Chemical and Biological Technologies Fundamental Research BAA – Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA)
Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).
Executive Summary:
The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is accepting rolling submissions through 2034 for fundamental research projects that advance chemical and biological defense capabilities. This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) supports basic and applied research addressing counter–weapons of mass destruction (C-WMD) challenges, with a current white paper deadline of March 2, 2026 for Topic Areas B1–B6.
How much funding would I receive?
$300,000 to $5 million depending on the topic.
What could I use the funding for?
For research and development that aligns with the topics below. For more details on each topic click here.
B1. Deriving Human Physiological Endpoints via Microphysiological Systems (MPS): Bridging the Gap for Predictive Translation
DTRA is seeking fundamental research that advances microphysiological systems (organs-on-a-chip) to derive reliable, human-relevant physiological endpoints that can be translated into real-world exposure detection. Projects should develop standardized, measurable physiological signals across multi-organ MPS platforms and link those signals to in-vivo human responses, particularly for early detection of chemical and biological exposures. Emphasis is placed on novel sensing technologies, data integration, and predictive algorithms rather than therapeutics or animal studies. Read full description here.
B2. Self-Improving AI Systems for Adaptive Defense
This topic funds research into AI systems that can autonomously adapt to new chemical and biological threats without human retraining. DTRA is specifically interested in self-modifying AI architectures that can safely update their own models, structures, or code while maintaining formally verified performance and safety guarantees. Projects must focus on foundational AI theory and methods—such as formal verification, containment, and meta-learning—rather than static or manually retrained detection systems. Read full description here.
B3. Quantum-Enhanced Topological Data Analysis for Chemical and Biological Defense
DTRA seeks interdisciplinary research combining quantum computing and topological data analysis to identify complex patterns in high-dimensional chemical and biological data that classical methods cannot detect. The goal is to enable earlier warning of engineered or novel threats, improve pathogen classification, and accelerate countermeasure discovery. Projects should focus on developing quantum-enabled analytical frameworks and demonstrating clear advantages over classical computational approaches. Read full description here.
B4. Advanced Repellent Materials for Omniphobic Resistance (ARMOR)
This topic supports fundamental research into durable, PFAS-free repellent materials for textiles that resist chemical and biological threats, oils, and industrial contaminants. DTRA is looking for new material chemistries and surface architectures—particularly reentrant or textured surfaces—that achieve strong oil repellency, mechanical durability, and safety for skin contact. Research should emphasize materials science, characterization methods, and performance against chemical simulants rather than full protective suit development. Read full description here.
B5. Sensing Engineered Chemical and Biological Threats with Synthetic Biology Designs
DTRA is funding early-stage research into synthetic biology-based sensing materials that enable rapid, adaptable detection of engineered or emerging biological threats. Projects should integrate computational design, AI/ML, and synthetic biology to create novel affinity reagents or sensing elements that outperform traditional antibodies in speed, adaptability, or stability. The focus is on proof-of-concept platforms and fundamental sensing science, not deployable sensor systems. Read full description here.
B6. Free-Standing Films Used as Detection Wipes
This topic seeks fundamental research on free-standing, self-indicating films that can be used as low-cost detection wipes for chemical threats on surfaces. DTRA is interested in understanding the structural, optical, and electrical properties of cross-linked polymer films embedded with non-dye-based recognition elements that change color upon exposure to chemical agents or simulants. Research should prioritize material synthesis, reproducibility, environmental robustness, and early prototype integration rather than full system fielding. Read full description here.
Are there any additional benefits I would receive?
Beyond the formal funding award, there are significant indirect benefits to receiving a DTRA fundamental research award:
Government Validation and Credibility: Selection by DTRA signals strong technical credibility and alignment with national counter-WMD priorities, which can accelerate trust with defense partners and future government sponsors.
Enhanced Visibility Within the Defense Research Community: Awardees are part of DTRA’s extramural research ecosystem, increasing exposure to DoD laboratories, academic collaborators, and future funding opportunities.
Nondilutive Technology Maturation: By advancing early-stage science with nondilutive funding, companies can de-risk core technology while preserving equity and strengthening long-term exit potential.
What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?
For Topic Areas B1–B6, pre-application white papers are due March 2, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST. Submissions follow a two-phase process, with invited full proposals submitted after successful white paper review.
Where does this funding come from?
Funding is provided by the Department of Defense through the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) under CFDA 12.351.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligibility is defined at the topic level. In general, the BAA supports extramural performers conducting basic or applied research, including universities, industry, and other research organizations, subject to topic-specific requirements. is cost-shared by non-government sources
What companies and projects are likely to win?
Competitive projects typically:
Address high-impact chemical or biological defense challenges relevant to C-WMD
Advance fundamental scientific knowledge or revolutionary technical approaches
Align with early-stage research (TRLs 1–4)
Demonstrate strong scientific rigor and feasibility
Fit within DTRA’s stated thrust areas or published topic needs
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Pre-application coordination is generally required before submitting a white paper, and submissions without coordination may not be reviewed. Proprietary product development and later-stage commercialization activities are outside the scope of this announcement.
How long will it take me to prepare an application?
Most first-time applicants (without any assistance from BW&CO) should plan for 40–60 hours of effort to prepare the white paper over 8–12 weeks, including technical writing, budget preparation, and internal reviews.
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?
Our full service support is available for $4000 Initial Fee for the white paper.
Fractional support is $300 per hour.
For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.