ARPA-H: Systematic Targeting Of MicroPlastics (STOMP)

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

Executive Summary:

ARPA-H’s Systematic Targeting Of MicroPlastics (STOMP) program is a new funding opportunity focused on detecting, understanding, and ultimately removing toxic microplastics from the human body. This is an early-stage, high-impact program targeting a major and unresolved public health challenge.

To apply, you must first submit a required Solution Summary by Monday, May 6, 2026, 5:00PM ET. Only those encouraged will proceed to a full proposal due Monday, June 22, 2026, 5:00PM ET. These deadlines are firm but noted as subject to change—waiting risks missing your window.

STOMP will fund efforts in measurement and biological understanding now, with removal technologies expected in a later phase.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding is expected to range from $500k - $10m.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports R&D aligned with two primary technical areas:

Phase 1:

• Develop lab-based measurement tools for nano-sized microplastics in biological tissue

• Image and characterize microplastics in organs and cells

• Study mechanisms of microplastic trafficking and toxicity

Phase 2:

• Translate measurement methods into scalable clinical systems

• Develop solutions to remove microplastics from the human body

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Access to a multidisciplinary ARPA-H program environment

• Opportunity to collaborate across technical domains

• Participation in a program aimed at major healthcare impact

No additional non-dilutive benefits (e.g., commercialization support, follow-on funding) are specified in the solicitation.

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

Key Dates:

• Solution Summary Due: Monday, May 6, 2026, 5:00PM ET

• Full Proposal Due: Monday, June 22, 2026, 5:00PM ET

Additional notes:

• A Solution Summary is required to submit a full proposal

• Proposers will be encouraged or discouraged from submitting a full proposal after summary review

• Dates are stated as estimates and subject to change

Award timing:

• Not specified in the solicitation

Where does this funding come from?

• Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H)

• Notice ID: ARPA-H-SOL-26-152

Who is eligible to apply?

• Eligibility criteria are not specified in the provided materials

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on stated program goals, competitive proposals will likely:

• Focus on microplastics measurement technologies or biological mechanism understanding

• Address challenges in detecting nano-sized particles in complex biological systems

• Provide novel approaches to understanding toxicity and distribution in the body

• Demonstrate strong multidisciplinary teaming, as teaming is encouraged

• Align with future translation into clinical and scalable systems

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• A Solution Summary is required before submitting a full proposal

• Full proposals are recommended only for those encouraged to proceed

• Specific restrictions (e.g., cost share, IP terms, or use of funds) are not specified in the provided materials

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Not specified in the solicitation

However:

• The two-step process (Solution Summary → Full Proposal) requires staged preparation

• Teaming is encouraged, which may increase coordination time

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support:

• Interpreting ARPA-H program fit and positioning

• Drafting compelling Solution Summaries aligned to evaluation criteria

• Structuring full proposals for technical clarity and competitiveness

• Coordinating multi-partner teams and narrative cohesion

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($15,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP) is a pre-announcement from the Department of Defense indicating substantial upcoming funding across a wide range of medical research topics relevant to military health. This is an early signal to begin preparing—applications are not yet open, and deadlines are not specified in this pre-announcement. Once released on Grants.gov, these opportunities will move quickly and require pre-applications or letters of intent.

This program supports everything from early-stage discovery through large-scale clinical trials, with awards ranging from $385,000 up to $20M+ depending on mechanism. Founders and research teams should begin aligning projects now to be competitive when announcements drop.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding varies significantly by award mechanism:

• Clinical Trial Award

  • Planning Phase: up to $800,000

  • Level 1: up to $6M

  • Level 2: up to $10M

  • Level 3: up to $20M

• Discovery Award

  • Up to $385,000

• Impact Award

  • Single PI: up to $2.8M

  • Partnering PI: up to $3.6M

• Lifestyle and Applied Health Research Award

  • Up to $4.2M

• Platform Clinical Translation Award

  • Up to $15M (with only $8M guaranteed from FY26 funds)

• Research Advancement Award

  • Up to $1.4M

• Technology/Therapeutic Development Award

  • Up to $5.6M

All amounts are total costs (direct + indirect).

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports a broad spectrum of medical research aligned to congressionally mandated topic areas, including (not exhaustive):

• PTSD, traumatic brain injury, suicide prevention

• Burn pit exposure, respiratory health

• Rare diseases (e.g., Rett Syndrome, Fragile X, mitochondrial disease)

• Chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes-related areas not explicitly listed, IBD, fibromyalgia-related analogs where applicable)

• Women’s health (e.g., endometriosis, maternal mental health)

• Neurological and musculoskeletal conditions

Use cases depend on the mechanism:

• Discovery Award: High-risk, early-stage concepts (no preliminary data)

• Impact Award: Hypothesis-driven work with preliminary data

• Clinical Trial Award: Phase 0–3 trials

• Technology/Therapeutic Development: Translating preclinical work into products

• Platform Clinical Translation: Multi-indication platforms

• Lifestyle and Applied Health: Quality of life, behavioral, and applied interventions

Projects must align to at least one specified topic area.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Validation from the Department of Defense and CDMRP

• Access to non-dilutive capital at scale (up to $20M)

• Opportunity to support military-relevant health outcomes

• Structured pathways for clinical translation and regulatory readiness (e.g., IND/IDE planning support under Clinical Trial Award)

Additional benefits are not further specified in the pre-announcement.

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

• This is a pre-announcement only

• Funding opportunity announcements will be released on Grants.gov

• Pre-application and full application deadlines are not specified in this pre-announcement

• Submission will require:

  • Pre-application (e.g., preproposal or letter of intent depending on mechanism)

  • Full application (often by invitation only)

• Periods of performance:

  • Range from 2 years to 4 years depending on mechanism

  • Planning phases up to 18 months

Exact award start timelines are not specified.

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

• Administered by:

  • Defense Health Agency (DHA) Research and Development

  • Medical Research and Development Command (MRDC)

  • Managed through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP)

Who is eligible to apply?

• Independent investigators at all career levels

• Applies across all award mechanisms

No additional institutional, geographic, or organizational eligibility restrictions are specified in this pre-announcement.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based strictly on the solicitation:

• Projects that:

  • Align directly with congressionally mandated topic areas

  • Demonstrate clear relevance to military health

  • Show high impact and scientific merit

• Competitive profiles by mechanism:

  • Discovery: Bold, untested ideas without preliminary data

  • Impact: Strong preliminary data + near-term impact potential

  • Clinical Trial: Well-developed interventions ready for human testing

  • Technology/Therapeutic Development: Clear product-oriented outcomes

  • Platform Clinical Translation: Solutions addressing multiple topic areas

• Teams:

  • May include clinician researchers or industry partners (required in some partnering options)

Further selection criteria are not specified in this pre-announcement.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions vary by mechanism:

• Clinical Trial Award

  • Cannot support preclinical research

  • Requires regulatory approvals (e.g., IND/IDE) where applicable

• Discovery Award

  • Cannot include preliminary data

  • Cannot support clinical trials

• Impact Award

  • Cannot support clinical trials

• Lifestyle and Applied Health Research Award

  • Cannot support animal studies

• Technology/Therapeutic Development Award

  • Cannot support clinical trials

• Research Advancement Award

  • Cannot support clinical trials

• All applications:

  • Must align to specified topic areas

  • Require pre-application submission (preproposal or LOI depending on mechanism)

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not explicitly specified, but based on required steps:

• Pre-application required (LOI or preproposal)

• Full applications often by invitation only

• Clinical trial applications may require:

  • Regulatory documentation (e.g., IND/IDE)

Exact preparation timelines are not specified in the pre-announcement.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support:

• Opportunity qualification against PRMRP mechanisms

• Topic area alignment and positioning

• Preproposal / LOI development

• Full application strategy and narrative development

• Clinical and product translation positioning

• Partnering strategy (e.g., clinician or industry PI alignment)

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Combat Readiness–Medical Research Program (CRRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Combat Readiness–Medical Research Program (CRRP) will fund innovative, high-impact research to improve Warfighter survivability and readiness, with a focus on trauma care and operational medical capabilities. This is a pre-announcement, giving advance notice so teams can prepare—the full funding opportunity with required deadlines has not yet been released.

Critically, application deadlines are not specified in this pre-announcement. Once released, the solicitation will include required pre-application and full application deadlines. Teams should begin preparing now, as this program uses a pre-application screening process with invitation-only full submissions.

How much funding would I receive?

• Maximum total funding: $2.45 million (total costs)

• Guaranteed funding from FY26: $1.45 million

• Remaining funding supports optional research efforts

• Period of performance:

  • Maximum total: 3 years

  • Base period: 2 years

  • Optional period: 1 year

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports translational research in combat casualty care, including:

• Battlefield diagnostics, triage, and decision support tools

• Treatments to improve care delivery in:

  • Point of injury

  • Austere surgical/resuscitative environments

  • Prolonged casualty care

  • En route care

• Battlefield readiness solutions focused on pre-hospital and operational environments

Projects must be hypothesis-driven and supported by preliminary data and aim to move promising technologies toward real-world trauma care solutions.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Not specified in the pre-announcement.

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

• This is a pre-announcement only

• The full funding opportunity will be posted on Grants.gov

• Pre-application submission is required via eBRAP

• Full applications are by invitation only

Application deadlines are not specified in this pre-announcement and will be provided when the official solicitation is released.

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

• Managed by:

  • Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP)

  • Under the Defense Health Agency (DHA) Research and Development – Medical Research and Development Command (MRDC)

Who is eligible to apply?

• Independent Investigators at all academic levels, or equivalent

No additional eligibility restrictions are specified.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects most aligned with the program’s intent will:

• Address combat casualty care and operational medical challenges

• Demonstrate strong preliminary data

• Be translational—moving technologies toward real-world use

• Show potential to:

  • Improve survivability

  • Enable care closer to the point of injury

  • Inform trauma care guidelines

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Pre-application is required; full submission is invitation-only

• Applications must include preliminary data

• Research may include:

  • Animal models (allowed, not required)

  • Clinical research (allowed, not required)

  • Small-scale pilot clinical trials (optional, within performance period)

• Applications must conform to the final FOA once released

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not specified in the pre-announcement.

However, given the pre-application + invitation-only structure and requirement for preliminary data, teams should expect a multi-phase process and begin preparation early.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support across the full lifecycle:

• Positioning your technology against CRRP focus areas

• Developing a competitive pre-application strategy

• Translating technical work into clear, reviewer-aligned narratives

• Building a data-driven commercialization and impact story

• Managing submission through eBRAP and Grants.gov workflows

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

Army DEVCOM: BAA for CBRNE Defense Efforts Under Procurement Contracts, Cooperative Agreements, and Prototypes under OTAs.

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

Executive Summary:

This is a continuously open Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) from the U.S. Army DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center (CBC) seeking innovative R&D in CBRNE defense. There is no fixed deadline—submissions are accepted on a rolling basis for up to five (5) years.

Founders should act quickly: while submissions are always open, funding availability is uncertain and awards are made competitively as needs arise. Early engagement via preproposals is strongly encouraged.

How much funding would I receive?

Not specified in the solicitation, but typically will lead to awards between $500k - $5m.

• Budgets must be commensurate with the scope and complexity of the proposed work

• At the time of publication, no funds are specifically allocated, and awards depend on availability of funds

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports basic research, applied research, and advanced development in CBRNE defense.

MISSION AREAS:

1.  SENSOR TECHNOLOGIES AND BIOMATERIALS: DEVCOM CBC is exploring biotechnology concepts in the areas of detection and decontamination of chemical biological (CB) agents, environmental biodegradation and bioremediation, and novel biotic materials. Areas of interest are:

a.  Enzymatic systems for the degradation of chemical nerve agents, mustard and toxins, biological warfare agents and related materials, and investigation of self-decontaminating coatings that have enzymatic or biochemical components. Emphasis is on enzymology, protein chemistry, and molecular biology.  

b.  Investigation of microbial systems, biosurfactants and other natural products for the bioremediation of hazardous wastes including chemical agents, their precursors or products, obsolete decontaminants, and other chemical weapons/warfare (CW) related materials. Emphasis is on bioengineering and fermentation.

c.  Nanobiotechnology, principally the rational biomolecular and nano-system design of functional abiotic structures; reconfigurable self-organizing systems; novel nanoparticles; or supramolecular self-assembly; including but not limited to, materials for nanoparticles, nano and meso scale materials fabrication and assembly, and miniaturized devices. Focus is on supporting the Army's zero maintenance efforts and minimizing weight, size, power, and energy requirements.

d.  Next generation reagents including, but not limited to, aptamers, polymers, and peptides with novel binding, catalytic or structural properties. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, gene libraries, tissue based biosensors, molecular signaling and novel transduction techniques.  

e.  Studies on metabolic engineering, optimizing and modeling bioreactor conditions for the scale-up biomanufacture of recombinant and other proteins in bacterial and insect cell systems. The products include, but are not limited to, recombinant antibodies, enzymes, and simulants. Studies may include optimizing feeding strategies, sterilization kinetics, and other bioreactor parameters to increase yield and decrease cost, as well as cryopreservation.

f.  Molecular toxicology with emphasis on gene arrays, specifically the exploitation of recent advances in “panomics"; which refers to genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, bioinformatics and in vitro approaches such as, but not limited to, cytosensor microphysiometer studies.  

g.  NOTE: The following in‑house equipment is available for possible use:

(i).  Large-scale fermentors and hollow fiber bioreactors.

(ii).  Gene array printer.

(iii).  Analytical (capillary electrophoresis, gas chromatographs, high pressure liquid chromatographs, UV/visible spectrophotometer, microplate reader, total organic carbon analyzer).

(iv).  Protein purification (high‑speed centrifuges, gel electrophoresis, low pressure chromatograph, high pressure liquid chromatographs, cell disruption systems).

(v).  Molecular biology (automated DNA sequencing and synthesis, polymerase chain reaction, gel electrophoresis).

(vi).  Bacterial culture (autoclaves, incubators, incubator shakers, 1 to 1500 liter fermentation systems, centrifuges, cell disruption systems).

‍ ‍

2.  AEROSOL TECHNOLOGY: The objective of the aerosol technology program is to develop advanced aerosol sampling devices needed for detection systems, and to provide the necessary experimental facilities, capabilities (instrumentation and personnel), and methodology to support experimentation with aerosol devices for all DEVCOM CBC mission and customer programs, emphasizing bioaerosols in the near term. A major effort under this program involves developing the capability to provide quantitative capability to experiment with biosimulant aerosols including controlled generation (size, low concentrations, high rates for high speed wind tunnel studies), quantification, and characterization of laboratory instruments, field experiments, and military devices. The DEVCOM CBC is interested in innovative concepts to address the following areas of study:

a.  Effective, Efficient Aerosol Collectors. Theoretical studies of the design and employment of highly biased aerosol collectors intended to collect particles in the 1 to 10 micrometer diameter size range. Fabrication and delivery of such devices which will collect into a small volume of liquid (1 milliliter), or concentrate into a small volume air stream, aerosol particles from 100 to 10,000 liters per minute using little power (nominally 10 to 20 watts) with collection efficiencies exceeding 80% in the 1 to 10 micrometer particle size range. A goal is to minimize the size and weight of the device.  

b.  Method of generating narrowly dispersed aerosols (log standard deviation = 1.5) from slurries or bulk powders. Aerosol mass median diameter selectable over the range of 0.2 microns to 45 microns.  

c.  Investigation of collection efficiency and effects on the viability of biological materials, e.g., Bacillus atrophaeus (BG) and Erwinia herbicola, when collected from the aerosol state by various collection means to include impaction, vortex scrubbing, electrostatic precipitation, and filtration. Research and investigations to develop technologies for sampling viable microbes from the atmosphere to include processes which consider such factors as relative humidity, repair mechanisms, and other environmental considerations which influence the survival of microbes in the open air. A new device that considers these factors will be expected to have a higher survival rate for microbes and a greater efficiency. These investigations will lead towards a new device for sampling environmental air samples.  

d.  Low energy methods and devices for concentrating suspensions of 1 - 10 micron particles in liquids such as water or phosphate buffered saline from milliliters to microliters with high efficiency for retaining the particles in suspension in the reduced volume.  

e.  Dissemination of bulk powders into the inherent particle sizes found in the feedstock. Dissemination rates of 10 to 250 grams per minute.

f.  Methods for near real-time field sizing of large polydisperse aerosols (20-500 micron operational range) that are disseminated from high volume aerosol generators such as crop dusters or "leaf blower" type devices.  

g.  Aerosol wind tunnel methodologies for creating well-mixed, spatially and temporally uniform challenges of monodisperse inert aerosols and polydisperse biological simulant aerosols for wind speeds up to 80 miles per hour. Aerosol wind tunnel methodologies for creating temporally uniform challenges of monodisperse liquid droplets that can convey inert and biological simulant aerosols for feed rates up to 50 grams/minute.  

h.  Design, and/or fabrication, and/or testing of omnidirectional aerosol inlets with aspiration efficiencies greater than 80% for aerosol particles over the aerodynamic diameter size ranges 1 to 10 micrometers (with strong rejection of particles > 10 micrometers) and 1 to 25 micrometers from air flows at wind speeds from 2 to 50 miles per hour. A family of inlets are required covering the internal (aspirated) flow rates from 1 liter per minute to 10,000 liters per minute.  

i.  New optical methods for characterizing aerosols for CB detection, smoke development, and field test programs. In particular, the use of Mueller matrix scattering and optical spectroscopic signatures from bacterial cells to correlate changes in biological parameters with changes in scattering pattern and optical methods which can be used as aerosol detectors, such as particle scattering, fluorescence, etc.  

j.  Innovative approaches using computational fluid dynamics to describe the external and internal flow around and through vehicles, detectors, sampling ports, buildings, etc., in the open and in wind tunnels (to include analysis of wall effects). The approach or method can use the finite difference or finite element techniques. The description of the flow field should include streamlines, velocity fields, and pressure distributions and allow for modeling of (size‑dependent) aerosol particle trajectories.  

k.  Methods for laboratory handling, examination, and analysis of single aerosol particles, including spectroscopic methods, and the study of chemical reactions in single particles.  

NOTE:  Extensive in-house laboratory facilities and equipment are available for possible use, including state-of-the-art aerosol generators, aerosol analyzers, aerosol chambers, and aerosol wind tunnels.

3.  BIOLOGICAL POINT DETECTION:  The DEVCOM CBC has initiated an effort to investigate commercially available and developmental technologies for the detection and identification of agents of biological origin. This effort will result in automated sensors capable of detecting and identifying these agents in air, food, water or surface samples. Research areas of interest are:

a.  Adaptation of existing commercial macroscale, mesoscale, and microscale biosensor platforms or development of such biosensors to detect and/or identify agents of biological origin in the field. Emphasis is placed on sensors with simple, rapid, reliable assay formats that utilize immunological or DNA/RNA based assay approaches as well as non-immunological or non-DNA/RNA based biosensors using novel/alternative assay approaches.

b.  Assessment, adaptation, or development of immunological based biosensor technologies that provide rapid and simultaneous multiplex and/or multiagent array based detection and identification for agents of biological origin. The main focus is the interrogation and/or development of technologies that meet biodetection requirements for higher throughput, faster immunodetection, and simultaneous analysis of multiple agents with good assay sensitivity while preserving specificity. Candidate systems must be small, lightweight, and user friendly. Assay chemistries should be robust and evaluated for eventual dry down into a simple, single-use reagent format.  

c.  Development and evaluation of sample preparation methods for subsequent immunological based analysis, and identification, modification, and assessment of commercial and developmental hardware that is capable of front-end sample clean up and sample concentration from sample matrices compromised by environmental, animal, or plant substances. Emphasis is to identify and perform separation of bacteria, spores, and toxins from compromising sample matrices using Immunomagnetic Separation (IMS), affinity, and other capture methods. Identify automated approaches and hardware for higher throughput. The methods must be capable of concentrating milliliter to liter volumes down to sub-milliliter to low milliliter amounts, respectively.

d.  Integration, implementation, and validation of analytical instrumentation and procedures for development of robotic based, high-throughput, portable, and automated total analysis biodetection systems (i.e. sample preparation, biodetection, subsystem reset, and decontamination) for use in deployable mobile laboratories or expanded bioanalysis programs. Emphasis is to design the process for sample analysis using immunoassay or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based analysis systems.

e.  Development of rapid, automated, lightweight, and portable sensor technologies to be used in the identification of bioagents based on both protein and nucleic acid targets with emphasis on the use of labless detection and identification approaches, reusable capture substrates and transduction surfaces, and minimal footprint and power.

f.  Development of rapid and automated RNA/DNA detection and identification technologies and assay methods that will allow for both the production of a library of amplified targets from a single set volume of an environmental sample, and the probing of that library for identification of all targets of interest, all in a single analytical method. Current methods using methods such as random hexamers, PCR/RT-PCR, or multiplex assays may be inadequate due to reagent exhaustion prior to completion of the library and its analysis. Standard PCR and RT-PCR would deplete sample volume long before the analysis is complete for all targets of interest.  

g.  Development of rapid, automated, and portable technologies to rapidly concentrate and remove interfering substances from liquid environmental bioagent samples, and prepare the targets of interest for nucleic acid analysis. The methods must be capable of concentrating milliliter to liter volumes down to sub-milliliter to low milliliter amounts, respectively; delivering a concentrated amount of nucleic acid material for analysis. Emphasis is on minimizing nucleic acid sheering.  

h.  Development and testing of rapid, lightweight, automated, user friendly, and portable biosensor platforms that are capable of performing both nucleic acid and immunoassay based detection and identification of bioagents (i.e. both operations taking place on one sensor). Emphasis is given to approaches that provide simultaneous detection and identification of multiple bioagents (e.g. array based), and simultaneous immunological and nucleic acid based analysis. However, consideration will also be given to systems that perform the two types of assays sequentially as well as sequential detection and identification.  

i.  Formulation of either established or new and innovative protocols of bacterial biochemical marker extraction into simple and convenient recipe driven procedures. Limitations on the length of time, number of manipulation steps, use of nonhazardous compounds and solvents, low salt concentration, and the potential for automation must be considered in the proposed approaches.  

j.  Development of automated bacterial biomarker extraction devices. The output stream should be amenable to being delivered by analytical sample transfer or introduction systems into analytical detection systems. Weight, size, power and amount of consumable(s) of the proposed microorganism biomarker extraction system(s) should be geared to a minimum. The offeror should also address the fabrication of a system in a number of generations, from first prototype to advanced prototype systems.  

k.  Mass spectrometry methods are sought that will allow laboratory and field determinations of the feasibility of mass spectrometry concepts for biological organism detection.

l.  Development of databases to facilitate detection and identification of bacteria, viruses and toxins.  

m.  Integration of automated bacterial biomarker extraction with electrospray and/or matrix assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometers.  

n.  Downsizing mass spectrometry hardware, reducing power requirements, increasing processing speed for rapid detection and identification of biological organisms.

o.  Conceptualization and validation of alternative means of vaporizing or ionizing biological aerosols without collection on a substrate or probe.  

p.  Development of a database of Raman spectra of biological materials.  

q.  Enhanced concepts of using lasers in CB defense, including, but not limited to,  laser desorption, surface catalyzed laser decomposition, surface enhanced laser ionization, and single particle UV fluorescence and mass spectrometric techniques (primarily for the detection of biological materials). Specific interests include enhancement of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry through improvements in mass resolution, sensitivity and on‑line incorporation of analytical separation techniques.  

r.  The use of small, powerful lasers for use in flow cytometry.  

s.  The development of new dyes, immunoassay reagents, nucleic acid probe reagents, etc., for the enumeration of bacterial properties. Ideally these materials should be excitable with red diode lasers, although dyes excited with argon ion or other lasers are also of interest.  

t.  Simple bioluminescence/chemiluminescence equipment.  

u.  Development of improved data processing techniques in flow cytometry, such as neural nets, expert systems, etc.  

v.  Investigations into the mechanisms of biological aerosols, such as factors affecting viability and culturability; preservation of activity; and effects of particle sizes on viability.  

w.  Fusion of generic detection capabilities, such as particle size analyzers, elemental analysis, or organic composition with computer algorithms to affect a smarter detection capability.

x.  Investigations into virus detection techniques.  

y.  Simple, rapid tests for the determination of sugars, proteins, nucleic acids, etc.  

NOTE:  Use of DEVCOM CBC instrumentation (on an availability basis) and flow cytometers may be granted.

z.  Collection and organization of current and historical biological reports and other literature for inclusion in the Biological Defense Encyclopedia. This effort will include the location of literature and reports and the electronic processing of these papers and images for addition to an existing database. This effort will be wide reaching in scope and will seek to include all available information on the historical, physical, and detailed microbiological information regarding microbes considered of use in biological warfare (BW). One use of this database is assistance to defensive models and research governing the detection of microbes in the environment.  

aa.  Remote, stand‑alone systems are needed that are capable of triggering for the presence of biological compounds and microorganisms. Pyrolysis gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (Py-GC-IMS) and Pyrolysis-gas chromatography-small mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS) are candidate systems because of their relatively small size and logistics. The system can also provide information for specific pyrolyzate compounds from biological material. Technologies must demonstrate short duty cycle times; a logistically efficient, low power burden aerosol collector; efficient transfer of pyrolysis products to the ion mobility spectrometry detector; and distinct gas chromatography/ion mobility spectrometry dataspace domains corresponding to established compounds found in microorganism and protein biological compounds.  

NOTE: The following in-house equipment is available for possible use for the remote, stand-alone systems:-  Py-GC-IMS briefcase platform- 200 C/min and 6000 C/min Thermogravimetry (TGA)-GC-MS systems.-  Py-GC-parallel IMS- time of flight MS.

bb.  Algorithm for generating mass spectrometric libraries for protein toxins, bacterial and viral particles; search routines for automated comparison of sample and standard mass spectrometry spectra and automated identification of biological agents.  

cc.  Studies to expand and analyze data bases of ambient biological aerosol background, to include particle counting and sizing, enumeration of major microbial constituents, quantification of biological loading in the ambient atmosphere, and correlation of these characteristics with meteorological conditions, season, diurnal period, etc.  

dd.  Optical Trigger Technology. Spectroscopic interrogation and analysis of aerosol particles for peculiar signatures "fingerprints" that facilitate rapid screening and continuous monitoring of ambient air for the likelihood of a BW agent event. The purpose of the trigger is to provide adequate early warning to friendly forces and cue a collection and assay system for confirmation and identification of the biological threat.

4.  CHEMICAL POINT DETECTION:

a.  Lightweight Detection: The DEVCOM CBC has initiated an effort to investigate technologies with potential for detection and identification of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) hazards using small, lightweight, modular devices. This effort will result in development of devices capable of detection of less than incapacitating levels of agents in real-time where real-time is defined as a few seconds. Devices must also be able to recover from an exposure in a similar amount of time. Technologies must demonstrate potential for development into devices with the following desirable characteristics: fit into shirt pockets of battle dress uniforms, weigh less than two pounds, and consume less than two watts of electrical power. Technologies must also demonstrate potential for exhibiting ultra-sensitivity properties, defined as miosis levels of CW agent poisoning, within a few minutes using minimal electrical power. It is also desirable that ultra-sensitivity properties result from addition of a small, lightweight modular form of sensitivity enhancement onto the real-time detection device.

b.  Mass Spectrometry: The DEVCOM CBC is interested in innovative concepts in the following areas, all related to the potential use of mass spectrometry to detect, identify and quantify chemical and explosive hazards:

(i).  Design of a mass analyzer and efficient algorithms for rapid analysis of mass spectra of CB agents.  

(ii).  Incorporation of artificial intelligence techniques for optimization of spectrometers for the detection of CBRNE hazards.

NOTE: In‑house development environments available for possible use include Matlab, Mathmatica, PC‑Based Expert Systems technology, as well as conventional non-artificial intelligence computer languages. Extensive laboratory computing facilities, including multiprocessor mini-supercomputers, are also available.

c.  Investigation of the application of fluorescence, Raman, infrared, and terahertz spectroscopy for the detection of chemicals on natural and man-made surfaces.  

d.  There is a need for a remote stand‑ alone detector to trigger and/or detect CB species. Candidate components of ion mobility spectrometry‑based methods include:

(i).  Hydrophilic and hydrophobic solvent extraction techniques for relatively large biological substances from bacteria.

(ii).  On‑line filtration so as to remove salts and signal suppression compounds.

(iii).  Liquid‑based techniques for the separation of biological compounds within a molecular weight range.

(iv).  Electrospray ionization in order to efficiently transfer the biological compounds into an ion mobility spectrometer.

(v).  Data analysis techniques and ion mobility spectrometer tandem mass spectrometry to correlate the observed signal with known biomarkers.

(vi).  The system shall also produce information from chemical agents in aqueous solution at concentrations less than parts-per-million levels. The sensitivity goal is low parts-per-billion. Both BW and CW information production from the electrospray ionization ion mobility spectrometer system shall display high sensitivity, low liquid expendable logistics and efficient clearing of the ion mobility spectrometer detector.  

e.  Development and/or modification of new or existing methodologies for the detection and identification of low levels of both chemical and biological hazards in water sources.

5.  EARLY WARNING AND DETECTION:  The DEVCOM CBC has initiated an effort to investigate commercially available and developmental technologies for early warning, detection and identification of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive hazards. This effort will result in automated sensors capable of detecting and identifying these agents in air, food and water or surface samples. This effort will focus on standoff technologies where a sensor is physically separated from the CBRNE hazards by some distance. Research areas of interest are:

a.  Adaptation of existing standoff sensors or development of novel standoff sensors to detect, identify, and/or quantify chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRNE) hazards in the field. Emphasis is placed on optical sensors that provide sensing at a distance and provide detection and reconnaissance over a wide area of a possible battlefield. However, other techniques such as acoustical sensing will be examined also.  

b.  Investigation of new and novel spectroscopic techniques for proximal and/or standoff detection, identification, and/or quantification of CBRNE hazards. All regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to g-rays, will be explored. New spectral methods for the discrimination of CBRNE hazards from possible interferents, i.e. methods that increase detection sensitivity while reducing false alarms, are sought. Both active and passive technologies will be explored.

c.  New methods for wide area detection are sought. Wide area detection requires the simultaneous monitoring of large areas of a battlefield for CBRNE hazards.  

d.  New and novel signal processing for standoff CBRNE detection is being sought. Sensor integration will also be examined.  

e.  New excitation sources for standoff detection will be examined. New laser sources for CBRNE detection are being sought. Better sources in other regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, such as the deep ultra-violet, far infrared and millimeter wave regions, are also being sought.  

f.  New methods for detection-on-the-move are sought. Placing a standoff sensor of a moving platform requires care. This effort will focus on developing sensors that are rugged and can operate rapidly such that movement of the vehicle does not blur the signal from the sensor.  

g.  New methods are sought for standoff detection of aerosols.    

h.  New methods are sought for standoff detection of contaminants on surfaces, both natural and manmade.

6.  SMOKE AND OBSCURANTS:  The objective of the smoke program is to develop materials and demonstrate weaponization feasibility to provide full spectrum screening (as required) to defeat or degrade threat target acquisition, ranging and marking, tracking, anti‑tank guided missiles, and directed energy weapon systems. A major effort under this program involves developing the capability to provide effective obscuration in the UV, visible, IR, and microwave regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Combinations of these four regions (multi-spectral) are also of interest. The DEVCOM CBC is interested in innovative concepts to address the following areas of study:

a.  High yield visual, IR and microwave obscurants on the battlefield.

b.  Dispersion technology for nanoparticles (conductive flakes and fibers).

c.  Improved screening material packaging, compaction, feed, and deagglomeration technologies.

d.  Visual, IR and microwave obscurants that are environmentally safer and/or less toxic than current materials.

e.  Identification of candidate multiband screening material.

f.  Improved dissemination of materials.

g.  Improved ballistic stability of non-solid payloads.

h.  Techniques to measure screening effectiveness and obscurant generating equipment effectiveness.

i.  Aerosolization of obscurant materials.

j.  Effects of smokes and obscurants on the battlefield.

k.  Vulnerability analysis of threat sensor systems versus obscurants.

l.  Additional Requirements. Innovative concepts are requested to address requirements for the following future obscurant systems:

(i).  Nanoparticle obscurant candidates (ultrathin conductive flakes or submicron-diameter conductive fibers that can be aerosolized)

(ii).  Degradable smokes, i.e., a limited life obscurant that does not interfere with future battlefield operations.

(iii).  Robotic delivered smokes.

(iv).  Smoke clearing concepts.

(v).  JP‑8, the single fuel to be used in future battlefield operations, does not produce an effective smoke screen in the Vehicle Engine Exhaust Smoke System. Improved duration and persistence of JP‑8 smoke is needed.

(vi).  Spectrally-selective obscurants.

NOTE: Facilities at DEVCOM CBC that are available for possible use include: A 190 cubic meter aerosol chamber for analyzing small obscurant samples (10 to 100 grams). It is equipped with instrumentation for measuring transmission for the range 200 nanometers to 15 centimeters (UV to microwave). Concentration of the aerosol can be measured for calculating extinction coefficient. Various dissemination devices are available.

A breeze tunnel for testing particulate disseminators up to full‑ scale generators. It has a 14-foot by 14-foot cross-section, a 100,000 cubic feet per minute flow rate and a 5-mile per hour wind speed. It has laser and background action required radar transmissometers (.63 microns, 10.6 microns, 35 gigahertz, 94 gigahertz) for evaluating dissemination efficiency. It has the capability to take samples of the obscurant.

7.  MODELING, SIMULATION, AND ANALYSIS FOR CB, SMOKE, AND OBSCURANTS:  The objective of this program is to design, develop, validate and utilize analytical and computer modeling and simulation tools to analyze CB agent and smoke/ obscurant cloud transport and diffusion; agent deposition; performance of CB defense equipment; and performance degradation effects on personnel and equipment due to CB agents and smoke/obscurants. The program is oriented to constructive and virtual implementations in the Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) and High Level Architecture (HLA) environments. The program is supported by the following tasks:

a.  Characterize the CB/smoke warfare environment for support of CB defensive equipment research, development and acquisition including test and evaluation. Of special interest is constructive and virtual DIS/HLA environments as relates to effects on performance of personnel and CB defense equipment.

b.  Characterize the performance of CB/smoke defensive equipment in a contaminated environment. Of special interest are point and standoff detectors, individual and collective protective gear, decontamination processes, warning and reporting systems, and command and control processes in a DIS/HLA environment.

c.  Characterize the fate of CB agents deposited on surfaces such as soil, water, foliage, metal, roadways, runways, ships, buildings, military equipment, and electronic devices.

d.  Characterize and validate CB and smoke/ obscurant cloud transport and diffusion under conditions of variable meteorological conditions, terrain formations, around and within various types of buildings and structures in urban and military locations. Work should be specifically oriented toward the DIS/HLA environment and be interoperable with existing DEVCOM CBC DIS simulations and simulators like the Chemical, Biological, and Radiological Simulator.

e.  Characterize the effectiveness of smoke and obscurants for development, training and operations as well as for countermeasures to smart weapons with emphasis on DIS/HLA.  

f.  For all of the above areas of research, assist in the archiving, retrieval and analysis of historical data for the generation of model algorithms and determination of improved model input parameters. Key aspect is the publishing of the historical data in formats or databases that are widely accessible both within DEVCOM CBC and external organizations.

8.  COLLECTIVE PROTECTION:  The objective of the collective protection program is to develop new and improved concepts, methods and materials for collective protective systems to guard against all potential threat agents. Future collective protection will be modular in design with lower power, weight and size requirements and longer operational life. Future systems will be integrated with the host's environmental control unit and/or auxiliary power unit. Current efforts involve developing new concepts and improved materials and processes for enhancing and/or providing an alternative to present impregnated activated carbon based collective protection systems. Emphasis will be on greatly extended operational life and reduced logistics burden. Current concepts being considered include, but are not limited to: regenerative filtration using pressure swing adsorption; temperature swing adsorption; a new improved sorbent technology; membrane technology; and, new and improved canisters and filtration media. With this in mind, the DEVCOM CBC is interested in the following innovations:

a.  Concepts for studying the vapor adsorption properties of standard ASZM‑TEDA (chromium free) carbon and of developmental fixed‑bed adsorptive reactive media and processes such as pressure and temperature swing adsorption, membrane separation, and catalytic oxidation.

NOTE: The following equipment is available for use under this area of interest:

(i).  Surface analysis instrumentation.

(ii).  CATOX reactor/data acquisition systems.

(iii).  Lab‑scale pressure swing adsorption (PSA) reactor/data acquisition systems.

(iv).  Adsorption equilibrium measurement systems.

b.  New air purification technologies that provide enhanced CB removal capability with low power requirements while also offering the advantages of small size and low weight.

c.  New aerosol filtration technologies that provide improvements in the following areas over that provided by filters based on high efficiency particulate air grade media:

(i).  Increased filtration efficiency

(ii).  Lower pressure drop

(iii).  Reduced clogging

d.  New adsorbent technology applicable as a substrate for impregnation for use in current reactive adsorber systems or as an adsorbent for use in pressure swing adsorption or temperature swing adsorption systems.

e.  New reactive impregnant technology that provides increased chemical warfare agent removal for application on an adsorbent substrate (either carbonaceous or non-carbonaceous).

f.  Improvements to current filter and ancillary equipment designs (both for collective protection and for use on respirators) to provide benefits in performance, physical characteristics and/or costs (item and operational).

g.  Improvements to equipment that permits safe and rapid entry and exit to or from collective protection shelters.

9.  RESPIRATORY PROTECTION:  The main objective of the respiratory protection program is to develop new and improved concepts, test methods, and materials for respiratory protective systems to guard against all potential CBRN threat agents while minimizing the impact on mission performance. Future respiratory protection will be modular in design with lower profile and weight requirements to improve equipment compatibility and reduce the physiological burden and discomfort often associated with respirator wear. Current efforts involve developing novel integrated CBRN-protective mask and headgear (i.e., helmet) concepts that provide enhanced respiratory protection, comfort, and compatibility with heads-up displays, communication equipment, weapon sighting systems, and other individual protective clothing and equipment worn by the warfighter. Innovative air-management systems, real-time mask fit indicators, seal designs, and other technologies are being sought that offer significant advances in the protection, fit, operational performance, and comfort of the mask system. In addition, the DEVCOM CBC is interested in enhancing its facilities and methodologies needed to support experimentation with next generation respiratory protective devices for all mission and customer programs. Research areas of interest include:

a.  Development and demonstration of closed-circuit self-contained breathing apparatus concepts and test bed systems, including hybrid systems consisting of powered air purification. Investigation of associated technology for weight and heat reduction and improvements in efficiency.

b.  Design and fabrication of integrated respiratory protection headgear concepts and test bed systems. Development of new and innovative integration approaches, attachment systems, and sealing systems.

c.  Fabrication of respiratory protection prototypes for operational demonstration. Application of rapid prototype and manufacturing technology to fabricate robust and functional prototype models.

d.  Investigation of nano-scale material solutions for respiratory protection. Exploration of material and coating technology to enhance CBRN protection, lens fogging resistance and seal performance.

e.  Investigation of microelectromechanical solutions (i.e., MEMS technology) for respiratory protection. Exploration of novel MEMS and other smart technology solutions for breathing assist, cooling, sealing systems, and other respirator operational parameters of interest.

f.  Assessment of concurrent CBRN PPE wear on ballistic PPE effectiveness. This effort will initially assess the applicability of current ballistic helmet standards to evaluate concurrent CBRN PPE usage. Develop new or improve existing test methodologies and obtain data to assess the effect of concurrent wear on all parameters of ballistic helmet performance (e.g. stability, shock, and surface coverage).

g.  Develop new or improve existing unmanned test systems, test equipment, test methods and procedures for human factors assessment of respiratory protective masks including, but not limited to, field of vision, eye relief, fogging, breathing resistance, speech, hearing, and sweating.

h.  Scale metal-organic frameworks to kilogram and above quantities. Develop flow-through and/or solvent recycle systems to increase yield and drastically reduce cost compared to current methods. Reduce the need for organic solvents. Develop techniques for supramolecular engineering of large mesh metal-organic frameworks through strategies such as binding and polymerization. Focus should be on metal-organic frameworks with military utility. These materials can be used for applications such respiratory protection, filtration, suits, decontamination, etc.

10. DECONTAMINATION: An objective of this program is to understand, develop, mature, or otherwise advance decontaminant technologies and approaches through the characterization of contaminant-material-decontaminant-environmental interactions.

a.  Development and demonstration of novel decontaminant formulations for chemical and biological decontamination.

b.  Modeling and Simulation tools and techniques as applied to Decontamination Sciences: design, develop, validate and utilize analytical and computer modeling and simulation tools to analyze/characterize contaminant, material, decontaminant, environmental interactions.

c.  Demonstration of dual use technology with application to chemical/biological agent decontamination and routine cleaning/maintenance activities.

d.  Analytical tools and techniques to advance the characterization of contaminant, material, decontaminant, environmental interactions.

e.  Development and demonstration of coatings/surfaces with enhanced resistance and/or inherent reactivity toward chemical contamination.

f.  Application and optimization of novel solids for sorbent/surface decontamination.  

g.  Application and optimization of vapor/gaseous decontaminants for chemical and biological agents.

h.  Innovative technologies are sought to support development for the sensitive equipment decontamination (SED) program. Technologies are needed to decontaminate (safe removal and/or destruction) chemical and biological warfare agents from sensitive equipment and vehicle interiors without adversely affecting the function of the equipment and/or interior components. The SED program is currently seeking technologies/processes for two capability segments. The first is the decontamination of vehicle, ship and aircraft interiors. The second capability is to decontaminate vehicle, ship, aircraft interiors and associated cargo during operation. These technologies or systems are needed to meet one or both capability segments.

11.  CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL, NUCLEAR, AND EXPLOSIVES COUNTERMEASURES TO TERRORISM: The DEVCOM CBC is seeking proposals for novel research to assist in the war against terrorism. This is a broad research area, and proposals topics include (but are not limited to): biological and chemical countermeasures, CBRNE sensor and detector development, rapid methods of CBRNE detection, new and advanced decontamination techniques, new physical and protective countermeasures, technology enhancements for first responders, advances in hospital response, chemical and biochemical agonists and blocking agents, advanced biotechnological methods, rapid diagnostic methods, new CB training and communication procedures and CB modeling and simulation methods.  

12.  FLAME AND INCENDIARY TECHNOLOGY: The DEVCOM CBC is seeking proposals for novel research in flame and incendiary technology. This is a broad research area, and proposal topics include (and are not limited to) enhanced reactive materials, thermally enhanced hydrocarbons, pyrophorics, hypergolics, intermetallics, thermobarics and thermite/thermates. The applications of these and other technologies may be uniquely delivered to enhance lethality of personnel and materiel targets. Such targets and situations include (and are not limited to) military operations in urban terrain, operations other than war, enhanced lethality to traditional materiel (e.g. vehicles) and fuel targets. Such delivery concepts include (and are not limited to) shoulder-launched systems, projectiles and grenades.

Non-traditional thermites are a class of reactions characterized by the incorporation of metal oxides that are unlikely to generate vapor phase products, such as titanium dioxide and silicon dioxide. However, such reactions can be sluggish in nature and risk quenching in many applications. Thus, their reactivity must be increased. Ball-milling and incorporating micron-sized refractive metals such as Zr, Ti, and Hf as well as adding boron to increase the heat of reaction. Al-Zr composites leverages the combination of zirconium's lower ignition temperature and aluminum's higher ignition temperature. This combination decreases the sensitivity of Zr only based reactions and lowers possible microexplosions found with Al based chemistries. The government is looking to characterize various refractive metal compacts of the metal oxide composites with a variety of analytic techniques that include, but are not limited to particle size analysis, pycnometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD), hyperspectral imaging and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The objective is to determine basic information about these compacts. Formulations for the preparation of refractive metals samples will be identified and developed by the government. The government may also provide some samples for confirmation of production methodology.

13. EXPLOSIVES POINT, PROXIMAL, AND STANDOFF DETECTION:

a.  The development and understanding of signatures and algorithms required to provide improved point, proximity, and standoff detection of explosives, homemade explosives and precursor materials to enable the warfighter to integrate chemical and explosive hazard detection equipment.

b.  The collection and analysis of alternative chemical signatures and algorithms that will improve the probability of detection of an explosive hazard or homemade explosives (HME) manufacturing/assembly location. Additionally, signatures based phenomenology to improve point and stand-off detection of explosives and precursor materials.

c.  Development of and integration into existing point, proximal and stand-off detection systems for explosives and homemade explosive precursor materials.

d.  Forensics analytical methods for military explosives, HME, HME precursors, and residue analysis for attribution. (See Paragraph 7.16)

14.  CHEMICAL FORENSICS:  Forensic science is a multidisciplinary subject used for examining crime scenes and gathering evidence to be used in prosecution of offenders in a court of law. Forensic science techniques are also used to examine compliance with international agreements regarding weapons of mass destruction and counter-improvised explosive device (IED) operations.

a.  Chemical Forensics for WMD attribution. DEVCOM CBC is interested in a growing area of forensic analysis for monitoring non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, analysis of possible terrorist attacks or breaches of security. The nature of samples analyzed is wide, but slightly different to a criminal investigation. Novel and new methods of sample collection and forensic analysis from objects, water, and plant material to test for the presence of radioactive isotopes, toxins, poisons, biological agents, and chemicals that can be used in the production of chemical weapons or homemade explosives.

b.  Instrumentation. A number of orthogonal analytical methods are needed for forensic laboratories to analyze evidence. These methods vary and may not be appropriate for use in a combat environment by soldiers not performing a law enforcement mission. Many of these forward deployed teams rely on portable instruments. While these can perform rapid forensic analysis in the field, they are often limited in their capabilities, and have elevated false positive rates when compared to results from a fixed forensic laboratory. Instruments are needed for chemical analysis in austere laboratory or field conditions that provide reliable and complete chemical composition information. Additionally, new laboratory instruments are needed to identify nearly every element present in a sample.

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15.  CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL ADVANCED MATERIALS AND MANUFACTURING SCIENCE:

a.  The characterization of chemical, biological, physical, and fundamental properties related to surfaces, interfacial dynamics, thin film materials, chemical-biological catalysis, and opto-electronic/sensory technologies.

b.  Modeling and analysis to provide an understanding of the characterization and behavior of chemical and biological phenomena occurring at or near solid surfaces and material interfaces to include transport, binding energy, deposition, chemical reactivity, and interactions between these processes as well as studies of surface structure, morphology, and surface group properties.

c.  Characterization of chemical and biological interactions on solid surfaces including interfaces between materials and the surface. Areas of interest include transport, deposition, reactivity, and removal of biological and chemical compounds of interest, material interactions and properties arising from physical or biological synthetic processes, and enabling models and theory of interfacial interactions or processes that may relate to bulk properties.

d.  Modeling for advanced materials processes as it relates to chemical-biological materials and sensors including processing parameters, structure property relationships, surface interactions and performance of materials and sensors with respect to chemical/biological exposure, decontamination, aging and use in extreme temperatures.

e.  Utilization of novel manufacturing processes such as 3-dimensional bio-printing, integrated heterogeneous materials (i.e. Metal-Organic Frameworks) and in-situ polymerization and/or component integration during processing; advance fundamental scientific understanding of particle dispersion for novel utilization of next generation obscurants with novel pyrotechnics in areas such as disrupting command, control, and communications; investigate advanced/multispectral obscurant payload or concealment/camouflage/deception/false targets resulting in overall signature management or sensor defeat.

16.  ANALYTICAL TOXICOLOGY:

a.  Biomarker Discovery; determination of novel biomarkers of CW agent exposure.

b.  Funding Category C: Tissue Imaging; development of mass spectrometry based tissue imaging techniques for CW agent exposure studies.

c.  Antibody Production; development and production of butyrylcholinesterase antibodies for animal species that can be used for immunoprecipitation.

d.  Materials Toxicity Assessment; development of assays that will examine the toxicity of materials both pre and post contamination with CW agent.

e.  Synthesis; the synthesis and characterization of standards for the analysis of amino acids or short chain peptide fragments with a CW agent moiety.

17.  TARGET DEFEAT TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS: The target defeat technology program represents a class of military capabilities that leverages chemical and material science based phenomena to adversely impact military equipment and personnel. Non-kinetic vehicle/vessel stopping represents a significant technical area under the target Defeat Technology program. Areas of interest are:

a.  Perform vehicle/vessel stopping technology investigations involving combustion chemistry which encompass research and development (R&D) and test and evaluation (T&E).

b.  Perform vehicle/vessel defeat studies through other chemical means and vehicle/vessel defeat support technology development.

c.  Model various antimateriel processes to include combustion process in various engines.

d.  Conduct R&D and production of various chemically based antimateriel and non-lethal technologies such as: anti-traction materials, foams, microencapsulation, adhesives, malodorants, tagging tracking and locating technologies (to include biometrics-based technologies), riot control agents and abrasives.

e.  Provide munition system design to deliver a variety of non-lethal payloads.

f.  Perform modeling and simulation for transport and diffusion phenomena associated with non-lethal riot control agent and smoke disseminations to determine area coverage, concentration, and dosage for system effectiveness evaluation.

g.  Perform antimateriel studies designed to decompose, degrade and/or destroy selected military materiel and/or industrial production support equipment. Note: antimateriel studies can include theoretical review of potential technologies, feasibility determinations at the laboratory bench level, and/or field testing to include the possibility of employing fully operational identified equipment.

h.  Conduct studies and investigations to identify or develop non-lethal antipersonnel effects.

i.  Conduct Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) to support system and subsystem evaluations to examine how selected target defeat technologies and system requirements are met and to determine the need for new ideas and alternatives to fill gaps discovered or analyzed. Note: Knowledge and experience are required with MBSE software tools such as Vitech CORE Spectrum and IBM Rational System Architect.

18.  ARTIFICAL INTELLIGENCE/ MACHINE LEARNING: Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology program represents the possibility for machines to learn from experience, adjust to new inputs and perform human like tasks. AI refers to computer systems capable of performing complex tasks that historically only a human could do, such as reasoning, making decisions, or solving problems. Areas of interest are:

a.  Potential use of reactive machines, i.e. AI systems that have no memory and are task specific.

b.  Use of limited memory machines.

c.  Theory of mind.

d.  Development of algorithms for decision making based on input from multiple sources.

e.  Advanced model development and validation.

19.  MICROSENSORS: Size, weight, power and cost (SWaP-C) are the key primary driving factors during sensor development. Current system and component (i.e. batteries, communications, sensors, etc.) technologies offer poor performance and are large, heavy, with high power demands, and high cost, which limits the application/deployment of hazardous material (solid, liquid, and/or gas) sensing solutions. Interested in an integrated, easy-to-use, easy-to-maintain, high accuracy platform agnostic sensing capability that collects and detects hazards in solid, liquid, and/or gas phases over complex operational areas.

20.  ADVANCED MANUFACTURING/ MATERIAL SCIENCE: Advanced manufacturing is the use of innovative technology to improve products or processes with modern technology. Advanced manufacturing industries increasingly integrate new innovative technologies in both products and processes. Use of a potential combination of traditional manufacturing and additive manufacturing. Materials science and engineering seeks to understand the fundamental physical origins of material behavior to optimize properties of existing materials through structure modification and processing, design and invent new and better materials, and understand why some materials unexpectedly fail.

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Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Access to multiple award pathways, including:

  • Procurement Contracts

  • Cooperative Agreements

  • Other Transactions (OTs) for prototypes

• Potential for follow-on production awards after successful prototype development (for OT awards)

• Opportunity to work directly with DEVCOM CBC technical teams and facilities

• Exposure to DoD mission-critical problem sets and future funding pathways

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

• Deadline: Not specified — this BAA is continuously open for up to five (5) years

• Preproposal decisions: Typically within 60–90 days of submission

• Full proposal timing: Submitted only after invitation (timeline specified in RFP)

• Award timing: Not specified; depends on evaluation, priorities, and funding availability

Where does this funding come from?

• U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Chemical Biological Center (CBC)

• Managed by Army Contracting Command – Aberdeen Proving Ground (Edgewood Contracting Division)

• Authorized under:

  • Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)

  • 10 U.S.C. §4021 and §4022 (Other Transactions)

  • 41 U.S.C. §6305 (Cooperative Agreements)

Who is eligible to apply?

• Educational institutions

• Nonprofit organizations

• Private industry (including small businesses)

Additional notes:

• Non-traditional defense contractors and small businesses are especially relevant for OT awards

• Foreign organizations may apply, subject to compliance requirements

• Awards are made to organizations, not individuals

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects are evaluated primarily on:

• Technical merit (highest priority)

• Military and program relevance to CBRNE defense

• Innovation and scientific rigor

• Alignment with DEVCOM CBC mission areas

• Feasibility and clarity of approach

• Availability of funds

Strong proposals will:

• Address clear defense needs

• Demonstrate novel, innovative approaches

• Reduce programmatic risk for the Army

• Align directly with listed mission areas

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• No funding for proposal preparation costs

• Projects must not focus on specific system/hardware development (except concept demonstration)

• Foreign influence and security risks are assessed through Army Research Risk Assessment (ARRP)

• Disclosure requirements for funding sources and affiliations (NSPM-33 compliance)

• Compliance required for:

  • Human subjects research

  • Animal research

  • Environmental regulations

• Awards depend on availability of funds

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Preproposal (required first step):

  • Maximum 3 pages

  • Includes concept, scope, qualifications, and estimated cost

• Full proposal (if invited):

  • Substantial effort with multiple sections (technical, management, cost, etc.)

  • Timeline for submission provided in RFP

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you to:

• Identify the highest-probability mission areas for your technology

• Develop a competitive preproposal strategy aligned to DEVCOM priorities

• Translate your innovation into DoD-relevant language and positioning

• Prepare a full proposal package (technical, management, cost)

• Navigate OT vs contract vs cooperative agreement pathways

• Ensure compliance with ARRP, NSPM-33, and DoD requirements

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($15,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Parkinson’s Research Program (PRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Parkinson’s Research Program (PRP) will fund innovative, high-impact research aimed at reducing risk, slowing progression, or easing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. This is a pre-announcement, meaning you have time to prepare—but deadlines have not yet been released. Once funding opportunities are posted on Grants.gov, both pre-application and full application deadlines will be specified. Early preparation is critical to compete.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding depends on the award mechanism:

Early Investigator Research Award

• Funding Level 1:

  • Up to $300,000 total costs

  • Period of performance: 2 years

• Funding Level 2:

  • Up to $1,000,000 total costs

  • Period of performance: 2 years

Investigator-Initiated Research Award

• Up to $2,000,000 total costs

• Period of performance: 3 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports Parkinson’s disease research aligned to one or more of the following focus areas:

• Disease heterogeneity and its impact on progression and outcomes

• Advanced in vitro model systems that reflect in vivo complexity

• Biomarkers and biological mechanisms tied to unmet medical needs

• Research addressing:

  • Non-motor symptoms (e.g., cognitive, sleep, psychiatric, pain)

  • Motor symptoms (e.g., tremor, gait, dyskinesia)

• Development and testing of interventions, including:

  • Biological, pharmacological, and non-pharmacological approaches

  • Surgical and non-surgical devices

  • Non-invasive CNS stimulation

Projects may range from laboratory models to studies involving human participants, depending on the mechanism.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Opportunity to work within a Department of Defense-funded research program

• Access to a program prioritizing clinically relevant, high-impact outcomes

• Optional Partnering PI structure (Investigator-Initiated Research Award) to support collaboration between two investigators

• Structured support for early-career researchers, including mentorship (for Funding Level 1)

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

• This is a pre-announcement; application deadlines are not yet specified

• Funding opportunity announcements will be posted on Grants.gov

• A pre-application is required via eBRAP before full submission

• Exact pre-application and full application deadlines will be included in the official announcements

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

• Managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP)

• Under the Defense Health Agency Research and Development – Medical Research and Development Command (DHA R&D-MRDC)

Who is eligible to apply?

Early Investigator Research Award

• Postdoctoral fellows, clinical fellows, or independent investigators within 10 years of degree or residency completion

• Eligibility must be verified via an institutional statement

Investigator-Initiated Research Award

• Independent investigators at all academic levels, or equivalent

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive applications will:

• Address one or more of the specified focus areas

• Demonstrate high-impact potential and clinical relevance

• Include:

  • Strong mentorship and career development (early investigators)

  • Preliminary data where required

  • Rigorous, multidisciplinary approaches (Investigator-Initiated Research Award)

• Target unmet medical needs in Parkinson’s disease, especially across motor and non-motor symptoms

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Early Investigator Research Award

• Clinical trials are not allowed

• Mentorship is required for Funding Level 1

• Preliminary data:

  • Not required for Level 1

  • Required for Level 2

Investigator-Initiated Research Award

• Preliminary data are required

• Clinical trials are allowed

General

• Pre-application submission via eBRAP is required

• Applications must follow final instructions in the official funding announcements

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Not specified in the pre-announcement

• However, the requirement for a pre-application and full application, along with preliminary data (for most mechanisms), indicates a moderate to high preparation effort

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you by:

• Interpreting the full funding announcement once released

• Positioning your project against PRP focus areas and review criteria

• Developing a compelling technical narrative and commercialization angle

• Managing pre-application and full submission workflows

• Supporting teaming strategies, including Partnering PI structures

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Research Program (DMDRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Research Program (DMDRP), managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), will fund high-impact research to improve function and quality of life for individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This is a pre-announcement, meaning application deadlines are not yet specified. Founders and investigators should begin preparing now ahead of the official release on Grants.gov, where deadlines will be published.

How much funding would I receive?

Two award mechanisms are anticipated:

Idea Development Award

• Maximum funding: $500,000 in total costs

• Period of performance: 2 years

Clinical/Translational Research Award

Funding Level 1

• Single PI: $910,000 in total costs

• Partnering PI Option: $1 million in total costs

• Period of performance: 3 years

Funding Level 2

• Single PI: $1.75M in total costs

• Partnering PI Option: $1.9M in total costs

• Period of performance: 4 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

Idea Development Award

• High-risk/high-reward research advancing understanding of DMD

• Development of macromolecular and cellular therapies targeting primary pathology

• Research must include preliminary data

• Cannot fund clinical trials or clinical trial aims

Clinical/Translational Research Award

• Translational research with near-term clinical impact

• Preclinical work supporting IND-enabling studies

• Clinical research including:

  • Real-world data or post-market studies

  • Combination or sequential therapy studies

  • Long-term safety and efficacy studies

  • Studies to improve care and quality of life

  • Clinical trial tools and outcome measures

  • Natural history studies for trial readiness

• Can include clinical trials, pilot trials, and readiness studies

• Must include preliminary data

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Access to CDMRP-managed funding programs within the Defense Health Agency Research and Development ecosystem

• Optional Partnering PI structure for Clinical/Translational Research Awards to support collaboration between investigators

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

• This is a pre-announcement only

• Pre-application and full application deadlines are not specified

• Deadlines will be released with the official funding opportunity announcements on Grants.gov

• A pre-application submission through eBRAP is required prior to full application submission

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

• Managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP)

• Under the Defense Health Agency Research and Development – Medical Research and Development Command (DHA R&D-MRDC)

Who is eligible to apply?

Idea Development Award

• Established independent investigators

• Early-stage investigators:

  • Within 10 years of first faculty appointment

  • Must not have previously received this award

• Transitioning investigators entering DMD from another field

• Must:

  • Be pursuing an active line of DMD research

  • Commit at least 10% effort annually

Clinical/Translational Research Award

• Independent investigators at all academic levels

• Optional Partnering PI must be:

  • Early-career (within 10 years), or

  • Established investigator from another field entering DMD

What companies and projects are likely to win?

• Projects focused on safe and effective macromolecular and cellular therapies addressing the primary pathology of DMD

• Research with clinical relevance and translational potential

• Studies that demonstrate impact across the lifespan, including:

  • Infants

  • Toddlers

  • Non-ambulatory individuals

• Applications supported by strong preliminary data

• High-risk/high-reward ideas (Idea Development Award) or near-term clinical impact (Clinical/Translational Award)

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Idea Development Award:

  • Cannot fund clinical trials or clinical trial aims

• All applications:

  • Must include preliminary data

  • Must align with specified focus areas

• Pre-application submission via eBRAP is required

• Applications must conform to final FOA requirements once released

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Not specified in the pre-announcement

• However, preparation should begin now given:

  • Required preliminary data

  • Mandatory pre-application step

  • Competitive, high-impact nature of the program

How can BW&CO help?

• Evaluate fit across Idea Development vs. Clinical/Translational tracks

• Shape your research into a CDMRP-aligned, reviewer-ready narrative

• Support Partnering PI strategy and positioning

• Develop compliant pre-applications and full submissions

• Maximize competitiveness for high-risk/high-reward and translational proposals

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Pharmacotherapies for Alcohol and Substance Use Disorder Alliance (PASA)

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

Executive Summary:

PASA has four live RFA 8 opportunities under the Study Research Planning Program (SRPP), and the first deadline comes fast: pre-applications are due 04/15/2026 across all four opportunities. Full applications are then due either 06/05/2026 or 06/17/2026 depending on the award type. In plain terms, this is a staged PASA funding cycle for teams working on drug discovery, pre-clinical animal research, human participant clinical trial planning, or expansion of previously funded PASA work. The planning award is for human participant clinical trial planning, the pre-clinical award is for animal research, the drug discovery award is for nonclinical discovery work, and the expansion award is only for current or previously funded PASA studies.

How much funding would I receive?

RFA 8a / Planning Award
Maximum Total Cost (Direct and Indirect): $150,000.
Period of Performance: 9-12 months.

RFA 8b / Pre-Clinical Award
The maximum total cost is not specified in the source materials I reviewed.
The period of performance is not specified in the source materials I reviewed.

RFA 8c / Drug Discovery Award
Maximum Total Cost (Direct and Indirect): $600,000.
Period of Performance: 24 months.

RFA 8d / Expansion Award
Maximum Total Cost (Direct and Indirect): $250,000-$750,000.
Period of Performance: 12-24 months.

What could I use the funding for?

RFA 8a / Planning Award
Use this for a specific compound or combination of compounds where you need a clinical implementation strategy to move toward FDA approval for ASUD treatment. PASA says the award supports development of a series of studies, the protocol for the first study, and related regulatory pathway work.

RFA 8b / Pre-Clinical Award
Use this for proof-of-principle pre-clinical animal research to determine which compounds are most appropriate for human research trials.

RFA 8c / Drug Discovery Award
Use this for proof-of-principle nonclinical drug discovery research to determine which compounds are most appropriate for later human research trials. The RFA says this can include computational-based analysis, including in silico and augmented intelligence research.

RFA 8d / Expansion Award
Use this only to continue or extend research that was previously funded by PASA. PASA says the expansion award may support drug discovery, pre-clinical, or clinical research, as long as it is the next step or an expansion on currently funded work.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

PASA says successful projects are conducted as part of PASA with PASA Management Core involvement. Across the RFAs, that support includes oversight and coordination, data repository functions, and analytic support. PASA’s support page also says PASA statisticians are available during proposal development to review or help develop power, sample size, and analytic plans, and that PASA-funded projects receive centralized management and statistical support after award.

For the Planning Award specifically, PASA says a productive award will yield a clinical implementation strategy, a protocol for the first study in the plan, and FDA approval or exemption for the plan and protocol.

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

RFA 8a / Planning Award
Pre-application Due 04/15/2026.
Go/ No Go Response from PASA Management Core (for submission of full applications) 04/24/2026.
Full Application Due 06/05/2026.
Peer Review Process July 2026.
Consortium Steering Committee Review Mid-August 2026.
Notification of Award Recommendations August 2026.
Award Negotiations Begin September 2026.

RFA 8b / Pre-Clinical Award
Pre-application Due 04/15/2026.
Go/ No Go Response from PASA Management Core (for submission of full applications) 04/24/2026.
Full Application Due 06/17/2026.
Peer Review Process Ends July 2026.
Consortium Steering Committee Review Mid-August 2026.
Notification of Award Recommendations August 2026.
Award Negotiations Begin September 2026.

RFA 8c / Drug Discovery Award
Pre-application Due 04/15/2026.
Go/ No Go Response from PASA Management Core (for submission of full applications) 04/24/2026.
Full Application Due 06/17/2026.
Peer Review Process Ends July 2026.
Consortium Steering Committee Review Mid-August 2026.
Notification of Award Recommendations August 2026.
Award Negotiations Begin September 2026.

RFA 8d / Expansion Award
Pre-application Due 04/15/2026.
Go/ No Go Response from PASA Management Core (for submission of full applications) 04/24/2026.
Full Application Due 06/05/2026.
Peer Review Process Ends July 2026.
Consortium Steering Committee Review Mid-August 2026.
Notification of Award Recommendations August 2026.
Award Negotiations Begin September 2026.

The solicitations say award negotiations begin in September 2026. They do not specify an exact award date or disbursement date.

Where does this funding come from?

The solicitations and FAQ say PASA is funded by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) through the Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders Research Program (ASUDRP). The FAQ states PASA’s work is supported by the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs endorsed by the Department of Defense, managed by CDMRP under Awards W81XWH-15-2-0077, W81XWH-18-2-0044, W81XWH-22-2-0081 and HT94252520002.

Who is eligible to apply?

The FAQ says any institution can apply. It also says international submissions are allowed, more than one application from the same institution is allowed, and those applications are reviewed independently. Co-PIs are allowed. You do not need to already be associated with PASA to apply. For studies involving human participants, the FAQ says applications with Veteran’s Administration (VA) collaborators may be viewed more positively.

There is one major award-specific eligibility limit: RFA 8d / Expansion Award is only for current or previously funded PASA studies.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The solicitations consistently favor projects that align closely with PASA’s goals and focus areas, address ASUD particularly but not limited to comorbid PTSD and other mental health conditions, and have strong potential to inform future clinical trials or improve pharmacotherapies.

• The strongest projects are likely to be those that:

  • show clear alignment with PASA strategic goals and focus areas;

  • present a strong research idea and clear impact;

  • demonstrate feasibility, appropriate budget, and strong team qualifications;

  • show how the work could support regulatory progression and future clinical trials; and

  • for planning awards and clinical work, show a path toward pharmaceutical collaboration or eventual marketing.

The FAQ says a commercial partnership is not required for funding, but for planning awards and clinical trials it is recommended, and a demonstrated relationship with a pharmaceutical company with a path to eventual marketing will be a factor in award selections.

For RFA 8d, the strongest projects are likely to be previously funded PASA studies that can clearly justify why the research is ready for the next phase and how the proposed work builds on prior PASA-funded results.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

All four opportunities require a pre-application before a full application. PASA states that a “go” response from the PASA Management Core is required to proceed with the full application.

RFA 8d is limited to current or previously funded PASA work.

The FAQ says PASA RFA8 does not include the development and/or validation of animal models of disease.

For pre-clinical studies, PASA says most funded studies must be conducted in accordance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) requirements, though some basic science studies may not require GLP and PASA will make that determination in consultation with the PI.

For expansion awards, PASA says most studies must be conducted in accordance with GCP and/or GLP requirements.

Because PASA funding comes through CDMRP/ASUDRP, the solicitations say subaward funds will be subject to policies and restrictions based on that source of funding.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

What is specified is the application structure. Each RFA requires a pre-application first, followed by a full application only if you receive a go decision. The pre-application is limited to four pages. Full applications then require multiple technical sections, budget materials, and supporting documentation. The planning award, pre-clinical award, drug discovery award, and expansion award each have different required components, so preparation time will depend on which RFA you target.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support across all phases of the CSO:

• Strategize the correct solicitation according to your project

• Help strategize on the nature and scope of the project

• Drafting the initial submission and managing the project of applying

• Increasing likelihood of success and saving time

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Toxic Exposures Research Program (TERP)

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

Executive Summary:

This is a pre-announcement for the FY26 Toxic Exposures Research Program (TERP), signaling upcoming funding opportunities but no application deadline is provided at this stage. Founders and researchers should begin planning now, as future funding opportunity announcements will include required pre-application and full application deadlines once released on Grants.gov.

The program will fund high-impact research with clinical relevance focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions related to military-related toxic exposures. Awards span clinical trials, translational research, and investigator-initiated studies.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding depends on the award mechanism:

• Clinical Trial Award

  • Up to $4.5 million total costs

  • Maximum 4 years

• Translational Research Award

  • Up to $1.5M total costs

  • Maximum 3 years

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award

  • Up to $800,000 total costs

  • Maximum 3 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports research aligned with at least one program goal:

• Predict and prevent

  • Monitoring and prevention strategies

  • Risk factor identification

  • Multigenerational and reproductive effects

  • Exposure tracking technologies

• Diagnose

  • Biomarkers and diagnostics

  • Disease progression understanding

  • Multi-exposure and stressor interactions

• Treat

  • Therapeutics and interventions

  • Preclinical models (non-clinical trial mechanisms only)

  • Strategies to reduce symptoms and disease progression

Projects must also address at least one topic area:

• Neurotoxin Exposure

• Gulf War Illness and Its Treatment

• Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits

• Other military-related toxic exposures (e.g., pesticides, organophosphates, metals)

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Partnering PI option available for Clinical Trial and Translational Research Awards (two PIs, separate awards)

• Strong encouragement for:

  • Collaboration with military and/or VA researchers and clinicians

  • Inclusion of a clinician on the team

  • Participation of a military or Veteran consumer (required/encouraged depending on mechanism)

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

• This is a pre-announcement

• Application deadlines are not specified

• Future funding opportunity announcements will include:

  • Pre-application (required) via eBRAP

  • Full application (by invitation only)

Additional timing details:

• Clinical trials are expected to begin within 12 to 18 months of the award date

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

• Managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP)

• Under the Defense Health Agency Research and Development – Medical Research and Development Command (DHA R&D-MRDC)

Who is eligible to apply?

• Independent investigators at all career levels

No additional eligibility restrictions are specified.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that:

• Address at least one program goal and one topic area

• Demonstrate clinical relevance and impact on patient outcomes

• Include preliminary data (required across all mechanisms)

• Align with:

  • Prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of toxic exposure effects

• Incorporate:

  • Collaboration with military/VA stakeholders

  • Clinical expertise

  • Consumer (Veteran/military) input where encouraged

Clinical Trial Awards specifically favor:

• Trials ready for rapid implementation

• Studies evaluating products, drugs, biologics, devices, or clinical approaches

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Preproposal is required; full application is by invitation only

• All applications must include preliminary data

Mechanism-specific restrictions:

• Clinical Trial Award

  • Must include a clinical trial

  • Cannot include preclinical studies (including animal research)

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award

  • Cannot include clinical trials

• Translational Research Award

  • Cannot include clinical trials

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not specified in the pre-announcement.

However:

• A pre-application is required first, followed by an invited full application

• Investigators are encouraged to begin planning now due to the staged process

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you by:

• Interpreting TERP priorities and aligning your project to program goals and topic areas

• Structuring a competitive preproposal to secure invitation

• Developing a full application strategy grounded in clinical impact and reviewer expectations

• Positioning collaborations with military, VA, and clinical stakeholders

• Ensuring compliance with CDMRP and eBRAP submission requirements

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Military Burn Research Program (MBRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Military Burn Research Program (MBRP) will fund innovative, high-impact research focused on military-relevant burn trauma care in austere, combat environments. This is an early pre-announcement, giving teams time to prepare ahead of formal release on Grants.gov.

Application deadlines are not yet specified — they will be provided when the official funding opportunity announcements are released. Founders and researchers should begin planning now, as all mechanisms require a preproposal and are invitation-only for full applications.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding varies by award mechanism:

• Discovery Award

  • Up to $200,000 total costs

  • Up to 2 years

• Patient-Centered Research Award (PCRA)

  • Single PI: Up to $1.6 million total costs

  • Mentorship Option: Up to $1.8 million total costs

  • Up to 4 years

• Technology/Therapeutic Development Award (TTDA)

  • Single PI: Up to $1.6 million total costs

  • Mentorship Option: Up to $1.8 million total costs

  • Up to 3 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding must support research aligned to combat-relevant burn care, including:

• Cold injury triage, treatment, and prevention

• Acute burn care in combat settings

• Prevention, assessment, or treatment of burn-related complications:

  • Fluid resuscitation issues

  • Endotheliopathy

  • Sepsis

  • Inhalation injuries

  • Fungal infections

  • Hypermetabolism

• Early interventions to reduce long-term complications (e.g., chronic pain, neuropathy, pruritus)

By mechanism:

• Discovery Award: Early-stage, exploratory, non-clinical research (no clinical trials)

• PCRA: Clinical research and clinical trials only

• TTDA: Product-focused development (devices, drugs, or clinical practice tools), no clinical trials

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Optional Mentorship Option (PCRA and TTDA) to support collaboration between senior and junior researchers

• Access to CDMRP-managed funding infrastructure

• Opportunity to build solutions for military and battlefield healthcare applications

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

• This is a pre-announcement only

• Application deadlines are not yet specified

• Once released:

  • Pre-applications must be submitted via eBRAP

  • Full applications are invitation-only following preproposal review

• Timing for award decisions and funding is not specified

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

• Managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP)

• Under the Defense Health Agency Research and Development – Medical Research and Development Command (DHA R&D-MRDC)

Who is eligible to apply?

• Discovery Award: Investigators at all academic levels (or equivalent)

• PCRA & TTDA: Independent investigators at all academic levels (or equivalent)

No additional eligibility restrictions are specified.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive applications will:

• Directly address combat-relevant burn care challenges

• Focus on austere, resource-limited, battlefield environments

• Show:

  • Strong scientific rationale

  • Clear study design and analysis plan

  • Alignment with one or more listed focus areas

By mechanism:

• Discovery: Novel, early-stage ideas with potential future impact

• PCRA: Clinically actionable research with preliminary data

• TTDA: Clear path to a tangible product, supported by proof of concept

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Preproposal required; full application is invitation-only for all mechanisms

• Mechanism-specific restrictions:

  • Discovery: No clinical trials

  • PCRA: No preclinical or animal research

  • TTDA: No clinical research or clinical trials

• Preliminary data:

  • Required for PCRA and TTDA

  • Optional for Discovery

• All applications must follow final FOA requirements once released

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Not explicitly specified

• However, applicants should plan for:

  • Preproposal development

  • Invitation-based full application

• Given the structure, preparation will likely require multiple stages, but exact timelines are not specified

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you across both stages:

• Identify the best-fit mechanism (Discovery vs. PCRA vs. TTDA)

• Shape your concept to align with combat burn priorities

• Develop a competitive preproposal strategy

• Build a full application (if invited), including:

  • Technical narrative

  • Commercialization or translation framing (for TTDA)

  • Clinical positioning (for PCRA)

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Joint Warfighter Medical Research Program (JWMRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The Joint Warfighter Medical Research Program (JWMRP) FY26 funding opportunity is expected to support continuation of late-stage medical R&D projects that address critical Department of War (DOW) capability gaps. This is not for new ideas—only existing, previously funded projects that are close to delivering impact are eligible.

This is a pre-announcement, and full funding opportunity announcements (FOAs) with deadlines will be posted on Grants.gov. The application deadline is not specified in this pre-announcement. Founders should begin preparing now to align with the anticipated requirements and pre-application process.

How much funding would I receive?

Two award options are available:

• MMRDA

  • Maximum funding: $1.25M (total costs)

  • Period of performance: Up to 3 years

• MMRDA – Clinical Research/Trial Option

  • Maximum funding: $3M (total costs)

  • Period of performance: Up to 3 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding is strictly for continuation of existing projects, including:

• Late-stage preclinical studies

• Late-stage technology development

• Technology demonstration

• Translational research

• Clinical research and trials (under Clinical Research/Trial Option)

• Development of:

  • Pharmaceutical or biologic candidates

  • Medical devices

  • Medical technologies

Projects must address at least one focus area:

• Non-vaccine infectious disease prevention/treatment (excluding malaria)

• Hemorrhage mitigation and trauma resuscitation

• Injury from temperature extremes

• Musculoskeletal injury (MSKI) treatment and prevention

• Radiation exposure countermeasures (excluding cytokines)

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Not specified in the pre-announcement.

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

• This is a pre-announcement only

• Full FOAs will be released on Grants.gov

• A pre-application is required via eBRAP

• Full applications are by invitation only

The application deadline is not specified in this pre-announcement.
Award timing is not specified.

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

• Managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP)

• Under the Defense Health Agency Research and Development – Medical Research and Development Command (DHA R&D-MRDC)

Who is eligible to apply?

• Extramural and intramural applicants

• Independent investigators at all academic levels (or equivalent)

Additional required eligibility conditions:

• Must have previously received DOW core or congressionally directed funding

• Must propose a continuation of the same research concept

• Projects must already be at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 or above

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on stated requirements, competitive projects will:

• Be continuations of previously funded DOW projects

• Be near deployment or impact (TRL 5+)

• Address one or more JWMRP focus areas

• Demonstrate clear progress toward military medical capability gaps

• Be positioned for translation, demonstration, or clinical validation

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes—this program is highly restrictive:

• No new projects allowed

• No basic research allowed

• Must be a continuation of prior DOW-funded work

• Must meet TRL 5 or higher requirement

• Pre-application is mandatory

• Full application is by invitation only

• Must align with at least one focus area

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not specified in the pre-announcement.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO supports companies pursuing defense innovation and CSO opportunities like this one.

We help by:

• Assess whether your prior DOW-funded project qualifies

• Position your continuation strategy to align with JWMRP focus areas

• Develop a compelling pre-application for eBRAP

• Prepare a full application (if invited) that emphasizes:

  • Translational readiness

  • Military relevance

  • Programmatic alignment

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Bone Marrow Failure Research Program (BMFRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Bone Marrow Failure Research Program (BMFRP) pre-announcement is live. This is an early signal to start preparing now—formal funding opportunities will follow on Grants.gov. There is no application deadline specified in this pre-announcement, and investigators should not wait for the full announcement to begin planning.

This program will fund research addressing bone marrow failure (BMF), with a focus on treatments, disease understanding, and community resources. Pre-announcements like this are your only early advantage—teams that move now are significantly more competitive once the FOA drops.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding varies by award mechanism:

• Idea Development Award

  • Maximum: $800,000 total costs

  • Period of performance: Up to 3 years

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award

  • Maximum: $1,250,000 total costs

  • Period of performance: Up to 3 years

• Resource Development Award

  • Maximum: $1,250,000 total costs

  • Period of performance: Up to 2 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

Projects must align to at least one required FY26 BMFRP focus area:

• Develop durable resources for the bone marrow failure research community

• Find effective BMF treatments and cures

• Understand the causes and progression of BMF diseases

Each award mechanism has specific intent:

• Idea Development Award: Early-stage, hypothesis-driven research with translational potential

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award: More mature research building on prior findings with strong preliminary data

• Resource Development Award: Creation of shared tools, datasets, or infrastructure for the BMF community

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Partnering Principal Investigator option available under the Investigator-Initiated Research Award

• Separate review tracks for early-career vs. established investigators (Idea Development Award)

• Encouragement for correlative studies tied to existing clinical trials/studies

• Emphasis on translational potential, including work supporting an Investigational New Drug (IND) application

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

• Pre-announcement released: March 10, 2026

• Pre-application required via eBRAP before full application

• Full applications are invitation-only after preproposal review

• Funding opportunity announcements will be posted on Grants.gov

• Application deadline: Not specified in the pre-announcement

• Award timing: Not specified in the pre-announcement

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

• Managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP)

• Under the Defense Health Agency Research and Development – Medical Research and Development Command (DHA R&D-MRDC)

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility depends on the award mechanism:

• Idea Development Award:

  • Early-Career Investigators (<10 years from first appointment)

  • Established Investigators (≥10 years from first appointment)

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award:

  • Independent investigators at all career levels

• Resource Development Award:

  • Independent investigators at all career levels

Additional institutional or organizational eligibility is not specified in the pre-announcement.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on required criteria:

• Projects must align tightly with one of the FY26 BMFRP focus areas

• Strong scientific rationale and testable hypothesis (Idea Development Award)

• Preliminary data required (Investigator-Initiated and Resource Development Awards)

• Clear translational impact and potential to advance patient care

• Resource proposals must demonstrate data/sample access and a clear distribution plan

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Preproposal required; full applications are invitation-only

• Clinical trials are not allowed under any mechanism

• Applications must align to specified focus areas

• Resource Development Award is limited to the resource-focused track only

• The pre-announcement does not obligate the government to fund awards

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The structure implies:

• Initial preproposal preparation (required for all mechanisms)

• Full proposal only if invited

The pre-announcement is explicitly intended to give teams time to begin planning ahead of the formal deadlines.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO supports companies pursuing defense innovation and CSO opportunities like this one.

We help by:

• Position your project against the three distinct award mechanisms

• Build a preproposal strategy that secures invitation to full application

• Shape your narrative around CDMRP review expectations and translational impact

• Align your work to IND-enabling or high-impact outcomes where applicable

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: FY26 Traumatic Brain Injury and Psychological Health Research Program (TBIPHRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Traumatic Brain Injury and Psychological Health Research Program (TBIPHRP), managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) under the Defense Health Agency Research and Development – Medical Research and Development Command, will support innovative, high-impact research with clinical relevance focused on improving the prevention, assessment, and treatment of psychological health conditions and traumatic brain injury (TBI).

The program has released a pre-announcement to allow investigators time to begin preparing research concepts. Funding opportunity announcements will be released later on Grants.gov, and those announcements will include the official submission deadlines.

Application deadlines are not specified in the pre-announcement.

Researchers developing clinical trials, translational research, or health services research related to psychological health and TBI in military populations should begin preparing now so they can move quickly once the official solicitations are released.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding depends on the award mechanism and research level selected.

Clinical Trial Award

• Research Level 1

  • Maximum funding: $2.1 million total costs

  • Period of performance: up to 4 years

• Research Level 2

  • Maximum funding: $4.1 million total costs

  • Period of performance: up to 4 years

Health Services Research Award

• Maximum funding: $4.0 million total costs

• Period of performance: up to 4 years

Translational Research Award

• Research Level 1

  • Maximum funding: $1.0 million total costs

  • Period of performance: up to 4 years

• Research Level 2

  • Maximum funding: $2.0 million total costs

  • Period of performance: up to 4 years

Total costs include both direct and indirect costs.

The pre-announcement does not specify the number of awards expected.

What could I use the funding for?

Projects must address psychological health conditions and/or traumatic brain injury (TBI) and fall within one of the program’s focus areas.

1. Understand

Research addressing knowledge gaps in epidemiology and etiology, including:

• Risk, protective, and biological factors affecting vulnerability, response, and long-term outcomes

• Sex as a biological variable

• Psychological health factors related to sexual harassment or assault perpetration, victimization, and barriers to reporting

2. Prevent and Assess

Research focused on prevention, screening, diagnosis, or prognosis, including:

• Identification and validation of biomarkers or objective assessment methods

• Tools supporting return-to-activity or return-to-duty decisions

• Prevention approaches for psychological health conditions and/or TBI

• Cross-cutting prevention strategies addressing outcomes such as:

  • Suicide

  • Interpersonal violence

  • Sexual assault

  • Psychological health conditions

  • TBI

• Solutions supporting military and family readiness and resilience

3. Treat

Research on novel or repurposed interventions, including:

• Treatments and rehabilitation approaches that promote sustained functional recovery

• Interventions across acute, post-acute, or chronic phases

• Postvention strategies following events such as suicide or sexual assault

• Health services research improving access to care, adoption of evidence-based practices, or treatment engagement

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Being part of a CDMRP-managed research portfolio with a history of high-impact biomedical awards.

• Two-tier review that evaluates both scientific quality and programmatic relevance (once FOA is published).

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

This announcement is a pre-announcement only intended to give researchers time to prepare proposals.

Key points:

• Funding opportunity announcements will be released on Grants.gov.

• Those announcements will include pre-application and application deadlines.

• Application deadlines are not specified in the pre-announcement.

Submission process:

• Pre-applications must be submitted through eBRAP (Electronic Biomedical Research Application Portal).

• Some mechanisms require preproposals or Letters of Intent before full applications.

• Full application submission may be by invitation only depending on the mechanism.

The pre-announcement does not specify when awards will be made.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided under the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Act and administered by the Defense Health Agency Research and Development – Medical Research and Development Command (DHA R&D-MRDC) through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP).

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility varies slightly by mechanism but generally includes:

• Independent investigators at any career level

Additional details:

• Postdoctoral fellows are not considered independent investigators

• Some mechanisms include an Early-Career Investigator Partnering Option that allows two principal investigators, where:

  • One PI must be within 10 years of completing their terminal degree at the application submission deadline

  • If funded, each PI receives an individual award within their recipient organization(s)

The solicitation does not specify eligible organization types in the pre-announcement.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects likely to be competitive will:

• Address psychological health conditions and/or traumatic brain injury

• Demonstrate high clinical relevance to military populations

• Provide innovative, high-impact research approaches

• Advance solutions for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, or health system implementation

• Lead to health care products, technologies, or clinical practice guidelines

Specific program priorities include:

• Biomarkers and objective diagnostic methods

• Cross-cutting prevention approaches addressing multiple adverse outcomes

• Interventions that support sustained functional recovery

• Research improving access to care or adoption of evidence-based practices

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Restrictions vary by award mechanism.

Key limitations include:

Clinical Trial Award

• Must support clinical trials

• Preproposal required

• Full application submission by invitation only

Health Services Research Award

• Clinical research and clinical trials allowed

• Trials for new treatments are prohibited

• Requires Letter of Intent prior to full application

Translational Research Award

• Supports high-risk, high-reward translational research

• Basic research prohibited

• Clinical trials prohibited

• Requires preproposal submission

• Full application submission by invitation only

All submissions must comply with the final funding opportunity announcements released on Grants.gov.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Preparation time will depend on the mechanism and project complexity.

Applicants should expect to prepare:

• A preproposal or Letter of Intent

• A full application if invited

The pre-announcement does not specify application preparation timelines.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO supports teams applying to CDMRP and Department of Defense research programs by:

• Determining program fit and mechanism selection

• Structuring projects to align with TBIPHRP focus areas and evaluation criteria

• Developing a competitive preproposal or Letter of Intent

• Preparing the full application package if invited

• Managing compliance with eBRAP and Grants.gov submission requirements

Because full applications may be invitation-only, strong early positioning during the preproposal stage is critical.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Hearing Restoration Research Program (HRRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The CDMRP Hearing Restoration Research Program (HRRP) FY26 funding opportunity is now anticipated under the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act. This is your chance to secure funding to advance innovative, high-impact research that reduces the burden of hearing loss for Service Members, Veterans, and the general public. Investigators should begin planning now — the official funding opportunity announcements, including pre-application and full application deadlines, will be released soon on Grants.gov.

How much funding would I receive?

The pre-announcement does not specify total program funding. However, individual award mechanisms include funding limits:

• Focused Research Award Level 1: up to $400,000 total costs over a maximum of 2 years.

• Focused Research Award Level 2: up to $1.2 million total costs over a maximum of 3 years.

What could I use the funding for?

HRRP awards can support research that:

• Improves and accelerates translation of auditory regeneration or repair mechanisms.

• Develops diagnostics differentiating sensory, neural, synaptic, or central processing disorders.

• Creates reliable in vitro human models to understand auditory cell mechanisms or evaluate therapies.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Being part of a CDMRP-managed research portfolio with a history of high-impact biomedical awards.

• Two-tier review that evaluates both scientific quality and programmatic relevance (once FOA is published).

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

• Pre-announcement release: February 20, 2026.

• Pre-application and application deadlines: Not yet specified. Formal deadlines will be in the forthcoming FOAs on Grants.gov.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided under the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Act and administered by the Defense Health Agency Research and Development – Medical Research and Development Command (DHA R&D-MRDC) through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP).

Who is eligible to apply?

• Independent investigators affiliated with an eligible organization are eligible for the HRRP Focused Research Award mechanisms.

• Full eligibility details will be defined in the forthcoming FOAs on Grants.gov.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Not specified in the pre-announcement. Detailed selection criteria and program priorities will be in the formal FOAs.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Applications must conform to the requirements in the official funding opportunity announcements once posted.

• Investigators should not interpret this pre-announcement as a promise of funding.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not specified in the pre-announcement. However, investigators should begin planning now to align with the anticipated FOA release and competitive review timeline.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can assist with:

• Interpreting eligibility and program priorities once the FOA is released.

• Drafting compelling pre-applications and full applications that align with CDMRP review criteria.

• Developing budgets and milestones that fit award mechanisms and funding levels.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Vision Research Program (VRP)

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

Executive Summary:

Urgent Opportunity: The Vision Research Program (VRP) has released a pre-announcement for FY26 anticipated funding opportunities as part of the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs. These pre-announcements are meant to help investigators plan now — full funding opportunity announcements (FOAs) with deadlines will be posted soon on Grants.gov.

Key Opportunity: Prepare your research ideas targeting military exposure-related visual injury and treatment now — this program will fund high-impact research that advances understanding, diagnosis, treatment, stabilization, and restoration of vision after combat and operational injuries.

How much funding would I receive?

The pre-announcement does not specify total program funding.

Funding by mechanism in the anticipated FOA (for individual awards):

• Clinical Trial Award: up to approximately $2.6M total costs (max 3 years)

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award:

  • Funding Level 1: up to $400,000 total costs (max 2 years)

  • Funding Level 2: up to $1.2M total costs (max 3 years)

• Translational Research Award: up to $1.6M total costs (max 3 years)

• Mentored Clinical Research Award: up to $75,000 total costs (max 1.5 years)

What could I use the funding for?

Funding will support:

• Understanding and treating eye injury or visual dysfunction caused by military exposures.

• Improving diagnosis, stabilization, and treatment of eye injuries in austere and prolonged care environments.

• Restoring visual function after military exposure-related vision loss or severe impairment.

Specific allowable uses will be detailed in the full FOA.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Being part of a CDMRP-managed research portfolio with a history of high-impact biomedical awards.

• Two-tier review that evaluates both scientific quality and programmatic relevance (once FOA is published).

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

• Pre-announcement released: February 20, 2026.

• Full FOA with deadlines: Not yet published — will appear on Grants.gov.

• Pre-application and application deadlines: Will be in the FOA.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act, as part of the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) managed by the Defense Health Agency Research and Development / Medical Research and Development Command (DHA R&D-MRDC).

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility requirements will be defined in the full FOA, not in this pre-announcement.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Programs with strong relevance to combat and operational vision injury.

1. Projects aligned with diagnosis, acute care stabilization, and visual function restoration.

2. Investigators with evidence of clinical relevance and translational potential.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• The pre-announcement is not a promise or obligation for awards.

• Applicants must wait for the full FOA to understand eligibility, submission requirements, and restrictions.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Planning should begin now, as the pre-announcement is intended to give time for idea development.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Translate the full FOA into CEO-ready website copy once published.

• Map your project to the right mechanisms (e.g., clinical vs. translational).

• Prepare submission strategy, narrative, and budget.

• Support compliance with CDMRP requirements and two-tier review expectations.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Peer Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP) Pre-Announcement invites investigators to prepare for upcoming funding opportunities for innovative, high-impact cancer research that supports military health and mission readiness. Final Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs) with deadlines will be posted on Grants.gov; investigators should begin planning now. The deadline for application submissions is not yet specified in this pre-announcement.

How much funding would I receive?

Maximum allowable funding varies by award mechanism as anticipated for FY26:

• Clinical Trial Award: up to $4.5 M total costs

• Idea Award: up to $600,000 total costs

• Impact Award: up to $1.5 M (single PI) or $2 M (Partnering PI)
  Note: These are maximums; actual amounts depend on the final FOA.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports:

• Clinical trials that advance preclinical research and improve cancer care.

• Innovative basic research that may introduce new paradigms (Idea Award).

• Mature, high-impact hypothesis-driven research with potential near-term impact.

• Applications must address one of the PRCRP topic areas and at least one Military Health Focus Area related to environmental exposures, mission readiness, and gaps in prevention, detection, treatment, or survivorship.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Alignment with congressional priorities for military health and cancer research.

• Inclusion in the CDMRP funding ecosystem with access to eBRAP pre-application processes and NIH/Grants.gov submission systems.

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

• Application deadlines: Not yet specified (will be in final FOAs on Grants.gov).

• Investigators must first submit a pre-proposal via eBRAP before full application.

• Final FOAs will define all submission dates once released.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act to the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs, managed by the Defense Health Agency Research and Development, Medical Research and Development Command.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility varies by mechanism but generally includes independent investigators at all career stages. For Idea Awards, the Early-Career Investigator option is open to those within 7 years of last training and below associate professor rank. Exact institutional eligibility requirements will be in the final FOA.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Applications that:

• Address at least one FY26 PRCRP Topic Area not covered by other CDMRP cancer programs.

• Clearly relate proposed work to military health, mission readiness, and beneficiary cancer needs.

• Demonstrate scientific merit, innovation/potential impact, and relevance to program goals.
  Projects bridging gaps in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, quality of life, or survivorship in military populations will be competitive.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Final FOAs will specify complete eligibility, topic focus, budget limits, and submission requirements.

• Pre-announcement does not guarantee funding; investigators must wait for formal FOAs on Grants.gov.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Preparation time depends on the mechanism:

• Clinical trials need completed preclinical data and IND/IDE submissions before application.

• Idea and Impact Award proposals require scientific groundwork and alignment with topic areas.
  Plan several weeks to months for strategy, pre-proposal, and full application drafts once FOAs are released.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Interpret final FOAs and clarify topic areas.

• Craft compelling research narratives tied to military health priorities.

• Assist with budgeting, required forms, and eBRAP/Grants.gov submissions.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Melanoma Research Program (MRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) released a pre-announcement for anticipated FY26 Melanoma Research Program (MRP) funding opportunities. This notice signals that new award mechanisms and funding will be forthcoming, but the application deadlines are not yet specified; they will be published in the formal Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) on Grants.gov and eBRAP once available.

How much funding would I receive?

• Idea Award: Maximum total costs up to $560,000 (period up to 2 years).

• Melanoma Academy Scholar Award: Maximum total costs up to $770,000 (period up to 3 years).

• Team Science Award: Maximum total costs up to $2.1 million (period up to 3 years).

• Focused Program Award – Rare Melanomas: Maximum total costs up to $2.8 million (period up to 4 years).

• Survivorship Research Award: Maximum total costs up to $1.015 million (period up to 3 years).

What could I use the funding for?

• All awards must address one or more of the FY26 MRP focus areas:

  • Identify, understand, and mitigate melanoma risk factors and develop biomarkers.

  • Develop detection/diagnosis technologies that improve risk stratification.

  • Define mechanisms of initiation, response/resistance to therapy, progression, recurrence, metastasis.

  • Develop new preclinical models representing disease evolution (cutaneous and rare subtypes).

  • Address unmet needs across cancer research spectrum for rare melanomas.

  • Address psychological/social impacts, quality of life, treatment toxicities, and survivorship issues.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Melanoma Academy Scholar Award includes mentoring, national networking, and structured career support.

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

• The pre-announcement is available now (released February 18, 2026); full FOAs will be released later on Grants.gov.

• Exact pre-application and application deadlines will be specified in those FOAs—not yet provided in the pre-announcement.

• Funding start dates will depend on the FOA timeline and award negotiations—not specified in the pre-announcement.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided through the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act and administered by the Defense Health Agency Research and Development / Medical Research and Development Command (MRDC) under the CDMRP.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility for each award mechanism is defined in the full FOA. From the pre-announcement:

• Idea Award: Investigators at or above the postdoctoral level (or equivalent).

• Melanoma Academy Scholar Award: Investigators within 7 years of first faculty appointment.

• Team Science Award: Independent investigators (Assistant Professor level or equivalent).

• Focused Program Award – Rare Melanomas: Initiating PI at Associate Professor level or equivalent; Partnering PIs at Assistant Professor level or above.

• Survivorship Research Award: Independent investigators (Assistant Professor level or equivalent).

Detailed eligibility criteria (organization types, citizenship, cost share, etc.) will be in the FOA—not specified in the pre-announcement.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Not specified in the pre-announcement; CDMRP typically funds high-risk, high-gain research that aligns tightly with the listed focus areas and relevance to melanoma biology, detection, survivorship, and unmet clinical needs. Projects that integrate multidisciplinary approaches or include military/VA relevance are typically competitive, but the solicitation does not provide explicit criteria.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• The pre-announcement states that submission does not guarantee FOAs or funding.

• All applications must adhere to the final FOA instructions on Grants.gov when released.

• Preliminary data expectations, animal or human subjects requirements, and allowable costs will be defined in the FOA—not yet specified here.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Not specified in the pre-announcement because deadlines are not yet posted. Generally, planning should begin now given the complexity of CDMRP submissions and required pre-applications (e.g., eBRAP).

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Monitor the release of the official FOA and deadlines.

• Translate the FOA into a targeted application strategy.

• Help craft compelling project narrative, budget, and compliance sections.

• Provide review, editing, and submission support to maximize competitiveness.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Multiple Sclerosis Research Program (MSRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The CDMRP Multiple Sclerosis Research Program (MSRP) Pre-Announcement for FY26 provides early notice of anticipated funding opportunities for innovative research on multiple sclerosis. This announcement is not the official funding solicitation — it is intended to give investigators advance insight to begin planning competitive proposals. Final Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs) with submission deadlines will be posted later on Grants.gov and eBRAP.

How much funding would I receive?

The MSRP pre-announcement outlines proposed award types with maximum allowable funding levels (total costs, including direct and indirect):

• Clinical Trial Award
  • Level 1: up to $1,000,000 over up to 3 years
  • Level 2: up to $2,000,000 over up to 4 years

• Early Investigator Research Award
  • Up to $300,000 over up to 2 years

• Exploration – Hypothesis Development Award
  • Up to $250,000 over up to 2 years

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award
  • Up to $1,000,000 over up to 3 years

These amounts represent maximums anticipated for each mechanism; they are not guaranteed awards until the official FOA is released.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding is intended to support multiple sclerosis research, across a variety of scientific aims depending on award mechanism. Key areas include:

Clinical Trial Award

• Conduct proof-of-principle or early-phase clinical trials with potential to improve clinical outcomes or inform translational feasibility.

• Research must focus on treatment approaches or evidence relevant to MS patient populations.

Early Investigator Research Award

• Support early-career investigators initiating MS research.

• Projects may explore CNS repair, protection, regeneration, correlates of disease activity, symptomatic measurements, or disease mechanisms.

Exploration – Hypothesis Development Award

• Support high-risk, high-gain conceptual studies, not clinical trials.

• Encourages innovative ideas across MS biology, disease progression, symptoms, and repair.

Investigator-Initiated Research Award

• Support rigorous, investigator-driven MS studies with strong preliminary data.

• Applies to new and established researchers; clinical trials are excluded.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• This pre-announcement gives lead time to plan research concepts and collaborations ahead of official FOA release.

• Investigators can prepare strategic proposals, letters of intent, and consortium plans before deadlines are published.

• Awardees likely benefit from CDMRP’s two-tier review process aligning scientific merit with program relevance.

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

• Application deadlines will not be in this pre-announcement.
  The CDMRP plans to release full FOAs on Grants.gov and eBRAP with specific pre-application and application due dates.

• Funding decisions and award issuance will occur after review of submitted applications (typically several months after the final due date, depending on CDMRP schedule and appropriations).

Where does this funding come from?

The MSRP is funded through the Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), which received appropriations as part of the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act. The CDMRP oversees research across many disease areas, including multiple sclerosis.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility varies by award mechanism, but generally:

• Clinical Trial Award: Independent investigators at all career levels.

• Early Investigator Research Award: Early stage investigators (mentored; specific experience requirements).

• Exploration and Investigator-Initiated Awards: Independent investigators at all career stages; specific criteria on prior funding or experience may apply.

Final eligibility details will be in the official FOA.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects likely to be competitive will:

• Align strongly with MSRP focus areas (repair, neuroprotection, symptom biology, clinical intervention).

• Demonstrate rigorous methods, clear impact, and feasibility.

• Include strong preliminary data (where required).

• Address CDMRP priorities in multiple sclerosis research.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• The pre-announcement is not a funding solicitation — award cannot be applied for until FOAs are released.

• Clinical trials must meet relevant definitions and follow regulatory requirements.

• Some award types exclude clinical trials or have career stage restrictions.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Planning ahead based on this pre-announcement is recommended.

• Actual FOA publication will define exact due dates, which determine preparation time.

• Early strategic planning (e.g., consortium building, preliminary data generation, letters of intent) will speed application development.

How can BW&CO help?

If you’re seeking professional proposal support, experts like BW&CO Consulting can help you:

• Interpret the pre-announcement and upcoming FOA

• Identify optimal award mechanisms

• Plan research strategy and draft proposals

• Prepare budgets and compliance documents

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Research Program (TSCRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The CDMRP has issued a pre-announcement for anticipated Fiscal Year 2026 TSCRP funding opportunities to support high-impact research in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC). This early notice gives researchers time to plan and refine ideas. The full Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), including deadlines and submission details, will be posted on Grants.gov in the coming weeks. Investigators should not interpret this pre-announcement as a funding guarantee.

How much funding would I receive?

While exact award amounts are not official until FOAs are posted, the TSCRP pre-announcement outlines three mechanisms with indicative elements:

1. Clinical Translational Research Award

• Supports studies that move promising research closer to clinical application.

• Includes potential pilot clinical trials, biomarker development, and clinical endpoint work.

• Eligible PIs include independent investigators and advanced practice clinical personnel (e.g., genetic counselors, nurses) for clinical care-focused proposals.

• Maximum duration: 3 years

• Estimated total costs: up to ~$1.6M single PI / ~$1.9M with Partnering PI option (pending FOA).

2. Exploration – Hypothesis Development Award

• For high-risk, high-gain ideas in early stages.

• Study designs must be innovative but do not necessarily require preliminary data.

• Clinical subject work must meet human-subjects protection requirements.

• Maximum duration: 2 years

• Estimated total costs: up to ~$350K (pending FOA).

3. Idea Development Award

• Supports new or cross-disciplinary ideas with preliminary data.

• Includes specific options for new-to-field investigators transitioning into TSC research.

• Maximum duration: 3 years

• Estimated total costs: up to ~$800K (pending FOA).

Note: These figures and durations are as presented in the pre-announcement and may differ slightly in the final FOA.

What could I use the funding for?

Applications must address at least one of the following TSCRP priorities:

• Neuropsychiatric aspects of TSC: Understanding, preventing, and treating TSC-associated neuropsychiatric disorders (e.g., behavioral, pharmacological, surgical interventions).

• Tumors and cysts: Preventing or eradicating TSC-related tumors such as angiomyolipomas, subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA), and lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), including mechanistic insights into TSC signaling pathways.

• Epilepsy associated with TSC: Prevention, improved treatment, and mitigation of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.

• Diagnostic & therapeutic technologies: Development or testing of tools and technologies that improve clinical outcomes in TSC.

• Maternal-fetal & reproductive health in TSC: Mechanisms or care improvements affecting women with TSC or LAM and their infants.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

FY26 SCIRP includes an Early-Career Partnership Option across all award mechanisms, designed to:

• Encourage collaboration between established and emerging investigators.

• Provide two individual awards under a single project with separate budgets.

• Support career development while increasing research capacity.

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

Pre-announcement release: February 17, 2026

1. Formal Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs): To be posted on Grants.gov and CDMRP as soon as they are finalized. Pre-applications and full application deadlines will be included in those FOAs.

2. Funding start: After application review and award selection (dates will be provided in individual FOAs).

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is authorized by the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act, which appropriated funds to the CDMRP for a wide range of research programs, including the TSCRP.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility will be defined in each FOA, but CDMRP programs typically allow:

• Independent investigators at all career levels.

• Clinical and translational researchers with relevant expertise.

• Multiple institutional types (academic, nonprofit, clinical).

(Final eligibility criteria will appear in the specific FOAs once posted.)

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive applications typically:

• Align clearly with one or more of the TSCRP focus areas.

• Show strong scientific rationale and potential for impact on TSC care or understanding.

• Include translational significance or potential to advance clinical outcomes.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• The pre-announcement is not a guarantee of funding or a FOA; investigators cannot submit applications based on it alone.

• Formal submission instructions, eligibility, and restrictions will be defined in forthcoming FOAs.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Time needed varies by project, but standard CDMRP FOAs often allow several weeks to months for:

• Letter of intent (if required).

• Pre-application submission.

• Full application preparation.

Tip: Begin early by reviewing past TSCRP FOAs and planning collaborative teams, hypotheses, and preliminary data.

How can BW&CO help?

If you need assistance with strategy, positioning against TSCRP priorities, or full proposal writing support, BW&CO can:

• Align your research aims to TSCRP’s priority areas.

• Draft compelling abstracts and narratives tailored to CDMRP review criteria.

• Provide budget and compliance support based on CDMRP rules.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Spinal Cord Injury Research Program (SCIRP)

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

Executive Summary:

On February 17, 2026, the Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) released the Spinal Cord Injury Research Program (SCIRP) anticipated funding opportunities for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26), providing researchers with key priorities and award mechanisms to plan applications ahead of full Funding Opportunity Announcements. This pre-announcement outlines the SCIRP’s research goals and award structures, including a strong emphasis on clinical, translational, and investigator-initiated research in spinal cord injury. Final Funding Opportunity Announcements with deadlines will be posted on Grants.gov once available.

How much funding would I receive?

The pre-announcement specifies award maximums for each mechanism (total costs, including direct and indirect):

• Clinical Trial Award

  • Single PI: up to $4.8M over 4 years

  • Early-Career Partnership Option: up to $4.96M over 4 years

• Clinical Translation Research Award

  • Single PI: up to $2.0M over 3 years

  • Early-Career Partnership: up to $2.16M over 3 years

• Translational Research Award

  • Single PI: up to $2.0M over 3 years

  • Early-Career Partnership: up to $2.16M over 3 years

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award

  • Single PI: up to $800,000 over 3 years

  • Early-Career Partnership: up to $960,000 over 3 years

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports research that advances spinal cord injury (SCI) understanding, treatment, and care across four major areas:

• Acute Injury Intervention

  • Develop and test interventions to protect spinal cord tissue after injury with measurable neurological benefit.

• Secondary Health Effects

  • Research interventions addressing long-term consequences of SCI across the lifespan.

• Psychosocial Issues

  • Test strategies for promoting psychosocial well-being tailored to people with SCI and their families/care partners.

• Rehabilitation and Regeneration

  • Advance rehabilitation strategies and regenerative/neuroplastic approaches for improved functional recovery.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

FY26 SCIRP includes an Early-Career Partnership Option across all award mechanisms, designed to:

• Encourage collaboration between established and emerging investigators.

• Provide two individual awards under a single project with separate budgets.

• Support career development while increasing research capacity.

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

Pre-Announcement (released): February 17, 2026.

Next Steps:

• Full Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs) will be posted on Grants.gov and contain specific pre-application and application deadlines.

• Applicants must submit a pre-application (via eBRAP) prior to the full application.

• Funding awards start after review and final selection dates in the FOAs. (Exact dates not yet published.)

Where does this funding come from?

SCIRP is part of the CDMRP, a Department of Defense research portfolio funded through the Defense Appropriations Act. For FY26, the CDMRP received appropriations to fund 34 research programs including SCIRP.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility varies by award mechanism, but in general:

• Independent investigators at all career levels are eligible for single PI awards.

• Early-Career Partnership Option requires one early-career investigator meeting defined experience criteria.

Specific eligibility criteria and organizational requirements will be detailed in the FOAs. al relevance.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects most competitive will:

• Directly address one or more SCIRP priority research areas.

• Demonstrate scientific impact, innovation, and relevance to SCI outcomes.

• Include clear paths to clinical or translational impact (as specified by mechanism).

• (For Early-Career Partnership) show strong mentorship and collaborative planning.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Pre-applications are required before full applications.

• All research must conform to final FOA requirements once released.

• Funding opportunity terms, budgets, eligible costs, and indirect cost policies will be specified in FOAs.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Preparation time depends on research maturity and team readiness, but investigators should factor in:

• Time to align research with SCIRP priorities.

• Drafting a competitive pre-application (often weeks before FOA deadlines).

• Preparing full application (including budgets, human subjects, partnerships).
  (SCIRP pre-announcement is intended to give applicants advance planning time.)

How can BW&CO help?

If you need assistance with strategy, positioning against SCIRP priorities, or full proposal writing support, BW&CO can:

• Align your research aims to SCIRP’s priority areas.

• Draft compelling abstracts and narratives tailored to CDMRP review criteria.

• Provide budget and compliance support based on CDMRP rules.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

Rapid Stabilization and Barcoding Challenge – Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA)

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

Executive Summary:

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking U.S.-based industry, academic, and nonprofit organizations to prototype a fully integrated, handheld system that eliminates cold-chain requirements for chemical and biological samples. The system must stabilize molecules at ambient conditions, integrate barcode-based lifecycle tracking, and automate sampling. Applications are due March 9, 2026 at 1:00 PM.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding Award Size: $300K to $5 Million+

Awards will be made under the ONIX OTA in coordination with ACC-RI. Specific award size will depend on scope and proposed effort.

What could I use the funding for?

Overall Objective

DTRA is seeking to develop Rapid Stabilization and Barcoding prototypes and test these for operational relevancy. This effort aims to research and develop innovative stabilization technologies that leverage custom stable porous capillary-fibrous scaffolds, providing high permeability and improved surface-area-to-volume ratios to enhance binding and stabilization efficiency of molecules and reagents, ultimately ensuring assay consistency.  Systems should improve utility of vitrification under vacuum and rapid drying of molecules and reagents, supporting the general services for years to come.  Alternatives to lyophilization may include methodologies that avoid freezing and/or boiling of molecules or reagents, prevent solution crystallization, and eliminate the use of liquid nitrogen for storage.

To support rapid and reliable sample stabilization in field environments, the system must also incorporate robust barcode-based sample tracking.

Problem Statement

Current reliance on cold-chain logistics places a burden on the general forces due to reagents and sample degradation. Further, sample tracking approaches often rely on handwritten labels, inconsistent naming conventions, and manual tracking; all of which introduce vulnerabilities such as mislabeling and loss of chain-of-custody. This effort seeks industry solutions that will result in rapid stabilization and barcoding.

Desired Solution

·       Sustain structural stability of chemical and biological molecules for storage at room temperature for at least 12 months, in various environmental conditions.

·       Perform in a wide variety of environmental MIL STD 810H conditions, ranging from -20 ℃ to 55 ℃ and 10-95% relative humidity.

·       Mitigate degradation risks from sample matrix complexities.

·     Have a simple and standardized workflow.  End-user training should be completed within one hour, with minimal operational complexity and no specialized technical expertise required.

·       Complete the entire vitrification process, from sample collection to final stabilization, within 30 minutes.

·       Require low power, enabling operation in austere and off-grid environments.  If a battery is necessary, the system should utilize lightweight solid-state batteries.

·       Be handheld and portable, preferably less than 30 cm x 15 cm x 15 cm and weigh less than 10 lbs. (4.5 kg) is the preferred end goal.

·       Remain low in costs, at approximately $100 or less for reusable systems or $25 or less for single-use systems when purchased in quantity.

·       Integrate automated sample collection mechanisms that enable consistent and repeatable sampling.

·       Read 1D and 2D barcodes on labels, vials, and screens.

·       Be MIL STD 810H compliant for shock, dust, humidity, and temperature extremes.

·       Support Bluetooth or Wi-Fi options for direct integration with field instruments.

·       Have a minimum 12 hours of continuous and wireless scanning.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the direct funding award, there are meaningful indirect benefits:

Government Validation and Credibility:
Selection by DTRA RD-CB signals strong technical credibility in chemical and biological defense technologies, which can accelerate follow-on DoD opportunities.

Enhanced Market Visibility:
Awardees gain visibility within the CBRN defense ecosystem and may benefit from broader recognition through DoD networks.

Dual-Use Positioning:
Technologies that eliminate cold-chain requirements and improve sample tracking have applications in biodefense, public health, field diagnostics, and industrial biosurveillance.

Nondilutive Capital:
OTA-based funding allows you to mature hardware and IP without equity dilution, strengthening valuation and exit potential.

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

• Submission Deadline: March 9, 2026 at 1:00 PM

• Anticipated Down-Select: 30–45 days after posting

Specific award start dates are not listed, but selection and award are expected shortly after down-select.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), Research and Development, Chemical and Biological Technologies Directorate (RD-CB), in support of the Capability Program Executive for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Defense.

Awards will be made under the ONIX OTA in coordination with ACC-RI.

Who is eligible to apply?

• U.S.-based industry organizations

• U.S.-based academic institutions

• U.S.-based nonprofit organizations

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on the scoring rubric, competitive proposals will demonstrate:

• A technically viable stabilization methodology using porous capillary-fibrous scaffolds (or alternatives that prevent freezing, boiling, crystallization, and eliminate liquid nitrogen dependency)

• Full integration of 1D/2D barcode tracking with LIMS compatibility

• Reliable automated sampling with reduced operator involvement

• Demonstrated ability to meet 12-month room-temperature stability across MIL STD 810H conditions

• Clear milestones, realistic deliverables, credible past performance, and well-justified costs/IP strategy

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Must be U.S.-based.

• Must comply with MIL STD 810H environmental requirements.

• System must meet specific SWaP-C targets and defined cost thresholds.

• Submission length limited to 2–10 pages (plus required company and past performance pages).

• Submission required via GoColosseum platform.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Given the 2–10 page technical response, plus company and past performance pages and milestone-based cost structure, most teams should expect approximately 2–4 weeks to prepare a competitive submission, depending on readiness of technical concept and prior 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 opportunity here.