnostics firms, luminescent materials chemists, and university aerospace labs with PSP or TSP experience are the right fit. A university co-investigator with access to a small hypersonic facility helps Phase I credibility.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DAF SBIR topic DAF27BZ01-NV005?

DAF27BZ01-NV005 is a Department of the Air Force SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 to develop a luminescence-based technique for simultaneous global surface pressure and temperature measurement in non-oxygen hypersonic ground test facilities.

How much funding is available?

Phase I awards are up to $300,000 over up to 6 months. The DAF also provides up to $6,500 in Technical and Business Assistance per Phase I award, in addition to the topic amount.

When is the deadline?

The topic pre-released October 7, 2026, opens October 28, 2026, and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET. Proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP.

How long can the technical volume be?

Volume 2 is limited to 20 pages or slides for this topic. Pages beyond the limit are not considered.

Why doesn't standard pressure sensitive paint work here?

Standard PSP depends on oxygen quenching of luminophores. Facilities such as AEDC Tunnel 9 use nitrogen as the working fluid, so there is no oxygen signal to measure.

Can I talk to the topic author?

Yes, during pre-release only, from October 7 until the topic opens on October 28, 2026. After that, technical questions must go through DSIP Topic Q&A.

DAF SBIR DAF27BZ01-NV004: Long Rod Delivery System

Quick Answer

DAF27BZ01-NV004 is a Department of the Air Force SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a launching system that fires high length-to-diameter (long rod) projectiles at 1,400 m/s to more than 2,300 m/s with controlled orientation and no structural damage, to improve Live Fire Test and Evaluation (LFT&E) data. Phase I awards are up to $300,000 over 6 months, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Phase I is a feasibility study comparing launch technologies such as advanced light-gas, hybrid electromagnetic, and pneumatic approaches.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DAF27BZ01-NV004
• Title: Long Rod Delivery System
• Component: Department of the Air Force
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $300,000
• Period of performance: 6 months
• Technical volume limit: 20 pages or slides
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Not marked as ITAR restricted on DSIP
• Focus areas: Advanced Materials; Sustainment and Logistics
• Keywords: missile fragments, projectile, LFT&E, survivability
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Air Force Is Looking For

There is currently no reliable way to control the flight of a long rod projectile so it consistently reaches a target location at a specific orientation. That gap degrades LFT&E fidelity, compromises survivability assessments of aircraft, and adds acquisition risk and cost.

The Air Force wants a non-destructive, high-precision launcher that delivers long rods at controlled angle of attack to support vulnerability assessments and engineering designs for current and next generation combat aircraft.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I evaluates alternative launch technologies against the requirement to launch high L/D projectiles from 1,400 m/s to above 2,300 m/s without structural degradation, develops a conceptual design, models internal ballistics, acceleration, and exit velocity, and identifies risks and mitigations.

Phase II builds and tests a sub-scale or full-scale prototype, runs live-fire demonstrations with inert long rods, and uses diagnostics such as flash X-ray and high-speed imaging to verify integrity, pitch, and yaw at muzzle exit, then validates the system for LFT&E use such as ballistic limit testing.

Phase III transitions the launcher to Army, Navy, and Air Force LFT&E ranges and pursues dual-use markets including materials science, spacecraft micrometeoroid shielding, and hypervelocity impact research.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I award maximum: $300,000. Proposals above this amount will not be considered for evaluation or award.
• Phase I award maximum duration: 6 months.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 20 pages or slides.
• Technical and Business Assistance (TABA): DAF will provide up to $6,500 per Phase I award, in addition to the topic award amount. The detailed TABA request must be in Volume 5.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Your firm must perform at least two-thirds of the Phase I research or analytical work.
• Firms majority owned by multiple venture capital operating companies, hedge funds, or private equity funds are eligible to propose to DAF topics.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic rather than several variations.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Ballistics, light-gas gun, and electromagnetic launcher specialists are the core audience, along with test range engineering firms. University hypervelocity labs can be strong partners even on an SBIR.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DAF SBIR topic DAF27BZ01-NV004?

DAF27BZ01-NV004, Long Rod Delivery System, is a Department of the Air Force SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a precise, non-destructive launcher for high length-to-diameter projectiles used in live fire test and evaluation.

How much funding is available?

Phase I awards are up to $300,000 over up to 6 months. The DAF also provides up to $6,500 in Technical and Business Assistance per Phase I award, in addition to the topic amount.

When is the deadline?

The topic pre-released October 7, 2026, opens October 28, 2026, and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET. Proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP.

How long can the technical volume be?

Volume 2 is limited to 20 pages or slides for this topic. Pages beyond the limit are not considered.

What velocity range must the launcher reach?

The Phase I study evaluates launching high L/D projectiles from 1,400 m/s to more than 2,300 m/s without structural degradation.

Can I talk to the topic author?

Yes, during pre-release only, from October 7 until the topic opens on October 28, 2026. After that, technical questions must go through DSIP Topic Q&A.

DAF SBIR DAF27BZ01-NV003: Multiple Telemetry Site Signal Source Synchronization

Quick Answer

DAF27BZ01-NV003 is a Department of the Air Force SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 for a networked system that synchronizes telemetry signal simulators across geographically separated ground stations, so test ranges can check the full telemetry chain, including best source selection, before a live flight. Phase I awards are up to $300,000 over 6 months, closing November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

The end goal is a product standardized in IRIG-106 and adopted at major Air Force, Army, and Navy test ranges.

Topic at a Glance

• Topic number: DAF27BZ01-NV003
• Title: Multiple Telemetry Site Signal Source Synchronization
• Component: Department of the Air Force
• Solicitation: DoW SBIR 2027 BAA, Release 1
• Program and phase: SBIR Phase I
• Award ceiling: $300,000
• Period of performance: 6 months
• Technical volume limit: 20 pages or slides
• Projected CMMC level: Level 2 (Self)
• Export control: Not marked as ITAR restricted on DSIP
• Focus areas: Integrated Network Systems-of-Systems; Integrated Sensing and Cyber; Space Technology
• Keywords: signal synchronization, best source selection, test and training ranges, flight test, data quality metrics, hypersonic vehicles, telemetry infrastructure
• Pre-release: October 7, 2026
• Opens: October 28, 2026
• Closes: November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET
• Submission portal: DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil

What the Air Force Is Looking For

Flight tests that cross multiple ranges, such as hypersonic, cruise missile, and long-range weapon tests, rely on telemetry receive stations along the flight path relaying data to a control room. Best source selectors (BSS) now time-align these streams and pick the best data bit by bit using data quality metrics.

The problem: pre-flight checks still test each site individually with an uncorrelated boresight simulator, so the BSS cannot correlate the streams and its configuration is unknown until the mission. The Air Force wants signal sources at multiple sites to simulate the test article as if every station could see it at once, enabling an end-to-end checkout of antennas, networks, BSS, and control room displays.

How the Phases Are Structured

Phase I describes the shortfall with all components, interfaces, standards, and use cases; proposes an architecture with spatially diverse signal sources synchronized to a precise common time and frequency reference; derives a master-client network with a central command and control GUI; and develops a protocol that aligns the pseudo-random bit sequences (PRBS) from every simulator.

Phase II delivers a prototype with time-aligned signal generation, a web GUI for central control, multi-site BER testing through a BSS including simulated latency and jitter, lab verification, and field validation with at least three signal sources at three geographically diverse locations (for example Edwards AFB, China Lake, and Point Mugu).

Phase III matures the system from TRL 6 to TRL 8 with the ranges and the Range Commanders Council Telemetry Group. Named customers include the 412th Test Wing, 96th Test Wing, NAWCAD, and White Sands Missile Range, with commercial markets at primes and launch providers.

Funding and Proposal Limits

• Phase I award maximum: $300,000. Proposals above this amount will not be considered for evaluation or award.
• Phase I award maximum duration: 6 months.
• Technical Volume (Volume 2) limit: 20 pages or slides.
• Technical and Business Assistance (TABA): DAF will provide up to $6,500 per Phase I award, in addition to the topic award amount. The detailed TABA request must be in Volume 5.

Who Is Eligible

• You must be a U.S. small business concern that meets SBIR ownership and size rules at the time of award.
• Your firm must perform at least two-thirds of the Phase I research or analytical work.
• Firms majority owned by multiple venture capital operating companies, hedge funds, or private equity funds are eligible to propose to DAF topics.
• DoW now limits proposals on a per-topic basis, so plan on one strong proposal for this topic rather than several variations.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Now through October 28, 2026: pre-release. Topic authors are listed on the DSIP Topics and Topic Q&A page and you can call or email them directly with technical questions. This is the only window for direct contact.
• October 28, 2026: the topic opens for proposals in the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP). After this date, questions go through DSIP Topic Q&A only.
• November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET: complete proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP. A proposal still marked In Progress or Ready to Certify is not considered submitted.
• Before you submit, confirm an active SAM.gov registration, a DSIP account, completed Volume 6 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse training, and the Volume 7 foreign affiliation disclosure webform.

Is This Topic a Fit for Your Company?

Telemetry, RF test equipment, and precision timing companies are the natural fit, especially those familiar with IRIG-106, data quality encapsulation, and range operations. A team that pairs RF signal generation with network timing expertise will read well.

BW&CO has helped deep tech founders secure $350M+ in non-dilutive funding. If you want a second opinion on fit, feasibility documentation, or a proposal plan before the deadline, book a call with our team below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DAF SBIR topic DAF27BZ01-NV003?

DAF27BZ01-NV003 is a Department of the Air Force SBIR Phase I topic in DoW SBIR 2027 BAA Release 1 to synchronize telemetry signal simulators across multiple range sites so the full receive chain, including best source selection, can be verified before a flight test.

How much funding is available?

Phase I awards are up to $300,000 over up to 6 months. The DAF also provides up to $6,500 in Technical and Business Assistance per Phase I award, in addition to the topic amount.

When is the deadline?

The topic pre-released October 7, 2026, opens October 28, 2026, and closes November 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET. Proposals must be certified and submitted in DSIP.

How long can the technical volume be?

Volume 2 is limited to 20 pages or slides for this topic. Pages beyond the limit are not considered.

What does the Phase II field test require?

A prototype of at least three signal sources controlled by a central hub, installed and tested at three geographically diverse locations, with PRBS synchronization, remote GUI control, and passing multi-site BER testing at the BSS output.

Can I talk to the topic author?

Yes, during pre-release only, from October 7 until the topic opens on October 28, 2026. After that, technical questions must go through DSIP Topic Q&A.