NRL Long Range Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for Basic and Applied Research - Naval Research Laboratory (NRL)
Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).
Executive Summary:
The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) is seeking innovative basic and applied research proposals across a wide range of scientific and engineering disciplines. Organizations can submit White Papers through September 30, 2026, with potential follow-on contracts, grants, or other agreements awarded based on technical merit.
How much funding would I receive?
Est. $500k to $5 million.
What could I use the funding for?
Funding supports basic and applied research aligned with Navy priorities, including (verbatim/high-level categories from the BAA):
Systems Directorate (e.g., radar, antennas, computational electromagnetics, information systems, AI/ML, human systems integration)
Materials Science and Component Technology (e.g., energy storage, corrosion, materials processing, bio/chemical detection)
Ocean and Atmospheric Science (e.g., ocean acoustics, remote sensing, environmental modeling)
Space Technology (e.g., spacecraft systems, sensors, propulsion, hypersonics)
Specific topic areas include (selected verbatim examples):
“Virtual simulations and mixed reality systems… situational awareness, and training”
“Data management and exploitation technologies that apply emerging mathematics and machine learning techniques”
“Multi-agent and multi-robot systems, reinforcement learning, game theory”
“Electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems such as batteries and fuel cells”
“Optical sciences… lasers, sensors, and photonic technologies”
“Cyber security, cryptographic technologies, and high assurance computing”
“Spacecraft payloads; spacecraft propulsion systems; advanced materials for spaceflight use”
Many More Topics are listed in the Solicitation (See below).
Are there any additional benefits I would receive?
Beyond the formal funding award, there are significant indirect benefits:
Government Validation and Credibility:
Being selected by the Naval Research Laboratory signals strong technical credibility and alignment with U.S. Navy and DoD priorities.
Access to Defense Ecosystem:
Awardees gain exposure to Navy researchers, program managers, and potential transition partners across defense and aerospace.
Flexible Contracting Pathways:
The BAA allows for multiple award mechanisms (contracts, grants, OTAs), enabling faster and more flexible engagement than traditional procurement.
Follow-On Funding Opportunities:
Successful projects may lead to additional funding phases or expanded research programs based on performance.
Increased Strategic Positioning:
Participation positions companies for future DoD funding, partnerships, and potential acquisition interest.
What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?
White Papers Due: September 30, 2026 (4:00 PM EDT)
Rolling evaluation and invitation for full proposals after White Paper review
Funding timing varies based on evaluation and award negotiations
Where does this funding come from?
Department of Defense (DoD) → Department of the Navy → Office of Naval Research (ONR) → Naval Research Laboratory (NRL)
Who is eligible to apply?
Educational institutions
Small businesses
Small disadvantaged businesses
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
Minority institutions
Other qualified organizations
What companies and projects are likely to win?
Selections are based on:
Technical merit and scientific quality of the proposed approach
Relevance to NRL research priorities
Potential benefit to the Government relative to cost
Feasibility and innovation of the solution
Cost realism and overall value
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Must submit a White Paper first before a full proposal
Some topics may require security clearances or classified work
Awards depend on availability of funding
Government may select all, some, or none of proposals
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.
How much would BW&CO Charge?
We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($15,000 + 5%) available.