Golden Dome for America - Department of War CSO
Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).
Executive Summary:
The Office of the Secretary of War (Golden Dome for America) is seeking innovative commercial technologies, services, and capabilities to defend the U.S. homeland against advanced threats including ballistic missiles, hypersonics, cruise missiles, and other aerial systems. This is a long-term, continuously open Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) designed to rapidly fund and deploy breakthrough solutions using flexible contracting.
This opportunity is open from the date of CSO posting through 30 September 2035. There is no single deadline—submissions can be made on a rolling basis, and additional Calls may define specific due dates.
How much funding would I receive?
Funding is expected to range from $500k - $10m.
There is no restriction on the number, type, value, or frequency of awards
Awards may vary widely in scope, duration, and price
The Government may fund all, part, or none of any submission
Awards may be incrementally funded at the Government’s discretion
What could I use the funding for?
Funding can be used to support:
Prototype projects directly relevant to DoD systems, platforms, components, or materials
Development of innovative commercial technologies and services
Solutions that:
Close capability gaps
Accelerate mission effectiveness
Introduce breakthrough technological advancements
The program prioritizes:
Rapid testing and proof-of-concept efforts
Technologies addressing urgent and complex threats
Applications that significantly improve or transform existing capabilities
Are there any additional benefits I would receive?
Yes. This CSO provides:
Access to Other Transaction (OT) agreements and FAR-based contracts
Opportunity for follow-on prototype or production agreements
Flexible acquisition pathways using streamlined procedures
Ability to collaborate at higher security levels when required
Potential for one-step awards directly from white papers
What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?
The CSO is open from the date of CSO posting through 30 September 2035
White papers may be submitted at any time during this period
Specific deadlines will only be provided in individual Calls or RFPs
Submissions close to the end of the CSO period may not be reviewed in time
Timing for funding decisions is not specified, but:
Reviews are intended to be streamlined and expedient
The Government may communicate for clarification during evaluation
Awards may be made directly from white papers or after an RFP process
Where does this funding come from?
Funding comes from:
Office of the Secretary of War (Golden Dome for America)
Authorized under:
DFARS 212.70 – Commercial Solutions Opening
10 USC 4022 (Other Transaction Authority)
10 USC 3458 (Commercial acquisition authority)
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible applicants include:
All sources capable of addressing the objectives of the CSO
Traditional defense contractors
Nontraditional defense contractors
Non-profit research institutions
Applicants must comply with:
Applicable security requirements
Conflict of interest disclosures
Note: Entities providing SETA or similar support to GDA may not simultaneously act as performers without prior approval.
What companies and projects are likely to win?
The Government prioritizes:
Breakthrough technologies over incremental improvements
Solutions that address urgent and high-priority mission needs
Proposals that enable:
Rapid testing
Proof-of-concept demonstrations
Accelerated deployment
Evaluation is based on:
Technical merit
Price (must be fair and reasonable)
Overall value relative to mission impact and portfolio balance
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Yes. Key restrictions include:
White papers:
Must not exceed 10 pages
Proposals (if requested):
Technical volume: max 20 pages
Price volume: max 10 pages
Submissions must:
Be in English
Meet security requirements
Properly mark proprietary information
Additional constraints:
The Government may:
Modify scope, price, or terms
Use one-step or two-step evaluation processes
Select partial proposals
How long will it take me to prepare an application?
White papers are designed to be uncomplicated and limited to 10 pages
A one-step award may be possible if sufficient detail is included
Additional effort may be required if invited to submit a full proposal
How can BW&CO help?
BW&CO can support you by:
Identifying where your technology aligns with GDA mission priorities
Developing a compliant, high-impact white paper
Structuring your submission for one-step award consideration
Positioning your solution as a breakthrough capability
Supporting follow-on proposals if an RFP is issued
How much would BW&CO Charge?
We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($15,000 + 5%) available.