Fast and Curious – DARPA Defense Sciences Office (DSO)
Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).
Executive Summary:
DARPA’s Defense Sciences Office (DSO) is soliciting proposals under the Fast and Curious Disruption Opportunity to develop next-generation logic devices that surpass CMOS performance limits. Selected teams will receive Other Transaction (OT) prototype awards to demonstrate ultra-low-energy, high-speed, scalable logic technologies for advanced computing applications. Optional but recommended abstracts are due February 19th. Full proposals are due March 31, 2026 at 4:00 PM ET.
How much funding is available?
Estimated $1M to $5M. DARPA anticipates making multiple OT prototype awards, with total funding levels determined by proposal quality and availability of funds. The DO does not specify a fixed award size or ceiling, and funding may be awarded for Phase 1 only or for both Phase 1 and Phase 2.
What could I use the funding for?
See a detailed description here.
This program explores new device physics, materials, and architectures that enable energy-efficient, scalable, and integrable logic circuits capable of surpassing CMOS transistor switching energy and speed limits while remaining compatible with advanced microelectronic manufacturing.
Performers will fabricate and engineer non-traditional transistor-like heterostructures with ultra-low energy and high speed switching characteristics, design and develop logic in computational circuits using these heterostructures, and perform theoretical analysis and modeling to guide the device design and optimization.
Are there any additional benefits I would receive?
Beyond the formal funding award, there are significant indirect benefits to receiving a DARPA Disruptioneering award:
Government Validation and Technical Credibility: Selection by DARPA DSO signals exceptional scientific merit and alignment with long-term U.S. defense computing priorities.
Acceleration of Deep-Tech Development: Milestone-based OT agreements allow rapid prototyping without FAR constraints, enabling faster technical progress than traditional grants or contracts.
Enhanced Visibility and Strategic Positioning: Awardees gain visibility within DARPA, DoD, and the advanced microelectronics ecosystem, often leading to follow-on funding or partnerships.
Stronger Commercial and Acquisition Outcomes: Retention of IP ownership and government license rights enables companies to mature technology nondilutively while increasing long-term enterprise value.
What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?
Abstracts (optional but strongly encouraged) are due February 19, 2026 at 4:00 PM ET. Full proposals are due March 31, 2026 at 4:00 PM ET. DARPA’s goal is to execute awards within 120 calendar days of the DO posting date (January 30, 2026), with negotiations concluding no later than May 29, 2026. The anticipated program start date is June 1, 2026.nths
Where does this funding come from?
This funding is provided by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) within the Department of Defense, administered by the Defense Sciences Office (DSO) using Other Transaction authority under 10 U.S.C. § 4022.
Who is eligible to apply?
All responsible U.S. and non-U.S. organizations capable of performing the research may apply, including startups, small businesses, large companies, universities, and nonprofit research institutions.
What companies and projects are likely to win?
DARPA will evaluate proposals based on:
Scientific and technical merit, feasibility, and innovation
Relevance and contribution to DARPA’s mission to advance defense computing
Clear, quantitative evidence supporting the ability to meet program metrics
Well-defined milestones with credible risk mitigation strategies
Reasonable and well-justified pricing
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Awards are made as Other Transactions, not grants or FAR-based contracts. Proposals must be unclassified, comply with export control and CUI requirements if applicable, and adhere strictly to DARPA’s template, submission, and milestone payment rules. Cost share may be required depending on proposer status under OT statute.
How long will it take me to prepare an application?
Without BW&CO’s Assistance, preparing a fully compliant and compelling proposal will likely take 150-200 hours.
How can BW&CO help?
Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:
Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development
Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations
Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.
How much would BW&CO Charge?
For Full Support, $15,000 Initial Fee + 5% Success Fee
Fractional support is $300 per hour.
For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.
Additional Resources
See the solicitation here.