SAF/CDM Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) – U.S. Department of the Air Force
Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).
Executive Summary:
The U.S. Air Force is offering funding through a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to support innovative commercial technologies and services that address defense-related capability gaps. Awards are made on a rolling basis through September 30, 2026, and require an initial white paper submission followed by an invited full proposal.
How much funding would I receive?
Funding varies significantly by project. There is:
No fixed award size per project
An estimated total program budget of ~$100M across all awards
Awards may be incrementally funded and vary widely in scope, duration, and value
What could I use the funding for?
Funding supports innovative commercial items, technologies, and services aligned with Air Force mission needs, including:
Big Data, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), technologies and processes
Emerging cyber technologies and methodologies
Countering strategic competitors’ malign influence
Are there any additional benefits I would receive?
Beyond funding, this opportunity offers meaningful strategic advantages:
Government Validation and Credibility:
Winning a U.S. Air Force award signals strong technical credibility and alignment with national defense priorities, which can accelerate partnerships with primes, integrators, and federal customers.Enhanced Market Visibility and Notoriety:
Awardees gain exposure within DoD ecosystems and innovation networks, positioning the company as a trusted provider of mission-critical technology.Follow-on Contract Opportunities:
Successful prototype efforts may lead to follow-on production contracts or expanded agreements without further competition.Stronger Exit and Acquisition Potential:
Demonstrating validated DoD use cases and maturing technology with nondilutive funding can significantly increase enterprise value and acquisition attractiveness.
What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?
White papers can be submitted on a rolling basis until August 15, 2026
Full proposals are submitted only upon government invitation
Awards may be issued at any time through September 30, 2026
Where does this funding come from?
This funding comes from the U.S. Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, under the Defense Commercial Solutions Opening Pilot Program authorized by Congress.
Who is eligible to apply?
Open to all organizations capable of delivering innovative solutions, including:
Startups
Small businesses
Non-traditional defense contractors
Large enterprises
Foreign participation is permitted, subject to security requirements
What companies and projects are likely to win?
Demonstrate breakthrough innovation rather than incremental improvements
Address critical or urgent Department of Defense needs
Show strong technical feasibility and a clear execution plan
Align with Air Force mission priorities and capability gaps
Provide pricing that is fair and reasonable
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
A White Paper is required before submitting a full proposal
Full proposals are by invitation only
Must comply with DoD security requirements and classification guidelines
Export control regulations (ITAR/EAR) may apply
Conflict of interest rules apply for certain contractors
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.