Collective Autonomy Integration (Build – Measure – Learn) – USSOCOM JATF

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

USSOCOM’s Joint Acquisitions Task Force (JATF) is seeking industry capabilities to enable Collective Autonomy for heterogeneous unmanned systems (UxS). The goal is to allow a single SOF operator to command multiple air, ground, and maritime systems through unified C2, autonomous collaboration, shared situational awareness, and resilient networking. Submissions are due May 15, 2026.

How much funding would I receive?

Specific award size will depend on scope and proposed effort. $500K to $5 million is a common range for these types of opportunities.

What could I use the funding for?

The Overburdened Operator - A small Special Operations Forces (SOF) team is deployed to a complex, contested environment to conduct a time-sensitive mission. The team employs a mix of organic Unmanned Systems (UxS)—including aerial drones for surveillance and a ground robot for reconnaissance—but each system operates on its own proprietary controller and data feed.

The team's operator is overwhelmed. They are forced to manage multiple systems independently, consuming immense cognitive bandwidth to de-conflict flight paths, monitor separate video feeds, and manually relay information. The UxS assets cannot directly communicate or collaborate. The result is a fragmented operational picture, delayed decision-making, and an increased risk to the mission and the force.

USSOCOM Joint Acquisitions Task Force (JATF) is initiating a "Build, Measure, and Learn" cycle to identify and integrate capabilities that enable Collective Autonomy. We are requesting capabilities from the Vulcan ecosystem to help us answer the following questions:

• Unified Command & Control (C2): How can a single operator effectively command a team of heterogeneous UxS (air, ground, maritime) from a single, intuitive interface that is hardware-agnostic?

• Autonomous Collaboration: How can a group of disparate UxS autonomously collaborate to perform complex, multi-step tasks based on a high-level commander's intent (e.g., “Find and maintain custody of all moving vehicles in this sector”)?

• Shared Situational Awareness: What solutions can automatically fuse sensor data from multiple UxS into a single, real-time Common Operational Picture (COP) that is shared among all human and machine agents?

• Resilient Network: How can this autonomous collective maintain C2 and data-sharing in a communications-contested or denied environment?

• Open Architecture: How do your capabilities leverage a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) to ensure we can rapidly integrate new platforms, sensors, and algorithms in the future?

Desired End State: Operator as Mission Commander, Not System Manager

The goal is to enable a single SOF operator to effectively command a swarm of autonomous systems. In this end state, the operator issues a mission-level command, and the UxS "pack" autonomously collaborates to plan and execute the task, dynamically adapting to the changing environment.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Government Validation and Credibility:
Engagement with USSOCOM JATF signals strong alignment with Special Operations mission priorities, which can significantly enhance credibility with primes, investors, and defense partners.

Pathway to Non-Dilutive Capital:
If transitioned into SBIR, OTA, or CRADA mechanisms, companies may access non-dilutive development funding to mature and validate their technology.

Operational Feedback from SOF Users:
Direct interaction with operators and subject matter experts provides invaluable real-world feedback that accelerates product-market fit for defense applications.

Ecosystem Access:
Participation can open doors to integration opportunities across the broader USSOCOM and DoD autonomy ecosystem.

Enhanced Exit and Valuation Potential:
Demonstrated integration into SOF missions and government-backed validation can materially increase enterprise value, particularly for dual-use autonomy and AI companies.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Deadline: May 15, 2026 (23:59 CDT)

This solicitation does not guarantee funding. If selected for follow-on engagement, timelines would depend on the chosen contracting mechanism (e.g., SBIR, OTA, CRADA).selection and award are expected shortly after down-select.

Where does this funding come from?

United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), via the Joint Acquisitions Task Force (JATF).

Who is eligible to apply?

Industry partners within the Vulcan ecosystem capable of providing solutions aligned to Collective Autonomy requirements.

No geographic restrictions are stated.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Solutions most aligned with the following priorities will be strongest:

• Demonstrated capability to unify heterogeneous UxS under a single hardware-agnostic C2 interface.

• Proven autonomous collaboration enabling execution of mission-level intent without manual micro-management.

• Real-time sensor fusion into a shared Common Operational Picture.

• Resilience in communications-contested or denied environments.

• Clear adherence to a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) for future extensibility.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• This solicitation is for awareness and collaboration only; it is not an acquisition action.

• NO classified or proprietary information should be submitted.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Companies should plan for 2–4 weeks to prepare a complete submission package, including:

• Company profile

• Product whitepaper

• Pitch deck

• System blueprint/architecture

• Technology development plan with TRL and Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM)

Preparation time depends on existing documentation maturity.

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?

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

Review the opportunity here.

DIU: Runway Independent Maritime & Expeditionary Strike (RIMES)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

This is a DIU Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) that invites companies with novel unmanned aerial systems (UAS) capable of providing long-range strike support for naval surface combatants—without relying on large runways or flight decks—to submit a solution. It is a fast, flexible path to a prototype Other Transaction (OT) award that could potentially lead to follow-on production contracts across the U.S. Department of Defense. Proposals are due February 27, 2026 at 23:59:59 US/Eastern Time.

How much funding would I receive?

The DIU CSO does not specify a fixed award amount on the posting. Instead, selected vendors typically negotiate a prototype Other Transaction (OT) agreement. Funding levels vary based on solution complexity and scope, and successful prototype awards can lead to larger follow-on production arrangements.

What could I use the funding for?

You may propose funding for:

• Technical development of a long-range UAS capability that meets the challenge criteria

• Prototyping of vehicle hardware, autonomy software, and integration with naval systems

• Test, evaluation, and demonstration efforts

• Integration and safety risk reduction activities

• Personnel, materials, subcontractors, and other direct costs aligned with system delivery and prototype execution

DIU’s focus is mission-relevant prototyping that can be transitioned rapidly to DoD users.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

If your prototype is successful:

• You may be considered for follow-on production contracts or agreements that do not require further competitive procedures, under 10 U.S.C. 4022(f).

• DIU’s CSO process provides strategic exposure and faster contracting than traditional DoD pathways.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Submission Deadline: February 27, 2026 at 23:59:59 US/Eastern — submit solution brief by this time.

After submission:

• DIU reviews briefs and may invite you to pitch or submit a full proposal.

• Prototype OT awards are typically executed weeks to a few months after selection, depending on evaluations and negotiations.

Where does this funding come from?

This solicitation is run by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) — a Department of Defense organization that accelerates commercial technology adoption for national security missions. It uses Other Transaction Authority (OTA) to award prototype agreements directly to commercial tech companies.

Who is eligible to apply?

• U.S. and foreign owned businesses are generally eligible; eligibility specifics are governed by the broader CSO requirements.

• Companies must register in SAM.gov and obtain a CAGE code prior to award if not already registered.

• A CMMC Level 2 (Self) cybersecurity posture is required before award.

DIU encourages commercial entities of all sizes — including first-time defense contractors — to submit solutions.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Strong candidates will offer a UAS that:

• Operates without runways or large flight decks

• Has ≥1400 NM one-way range with a ~1000-lb payload of standard naval munitions

• Integrates with existing combat systems

• Demonstrates mission autonomy and resilience in contested environments

• Offers cost-effective, maintainable, and scalable approaches

• Supports rapid prototyping and field demonstration within 12 months

Projects that show technical maturity, clear operational benefit, and transition readiness are most competitive.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Solutions must meet DIU CSO format and content requirements, typically not exceeding five pages or fifteen slides.

• CMMC Level 2 (Self) compliance is required before award.

• Any award will include compliance with applicable laws such as Section 889 NDAA requirements.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• A compliant Solution Brief should take a few weeks of focused effort to develop, including company overview, technical description, risk assessment, and linkage to challenge attributes.

• For competitive positioning, start well before the deadline to refine mission relevance and prototype feasibility.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can help you:
• Translate your technical capabilities into a competitive DIU solution brief.
• Strategize on Line of Effort selection and demo readiness.
• Prepare compliance documentation and security coordination plans.
• Draft a high-impact live demonstration plan that aligns with DIU and DoD expectations.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have an hourly rate to strategize, review, and edit applications of $250.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

National Defense Stockpile (NDS) Research & Qualification BAA – DLA

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Strategic Materials office is seeking white papers under its National Defense Stockpile (NDS) Research and Qualification Broad Agency Announcement to fund research, development, and qualification of strategic and critical materials that strengthen domestic supply chains. Awards may support early-stage research through higher-TRL qualification efforts, with individual awards up to $10 million. The BAA is open from January 30, 2026 through January 30, 2029, with white papers due no later than May 1, 2028.

How much funding would I receive?

Individual awards are expected to range from relatively small research efforts up to $10,000,000 per award, with multiple smaller awards more likely than a single large award. Phase I efforts are limited to the Simplified Acquisition Threshold ($250K) and up to 12 months, while Phase II efforts may be funded for up to $10 million with periods of performance up to 24 months.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may be used for research, development, demonstration, and qualification activities related to strategic and critical materials according to the following priorities:

Priority 1: Antimony, Bismuth, Gallium, Germanium, REEs and REE Magnet Materials

Priority 2: Graphite, Battery Materials, Magnesium, Refractory Metals, Energetics

Priority 3: ZOC and Related Materials, Indium, PGMs, Neon, Manganese

Priority 4: High Purity Aluminum, Beryllium, Cobalt, Scandium and Yttrium, Fluorspar


Areas of interest for the above materials are:

(1) Refining, Processing, and Beneficiation:

The research of, assessment of, evaluation of, development of, demonstration of, or establishment of:

(a) Processes to enhance the quality of materials, improve efficiency of production processes, refine or benefit from material, or mitigate recurring problems.

(b) Impacts of and solutions to external “bottlenecks” in raw material supply chains addressing materials that have been delayed, duration of the shortages, effect on production lead times, prices and impact on delivery of finished products.

(c) Impacts of and solutions to internal “bottlenecks” in materials refining processes related to converting feedstock into sellable product considering issues such as incorrect or inferior feedstock, equipment failures, lack of skilled work forces, etc.

(2) Recycling, Conservation and Substitution Options:

Identification of, evaluation of, developing methods for, and establishing domestic capabilities to:

(a) Material substitutes in active use by domestic and trade-friendly international processors and manufacturers; include limitations and common issues associated with use of the substitute material.

(b) Research to develop or qualify materials as acceptable substitutes including use of existing and emerging products.

(c) Recycling opportunities, including industrial infrastructure and logistical perceived limitations.

(d) Recycle and recover neodymium iron boron (NdFeB) or Samarium Cobalt (SmCo) magnets or recovery of rare earths or its alloys. The specifications should include the total rare earth metals (TREM) present in the recycled magnets. As well as identification of energy magnetic density of the recycled magnets.

(3) Qualification of Materials:

(a) Qualification of Research to Department of Defense Programs of Record. Projects will require letters of support from known DOD Programs of Record indicating intent to utilize the qualified material upon successful completion of the work.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal contract award, there are meaningful indirect benefits to receiving a DLA Strategic Materials award:

• Government Validation and Credibility: Selection signals technical merit and relevance to U.S. defense supply-chain priorities.

• Stronger Position in Defense Supply Chains: Successful projects can lead to qualification for DoD Programs of Record, unlocking long-term procurement opportunities.

• Nondilutive Technology Advancement: Companies can mature materials and processes without equity dilution.

• Improved Exit and Acquisition Potential: Government-validated materials qualification can increase strategic value to primes and acquirers.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

The BAA is open from January 30, 2026 through January 30, 2029. White papers may be submitted on a rolling basis but must be received by May 1, 2028. White papers are evaluated as received, and selected offerors may be invited to submit full proposals. All evaluations cease on August 1, 2028, and awards must be made by September 15, 2028.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Strategic Materials program under its authority to support the National Defense Stockpile and strengthen domestic strategic and critical materials supply chains.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any responsible domestic source capable of performing the required research may submit a white paper. Eligibility includes businesses, nonprofits, and educational institutions that are registered in SAM.gov. Foreign-owned firms may participate subject to foreign disclosure review. There is no set-aside for small businesses, though small and disadvantaged businesses are encouraged to participate.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Successful proposals typically demonstrate:

• Strong scientific and technical merit that improves strategic materials supply-chain resilience

• Clear alignment with one or more stated Areas of Interest and listed strategic materials

• Innovative, feasible, and non-duplicative technical approaches

• Qualified teams with relevant facilities, experience, and past performance

• Reasonable and realistic pricing supported by deliverables

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

White papers must be unclassified and may not contain proprietary information. A white paper submission is mandatory to be eligible for a full proposal. Projects are limited to a maximum of three years, depending on phase.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For first time applicants, white-papers will likely take 35 to 50 hours without BW&CO assistance.

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?

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

Review the solicitation here.

DIU - Containerized Autonomous Drone Delivery System (CADDS)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

DIU’s Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) solicitation PROJ00637 — Containerized Autonomous Drone Delivery System (CADDS) seeks innovative commercial solutions to enable rapid deployment and autonomous operation of large numbers of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) from containerized platforms. This opportunity closes February 17, 2026 at 23:59:59 US Eastern Time — urgent submission recommended.

How much funding would I receive?

The exact award amount is not specified online. DIU typically awards prototype contracts under Other Transaction (OT) authority, with budgets determined during negotiation based on solution scope and DoD partner need. Follow-on production contracts may be possible if the prototype is successful.

What could I use the funding for?

This solicitation is looking for solutions that:

• Enable rapid, large-scale UAS deployment from containerized platforms.

• Automate storage, launch, recovery, and refit for multi-agent systems.

• Provide rapid transport and emplacement using military/commercial vehicles.

• Support resilient command and control interfaces and open architecture integration.

• Reduce human operator burden and minimize required crew size.

You’d be expected to demonstrate capabilities within ~90 days of award.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Potential follow-on production contracts without additional competition under 10 U.S.C. § 4022 if the prototype succeeds.

• A fast-moving path into Department of Defense fielding and contracting.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

• Proposal Deadline: February 17, 2026 @ 23:59:59 US/Eastern.

• DIU typically reviews solution briefs first, then invites selected teams to pitch/submit full proposals (often within ~30 days).

• Prototype projects are generally expected to be demonstrable within ~90 days of award.

Where does this funding come from?

DIU is part of the U.S. Department of Defense, focused on accelerating commercial tech adoption for defense applications. Funding is administered under Other Transaction (OT) authority — a flexible contracting approach outside traditional FAR rules.

Who is eligible to apply?

U.S. and international vendors are eligible to respond.

1. To use an OT agreement, requirements of 10 U.S.C. § 4022 must be satisfied (e.g., contributions by nontraditional defense contractors, small business participants, or cost sharing).

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive submissions will:

• Clearly align with rapid autonomous UAS deployment at scale.

• Demonstrate modularity, open architecture, and operational utility.

• Show ability to reduce human operator burden and handle austere environments.

• Present clear pathway to meet the ~90-day demonstration target.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Compliance with Section 889 of the John S. McCain NDAA is required for award.

1. IP is generally retained by the company, with negotiated DoD use rights.

2. OT agreements have specific cost-sharing and contractor status rules under 10 U.S.C. § 4022.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Solution briefs are typically ~5 pages (or ~15 slides) and can be prepared in 1–3 weeks with focused effort.

• Full proposals (if invited) will require detailed technical and project execution plans.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can assist with:

• Crafting solution briefs that clearly align with DIU’s mission and review criteria.

• Developing full OT proposals with technical, cost, and operational plans.

• Strategizing for rapid prototype demonstration and DoD transition pathways.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Review the solicitation here.

Installation Energy & Water - Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) is soliciting pre-proposals for FY 2027 to fund formal demonstrations of innovative Installation Energy & Water technologies. ESTCP supports mature technologies that improve energy resilience, water resilience, cybersecurity, and building performance at DoD installations through real-world demonstrations conducted at DoD facilities. Pre-proposals are due March 26, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. ET.

How much funding would I receive?

ESTCP awards typically support multi-year demonstration projects funded through cost-type or firm fixed-price contracts. While individual award sizes are not specified in the solicitation, projects commonly range from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars, depending on scope, duration, and demonstration scale.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may be used to demonstrate and validate innovative technologies in one of the following ESTCP FY 2027 Installation Energy & Water Topic Areas:

Improve Energy Resilience with Long-Duration Energy Storage
This topic area seeks demonstrations of Long Duration Energy Storage (LDES) technologies integrated into military microgrids to meet the DoD’s requirement to power critical loads for 14 days during a grid outage. Technologies of interest include electrochemical, chemical, thermal, subsurface, and other LDES approaches, evaluated through Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing. The focus is on reducing or eliminating reliance on diesel fuel while improving lifecycle cost-effectiveness, resilience, and cybersecurity of installation microgrids.
Read more here.

Improving the Cyber Resilience of DoW Installation Energy Systems
This topic focuses on closing critical cybersecurity gaps in Facility-Related Control Systems (FRCS) that support energy and water infrastructure. ESTCP is seeking demonstrations of novel solutions that improve secure connectivity, threat detection, and cyber defense at machine speed, including alternatives to fiber connectivity, high-fidelity honeypots, and AI-driven defensive cyber agents. The goal is to reduce the risk of cyber-physical disruption to mission-critical installation systems without requiring major infrastructure modifications.
Read more here.

Improving the Energy Resilience of DoW Installations
This topic area solicits technologies that enhance the ability of military installations to continue mission-critical operations during energy disruptions. Solutions may include hardware, software, planning tools, infrastructure hardening, or integrated energy-water-control approaches, but exclude LDES-only solutions, which must submit under the LDES topic. Technologies should reduce dependence on imported energy, address regional challenges (e.g., arctic, remote, or arid locations), and demonstrate scalability across multiple installations.
Read more here.

Solutions to Improve Energy Efficiency and Performance of DoW Buildings
This topic seeks demonstrations of innovative retrofit-ready technologies that reduce energy use intensity, lower maintenance burden, improve occupant health, and decrease lifecycle costs in DoD buildings. Technologies of interest include HVAC, building envelope systems, lighting, water heating, waste heat recovery, and integrated control solutions. ESTCP prioritizes solutions that work with existing infrastructure, deliver measurable energy savings, and have a clear pathway to adoption through ESCOs, ESPCs, or utility programs.
Read more here.

Water Resilience on DoW Installations
This topic area focuses on technologies and methodologies that improve the reliability, security, and efficiency of water systems supporting military missions. Areas of interest include potable water reduction, water storage (minimum 8,000 gallons), desalination improvements, leak detection, corrosion-resistant materials, building-scale water reuse, and advanced water monitoring. Solutions should reduce operational burden, address water-stressed regions, and support long-term resilience of aging installation water infrastructure.
Read more here.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the direct funding award, ESTCP provides significant strategic advantages:

• DoD Validation and Credibility: ESTCP selection signals that your technology meets high-priority DoD installation needs and has passed rigorous technical review.

• Accelerated Adoption Pathways: Demonstrations are explicitly designed to support transition, regulatory acceptance, and scaling across multiple DoD installations.

• Non-Dilutive Growth: ESTCP funding allows companies to mature and validate technology without giving up equity, strengthening long-term enterprise value.

• Visibility with Defense Stakeholders: Successful projects are published, presented, and shared across DoD, regulatory, and industry communities—raising profile and credibility.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

• Pre-Proposals Due: March 26, 2026 (2:00 p.m. ET)

• Full Proposal Invitations: May 2026

• Full Proposals Due: July 2026

• Technical Committee Briefings: August 2026

• Project Selection: September 2026

• Anticipated Contract Awards: Q3 FY 2027.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) under the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Energy Resilience & Optimization) within the U.S. Department of Defense.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility depends on organization type:

• Private industry and universities: Apply under the FY27 ESTCP Broad Agency Announcement (BAA)

• DoD organizations: Apply under the FY27 DoD Call for Proposals

• Other Federal agencies: Apply under the FY27 Federal Call for Proposals

All proposers must submit a pre-proposal and respond to an eligible Topic Area.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Successful proposals typically:

• Address a clearly defined, enterprise-wide DoD installation need

• Demonstrate technologies at TRL or ARL 5–7

• Provide strong cost, performance, and risk-reduction benefits

• Include a clear DoD end user and transition pathway

• Are scalable across multiple installations and Services

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Projects will not be considered responsive if they:

• Are already broadly deployed across the DoD enterprise

• Require access to large volumes of high-quality DoD data

• Solve a problem unique to a single installation

• Represent basic research or early-stage exploratory development

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For first time applicants, pre-proposals will likely take 35 to 50 hours with assistance.

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?

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

Review the solicitation here.

5G Deployable Systems – Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is conducting market research to identify deployable 5G systems that can support DHS operational needs. This Request for Information (RFI) is intended to collect technical, operational, and cost-related information from vendors to inform potential future procurement decisions. Responses must be submitted through the Vulcan platform by March 2, 2026 at 12:00 PM Eastern Time.

How much funding would I receive?

Est. $500K to $5 million in the future, however this is currently only a Request for Information (RFI) only.

What could I use the funding for?

DHS is requesting information on deployable 5G system capabilities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

While no funding is initially provided, responding to this RFI will offer strategic benefits, including early visibility into DHS operational requirements, increased exposure to DHS S&T stakeholders, and the opportunity to be considered for future solicitations informed by this market research. DHS also notes that it may conduct one-on-one meetings and system demonstrations with selected respondents as part of its evaluation process.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Responses must be submitted no later than March 2, 2026 at 12:00 PM Eastern Time via the Vulcan platform. No funding will be awarded under this RFI but funding could be awarded via other methods in Q4 2026 (estimate).

Where does this funding come from?

No funding is associated with this RFI. It is issued solely for information gathering and market research purposes by DHS S&T.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any vendor capable of providing deployable 5G systems that meet DHS operational needs may submit a response. Respondent technologies must be at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7 or higher.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

DHS explicitly requests information from systems that:

• Are deployable and operationally relevant to DHS missions

• Support 4G LTE, 5G NSA, 5G SA, and/or ORAN technologies

• Demonstrate TRL 7, 8, or 9 maturity

• Include detailed performance, security, and cost data

• Can be demonstrated in a 1-to-2-day operational demonstration

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes. DHS explicitly states that it does not intend to receive proprietary, trade secret, or confidential business information, and all submissions become the property of the U.S. Government. Participation does not transfer any intellectual property rights, and DHS is not obligated to issue a future solicitation.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The RFI requires a detailed technical response covering system design, performance, security, deployment, cost models, and supporting documentation. Preparation time will vary, but respondents should expect a non-trivial effort comparable to a technical white paper plus cost and demonstration planning materials.

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?

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

Review the solicitation here.

Position, Navigation, & Timing at the Tactical Edge – Cyber & Specialist Operations Command (CSOC)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

Cyber & Specialist Operations Command (CSOC) is seeking Assured and Alternate Position, Navigation, & Timing (APNT) technologies that enable military forces to operate effectively in GNSS-denied, contested, or degraded environments. This call supports market research via Vulcan scout card submissions for solutions applicable to dismounted soldiers, vehicles, maritime platforms, and uncrewed systems. Submissions are due by April 30, 2026.

How much funding would I receive?

Est. $500K to $5 million. No funding amount is specified in the source materials. This call is explicitly positioned as market research, not a guaranteed funding award however almost certainly selected technologies will inform future procurement, trials, and funded programs.

What could I use the funding for?

Cyber & Specialist Operations Command is interested in Assured and Alternate Position, Navigation, & Timing (APNT) technologies for use by dismounted soldiers or on vehicle platforms, both static and on-the-move. The proposals should be able to contribute to the ability for Force Elements to continue to operate in a GNSS denied, contested, or degraded environment.

Potential use cases could include:

• Dismounted Soldier

• Maritime Mobility (Surface and Sub-Surface)

• Land Mobility Vehicles

• Uncrewed Vehicles (in all domains)

Technologies should be compatible with existing systems (i.e. plug and play) and may be hardware based or software based (for example, data fusion engines).

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond any future funding opportunity, participation offers meaningful indirect benefits:

Government Validation and Strategic Visibility:
Engaging directly with CSOC provides early validation from the UK Ministry of Defence’s lead command for cyber and specialist operations, signaling relevance to NATO-aligned defence priorities.

Positioning for Follow-On Contracts:
Market research submissions often inform future trials, procurements, and funded defense programs, positioning companies early in the acquisition pipeline.

Access to a High-Value Defence Ecosystem:
CSOC operates across cyber, intelligence, special operations, and electromagnetic domains, creating downstream opportunities for collaboration with allied forces, primes, and specialist units.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Submission Deadline: April 30, 2026 at 18:59 CDT

No funding or award timeline is specified in the materials.

Where does this funding come from?

This opportunity is issued by the Cyber & Specialist Operations Command (CSOC) of the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence. No specific funding vehicle or appropriation is identified.

Who is eligible to apply?

Everyone - including US Companies.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on the stated interests, strong submissions are likely to demonstrate:

• Proven or plausible performance in GNSS-denied or contested environments

• Applicability across multiple platforms or domains

• Plug-and-play compatibility with existing systems

• Maturity suitable for military evaluation or experimentation

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Duplicate scout cards are not permitted and will be removed.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Initial participation requires submission of a Scout Card. For a first time applicant this will take 20-40 hours to submit without assistance from BW&CO.

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 a flat fee of $4,000 for the Scout Card Submission.

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

Review the solicitation here.

Project WILLFUL – Next Generation Specialist Vehicles – Cyber & Specialist Operations Command (CSOC)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

Project WILLFUL is a long-term UK Ministry of Defence R&D and experimentation initiative led by Cyber & Specialist Operations Command (CSOC) to inform a parallel land manoeuvre programme over the next 10–15 years. US Companies are eligible to apply. Through Collaborative Working Innovation Contracts (CWICs, the UK analogue to a CRADA), CSOC will collaborate directly with industry to mature and demonstrate novel technologies on a light, high-mobility 4x4 specialist vehicle platform. Submissions are accepted via Scout Cards until 01 January 2027.

How much funding would I receive?

Est. $500K to $5 million. Funding is expected to be provided through CWICs and related collaborative R&D and capability demonstration activities over the lifetime of the project.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding and collaboration under Project WILLFUL may be used to research, develop, integrate, and demonstrate novel technologies aligned to the following Technology Interest Items:

Alternative Powertrains. Realising the benefits of electric motors at the axels or wheel stations without sacrificing the requirement to run on traditional and dirty fuels. Novel hybrid solutions that are optimised for performance, not emissions. Reduce training, cognitive load on the operator and maintenance. Afford 'silent' approach (reduced audio and thermal signature). Increase exportable power for sub-systems. Future proof for the point where pure EV becomes viable. Improve torque characteristics.

Increasing Payload. Powered Trailers. UGVs. Modified third axles. Novel chassis construction.

C-UAS. Hard and soft kill.

Signature Management. Either through physical profile, such as additive manufacturing solutions or modifiable body kits. Or mounted reductive systems for thermal, audio, IR, EM, RF and counter MLM-enabled object recognition.

Exportable Power. Generation and distribution. Power harvesting.

Protection. Modular ballistic protection. Modular blast protection. Soft kill DAS.

Low profile and light weight Remote Weapons Station. Specifically, options that can be either fitted or removed quickly without specialist tools or can be hidden within vehicle architecture and brought to bear when needed.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond direct R&D collaboration, participation in Project WILLFUL offers significant indirect benefits. Working directly with CSOC and specialist end users provides early insight into future UK land manoeuvre requirements and long-term capability direction. Successful contributors gain credibility through direct Ministry of Defence collaboration, access to spiral acquisition pathways over a 10–15 year horizon, and positioning for follow-on programmes as requirements mature. The use of CWICs enables deeper technical collaboration than traditional procurement mechanisms.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Vendors are encouraged to submit Scout Cards as early as possible, as engagement, experimentation opportunities, and CWIC pathways may be pursued on a rolling basis as funds and collaboration slots are allocated. Early submissions are more likely to influence ongoing research, experimentation, and requirement-setting activities.

The Scout Card submission window opened on 26 January 2026 at 18:00 CST and formally closes on 01 January 2027 at 17:59 CST. Project WILLFUL is expected to continue throughout the full spiral delivery of the associated land manoeuvre programme over 10–15 years, with capability interest areas and CWICs reviewed periodically.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding and collaboration are provided by the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence, delivered through Cyber & Specialist Operations Command (CSOC) using procurement reform mechanisms and Collaborative Working Innovation Contracts (CWICs).

Who is eligible to apply?

There is no initial threshold requirement for vendors at first consideration. However, to proceed beyond initial review and toward CWIC award, vendors will be required to share information at UK SECRET. Security accreditation may inform down-selection.

As a baseline, vendors should seek to secure:

• Facility Security Clearance

• Suitable personnel security clearances (UK SECRET or equivalent)

• United Kingdom Security Vetting (GOV.UK clearance levels)

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects most likely to succeed are those that:

• Demonstrate novel technologies aligned to the listed Technology Interest Items

• Can integrate solutions onto a light, high-mobility 4x4 military-spec platform

• Support rapid experimentation, spiral development, and evolving requirements

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Subsequent participation beyond initial consideration will require the ability to handle information classified at UK SECRET. Security accreditation and vetting may restrict participation for vendors unable to meet these requirements.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Initial participation requires submission of a Scout Card. For a first time applicant this will take 20-40 hours to submit without assistance from BW&CO.

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 a flat fee of $4,000 for the Scout Card Submission.

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

Review the solicitation here.

Science & Technology Long Range Broad Agency Announcement (LRBAA 24-01) – Department of Homeland Security

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is funding scientific and technical research projects that significantly improve or increase capabilities across the Homeland Security Enterprise. This Long Range Broad Agency Announcement (LRBAA 24-01) supports near-term operational needs, foundational science, and future/emerging threat research through contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs). Apply before funds are fully utilized.

How much funding would I receive?

Est. $500K to $5 million. The LRBAA does not specify minimum or maximum award sizes. Funding amounts depend on the technical merit of the proposal, relevance to DHS mission needs, and availability of funds. DHS may fund all, some, or none of the proposals received, and multiple awards are anticipated

What could I use the funding for?

Funding under this LRBAA may be used for research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) activities aligned with DHS Science & Technology Directorate mission needs. DHS is currently seeking projects across the following priority research topic areas. See full topic descriptions here.

Counter Terrorism and Homeland Security Threats (CTHOM)
DHS S&T works to identify individuals or groups that intend to conduct terrorist attacks and/or illicitly move weapons, dangerous goods, and contraband. It also provides assessments of high-consequence attack methods such as CBE threats that terrorists may use to attack the United States.

CTHOM 01: Development of Tools for Test and Evaluation of Machine Learning Algorithms
DHS S&T seeks development of cost-effective methodologies and tools for training and testing of Machine Learning-based (ML-based) algorithms for detecting explosives and contraband in Computed Tomography (CT) and Millimeter Wave (MMW) images. This includes methods to synthesize training and testing data, methods to perturb empirical data in order to explore and explain algorithm performance characteristics, and tools to assess the completeness and diversity of training and test data sets.

CTHOM 03: Novel Approaches and Locations for Explosive Performance Characterization and Testing
Enabling research for the characterization and testing of explosives poses a unique challenge for threat characterization. Innovative tools and methods are needed to provide improvements in evaluating legacy approaches to characterization, adapting state-of-the-art technologies in related disciplines, and integrating emerging innovations.

Secure U.S. Borders and Approaches (BORAP)
DHS secures U.S. borders, territorial waters, ports, terminals, waterways, and air, land, and sea transportation systems. DHS S&T invests in border security research and development for technologies and solutions to prevent illicit movement and the illegal entry or exit of people, weapons, dangerous goods, and contraband.

BORAP 01: Screening at Speed
Screening at Speed seeks to mature transformative technologies that increase aviation security effectiveness from curb-to-gate while dramatically reducing wait times and improving passenger experiences.

BORAP 04: Countering Unmanned Aircraft Systems
The primary objective of this LRBAA is to develop enhanced technologies and methods that allow for the detection, tracking, identification, and mitigation of unmanned aircraft systems under varied terrains and environmental conditions such as dense urban environments, mass gatherings, critical infrastructure, mobile platforms, and remote terrain.

BORAP 07: Detection Canine Technologies
Detection Canine development interests are focused on canine research and development structure and function, development and testing of canine training aids, and independent operational test and evaluation to advance detection canine performance in operational environments.

Secure Cyberspace and Critical Infrastructure (CYBCI)
Protecting individuals and organizations from cyber attacks requires RDT&E, test and evaluation, and the technology transition of advanced cybersecurity and information assurance solutions to secure current and future critical cyber infrastructure.

CYBCI 02: Shared Cyber Resilience
The research and development of improved models of resilience across networked hardware and software systems and organizations, including automated cyber attack mitigation, resilient machine learning approaches, privacy preservation techniques, secure multi-party computing, and human-machine teaming for cybersecurity.

CYBCI 03: Software and Hardware Supply Chain Assurance
The research and development of tools and techniques to ensure the resilience of the data, software, and hardware used to execute homeland security mission functions, including post-quantum cryptography, secure-by-design architectures, microelectronics, IoT, cloud and edge computing, and DevSecOps supply-chain assurance techniques.

CYBCI 04: Trustworthy and Responsible Artificial Intelligence
Research and development to enable DHS to effectively assess AI/ML systems against technical and mission metrics, provide operators an appropriate level of trust and confidence, and inspire trust in the general public toward AI/ML systems deployed by DHS.

CYBCI 05: Advanced and Emerging Data Computation and Analytics
This topic focuses on novel computational and analytic methods and capabilities for large-scale data sets for DHS missions, including real-time analytics, privacy-enhancing technologies, high-performance computing, digital twins, synthetic data, and advanced analytics to improve mission effectiveness and efficiency.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the direct funding, LRBAA awards provide several indirect advantages:

• Government Validation and Credibility: Selection signals strong technical merit and alignment with DHS mission priorities.

• Pathway to Transition and Deployment: Projects are designed to support operational relevance and transition to DHS components.

• Access to DHS Test and Evaluation Infrastructure: DHS may provide access to government laboratories and operational test facilities where appropriate.

• Stronger Long-Term Commercial and Contracting Potential: DHS-funded R&D can increase credibility with future government customers and partners.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

This LRBAA is open through May 31, 2029 at 11:59 PM ET. Companies should apply as soon as possible while funds are available. Submissions follow a three-step process:

1. Industry Engagement Submission (initial research concept)

2. Virtual Pitch (by invitation only)

3. Written Proposal (by invitation only)

Typical DHS response timelines (subject to change):

• Industry Engagement feedback: ~10 business days

• Virtual Pitch evaluation: ~21 business days

• Written Proposal evaluation: ~21 business days

Award timing depends on evaluation outcomes and funding availability.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T) through the Office of Procurement Operations.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• U.S. small businesses and large businesses

• Academic institutions

• Government laboratories and Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs)

• Nonprofits and research organizations

Foreign or foreign-owned entities may participate but are subject to export control, foreign disclosure, and other federal review requirements. There are no set-asides, but DHS strongly encourages small business participation.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Proposals are evaluated based on:

• Alignment with DHS mission needs and topic relevance

• Scientific and technical merit of the proposed approach

• Degree of innovation and potential capability improvement

• Operational relevance and transition potential

• Reasonableness of cost and feasibility of execution

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• Proposal preparation costs are not reimbursable

• Only unclassified materials may be submitted

• Mature commercial products and support services are not eligible

• Participation in later proposal stages is invitation-only

• Export control, IP, and data rights requirements apply

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Without BW&CO’s assistance the Industry Engagement submission would typically take 35-50 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?

Our full service support is available for a flat fee of $4,000 for the Industry Engagement Submission.

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.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Office-Wide Broad Agency Announcement (BAA)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Office-Wide Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) is open through June 22, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET, with white papers accepted on a rolling basis throughout the open period.

This BAA solicits innovative basic research, applied research, advanced technology development, and prototype efforts that advance naval aviation capabilities and directly support Department of the Navy mission needs.

NAWCAD may make awards using contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, or Other Transaction (OT) agreements depending on the nature of the work and the level of government involvement required.

Funding & Award Structure

Number of Awards: Multiple awards anticipated

• Estimated: $500K to $5 million. Award Size: Not predetermined; varies based on technical merit, relevance, and available funding

• Period of Performance: Varies by project

Possible Award Instruments:

• Procurement contracts

• Grants

• Cooperative agreements

• Other Transaction (OT) agreements for research or prototypes

The Government reserves the right to fund all, some, or none of the submitted proposals and may fund efforts incrementally or with options.

Research Areas

Advanced Manufacturing (Priority). Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: multi-functional aircraft components to enable mission flexibility and platform interoperability, aircraft part digital repository and large-scale complete part printing, and manufacture-on-demand of Naval aviation assets.

Aeromechanics. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: aerodynamic and flight controls (manned and unmanned), aeromechanics modeling and analysis tools, flight performance, rotorcraft aerodynamics and performance, ship/aircraft aerodynamic interactions, and unmanned aviation and integration including pilot augmentation and automation and UAV autonomous landing flight mechanics.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) (Priority). Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: AI/ML-driven signal and analysis type sensing, complex reasoning, multi-agent based operation and decision making, airspace integration including sense and avoid algorithms, deep reinforcement learning, neural networks, and demand forecasting.

Autonomy (Priority). Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: autonomous air-to-air refueling, autonomous system development, testing, evaluation, verification and validation tools, airworthiness and risk quantification/acceptance, collaborative autonomy, and autonomous system precision takeoff and landing.

Avionics, Sensors & Electronic Warfare. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: multi-modal sensors, passive and active sensor systems (RF, EO/IR, and acoustic), advanced or alternative precision navigation and timing (PNT), advanced computational and open system architectures, advanced signal and image processing, flight information and control systems, and advanced concepts in electronic warfare systems.

Cyber (Priority). Areas of research may include but are not limited to the following: high accuracy threat detection, cyber effects modeling, reverse engineering, behavioral analysis, intrusion, adaptive cybersecurity, simulation and interface research, concolic testing, and systems configuration management.

Data Science & Visualization. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: predictive modeling algorithms, complex big-data environments, data access, storage and retrieval, data visualization techniques, risk assessment and uncertainty quantification, and statistical analysis.

Digital Engineering (Priority). Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: advancements in the use of Digital Twin technology to support predictive maintenance, automated sustainment environments, diagnostics and prognostics, digital communication of system requirements using model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and Systems Modeling Language (SysML) views, and engineering models and virtual environments to test designs across broader parameters than what live testing permits.

Human Systems. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: human performance assessment and modeling, cognitive performance and workload, human-machine interface and teaming, protective equipment, controls and displays, ergonomics, anthropomorphic measurement, virtual environments, human factors engineering (social, behavioral, health, and cultural), cognitively enhanced operator-state monitoring, prediction, and recommendation, and human-machine fusion AI-supported operator enhancement.

Hypersonic Systems. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: external and internal high-speed aerodynamics, multi-physics modeling and simulation, hypersonic system testing and evaluation, high-temperature and high-specific-strength materials, structures and coatings, guidance, navigation and control, and advanced air-breathing propulsion.

Materials and Aircraft Structures. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: additive manufacturing, corrosion prevention, non-destructive inspection, structural repair and repair processes for metals and ceramics, polymers and composites, analysis and simulation of aircraft structures, structural mechanics, fouling, low observable materials, high-temperature materials, low-temperature icing-resistant materials, and life management of airframes.

Mechanical Systems. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: fire and ice protection for aviation systems, fuel containment, hydraulic systems, pneumatic systems, and landing gear systems analysis.

Power and Propulsion Systems. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: reliability engineering, fuel systems, prognostics and diagnostics, energy storage and efficiency, air-breathing engines, fuels and lubricants, electrical power generation, auxiliary power, low observable signature technologies, propulsion life management, mechanical and drive systems, and affordable small- to medium-scale propulsion systems.

Quantum (Priority). Areas of research may include but are not limited to the following: precise self-reliant onboard navigation and threat detection, secure communication and sensing capabilities, nitrogen vacancy diamond sensing, quantum encryption, and quantum computing.

Secure Communications & Networks (Priority). Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: resilient data and communications networks for command and control, architecture, analysis and software development, information assurance including blockchain networks and security, platform and system health monitoring, effective data transfer of communications and video, and end-to-end security integration in software development for autonomous applications operating in dynamic and contested environments.

Support Equipment. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: launch and recovery equipment, forward-deployed sustainment and resupply, rapid assessment and repair technologies for contested environments, electromagnetics, high-energy generation and control, environmental sensing, prognostics and health monitoring, automatic testing of hardware and software, displays, advanced maintenance technologies, information systems and intelligent agents, and advanced computer and data processing applications.

Test and Evaluation Engineering. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: telemetry, communications, data links and data acquisition, signature technologies, mission system testing, system-of-systems testing environments, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), extended reality (XR), target engineering, airborne threat simulation, integrated battlespace simulation (Live Virtual Constructive Environments), hardware-in-the-loop testing, flight instrumentation, ground radar analysis, test article configuration, navigation and identification, manned-unmanned teaming, advanced training systems including instructional techniques and strategies, and game-based training.

Warfare Analysis. Areas of research include but are not limited to the following: operational suitability, signal extraction, clutter reduction, modeling and simulation, maritime effectiveness, vulnerability and capability-based assessment, and conceptual aircraft design.

NAWCAD may also consider submissions outside these areas if the white paper involves the development of novel-based capabilities with potential to enhance naval capabilities.

Who Should Pay Attention

• Small businesses, startups, and non-traditional contractors (explicitly encouraged)

• Mid-size and large defense R&D firms

• Universities and research institutions

• Teams with novel sensing hardware, algorithms, or system concepts

This is an unrestricted solicitation. Cost sharing is allowed but not required. Foreign entities may not serve as primes.

Deadline

White Paper Deadline: June 22, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET. Only proposers whose white papers are deemed of interest will be invited to submit a full technical and cost proposal.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals are evaluated using the following criteria, in descending order of importance:

1. Technical Approach – Innovation, feasibility, completeness, and risk mitigation

2. Potential Contribution & Naval Relevance – Alignment with NAWCAD and Navy mission needs

3. Cost – Realism and consistency with the proposed technical approach

Proposals are not evaluated against each other but on their individual merit and relevance.

Bottom Line:

1. NAWCAD has flexibility to award OTs, which can be more startup-friendly than FAR-based contracts

2. Successful prototype OTs may be eligible for noncompetitive follow-on production awards

3. White paper quality is critical; there is no guarantee of a Phase II invitation

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant on your own, preparing an White Paper under this BAA will likely take 20–50 hours in total. BW&CO offers services to save you time and increase your likelihood of success.

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 a flat fee of $5,000 for the White Paper Submission.

Fractional support is $300 per hour, with most AFRL proposal projects requiring 10-20 hours of expert support from strategy through submission of full proposal.

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.

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) Multi-Spectral Sensing Technologies R&D (MuSTeR) BAA

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Air Force Research Laboratory is seeking innovative research and development in advanced radio frequency (RF) and electro-optical / infrared (EO/IR) sensing technologies to support future air, space, and command-and-control sensor systems.

White Papers submissions are due May 20th, 2026 at 5:00pm ET.

This BAA supports basic research, applied research, and advanced technology development, with an emphasis on advancing the state of the art and transitioning capabilities to future Air Force systems.

How much funding would I receive?

Total Program Value: ~$250M (across all awards)

1. Typical Award Size: ~$100K to $10M

2. Period of Performance:

   • Individual awards: 12–48 months

   • Overall BAA effort: up to 60 months

3. Award Volume: Multiple awards anticipated (but not guaranteed)

Research Areas

Multiband Multifunction Radio Frequency Sensing (RYMF)

1. Multiband Multifunction Array Development

2. Fully Adaptive Radar

3. Advanced Digital Multifunction Arrays

Laser Radar Technology (RYMM)

4. Laser Radar Imaging, Systems, Components, and Applications Passive Radio Frequency Sensing (RYMP)

5. Passive Radio Frequency Sensing Distributed Radio Frequency Sensing (RYMS)

6. Waveform Phenomenology, Design and Applications

7. Sensor Information Processing and Integration

EO Target Detection & Surveillance (RYMT)

8. Passive Electro-optic and Infrared Sensor Technology

9. Novel EO/IR Hardware and Algorithms

10. Hyperspectral Imaging Technology

11. Standoff High Resolution Imaging (SHRI)

12. Infrared Search and Track Technology

13. Passive EO/IR Space-Based Sensing

Who Should Pay Attention

• Small businesses, startups, and non-traditional contractors (explicitly encouraged)

• Mid-size and large defense R&D firms

• Universities and research institutions

• Teams with novel sensing hardware, algorithms, or system concepts

This is an unrestricted solicitation. Cost sharing is allowed but not required. Foreign entities may not serve as primes.

How the Process Works

Step 1: White Paper

• Rolling acceptance through May 20, 2026

• 6 pages, technical summary + ROM cost

• Used to determine Air Force interest

Step 2: Full Proposal

• Invitation-only

• Requested from white papers that meet AFRL needs

• Technical merit is the top evaluation factor
  

How Proposals Are Evaluated

White Paper Criteria (Equal Weight):

• Alignment with BAA technical areas

• Government interest

• Novelty and technical advancement

• Availability of funding based on ROM

Full Proposal Criteria (Descending Priority):

1. Technical innovation and approach

2. Understanding of scope and risks

3. Transition potential to Air Force systems

4. Cost realism
   

Bottom Line:

This is a long-running, high-dollar AFRL BAA designed to continuously onboard cutting-edge sensing technologies. If your company is building novel RF, EO/IR, or multispectral sensing capabilities, this BAA is a durable entry point into Air Force R&D funding—starting with a relatively low-cost white paper.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant on your own, preparing an White Paper under this BAA will likely take 20–50 hours in total. BW&CO offers services to save you time and increase your likelihood of success.

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 a flat fee of $5,000 for the Abstract Submission.

Fractional support is $300 per hour, with most AFRL proposal projects requiring 10-20 hours of expert support from strategy through submission of full proposal.

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.

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

Tactical Technology Office (TTO) Office-Wide BAA - DARPA

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The DARPA Tactical Technology Office (TTO) is soliciting innovative executive summaries and proposals to demonstrate revolutionary defense platforms, systems, and manufacturing approaches that enhance the nation’s ability to rapidly build, adapt, and sustain force structures. Awards may be made using multiple instrument types, and proposals are accepted on a rolling basis through June 22, 2026.

How much funding would I receive?

Est. $500K to $5 million. DARPA anticipates making multiple awards, but no minimum or maximum award size is specified in the solicitation. Award amounts will be determined based on technical scope, merit, and cost realism.

What could I use the funding for?

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), Tactical Technology Office (TTO) is soliciting innovative executive summaries and proposals in the following focus areas:

1. Design/Build/Buy – Using innovative design approaches throughout the system lifecycle to acquire new defense systems, from disrupting systems engineering processes to reimagining test, certification, and accreditation. This includes (1) new design approaches to make manufacturable designs or to dramatically reduce human engineering effort; (2) new approaches to fabrication that enable rapid start-up, reduced production lead times, and frequent changes to military systems; (3) testing and validation approaches that dramatically shorten the timeline from initial delivery to full military utility.

2. Surge and Sustain – Developing technologies that make existing military systems easy to replenish and abundantly available at time of need. Builds upon the legacy of public and private cooperation for national security to make and maintain existing systems rapidly, on-demand, and at high volume, ensuring that the U.S. can win a long-term conflict. This focus area includes (1) development of manufacturable lower-cost systems with “good-enough” capabilities; (2) adaptive manufacturing solutions that allow shifting production seamlessly among products; (3) approaches to broaden and revitalize the supply chain to permit ready use of alternative suppliers for defense products and components; and (4) methods to rapidly leverage non-defense production capabilities and knowledge for defense applications.

3. Long Range Effects – Creating new systems and approaches that enable decisive military effects at distances from the tactical to strategic in areas where anti-access and area-denial (A2/AD) strategies are employed by an adversary. This includes (1) approaches that increase range, or which provide alternative paths for access that circumvent A2/AD; (2) systems or technologies to enable constant presence within an adversary’s A2/AD zone; and (3) innovative approaches to re-engineer or re-configure existing systems to confound adversary defenses.

4. Disruptive Innovation – Rapidly fielding novel engineering, technology, and systems approaches that disrupt the battlefield in unexpected or non-obvious ways and change the traditional calculus for military advantage. This focus area includes (1) low-cost autonomous systems that can use mass to overwhelm defensive systems; (2) approaches that disrupt the escalation of hide-and-seek between sensors and stealthy platforms by using decoy and deception or new sensing modalities; (3) capabilities that undermine the readiness or efficacy of adversary systems, creating doubt and deterring attacks.

Submissions that identify potential rapid technological disruption to the tactical battlefield are of interest.

Proposed research should investigate innovative approaches that enable revolutionary advances in science, devices, or systems. Specifically excluded is research that primarily results in evolutionary improvements to the existing state of practice. Individual submissions are not required to include the focus areas outlined above, but proposers are encouraged to address at least one of them, and to make clear which are being addressed.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond direct funding, awardees gain significant strategic advantages:

Government Validation & Credibility
DARPA selection signals elite technical quality and national-security relevance — often accelerating partnerships with primes, OEMs, and investors.

Enhanced Market Visibility
Awards frequently lead to increased visibility through DARPA communications, publications, and industry attention.

Ecosystem Access & Collaboration
Awardees join a national innovation community spanning quantum, photonics, microelectronics, and advanced materials — opening doors to long-term collaborations and follow-on opportunities.

Stronger Exit & Acquisition Potential
Non-dilutive support enables deep tech maturation without equity loss. Companies validated by DARPA historically see improved valuation, stronger commercial traction, and increased acquisition interest.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

• Executive Summary Due: April 17, 2026 at 4:00 PM ET

• Full Proposal Due: June 22, 2026 at 4:00 PM ET

DARPA will generally respond to Executive Summaries within 45 calendar days and notify proposers of Full Proposal selection decisions within 60 calendar days of receipt.

Where does this funding come from?

This funding is provided by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) within the U.S. Department of Defense, specifically through the Tactical Technology Office (TTO).

Who is eligible to apply?

All responsible U.S. and non-U.S. organizations capable of satisfying DARPA’s needs may apply, including commercial companies, startups, universities, and research institutions, subject to export control, security, and regulatory compliance. Historically Black Colleges and Universities, small businesses, and minority institutions are encouraged to participate.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

DARPA evaluates proposals based on the following criteria (summarized from Section II):

• The technical approach is innovative, feasible, and clearly defined

• The work supports DARPA’s mission to create or prevent technological surprise

• The team demonstrates strong expertise and execution capability

• Technical risks are identified with credible mitigation strategies

• Costs are realistic and aligned with the proposed technical approach

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Research must be revolutionary, not incremental

• Full Proposals require a signed “Encourage Full Proposal” letter from DARPA

• Non-conforming or duplicative submissions may be rejected without review

• Certain entities (e.g., FFRDCs and UARCs) are highly discouraged except by exception

• Proposers may not misrepresent data using AI or automated tools

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing an executive summary under this BAA will likely take 20–50 hours in total.

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 a flat fee of $5,000 for the Abstract Submission.

Fractional support is $300 per hour, with most DARPA proposal projects requiring 10-20 hours of expert support from strategy through submission of full proposal.

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.

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT) – U.S. Air Force

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The SPRINT Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) is an open, long-running U.S. Air Force research program supporting the development of in-space propulsion technologies to improve spacecraft resiliency and counter satellite threats. The program funds studies, experiments, and R&D contracts across chemical, electric, and multi-mode propulsion systems through white paper submissions and targeted calls during the BAA’s open period.

How much funding is available?

Individual awards are anticipated to range from $100,000 to $10 million per contract, with no predefined minimum or maximum award size. Multiple awards are expected over the life of the BAA, subject to funding availability.

What could I use the funding for?

The SPRINT program seeks to improve the utility of spacecraft propulsion technology for resiliency applications. This includes, but is not limited to, a broad range of technologies, different degrees of development efforts, ground and/or space experiments, studies, and modeling and simulation activities. Topic areas of specific interest include:

• Chemical monopropellant thrusters, thruster system components, and/or complete propulsion systems and their expected interactions with spacecraft systems

• Chemical bipropellant thrusters, thruster system components, and/or complete propulsion systems and their expected interactions with spacecraft systems

• Electric propulsion thrusters, thruster system components, and/or complete propulsion systems and their expected interactions with spacecraft systems

• Multi-mode thrusters, thruster system components, and/or complete propulsion systems and their expected interactions with spacecraft systems

• Plume phenomenology including experimental and/or modelling and simulation (M&S) studies

• Mission utility of propulsion research concepts and any associated operational constructs and/or architectures

Some areas, or specific calls, associated with the SPRINT BAA may require access to classified information up to and including Top Secret, Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI).

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the direct contract funding, participation in the SPRINT program provides indirect benefits such as engagement with Air Force propulsion research stakeholders, opportunities to mature technologies to higher TRLs under government sponsorship, and visibility within the national security space R&D ecosystem through ongoing technical collaboration and review.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Submit white papers as soon as possible before existing funding is allocated. This is an open BAA with a 20-year open period. Funding decisions and award timing depend on proposal evaluation, successful negotiations, and the availability of funds. Specific calls may include defined proposal due dates and anticipated award timelines.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Aerospace Systems Directorate, and administered by the Air Force Test Center.

Who is eligible to apply?

This is an unrestricted solicitation. Small businesses are encouraged to apply. Foreign persons or foreign-owned firms are not eligible to propose.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

White papers and proposals are evaluated based on:

• Alignment with the propulsion technology areas listed in the BAA

• Relevance and interest of the research to Air Force needs

• Availability of appropriate funding

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Some areas or calls may require access to classified information up to Top Secret / SCI. Certain projects may involve ITAR, EAR, OPSEC, and specific data rights requirements. Foreign ownership is prohibited, and classified or ITAR-restricted information must not be submitted without prior coordination.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Without BW&CO assistance, a typical white paper will take between 35-50 hours for first time applicants.

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?

Full support is available for the white paper for a $4,000 initial 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.

Science Transport and Robotic Innovation for Deployment and Exploration (STRIDE) – NASA (ROSES-2025)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

NASA’s Science Mission Directorate is awarding up to $3 million per award to for-profit U.S. companies to conduct design studies—and optional prototyping—of advanced robotic surface and aerial mobility systems capable of transporting and deploying science payloads on the Martian surface. Awards are issued as firm-fixed-price contracts, with proposals due March 31, 2026.

How much funding is available?

NASA will make awards under two tracks:

• Track A (Concept Study): Up to $1,000,000

• Track B (Concept Study + Physical Testing): Up to $3,000,000

All projects must be completed within a 12-month performance period.

What could I use the funding for?

I. Scope of the Program

1.1 Motivation for Industry Robotic Studies

NASA’s Mars Exploration Program recognizes the rapid innovation underway in the U.S. commercial robotics and autonomous systems sector, particularly in scalable surface and aerial mobility platforms with the ability to carry and deliver payloads while operating across complex and varied terrain. Many of these advancements, originally developed for terrestrial or lunar applications, may be well suited to the unique challenges of the Martian surface.

Through this program element, NASA solicits proposals from U.S. industry to conduct design studies of advanced robotic surface and aerial mobility systems with payload transportation and deployment capability for Mars surface operations, and, where applicable, early-stage prototyping of hardware for the same purpose.

These studies will inform the future development of procurable robotic mobility systems that are Mars-environment capable and able to traverse challenging Mars terrain to deliver science payloads across the Martian surface.

This opportunity seeks participation from a broad range of providers--from established space hardware developers to terrestrial robotics companies with potential to enter the space sector--to explore mobility solutions that are both scalable and adaptable to diverse mission scenarios. The goal of the program element is to identify the level of development needed for commercial robotic mobility systems developed for terrestrial and lunar use that could then operate and traverse realistic Martian environments while enabling cost-effective transportation and/or deployment of science payloads. In addition, the program aims to identify key capability gaps and to help advance the broader landscape of robotic exploration at Mars. Proposals are encouraged to articulate how their proposed platform could enhance overall science return.

1.1 Motivation for Industry Robotic Studies

NASA’s Mars Exploration Program recognizes the rapid innovation underway in the U.S. commercial robotics and autonomous systems sector, particularly in scalable surface and aerial mobility platforms with the ability to carry and deliver payloads while operating across complex and varied terrain. Many of these advancements, originally developed for terrestrial or lunar applications, may be well suited to the unique challenges of the Martian surface.

1.2 Considerations of Concept Value

NASA is seeking concepts for surface and aerial mobility systems that maximize, to the extent possible, the following areas of interest. NASA recognizes that not all metrics can be optimized but expects successful concepts to demonstrate improvement in one or more of these areas:

1. Mars Environmental Operability: Demonstrated ability of the proposed system to function in the Martian environment, including tolerance for dust, temperature extremes, communication constraints, and other environmental conditions expected during surface operations.

2. Payload Transportation and/or Deployment and Accommodation: Capacity to reliably transport, carry, deploy, or manage payloads, including breadth of science investigation the system can address (see PIP A2.2 for more information).

3. Mobility Capability: Ability to traverse realistic Martian terrains with meaningful range, endurance, and robustness -- e.g., cratered, rocky, or sandy regions for surface vehicles, as well as elevation/altitude range for aerial vehicles (see PIP A2.2 for more information).

4. Technical Innovation and Risk Reduction: Novel design approaches, technology advancements, or subsystem innovations that reduce operational risk or expand feasible mission scenarios.

2.1 Program Exclusions

This program only addresses in-situ mobility. Topics related to transportation from Earth to Mars, orbiters, science instrument development, initial Entry, Descent, Landing (EDL), and subsurface access are not within scope of this call.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the award funding itself, NSF awards can provide meaningful indirect value because they:

• Signal external validation through NSF’s competitive merit review process (often helpful for partnerships and credibility).

• Support dissemination of findings and products (a built-in emphasis of the program), which can increase visibility across education and research communities.

• Enable development of reusable tools, frameworks, curricula, assessments, and methods that can strengthen follow-on funding competitiveness (the program explicitly supports work that produces “new tools and frameworks” and plans for dissemination).

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

• Optional Pre-Proposal Conference: February 4, 2026

• Proposal Deadline: March 31, 2026

• Anticipated Project Start: ~6 months after proposal submission

• Project Duration: Up to 12 months

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by NASA’s Science Mission Directorate through the Mars Exploration Program, under the ROSES-2025 solicitation.

Who is eligible to apply?

• For-profit U.S. organizations of any size may apply as prime contractors

• Universities, nonprofits, and other organizations may participate as subcontractors or collaborators

• NASA civil servants, FFRDCs, and JPL may not participate as proposers or subcontractors

There is no limit on the number of proposals a company may submit.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

NASA will evaluate proposals based on:

• Technical merit and innovation of the mobility system concept

• Relevance to Mars Exploration Program objectives

• Ability to operate in realistic Martian environmental conditions

• Strength and experience of the proposing team

• Cost and schedule realism within the 12-month period

Special consideration is given to systems that enhance science payload transport and overall science return.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Awards are issued as firm-fixed-price contracts, not grants

• All work must be completed within 12 months

• Budget information must follow strict ROSES redaction and formatting rules

• Certain NASA facilities may be used for testing, but NASA personnel may not be project team members

• Organizational conflicts of interest must be disclosed and mitigated

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.

NAWCAD WOLF Airborne Systems Integration BAA – U.S. Navy (NAVAIR)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Webster Outlying Field (WOLF) Airborne Systems Integration (ASI) Division is soliciting white papers for research and development projects supporting advanced naval air platforms, sensors, computing, security, and mission systems. This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) supports rapid development, integration, and demonstration of technologies relevant to manned and unmanned naval aviation. Phase I proposal abstracts may be submitted on a rolling basis through April 9, 2026, with Phase II full proposals by invitation only.

How much funding is available?

Estimated: $500K to $5M. Award amounts are not predetermined. Multiple awards are anticipated, and funding levels will depend on the technical merit of the proposal, relevance to Navy needs, and availability of funds. Funding may be provided incrementally and may include options for follow-on work.

What could I use the funding for?

The NAWCAD WOLF ASI Division is interested in, but not limited to, researching the following areas:

Platform Related Areas of Interest

• UAS/Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV)/Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) autonomous operations, unique payload capabilities, Size Weight and Power (SWAP), powertrain, flight dynamics, and engine enhancements

• UAS powertrain improvements to include improvements in safety, flight duration, solar technologies, alternative power technologies, power capacity, increased performance, and or logistical improvements

•  Manned and UAS audio, visual, heat, and/or RF noise dampening/cancellation techniques

•  Contested airspace payload/remote payload delivery

• Expendable/low-cost surveillance, communications relay, and/or edge processing capabilities

• Innovative technologies for disadvantaged platforms

• Capabilities, improvements, or technologies to increase air systems operational availability and or decrease air platform life cycle cost

• Roll on or bolt on capability enhancements to existing manned and unmanned systems.

• Enhancements in air system survivability

2.1.2 Payload Related Areas of Interest

•  Non-acoustic Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) sensors and systems

•  Acoustic ASW sensors and systems

•  Magnetic sensors and systems

•  Research involving the interrelationship of acoustic and non-acoustic phenomena applicable to ASW

•  Acoustic and optical Mine Counter Measure (MCM) sensors and systems

•  EO systems engineering methodologies, technologies, and techniques

•  Laser Identification Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) components and systems

•  Hyperspectral components and systems

•  Laser components and systems

•  Electronic Warfare (EW) and cyber capabilities

•  Enhanced airborne networking of autonomous vehicles, manned aircraft, and ground/afloat systems

•  Adapted commercial networking technologies on military platforms

•  Unattended remote controlled sensor technology

•  RF techniques and radar technologies for land and maritime target detection, geolocation, Moving Target Identification (MTI), Multi-Moving Target Identification (MMTI),

• Inverse Synthetic-Aperture Radar (ISAR), passive bi-static or multi-static, tracking, and imaging

•  Data link communication technologies and techniques that provide reduced probability to detect, anti-jamming capability, high data throughput, or resilient communications

•  RF antenna technologies and communications techniques

•  Lightweight sense and avoid technologies

•  Low SWAP edge computing with reduced power consumption and heat generations

•  Alternative position, navigation, and timing technologies

•  Passive sensing technologies

•  Reduction of size, weight, power, and cost of proven technologies for implementation in small UAS

2.1.3 Advanced Computing and Processing Areas of Interest

•  Signal processing

•  Information processing

•  Telemetry methods for off-board sensors to and from various platforms

•  Mathematical modeling and techniques for analyzing ASW effectiveness and performance

•  In-sensor acoustic signal processing

•  Techniques for quantum encryption, coding, and computation

•  Multi-domain and UAS networking and communications technologies and techniques

•  Sensor correlation, dissemination, reduction, and recording technologies and techniques

• Insertion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques into airborne sensors for situational optimization

•  Multi-source data correlation fusion including tracks, sensors, and other multi-spectrum inputs

•  Rapid precision detection, identification and targeting technologies and techniques

•  Computational electromagnetic modeling and analysis techniques

•  Precision geolocation technologies and techniques

•  RF analysis and fusion technologies and techniques

•  RF Signal analysis and processing technologies and techniques

•  Machine or deep learning for raw data and/or pattern analysis

•  Autonomy techniques, algorithms, or capabilities that increase lethality, readiness, or effectiveness

2.1.4 Advanced Air System Security and Protection Areas of Interest

•  Technologies or techniques to increase sensor and airframe survivability to include advancements in countermeasure techniques.

•  Near real time Cross Domain Solutions

•  New kinetic and non-kinetic techniques for defeat

•  Technologies or techniques to reduce airframe detection from active and passive remote sensors to include techniques to reduce airframe RF, visual, infrared, and acoustic signatures.

•  Advancements in secure communication, storage, and tamper resistant non-recoverable system hardening.

•  Advancements in tools, techniques, and technologies that provide enhanced Multi-Level Security (MLS) and Multiple Independent Level of Security (MILS).

•  Advancements in cyber hardening techniques and technologies that improve system integrity and survivability against cyber threats

•  Technologies or techniques that reduce security concerns with high probability of loss unmanned vehicles and sensors and or expendable unmanned vehicles and sensors.

Specific Areas of Interest

Proposals are being solicited in the following areas but are not limited to:

• 2.2.1 Collaborative multi-sensor payloads with onboard enhanced data fusion and autonomous operations focused on reducing data throughput on disadvantaged communication links, reducing operator workload, and enhancing multi-domain critical information sharing.

• 2.2.2 Enhanced manned and unmanned airborne payloads providing greater maritime situational awareness with increased effectiveness, reduced SWAP, and reduced total ownership cost.

• 2.2.3 Modification of Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) UASs for military application to include ruggedization, adaptation of engines utilizing non-explosive fuels, hybrid or long endurance engines, implementation of cyber safe software coding and UAS controls, implementation of secure data links, improvements in battery and solar technologies, improved shipboard launch and recovery, and multi-system collaboration and automation.

• 2.2.4 UAS solutions that significantly decrease launch and recovery and support equipment footprint while expanding capability for launch and recovery to alternative operational sites that lack an organic UAS capability and support structure.

• 2.2.5 Advancements in UAS and UAS technologies that provide new and unique capabilities to the Warfighter.

• 2.2.6 Advancements in technologies that provide precision geolocation and network timing in a contested environment, increase airframe survivability, and decrease probability of system detection.

• 2.2.7 Persistent air, ground, and ship communications data links that enable the warfighter to share data securely amongst unmanned and manned assets within line of sight and Over The Horizon (OTH) to include advancement in technologies, techniques, or alternative methods to automate, reduce, secure, and/or condense mission critical information and/or increase throughput, reduce probability of detect, increase availability, or miniaturize OTH communications.

• 2.2.8 Enhanced naval capabilities that can be implemented within a minimally invasive roll-on or bolt-on configuration to existing or emerging naval platforms utilizing open or existing standards and protocols.

• 2.2.9 Technologies or techniques that support increasing operational availability for existing or emerging platforms and or reducing total ownership cost.

• 2.2.10 Manned and unmanned systems, sensors, and sensor technologies that increase naval capabilities by providing new systems or advancements to existing systems through advanced data processing and detection, advanced algorithms, reduced processing and dissemination time, improved detection, reduced SWAP, increased detection range, increased survivability, decreased probability of detection while reducing total ownership cost.

• 2.2.11 Provide technologies, techniques, or alternative methods to provide lightweight low-cost expendable air launched, ship launched, or ground launched UAS and sensor technologies to provide sense and avoid, provide early warning detection, increase lethality, increase probability to detect, support increased survivability of nearby protected platforms, act as force multiplier and/or improve existing naval capabilities at lower total ownership cost.

  2.2.12 Advancements in human-machine teaming technologies, autonomy, machine learning, or advancements focused on reducing threats to Warfighter, increasing effectiveness, consolidation of mission critical actionable information, increasing lethality, and/or acting as a force multiplier.

  2.2.13 Advancement in technologies, techniques or alternative methods to provide a robust immersive training, maintenance, and operational simulation environment focused on providing realistic venues to increase Warfighter proficiency, increasing capabilities to conduct complicated and or high-risk scenarios in a virtual environment, low-cost risk reduction, and provide remote support in a contested environment.

  2.2.14 Novel approaches to improve readiness, improve resilience, or add capability to existing naval air platforms that can be fielded in a rapid manner with minimally intrusion into the air platform.

  2.2.15 Novel approaches to mission system and communication systems that improve cyber resilience, reduce size weight and power, and provide open systems approach that enables an agile and adaptable mission system to support the fleet with capabilities needs for now and in the future.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond direct funding, successful awardees gain strategic validation from the U.S. Navy and NAVAIR, demonstrating alignment with priority naval aviation needs. Participation positions companies for future prototype awards, follow-on production contracts, or Other Transaction (OT) agreements without further competition, where applicable. Projects also gain exposure to Navy program offices and potential transition sponsors, strengthening long-term defense market positioning.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Phase I proposal abstracts may be submitted at any time through April 9, 2026, at 4:00 PM EDT. Proposals are evaluated periodically, with government feedback typically provided within approximately 60 days of submission. Phase II full proposals are by invitation only and do not guarantee an award.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Defense, specifically through the Department of the Navy, Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), and the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD).

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based organizations registered in SAM, including:

• Small businesses and large businesses

• Nontraditional defense contractors

• Universities and nonprofit research institutions

Proposals must begin at TRL 4 or higher and comply with all BAA submission and registration requirements.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects are evaluated on the following criteria:

• Scientific and technical merit aligned with stated areas of interest

• Relevance and potential operational impact for Navy and DoD missions

• Readiness for rapid demonstration, experimentation, or field testing

• Affordability and feasibility of transitioning to the fleet

• Realism and reasonableness of proposed cost and schedule

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

This BAA is not for general capability statements or engineering support services. Work must qualify as basic research, applied research, or limited advanced development under FAR Part 35. Certain projects may include publication or data restrictions depending on whether the work is considered fundamental or non-fundamental research. SAM registration and compliance with DoD security and export control requirements are mandatory.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

A Phase I proposal abstract is limited to five pages, plus a one-page quad chart, and without BW&CO’s assistance would normally take 20–40 hours, depending on technical complexity and internal approvals.

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, $5,000 Initial Fee for the Phase I proposal.

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.

FBI Enterprise Technology Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) – Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The FBI’s Enterprise Technology Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) is open through May 16, 2026 and accepts white paper submissions at any time during the open period. The program seeks innovative R&D concepts from industry and academia across multiple FBI problem sets (including AI, cybersecurity, biometrics, counterintelligence, digital exploitation, and enterprise data fabric). Submissions are emailed to BAA@FBI.GOV and follow a two-step process: Step 1 is a white paper (or recorded oral presentation), and selected applicants may be invited to Step 2 to submit a full proposal.

How much funding is available?

Although not explicitly mentioned in the solicitation, typical awards range from $500k to $2m for periods of performance ranging from 6-24 months

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports R&D efforts aligned to the FBI’s “Problem Set Areas”. See an overview below and full description here:

1. Leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its Sub-Fields

• Content Extraction and Triage

• All-Source Data Management

• Workflow Automation

• Actionable Analysis and Alerting

• Semi-Autonomous Multi-Sensor Fusion

• Business Operations

• Data Science

• Knowledge Management

• Open-Source Information Gathering

• Correspondence Management from Multiple Sources

• Dynamic Threat Analysis

• Human Resource (HR) Recruiting

• Signature Identification

• Cybersecurity

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance

2. Enhance Counterintelligence and Security

• Counterintelligence (CI) Capability

• Personnel Assessment and Evaluation

• Cyber Behavior

• Foreign Contacts

3. Mission-Enhancing Science and Technology

• Digital Exploitation

  • Document and Media Acquisition

  • Human Language Technologies

  • Computer Vision

  • Digital Signals Processing

  • Data, Process, and User Artifact Analysis

  • Document and Media Exploitation (DOMEX)

• Directed Energy Weapons (DEW)

• Biometrics

• Weapons of Mass Destruction

• Electro-Optical Detection

• Pulsed Power Detection

• Radio Frequency Detection

4. Improve Mission Support Capabilities

• Information Technology (IT)

  • IT Governance

  • Data Management and Analytics

  • Infrastructure and Cloud Management

  • Information Assurance and Cyber Defense

  • Operations Support

  • Strategic Information and Operations (SIOC)

• Cyber Capability Requirements Process

• Enterprise Common Data Fabric Solutions

5. Increase Organizational Effectiveness

• Performance Management

  • Applicant Screening

  • Career Advancement

  • Workplace Learning and Performance

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, there are meaningful indirect benefits to winning an FBI BAA award:

• Government validation and mission alignment: Selection indicates the FBI sees strong technical merit and mission value in your R&D approach, which can accelerate future government relationships and contracting credibility.

• Partnership acceleration: The FBI explicitly encourages partnering among industry and Government to speed adoption of new science and technology into fielded systems—awardees may benefit from stronger collaboration opportunities.

• Higher valuation via nondilutive R&D: Funding supports R&D without equity dilution, allowing companies to mature technology and strengthen valuation narratives for future financing or acquisition (general commercial benefit; not explicitly stated in BAA).

• Positioning for follow-on work: Award performance may strengthen eligibility and competitiveness for future FBI or broader federal procurements in adjacent mission areas.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

BAA open period: Effective 5/17/2023 – 05/16/2026.

1. When to submit: White papers may be submitted at any time during the open period to BAA@FBI.GOV.

2. Two-step process:

   • Step 1: Submit white paper

   • Step 2: If selected, FBI requests a formal proposal (do not submit full proposal unless requested)

3. Selection timing: FBI may make selections anytime during the open period and up to six months after closing for white papers submitted during the open period.

4. Funding receipt timing: Not specifically stated; awards depend on selection, negotiations, and funding availability.

Where does this funding come from?

This is a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Broad Agency Announcement run through the FBI Finance Division | Procurement Section.

The BAA is conducted under the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) for R&D.

Who is eligible to apply?

The BAA is intended to encourage participation by:

• Science and technology firms

• Educational institutions

Additional eligibility-related requirements include:

• Offerors must be registered in SAM prior to submission and maintain active SAM registration.

• Offerors may propose subcontracting and teaming arrangements, including industry-academia and industry-government partnerships.

• Submissions are generally expected to be UNCLASSIFIED, but classified approaches require prior FBI approval.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The FBI evaluates white papers using three equal factors:

• Technical Approach: strong scientific/technical merit, innovation, sound concept, awareness of state of the art, understanding scope, and potential FBI mission benefit.

• Capabilities and Relevant Experience: evidence the team/facilities can execute and safeguard controlled unclassified/classified info (if applicable), and prior work can be leveraged.

• Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM): cost realism based on total estimated labor, materials, subcontracts, ODCs, indirect, and fee/profit.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions and compliance items include:

• White paper page limit: written submissions must not exceed 10 pages (pages beyond are not evaluated).

• Communications must be UNCLASSIFIED and emailed to BAA@FBI.GOV; do not email classified info.

• Security requirements: work expected unclassified, but some efforts may require personnel clearable to Top Secret (TS) and potentially SCI access with NDAs and polygraph.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not explicitly stated, but the required Step 1 white paper format suggests typical preparation time depends on complexity:

• Written white paper: up to 10 pages plus additional sections (program plan, experience, ROM).

• Alternative format: a pre-recorded oral presentation up to 10 minutes may be submitted instead of written format.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can provide fractional or full support to increase the likelihood of success and save you a significant amount of time in the application process. Most clients don’t spend more than 3 hours a week in their engagement with us and our success rates are 2x-3x the national average. We collect your data, write an initial draft, have your team approve, and then move on to the next deliverable.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Fractional support is $300 per hour. For full grant writing support, we would charge a $9,000 fee for submitting the initial white paper. If you receive an invitation for a full submission, there would be a follow-on payment of $9,000 to submit the full proposal with a 5% success fee contingent on award.

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.

AFRL Multiple Award Contract (AMAC) – Air Force Research Laboratory

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) AMAC program establishes a multiple-award IDIQ contract vehicle enabling qualified U.S. companies to compete for future AFRL-funded science and technology (S&T) research task orders. There is no funding awarded at the base contract level; funding is provided only through competitively awarded task orders after selection. Proposals are due February 27, 2026.

How much funding would I receive?

There is no fixed funding amount awarded at the base IDIQ level. Each awardee is guaranteed a minimum of $500 over the life of the contract. Actual funding is awarded later through individual task or delivery orders, which may range from small research efforts to very large programs. The estimated ceiling value across all AMAC contracts is $10 billion.

How does the program work?

AMAC is not a single grant but a long-term contract vehicle that allows AFRL to rapidly fund unclassified science and technology research through future task orders. If you meet the criteria, you will receive the long-term contract vehicle. Companies selected to the AMAC vehicle become eligible to compete for AFRL-funded projects covering basic and applied research, technology development, modeling and simulation, manufacturing, experimentation, integration, and technology transition. Importantly, there is no funding awarded upfront—all funding is issued later through individual task orders, each with its own scope, budget, and performance period.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond task-order funding, AMAC awardees gain several indirect but material benefits:

• Government Validation and Credibility: Selection confirms AFRL validation of your company’s technical experience as a prime contractor.

• Long-Term AFRL Access: Awardees are eligible to compete for AFRL task orders for up to 8 years.

• Increased Visibility: Awardees become part of AFRL’s active R&D contractor ecosystem.

• Non-Dilutive Growth: Task-order funding enables technology maturation without equity dilution.

• Stronger Strategic Positioning: Proven AFRL work can enhance acquisition, partnership, and future DoD contracting opportunities.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Proposals must be submitted by February 27, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET. Base IDIQ awards are made after evaluation. Funding is only received after winning individual task orders, which may be issued at any point during the contract’s ordering period.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding for task orders comes from AFRL directorates and partner agencies using AFRL as the contracting vehicle. The base AMAC contract itself does not carry dedicated funding.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based companies that can demonstrate qualifying prime contractor experience in federal S&T research. This includes:

• Small businesses

• Large businesses

• Joint ventures

• Universities and non-profits

Foreign-owned or foreign-influenced companies are not eligible unless formally approved through the National Industrial Security Program.

What companies will receive the contracting vehicle?

To receive an AMAC award, offerors must:

• Be a responsible source under FAR Part 9

• Submit a compliant proposal following Section L instructions

• Achieve a validated minimum score of 1,000 points in the self-scoring technical experience evaluation here

• Demonstrate prime contractor experience in AFRL technical Areas of Interest

• Receive an Acceptable rating for both Technical Experience and Small Business Participation Commitment

There is no price competition at the base contract level.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes. Key restrictions include:

• No classified work is permitted under the AMAC base contract

• Only prime contractor experience counts toward technical scoring

• Subcontractor experience does not qualify for scoring

How can BW&CO help?

The AMAC solicitation is fundamentally a compliance-driven, pass/fail process. AFRL has stated that any offeror who submits a fully compliant proposal and meets the minimum technical threshold will receive an AMAC contract—while even minor non-compliance can result in elimination, regardless of technical merit. BW&CO helps ensure your proposal is structured correctly, fully compliant, and strategically positioned so you don’t lose this opportunity due to avoidable errors.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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.

Strengthening America’s Manufacturing and Defense Industrial Base (SAMDIB) – Cornerstone Consortium (DoD)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Cornerstone Consortium is accepting white papers on a rolling basis under the Strengthening America’s Manufacturing and Defense Industrial Base (SAMDIB) initiative to fund prototype projects that enhance U.S. defense manufacturing capacity, workforce resilience, and supply chain security. Awards are made via Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) to eligible consortium members to address priority industrial base sectors supporting DoD mission readiness. White papers may be submitted anytime while the CIR is open, with evaluations conducted periodically based on Government need.

How much funding would I receive?

$2 million to $200 million. The Government does not disclose a fixed award size or total budget for this initiative but past awards reflect a range of levels from $2 million to $200 million. Funding levels vary by project scope, technical maturity, and negotiated milestones, and multiple awards may be made subject to availability of funds.

What could I use the funding for?

Cornerstone accelerates research, development, prototyping, demonstration, qualification and integration of manufacturing capabilities and capacities into the US Industrial Base and supply chains. Cornerstone integrates the diverse and currently fragmented collection of industry sectors across a range of manufacturing disciplines to ensure Industrial Base resiliency and assurance and a robust manufacturing innovation ecosystem. To this end, the technical focus of Cornerstone shall be comprised of, but not limited to, these Sector and Requirement Focus Areas:

Sector Area 1: Aircraft

Fighters, bombers, cargo, transport aircraft, combat/combat support/combat services helicopters, unmanned aircraft systems/vehicles and the associated components, equipment, networks and personnel to control unmanned aircraft.

Sector Area 2: Radar and Electronic Warfare

Semiconductor, captive monolithic microwave integrated circuits, and the related microelectronic manufacturing/assembly facilities required for continual upgrade of military radar, electronic warfare, and other related equipment.

Sector Area 3: Shipbuilding

Aircraft carriers, submarines, surface combatants, amphibious warfare, combat logistics force, and command and support vessels.

Sector Area 4: Ground Vehicles

Tactical vehicles, armored multi-purpose vehicles, and the associated products required for improvements to legacy systems such as the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, M1 series tank, High-Mobility Multi-Purpose Vehicle and Light Armored Vehicle.

Sector Area 5: Soldier Systems

Personal protective and individual systems such as clothing, boots, helmets, parachutes, chemical protective clothing, sensors and lasers, body armor, small arms, shelters, rations, clean water, laundry, and food services.

Sector Area 6: Space

Satellites, launch services, ground services, satellite components & subsystems, networks, engineering services, payloads, propulsion, and electronics.

Sector Area 7: Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN)

Passive protection, contamination avoidance and mitigation measures taken and the applicable associated equipment used in situations where CBRN hazards may be present.

Sector Area 8: Critical Minerals & Materials

Minerals, materials, production technology, and the associated international trade supply chains that are integral to the U.S. manufacturing base and the Nation’s overall economic and national security.

Sector Area 9: Machine Tools

Machines for shaping, machining, cutting, boring, shearing, extruding, turning and the associated tools/fixtures required for holding/constraining/guiding the work piece being machined.

Sector Area 10: Cyber for the Industrial Base

A body of technologies, processes and practices designed to protect networks, computers, and programs essential to military communication and data systems from being compromised.

Sector Area 11: Optics

Enhanced night vision goggles, thermal weapons sights, monocular night vision devices, aviator’s night vision imaging systems, sniper night sights, multifunction aiming lights, mini integrated pointed illuminator modules, integrated laser white light pointers, individual and crew served weapons lights, aircrew laser pointers, green laser interdiction systems, family of weapons sights, laser target locators, lightweight laser designator rangefinders, small tactical optical rifle mounts, micro-laser rangefinders, and joint effects targeting systems.

Sector Area 12: Advanced Technology and Advanced Manufacturing

Items of equipment developed with the most advanced technology available and used by the majority of the economy. Advanced technology and advanced manufacturing advances the state of the art and, therefore, has the most growth potential.

Sector Area 13: Electronics

Consumer electronics, computers, automotive, industrial/medical equipment, telecommunications, and aero/defense. The industrial base consists of engineering companies that design integrated circuits (IC); front end companies that manufacture ICs; back end manufacturers that assemble ICs into packages; IC vendors that design and market ICs; systems integration companies that combine ICs into electronic systems; and others as applicable.

Sector Area 14: Command, Control, Communication, and Computers (C4)

Major defense acquisition programs and major automated information systems that integrate doctrine, procedures, organizational structures, personnel, equipment, facilities and communication designed to support commanders.

Sector Area 15: Munitions and Missiles

Smart bombs, tactical cruise, air-to-air, air-to-ground, and surface-to-surface missiles as well as dumb bombs, ammunition, mortars, and large caliber rounds.

Sector Area 16: Industrial Base and Manufacturing Skills

Collaborative efforts to engage the highest industrial, academic, and Government technical resources to define and address strategic manufacturing value chain vulnerabilities and program specific technical issues in support of the defense industrial base.

Sector Area 17: Trusted Capital

U.S. or NTIB Integration-partner capital. Efforts will focus on identifying relevant sources of innovation, identifying and leveraging trustworthy sources of capital, and bringing together the right sources of innovation with the right trustworthy sources of capital to accelerate financial arrangements that obviate adversary strategies.

Sector Area 18: Special Operations Forces (SOF) Operational Requirements

Capabilities that rapidly explore any relevant technologies that provide material solutions for Electronic Warfare, Intelligence/Surveillance/Reconnaissance, Computer Network Operations, C4, Weapons, Visual Augmentation Systems, Fire Support Systems, SOF Enablers, and Mobility Systems.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond direct nondilutive funding, Cornerstone awards offer several strategic advantages:

Government Validation and Credibility: Selection through a DoD-managed OTA consortium signals strong alignment with national defense industrial base priorities and increases trust with primes, partners, and investors.

Enhanced Visibility Across DoD: Awardees gain exposure to multiple DoD programs and stakeholders through a standing, Government-managed consortium vehicle.

Faster Contracting and Flexible Terms: OTAs allow negotiated data rights, milestone-based payments, and streamlined acquisition compared to FAR-based contracts.

Follow-On Production Potential: Successful prototype projects may be eligible for non-competitive follow-on production OTAs or transition to FAR-based production contracts, though follow-on awards are not guaranteed.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

White papers (15 pages) may be submitted at any time while the CIR is active. Submissions are typically evaluated within three months of receipt. If invited, full proposal timelines are set by the Government based on project complexity. Funding is received through negotiated milestone payments after OTA award.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Defense through the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) Program and executed by Army Contracting Command – Rock Island in support of DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center.

Who is eligible to apply?

Only Cornerstone Consortium members with an executed Consortium Management Agreement, active SAM registration, and favorable responsibility status may apply. Eligible organizations include:

• Small and large U.S. businesses

• Non-traditional defense contractors

• Traditional defense contractors

• Academic institutions

• Federally Funded Research and Development Centers

• Private capital entities

Foreign participation is restricted and approved only on a case-by-case basis.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive selections prioritize projects that:

• Address one or more priority industrial base sectors with clear DoD relevance

• Demonstrate strong technical merit and feasibility

• Strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity or supply chain resilience

• Present reasonable cost sharing and milestone plans

• Offer innovative or differentiated technical approaches

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes. Key restrictions include limits on foreign participation, export-controlled information handling, cybersecurity compliance (NIST SP 800-171), restrictions on non-U.S. research programs, and Government Purpose Rights for technical data unless otherwise negotiated.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Most first-time applicants should expect 80–120 hours of effort 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 the 15 page white paper for a flat fee of $9,000. Upon invitation, full proposal is an additional $9000 + 5% Success Fee.

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.

Additional Resources

Learn more about the program here.

National Science Foundation Small Business Innovation Research Program (NSF SBIR/STTR)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The NSF SBIR/STTR Phase I program, also known as America’s Seed Fund powered by NSF, provides up to $305,000 in non-dilutive funding to U.S.-based startups to conduct high-risk, high-reward R&D based on novel science or engineering. The goal is to help companies build a proof-of-concept or prototype with strong commercial and societal impact. Companies must first submit a Project Pitch and receive an invitation before applying. Multiple submission deadlines occur each year.

How much funding would I receive?

Phase I awards provide up to $305,000 in total non-dilutive funding for a 6–18 month project. This amount is inclusive of all direct and indirect costs, the small business fee, and recommended commercialization support such as NSF I-Corps training and Technical and Business Assistance (TABA).

Companies that successfully complete Phase I are eligible to apply for Phase II funding of up to $1,250,000 over 24 months, with the opportunity to apply for additional supplemental funding that may exceed $500,000, bringing total potential NSF support to $2 million or more across phases.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may be used to develop technologies in almost any area below - See a full expanded list here:

• Advanced Manufacturing (M)

• Advanced Materials (AM)

• Advanced Systems for Scalable Analytics (AA)

• Agricultural Technologies (AG)

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Augmented Virtual and Mixed Reality (AV/VR/MR)

• Biological Technologies (BT)

• Biomedical Technologies (BM)

• Chemical Technologies (CT)

• Cloud and High-Performance Computing (CH)

• Cybersecurity and Authentication (CA)

• Digital Health (DH)

• Distributed Ledger (DL)

• Energy Technologies (EN)

• Environmental Technologies (ET)

• Human-Computer Interaction (HC)

• Instrumentation and Hardware Systems (IH)

• Internet of Things (I)

• Learning and Cognition Technologies (LC)

• Medical Devices (MD)

• Mobility (MO)

• Nanotechnology (N)

• Other Topics (OT)

• Pharmaceutical Technologies (PT)

• Photonics (PH)

• Power Management (PM)

• Quantum Information Technologies (QT)

• Robotics (R)

• Semiconductors (S)

• Space (SP)

• Wireless Technologies (W)

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the direct funding, NSF SBIR/STTR awards provide several significant indirect benefits:

Government Validation and Credibility:
Being selected through NSF’s highly competitive merit review process signals strong technical innovation and commercial potential, which can materially increase credibility with investors, partners, and customers.

Founder-Friendly, Non-Dilutive Capital:
Awards are grants with 0% equity taken, allowing founders to advance core technology without dilution or repayment obligations.

Expert Feedback and Coaching:
All applicants receive detailed feedback from technical and commercial reviewers, and awardees work closely with experienced NSF Program Directors.

Enhanced Market Visibility:
Awardees are publicly recognized through NSF communications and often gain increased visibility within the deep tech and innovation ecosystem.

Stronger Follow-On Funding and Exit Potential:
Companies that de-risk technology with NSF funding are often better positioned for Phase II funding, venture capital, strategic partnerships, and higher-value exits.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

• Project Pitch: Can be submitted on a rolling basis starting mid-February (estimated)

• Full Proposal Deadlines: Multiple deadlines each year. Estimated deadline March 2026.

• Review Process: Typically 5–7 months from proposal submission to award decision.

• Funding Release: Most funds become available 1-2 months after award notification.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) through its congressionally mandated SBIR and STTR programs, administered by the Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants must:

• Be a U.S.-based small business with 500 or fewer employees

• Be majority U.S.-owned

• Perform R&D primarily in the United States

• Not be majority-owned by venture capital, hedge funds, or private equity firms

• Have a Principal Investigator primarily employed by the company (≥51%)

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Successful applicants typically demonstrate:

• A novel scientific or engineering breakthrough with strong differentiation

• High technical risk that requires R&D to resolve

• Clear commercial market pull and scalable business potential

• A defensible competitive advantage difficult to replicate

• A technically strong, committed founding team focused on commercialization

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• No funding for clinical trials, marketing, or incremental product development

• No foreign R&D or foreign travel

• Letters of support from customers are not allowed in Phase I

• Equipment purchases over $5,000 are not allowed

• Only one proposal per company per submission deadline

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Most first-time applicants should expect 80–120 hours of effort over 8–12 weeks, including technical writing, budget preparation, registrations (SAM, SBA, Research.gov), 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 a flat fee of $9,000 + 5% Success Fee.

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.

Additional Resources

Learn more about the program here.

Carderock BAA - NAVY

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division (NSWCCD) is soliciting proposals under its FY26 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for basic and applied research aligned with Navy ship, submarine, and maritime systems priorities. Awards are made as grants or cooperative agreements, with a minimum award size of $500,000 and no stated maximum. The BAA supports research across digital ecosystems, hydrodynamics, naval platform integrity, ship and submarine design, signature management, and unmanned systems. Proposals must be submitted by February 27, 2026.

How much funding would I receive?

Individual awards vary by technical scope, merit, and fund availability. The BAA lists a minimum award size of $500,000, with no stated maximum award ceiling. NSWCCD may make multiple awards, and funding levels depend on proposal quality and available funds.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may be used for basic and applied research in the following areas:

Digital Ecosystems

• High speed, intelligent, data-driven decision making for complex operations

• Data discovery, information and knowledge management

• Rapid adaptable policy and enforcement for digital environments

Hydrodynamics

• Computational hydrodynamic tools

• Seakeeping and loads in extreme seas

• Maneuvering and control

• Maneuvering in waves

• Cavitation

• Hull-propulsor interaction

• Hydrodynamic modeling of operations: in an ice slurry; multi-body interactions; propulsor hull system optimization; appendage characterization and scaling; near-surface and near-shore maneuvering and control modeling development

Naval Platform Integrity

• Naval metals and alloys; structural composites; corrosion resistant materials; and/or high-temperature ceramics

• Manufacturing, including additive and other advanced manufacturing, and the relationship between processing, microstructure and materials properties, including Modelling & Simulation

• Structural assessment and monitoring

• Weapons effects and ship protection

• Non-destructive testing and/or inspection

• Maritime lethality

• Structural reliability

• Ship environmental treatment systems, management, and safety

• Bio-fouling and bio-fouling hydrodynamic effects

• Development of artificial intelligence and machine learning models to advance naval platform integrity

• Battery development and safety

• Naval platform energy and power

Ship and Submarine Design

• Ship/Submarine design tools

• Ship/Submarine design processes and methods

• Design evaluation/assessment capabilities

• New and non-traditional platforms

• Novel ship/submarine designs and missions

Signature Management

• Underwater and topside signatures

• Mobile sensors

Unmanned Systems

• Low-cost perception and situational awareness systems

• Autonomy and AI/ML decision making and computations

• Swarming capabilities

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, there are meaningful indirect benefits to winning a NSWCCD Carderock BAA award:

Government Validation and Credibility: Selection signals strong technical credibility and alignment with Navy and DoD research priorities, which can accelerate future partnerships and follow-on funding.

Nondilutive Technology Advancement: Funding supports research without equity dilution, allowing organizations to mature technology while preserving ownership.

Positioning for Follow-On Navy Opportunities: Successful research may inform future Navy programs, contracts, or applied development efforts.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

The BAA is open until February 27, 2026. Proposals may be submitted at any time before that deadline. Performance is expected to begin no earlier than three months after cost proposal submission, subject to award negotiations and fund availability.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division (NSWCCD) under the Department of the Navy for basic and applied scientific research (Assistance Listing 12.300).

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Public and private institutions of higher education

• Universities (including University Affiliated Research Centers, unless restricted by contract)

• Small and large organizations

Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), Navy labs, and other DoD or civilian government laboratories are not eligible as prime applicants, though teaming arrangements may be allowed.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Proposals are evaluated using a peer or scientific review process based on:

• Overall scientific and technical merit of the proposal

• Importance and relevance to NSWCCD programs

• Availability and affordability of funds

Technical merit is the most important factor, with cost realism and reasonableness also considered.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

This BAA is for research only and not for system acquisition or operational support services. No fee or profit is allowed. Some topics may involve export-controlled technologies, limiting participation to U.S. persons under ITAR. Intellectual property assertions must be clearly disclosed, and organizational conflicts of interest must be identified and mitigated.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive pre-proposal without assistance from BW&CO will likely take 200–250 hours in total.

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 a flat fee of $15,000 + 5% Success Fee.

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.

Additional Resources

Read full solicitation here.