Offensive Subsea and Seabed Warfare (SSW) Exercise Barb 26

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

Executive Summary:

COMSUBFOR is seeking emerging technologies to support Offensive Subsea and Seabed Warfare (SSW) operations in alignment with U.S. national security and DoD strategic guidance. The focus is on maintaining undersea dominance by modernizing warfighting capabilities through persistent innovation and integration of emerging technologies.

This effort supports broader Joint Force and AUKUS Pillar 2 requirements. Technologies must directly enhance U.S. Submarine Force and AUKUS mission effectiveness and lethality in a contested undersea environment.

The application deadline is March 22nd. If you are developing autonomous, robotic, or remotely operated systems capable of conducting Offensive Seabed Attack missions, you should begin preparing immediately.

How much funding would I receive?

Typical funding is around $500k - $2m.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding would support technologies that enhance the execution of Offensive Subsea and Seabed Warfare (SSW) operations.

Area of Interest (AOI-1): Offensive Seabed Attack

Submissions should address:

• Deploying and operating robotic autonomous systems

• Deploying and operating remotely operated systems

• Targeting adversary seabed systems

• Achieving kinetic and non-kinetic effects

• Covering the entire kill chain from deployment through battle damage assessment

Technologies must be directly relevant to enhancing mission effectiveness and lethality in a contested undersea environment.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

This effort supports U.S. Submarine Force priorities and AUKUS Pillar 2 requirements.

Additional benefits beyond potential integration to enhance U.S. Submarine Force and AUKUS mission effectiveness are not specified.

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

The application deadline is March 22nd.

Where does this funding come from?

This effort is issued by COMSUBFOR in accordance with U.S. national security and DoD strategic guidance.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility requirements are not specified in the provided solicitation materials.

Entity type restrictions (e.g., small businesses, large businesses, academic institutions, non-profits) are not specified.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that:

• Enhance Offensive Subsea and Seabed Warfare (SSW) capabilities

• Improve mission effectiveness and lethality in contested undersea environments

• Support U.S. Submarine Force and AUKUS Pillar 2 requirements

• Address the full kill chain from deployment to battle damage assessment

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Cost share requirements are not specified.

• Technology readiness level (TRL) requirements are not specified.

• Export control, security clearance, or classification requirements are not specified.

• Other restrictions are not specified in the provided materials.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Given the March 22nd deadline, companies should assume an accelerated preparation timeline.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Translate your seabed or autonomous systems technology into a mission-aligned narrative tailored to COMSUBFOR priorities

• Map your solution to the Offensive Seabed Attack AOI and clearly articulate full kill chain impact

• Position your company to demonstrate relevance to U.S. Submarine Force and AUKUS Pillar 2 mission effectiveness

• Develop concise, defense-aligned technical and capability briefs

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($4,000) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) – Rapid Response to Weather Events Across Food & Agricultural Systems (A1712) – USDA NIFA

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

Executive Summary:

The USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is awarding up to $300,000 for extension and integrated (extension + applied research) projects that address urgent impacts of recent weather-related disasters on agricultural production systems, food supply chains, and rural communities. Applications must be submitted within 45 calendar days of a qualifying weather event. Awards support 12-month rapid deployment projects.

How much funding is available?

Maximum award: $300,000 (including indirect costs). Grant duration: 12 months. Grant types: Standard and FASE (Strengthening Standard) only. Project types: Extension or Integrated (extension + applied research) only.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports rapid, solution-driven efforts that address impacts from naturally occurring weather hazards such as heat, drought, wildfires, tornados, floods, hurricanes, tropical storms, and blizzards.

1. Producer Stabilization & Extension Deployment

Projects that deliver rapid extension programs, technical assistance, and training to farmers, ranchers, and producers impacted by recent weather disasters.

Examples:

·        On-farm technical assistance and recovery protocols

·        Thermal stress mitigation strategies for livestock

·        Drought management tools for crop producers

·        Emergency feed or input optimization guidance

2. Tools & Technology for Rapid Adoption

Projects implementing tools and technologies that can be deployed within 90 days to mitigate disaster impacts.

·        Decision-support software for weather adaptation

·        Remote sensing or monitoring systems

·        Precision irrigation or water conservation technologies

·        Emergency disease or pest monitoring systems triggered by extreme weather

3. Supply Chain & Food System Resilience

Projects addressing disruptions across production, processing, distribution, and food safety logistics caused by weather events.

·        Alternative distribution models during disaster recovery

·        Cold chain stabilization strategies

·        Regional food access logistics

·        Processing infrastructure recovery support

4. Community & Rural Impact Mitigation

Projects supporting individuals, families, and communities to buffer disaster impacts and maintain safe, nutritious, and accessible food supplies.

·        Community resilience planning

·        Localized disaster-response communication strategies

·        Rapid recovery outreach programs

·        Food access coordination in affected regions

At least one activity must be implemented within 90 days of award, and all deliverables must be completed within 12 months.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the formal funding award, there are significant indirect benefits to receiving a USDA AFRI Rapid Response award:

·        Federal validation tied to disaster resilience and food system stabilization

·        Positioning as a trusted partner for state and regional recovery efforts

·        Strengthened credibility with producers and agricultural stakeholders

·        Non-dilutive capital that extends runway during market uncertainty

·        Enhanced positioning for future USDA and federal resilience funding opportunities

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

• Applications must be submitted within 45 calendar days of a qualifying weather event. No Letter of Intent is required. Application review and processing are expedited to ensure timely project startup. Awards have a 12-month performance period.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from Congressional appropriations to the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Assistance Listing: 10.310.

Who is eligible to apply?

·        Colleges and universities

·        State Agricultural Experiment Stations

·        University research foundations

·        Federal agencies and national laboratories

·        Private organizations and corporations

·        Eligible individuals (U.S. citizens, nationals, permanent residents)

·        Consortia of eligible entities

Foreign and international organizations are not eligible as primary applicants.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

·        Projects clearly tied to a recent documented weather event

·        Strong justification of urgency and stakeholder need

·        Solutions deployable within 90 days of award

·        High likelihood of rapid adoption by producers or food system operators

·        Clearly defined geographic scope linked to the disaster impact

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

·        Budget requests exceeding $300,000 will not be reviewed.

·        Projects must focus on short-term, urgent disaster response.

·        At least one deliverable must occur within 90 days of award.

·        All projects must include a data management plan.

·        If applied research is commodity-specific and not national in scope, matching funds may be required.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Due to the 45-day submission window, preparation timelines are compressed. Competitive applications typically require 3–6 weeks of focused development, including event documentation, stakeholder justification, and rapid deployment planning.

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?

Flat fee pricing available upon request.

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

See the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

No geographic restrictions are stated.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Solutions most aligned with the following priorities will be strongest:

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

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

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

• Resilience in communications-contested or denied environments.

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

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

• NO classified or proprietary information should be submitted.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

• Company profile

• Product whitepaper

• Pitch deck

• System blueprint/architecture

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

Preparation time depends on existing documentation maturity.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Review the opportunity here.

DIU - Containerized Autonomous Drone Delivery System (CADDS)

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

What could I use the funding for?

This solicitation is looking for solutions that:

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

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

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

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

• Reduce human operator burden and minimize required crew size.

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive submissions will:

• Clearly align with rapid autonomous UAS deployment at scale.

• Demonstrate modularity, open architecture, and operational utility.

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

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

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

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

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

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

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can assist with:

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

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

• Strategizing for rapid prototype demonstration and DoD transition pathways.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

Potential use cases could include:

• Dismounted Soldier

• Maritime Mobility (Surface and Sub-Surface)

• Land Mobility Vehicles

• Uncrewed Vehicles (in all domains)

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

No funding or award timeline is specified in the materials.

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

Everyone - including US Companies.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

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

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

• Applicability across multiple platforms or domains

• Plug-and-play compatibility with existing systems

• Maturity suitable for military evaluation or experimentation

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Duplicate scout cards are not permitted and will be removed.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

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

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

C-UAS. Hard and soft kill.

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

Exportable Power. Generation and distribution. Power harvesting.

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

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

As a baseline, vendors should seek to secure:

• Facility Security Clearance

• Suitable personnel security clearances (UK SECRET or equivalent)

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects most likely to succeed are those that:

• Demonstrate novel technologies aligned to the listed Technology Interest Items

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

• Support rapid experimentation, spiral development, and evolving requirements

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Industry Engagement Submission (initial research concept)

2. Virtual Pitch (by invitation only)

3. Written Proposal (by invitation only)

Typical DHS response timelines (subject to change):

• Industry Engagement feedback: ~10 business days

• Virtual Pitch evaluation: ~21 business days

• Written Proposal evaluation: ~21 business days

Award timing depends on evaluation outcomes and funding availability.

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• U.S. small businesses and large businesses

• Academic institutions

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

• Nonprofits and research organizations

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Proposals are evaluated based on:

• Alignment with DHS mission needs and topic relevance

• Scientific and technical merit of the proposed approach

• Degree of innovation and potential capability improvement

• Operational relevance and transition potential

• Reasonableness of cost and feasibility of execution

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• Proposal preparation costs are not reimbursable

• Only unclassified materials may be submitted

• Mature commercial products and support services are not eligible

• Participation in later proposal stages is invitation-only

• Export control, IP, and data rights requirements apply

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

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

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

Funding & Award Structure

Number of Awards: Multiple awards anticipated

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

• Period of Performance: Varies by project

Possible Award Instruments:

• Procurement contracts

• Grants

• Cooperative agreements

• Other Transaction (OT) agreements for research or prototypes

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

Research Areas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who Should Pay Attention

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

• Mid-size and large defense R&D firms

• Universities and research institutions

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

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

Deadline

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

Evaluation Criteria

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

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

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

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

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

Bottom Line:

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

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

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Our full service support is available for a flat fee of $5,000 for the White Paper Submission.

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

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

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

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

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

2. Period of Performance:

   • Individual awards: 12–48 months

   • Overall BAA effort: up to 60 months

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

Research Areas

Multiband Multifunction Radio Frequency Sensing (RYMF)

1. Multiband Multifunction Array Development

2. Fully Adaptive Radar

3. Advanced Digital Multifunction Arrays

Laser Radar Technology (RYMM)

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

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

6. Waveform Phenomenology, Design and Applications

7. Sensor Information Processing and Integration

EO Target Detection & Surveillance (RYMT)

8. Passive Electro-optic and Infrared Sensor Technology

9. Novel EO/IR Hardware and Algorithms

10. Hyperspectral Imaging Technology

11. Standoff High Resolution Imaging (SHRI)

12. Infrared Search and Track Technology

13. Passive EO/IR Space-Based Sensing

Who Should Pay Attention

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

• Mid-size and large defense R&D firms

• Universities and research institutions

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

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

How the Process Works

Step 1: White Paper

• Rolling acceptance through May 20, 2026

• 6 pages, technical summary + ROM cost

• Used to determine Air Force interest

Step 2: Full Proposal

• Invitation-only

• Requested from white papers that meet AFRL needs

• Technical merit is the top evaluation factor
  

How Proposals Are Evaluated

White Paper Criteria (Equal Weight):

• Alignment with BAA technical areas

• Government interest

• Novelty and technical advancement

• Availability of funding based on ROM

Full Proposal Criteria (Descending Priority):

1. Technical innovation and approach

2. Understanding of scope and risks

3. Transition potential to Air Force systems

4. Cost realism
   

Bottom Line:

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Our full service support is available for a flat fee of $5,000 for the Abstract Submission.

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

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond direct funding, awardees gain significant strategic advantages:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

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

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

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

• The team demonstrates strong expertise and execution capability

• Technical risks are identified with credible mitigation strategies

• Costs are realistic and aligned with the proposed technical approach

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Research must be revolutionary, not incremental

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

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

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

• Proposers may not misrepresent data using AI or automated tools

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Our full service support is available for a flat fee of $5,000 for the Abstract Submission.

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

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding is available?

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

White papers and proposals are evaluated based on:

• Alignment with the propulsion technology areas listed in the BAA

• Relevance and interest of the research to Air Force needs

• Availability of appropriate funding

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

See the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding is available?

NASA will make awards under two tracks:

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

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

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

What could I use the funding for?

I. Scope of the Program

1.1 Motivation for Industry Robotic Studies

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

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

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

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

1.1 Motivation for Industry Robotic Studies

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

1.2 Considerations of Concept Value

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

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

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

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

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

2.1 Program Exclusions

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

• Optional Pre-Proposal Conference: February 4, 2026

• Proposal Deadline: March 31, 2026

• Anticipated Project Start: ~6 months after proposal submission

• Project Duration: Up to 12 months

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

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

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

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

NASA will evaluate proposals based on:

• Technical merit and innovation of the mobility system concept

• Relevance to Mars Exploration Program objectives

• Ability to operate in realistic Martian environmental conditions

• Strength and experience of the proposing team

• Cost and schedule realism within the 12-month period

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

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

• All work must be completed within 12 months

• Budget information must follow strict ROSES redaction and formatting rules

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

• Organizational conflicts of interest must be disclosed and mitigated

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Without BW&CO’s Assistance, preparing a fully compliant and compelling proposal will likely take 150-200 hours.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

For Full Support, $15,000 Initial Fee + 5% Success Fee

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

See the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding is available?

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

Platform Related Areas of Interest

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

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

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

•  Contested airspace payload/remote payload delivery

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

• Innovative technologies for disadvantaged platforms

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

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

• Enhancements in air system survivability

2.1.2 Payload Related Areas of Interest

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

•  Acoustic ASW sensors and systems

•  Magnetic sensors and systems

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

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

•  EO systems engineering methodologies, technologies, and techniques

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

•  Hyperspectral components and systems

•  Laser components and systems

•  Electronic Warfare (EW) and cyber capabilities

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

•  Adapted commercial networking technologies on military platforms

•  Unattended remote controlled sensor technology

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

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

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

•  RF antenna technologies and communications techniques

•  Lightweight sense and avoid technologies

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

•  Alternative position, navigation, and timing technologies

•  Passive sensing technologies

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

2.1.3 Advanced Computing and Processing Areas of Interest

•  Signal processing

•  Information processing

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

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

•  In-sensor acoustic signal processing

•  Techniques for quantum encryption, coding, and computation

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

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

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

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

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

•  Computational electromagnetic modeling and analysis techniques

•  Precision geolocation technologies and techniques

•  RF analysis and fusion technologies and techniques

•  RF Signal analysis and processing technologies and techniques

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

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

2.1.4 Advanced Air System Security and Protection Areas of Interest

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

•  Near real time Cross Domain Solutions

•  New kinetic and non-kinetic techniques for defeat

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

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

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

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

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

Specific Areas of Interest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

• Small businesses and large businesses

• Nontraditional defense contractors

• Universities and nonprofit research institutions

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects are evaluated on the following criteria:

• Scientific and technical merit aligned with stated areas of interest

• Relevance and potential operational impact for Navy and DoD missions

• Readiness for rapid demonstration, experimentation, or field testing

• Affordability and feasibility of transitioning to the fleet

• Realism and reasonableness of proposed cost and schedule

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

See the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding is available?

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

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

• Content Extraction and Triage

• All-Source Data Management

• Workflow Automation

• Actionable Analysis and Alerting

• Semi-Autonomous Multi-Sensor Fusion

• Business Operations

• Data Science

• Knowledge Management

• Open-Source Information Gathering

• Correspondence Management from Multiple Sources

• Dynamic Threat Analysis

• Human Resource (HR) Recruiting

• Signature Identification

• Cybersecurity

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance

2. Enhance Counterintelligence and Security

• Counterintelligence (CI) Capability

• Personnel Assessment and Evaluation

• Cyber Behavior

• Foreign Contacts

3. Mission-Enhancing Science and Technology

• Digital Exploitation

  • Document and Media Acquisition

  • Human Language Technologies

  • Computer Vision

  • Digital Signals Processing

  • Data, Process, and User Artifact Analysis

  • Document and Media Exploitation (DOMEX)

• Directed Energy Weapons (DEW)

• Biometrics

• Weapons of Mass Destruction

• Electro-Optical Detection

• Pulsed Power Detection

• Radio Frequency Detection

4. Improve Mission Support Capabilities

• Information Technology (IT)

  • IT Governance

  • Data Management and Analytics

  • Infrastructure and Cloud Management

  • Information Assurance and Cyber Defense

  • Operations Support

  • Strategic Information and Operations (SIOC)

• Cyber Capability Requirements Process

• Enterprise Common Data Fabric Solutions

5. Increase Organizational Effectiveness

• Performance Management

  • Applicant Screening

  • Career Advancement

  • Workplace Learning and Performance

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Two-step process:

   • Step 1: Submit white paper

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

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

Who is eligible to apply?

The BAA is intended to encourage participation by:

• Science and technology firms

• Educational institutions

Additional eligibility-related requirements include:

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

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

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The FBI evaluates white papers using three equal factors:

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

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

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions and compliance items include:

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

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

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

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

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

How can BW&CO help?

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

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

See the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

How does the program work?

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

• Small businesses

• Large businesses

• Joint ventures

• Universities and non-profits

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

What companies will receive the contracting vehicle?

To receive an AMAC award, offerors must:

• Be a responsible source under FAR Part 9

• Submit a compliant proposal following Section L instructions

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

• Demonstrate prime contractor experience in AFRL technical Areas of Interest

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

There is no price competition at the base contract level.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes. Key restrictions include:

• No classified work is permitted under the AMAC base contract

• Only prime contractor experience counts toward technical scoring

• Subcontractor experience does not qualify for scoring

How can BW&CO help?

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

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

See the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

Sector Area 1: Aircraft

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

Sector Area 2: Radar and Electronic Warfare

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

Sector Area 3: Shipbuilding

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

Sector Area 4: Ground Vehicles

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

Sector Area 5: Soldier Systems

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

Sector Area 6: Space

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

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

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

Sector Area 8: Critical Minerals & Materials

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

Sector Area 9: Machine Tools

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

Sector Area 10: Cyber for the Industrial Base

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

Sector Area 11: Optics

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

Sector Area 12: Advanced Technology and Advanced Manufacturing

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

Sector Area 13: Electronics

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

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

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

Sector Area 15: Munitions and Missiles

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

Sector Area 16: Industrial Base and Manufacturing Skills

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

Sector Area 17: Trusted Capital

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

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

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

• Small and large U.S. businesses

• Non-traditional defense contractors

• Traditional defense contractors

• Academic institutions

• Federally Funded Research and Development Centers

• Private capital entities

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive selections prioritize projects that:

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

• Demonstrate strong technical merit and feasibility

• Strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity or supply chain resilience

• Present reasonable cost sharing and milestone plans

• Offer innovative or differentiated technical approaches

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Most first-time applicants should expect 80–120 hours of effort over 8–12 weeks, including technical writing, budget preparation, and internal reviews.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Our full service support is available for the 15 page white paper for a flat fee of $9,000. Upon invitation, full proposal is an additional $9000 + 5% Success Fee.

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Learn more about the program here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

• Advanced Manufacturing (M)

• Advanced Materials (AM)

• Advanced Systems for Scalable Analytics (AA)

• Agricultural Technologies (AG)

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

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

• Biological Technologies (BT)

• Biomedical Technologies (BM)

• Chemical Technologies (CT)

• Cloud and High-Performance Computing (CH)

• Cybersecurity and Authentication (CA)

• Digital Health (DH)

• Distributed Ledger (DL)

• Energy Technologies (EN)

• Environmental Technologies (ET)

• Human-Computer Interaction (HC)

• Instrumentation and Hardware Systems (IH)

• Internet of Things (I)

• Learning and Cognition Technologies (LC)

• Medical Devices (MD)

• Mobility (MO)

• Nanotechnology (N)

• Other Topics (OT)

• Pharmaceutical Technologies (PT)

• Photonics (PH)

• Power Management (PM)

• Quantum Information Technologies (QT)

• Robotics (R)

• Semiconductors (S)

• Space (SP)

• Wireless Technologies (W)

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants must:

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

• Be majority U.S.-owned

• Perform R&D primarily in the United States

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

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Successful applicants typically demonstrate:

• A novel scientific or engineering breakthrough with strong differentiation

• High technical risk that requires R&D to resolve

• Clear commercial market pull and scalable business potential

• A defensible competitive advantage difficult to replicate

• A technically strong, committed founding team focused on commercialization

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

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

• No foreign R&D or foreign travel

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

• Equipment purchases over $5,000 are not allowed

• Only one proposal per company per submission deadline

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Most first-time applicants should expect 80–120 hours of effort over 8–12 weeks, including technical writing, budget preparation, registrations (SAM, SBA, Research.gov), and internal reviews.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Our full service support is available for a flat fee of $9,000 + 5% Success Fee.

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Learn more about the program here.

Carderock BAA - NAVY

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

Digital Ecosystems

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

• Data discovery, information and knowledge management

• Rapid adaptable policy and enforcement for digital environments

Hydrodynamics

• Computational hydrodynamic tools

• Seakeeping and loads in extreme seas

• Maneuvering and control

• Maneuvering in waves

• Cavitation

• Hull-propulsor interaction

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

Naval Platform Integrity

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

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

• Structural assessment and monitoring

• Weapons effects and ship protection

• Non-destructive testing and/or inspection

• Maritime lethality

• Structural reliability

• Ship environmental treatment systems, management, and safety

• Bio-fouling and bio-fouling hydrodynamic effects

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

• Battery development and safety

• Naval platform energy and power

Ship and Submarine Design

• Ship/Submarine design tools

• Ship/Submarine design processes and methods

• Design evaluation/assessment capabilities

• New and non-traditional platforms

• Novel ship/submarine designs and missions

Signature Management

• Underwater and topside signatures

• Mobile sensors

Unmanned Systems

• Low-cost perception and situational awareness systems

• Autonomy and AI/ML decision making and computations

• Swarming capabilities

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Public and private institutions of higher education

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

• Small and large organizations

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

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

• Overall scientific and technical merit of the proposal

• Importance and relevance to NSWCCD programs

• Availability and affordability of funds

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Our full service support is available for a flat fee of $15,000 + 5% Success Fee.

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

Read full solicitation here.

ERDC BAA - ARMY

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

Executive Summary:

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is issuing a continuously open Broad Agency Announcement to fund basic, applied, and advanced research across a wide range of engineering, environmental, and defense-relevant technology areas. Awards are made on a rolling basis through cooperative agreements, subject to the availability of funds so interested companies should submit as soon as possible.

How much funding would I receive?

ERDC does not specify a standard award size. Individual awards may range from small research efforts to very large, multi-year programs, with an overall program ceiling of $1 billion. Funding levels are determined based on technical scope, relevance, and available funding within the sponsoring ERDC laboratory.

What could I use the funding for?

To be eligible for consideration and possible contract award, the technology or methodology shall be either basic research, applied research, advanced technology development not for a specific system/hardware, or demonstration and validation.

If your technology is novel and fits into one of the following Areas of Interest, you could potentially be funded:

Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory (CHL)

• Overview

  Research is performed in the areas of hydraulic structures such as locks, dams, outlet works, control gates, stilling basins, spillways, channels, fish handling systems, and pumping stations, flood control channels, navigation channels, riverine and estuarine hydrodynamics and transport processes, groundwater, hydrology; dredgingrelated equipment, and on coastal problems related to coastal storm hazards and risk management, beach erosion, navigation, sedimentation, Regional Sediment Management, inlet stabilization, and construction, operation and maintenance of coastal structures (breakwater, jetties, groins, seawalls, etc.). Major areas of interest include coastal hydrodynamics (wind waves, tides, currents, wind related water levels); coastal sedimentation (longshore transport, inlet sedimentation); coastal geology and geomorphology; design and stability of coastal structures; erosion and storm reduction potential and life-cycle performance of natural and nature-based features; system optimization methods and performance metrics for coastal operations; coastal resiliency; and interaction of structures and coastal processes. Other activities include descriptions of coastal processes; theoretical studies; watershed and regional sediment and water systems studies; numerical and physical model techniques; data collection and analysis techniques; and development of laboratory and prototype instrumentation and equipment. The following sections contain information on these research areas and specific research thrusts.

• A. Physical Processes in Estuaries (CHL-1)

  Research in estuarine physical processes deals with the hydrodynamic and transport characteristics of water bodies located between the sea and the upland limit of tidal effects. Research is directed toward knowledge that will improve field measurements and predictions of these processes. Specific areas of required research include the following physical processes in estuaries and other tidal waters. Specific areas of required research include the following physical processes in estuaries and other tidal waters. a. The propagation of tides. b. Transport of salinity, mixing processes, stratified flows. c. Transport, erosion, and deposition of sediments, including settling velocity, aggregation of sediment, consolidation of sediment. d. Behavior and characteristics of sediment beds, including movement, consolidation, armoring, bonding, physical chemical characteristics, density, erodibility. e. Flow between aquifers and surface waters.

  Specific areas of required research include the following activities with respect to the physical processes listed. a. The effect of human activities, including dredging construction, vessel traffic, flow diversion, training, structures, and protective structures. b. Measurements of parameters that are indicative or descriptive of the processes listed in the 2nd paragraph by in-situ and remote methods in the lab and field. c. Prediction of processes listed in the 2nd paragraph by analytical methods, physical models, numerical models, and other techniques. d. Conceptual and mathematical descriptions of the processes listed in the 2nd paragraph. e. Development of materials, equipment, and methods that potentially lead to applied research that would make human activities listed safer, more economical, or more effective. f. Development of methods, techniques, and procedures that enable the treatment of an estuary as a system.

• B. Inland Hydraulic Structures (CHL-2)

  Research in hydraulic structures is related to the hydraulic performance of locks, dams, outlet works, control gates, stilling basins, spillways, channels, bank protection, riprap stability, pumping plants and other hydraulic structures, and with physical and/or numerical model studies to predict and analyze the physical water quality aspects of water resources projects. Specific areas of required research include the following: a. Conduct physical and numerical hydraulic model investigations of a wide variety of hydraulic structures to verify proposed designs and develop more effective and economical designs. b. Analyze model and prototype data and inspection of field installations to develop design criteria for hydraulic structures. c. Develop methods of correlating theoretical and experimental information with design methods used by the Corps of Engineers to improve existing procedures and provide material for inclusion in appropriate manuals. d. Develop physical and/or numerical models to predict and analyze the water quality aspects of water resources projects and design appropriate hydraulic structures to control water as well as water quantity while satisfying the desired objectives. e. Conduct research and/or develop numerical codes to advance techniques for analyzing physical aspects of water quality in lakes and rivers through a better understanding of the hydrodynamics in density-stratified environments and for improving water quality within and downstream of density-stratified reservoirs and to investigate the ability of existing and proposed water resources projects to satisfy established water quality standards. f. Conduct basic studies for development of hydraulic design and operation guidance for hydraulic structures used in inland waterways for navigation and flood control purposes, including wave forces/loads on gates (tainter, miter, etc.). g. Conduct/analyze tests, both model and prototype, of the performance of hydraulic appurtenances to flood control and navigation dams such as spillways, outlet works, energy dissipaters, and approach and exit channels, to develop design guidance that will provide structures of maximum efficiency and reliability with minimum maintenance. h. Develop innovative methods to prepare and revise engineering manuals for hydraulic design of various hydraulic structures. i. Develop innovative methods to conduct training courses on design of various hydraulic structures. j. Develop innovative methods to prepare technical reports of all work conducted.

• C. Open Channel Flow and Sedimentation (CHL-3)

  Research in open channel flow and sedimentation includes basic studies related to development of hydraulic design guidance for designing modifications to natural stream channels to provide for local flood risk reduction. Emphasis is placed on channel stability as well as channel flow capacity. Specific areas of required research include the following: a. Studies related to the development of effective methods to analyze a natural stream's response to modifications made for flood control purposes. b. Studies applicable to development of stream bank and streambed protection methods where channel instability exists. c. Studies applicable to development of sediment transport, local scour, and stream form relationships for a broad range of stream types, bed and bank materials, and meteorological and hydrological conditions. d. Collection and analysis of data that aid in evaluating existing methods and/or developing new methods to analyze channel stability for the variety of channel flow conditions and stream types existing in natural stream systems.

• D. Dredging Research (CHL-4)

  Protection and enhancement of the environment associated with operation and maintenance of navigable U.S. waterway infrastructure through dredging activities is a national priority. Dredging operations and environmental requirements of navigation projects are inseparable. Research is required to predict the time-dependent movement of non- contaminated sand and sand/silt mixtures of dredged materials placed in the nearshore zone, and all materials placed in the offshore region. The cost of dredging operations attributable to compliance with environmental windows that are determined to be over-restrictive, inconsistent, or technically unjustified can be reduced. More effective contaminated sediment characterization and management will reduce costs and enhance the reliability of methods associated with the assessment, dredging, placement, and control of sediments from navigation projects. Better instrumentation for dredge and site monitoring is required to implement automated dredge inspection and payment methods and accurately monitor placement of contaminated materials. Emerging technologies regarding innovative equipment and processes should be expeditiously introduced into the dredging arena. Enhanced ecological risk management for dredging and disposal projects through technically sound approaches for characterizing, managing, and conducting risk-based evaluations are required for expanding options regarding both contaminated and non-contaminated dredged materials.

• E. Navigation Channel Design (CHL-5)

  Research in navigation channel design involves basic research to develop design guidance for the design of new channels and modifications of existing waterways. It involves identifying maneuvering requirements in restricted waterways that affect the channel dimensions, alignment, and location of appurtenances in the navigation channel under various environmental and vessel traffic conditions. It also involves identifying the stability of the channel, maintenance requirements and designing structures that reduce or eliminate the maintenance requirements. Finally, it involves quantifying the flow and pressure fields generated by a tow or ship passing through a waterway and the related impacts on the sediment resuspension in the channel, channel border, and side channel/backwater areas. Studies involve deep and shallow draft navigation channels and physical and mathematical models. Human factors are included in research and project studies using a ship and tow simulator.

  Specific areas of required research include the following: a. Physical model investigations of a wide variety of navigation channel configurations in many environments with different type vessels to verify proposed designs and to develop more efficient and safe designs and to lower environmental impacts. b. Development and enhancement of mathematical models of vessels, both ships and push-tows, for use on the simulator to add vessel types not available or to increase the accuracy with which the model reproduces the vessels response. c. Development of methods and modeling techniques to predict the currents and sediment transport characteristics of various channel designs and integrate this with the navigation model studies, including those generated by the vessel movement. d. Development of methods and modeling techniques to predict the currents and sediment transport characteristics of various channel designs and integrate this with the navigation model studies. e. Development of methods and techniques to prepare and display visual information for the pilot on the simulator projection system. f. Development of methods and measurement equipment, techniques for measuring scale model performance in physical model navigation studies. g. Development of methods and techniques to improve the ship simulator and increase reliability of design estimates, including data and tools for ship motions, draw down, squat, ship-generated waves, and ship maneuvering. h. Development of methods and techniques for the analysis and evaluation of model results to optimize the channel design and to determine the level of safety, or conversely, risk involved with the various designs and ship transits.

• F. Computer-Aided Hydraulic Engineering (CHL-6)

  Research in this topic area develops computer-aided design tools that can be used by hydraulic engineers in planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of navigation and flood control projects. The scope includes open channel and closed conduit flows, equipment, structures, and sediment transport analysis and modeling.

• G. Groundwater (CHL-7)

  Research in groundwater is structured to enhance understanding and prediction of the flow of water and various transported constituents through the environment, including groundwater issues from contaminant remediation to levee erosion as well as surface water problems from flash flooding to nearshore coastal flows. Primary tools are computer models that solve (approximately) conservation equations for mass, momentum, and energy in various physical systems. Work includes developing the numerical methods for solving these equations, writing the computer code to implement the approximations in desktop and high-performance computing environments, and applying the models as part of engineering studies to investigate processes like levee erosion and overtopping, seawater intrusion, and flow through vegetation.

• H. Hydrology (CHL-8)

  Research in this area primarily addresses military applications related to mobility, counter mobility, and water supply. Specific research involves the following areas: a. Large-scale hydrologic modeling. b. Rapid procedures for flood forecasting. c. Groundwater-surface water interaction processes. d. Multi-scale, multi-physics hydrologic modeling. e. Remote sensing and quantification of precipitation. f. Development of spatially varying precipitation hydrology models. g. Visualization of results for hydrology and dam break models. h. Interfacing with existing and new hydrology models. i. Interfacing watershed models with water quality and other environmental models.

• I. H&H GIS/Database Development (CHL-9)

  Research involves the following areas: a. Electronic Navigation Charting. b. Integration of GIS/Database and H&H models. c. Watershed management for erosion control. d. Larger River System management for flood control navigation. e. Visualization Techniques

• J. Coastal Hydrodynamics, Coastal Processes (CHL-10)

  Research in this area includes: shallow water wave estimation; forecasting and hindcasting of wind generated waves for oceanic to local regions; wave theory; statistical distribution of wave parameters; simulation of spectral and phase resolved conditions in wave basins; infragravity (free and bound) waves; nearshore currents; wave breaking; wave/current and wave structure interactions; wave and sediment interactions with natural and nature-based features; long and short waves in ports and harbors; tsunami modeling; wind generated currents; storm surge; tidal circulation; twoand three dimensional numerical simulation models (including finite difference, finite element, finite volume and curvilinear coordinate techniques); coastal meteorology; explosion generated waves; ship response to winds, currents and waves; moored ship response; mooring design and analysis, ribbon bridge hydrodynamics and turbulence.

• K. Coastal Inlets, Navigation Channels (CHL-11)

  Research includes sediment shoaling in coastal inlet channels; stability and performance of inlet channels; scour at structures; sediment transport modeling; influence of structures such as jetties and breakwaters on wave, current, and sedimentation processes. Numerical modeling of inlet hydrodynamics and sedimenttransport processes, including long-term geomorphologic evolution of inlet channels, shoals, and adjacent beaches, and the interaction with navigation structures. Nearshore placement of dredged sediment to foster wave reduction and sediment supply to adjacent beaches. Short- and long-term dune evolution in vicinity of coastal inlets. Shoreline evolution modeling and storm erosion of beaches, particularly concerning over wash and breaching near inlets; wind and wave generated sediment transport; sediment budget analysis; coastal and inlet geomorphology; and PC-, workstation-, and mainframe-based automated coastal engineering software (including relational and GIS data bases)

• L. Coastal Structure and Facility Design (CHL-12)

  Research includes development of functional and stability design criteria for coastal structures and facilities (breakwaters, seawalls, jetties, groins, harbors, marinas, etc.); wave run-up, over-topping, refraction, diffraction, transmission, reflection, etc.; design of floating breakwaters; breakwater stability; application of spectral wave conditions to coastal engineering; stability of riprap to irregular wave attack; stability and functional design of overtopped rubble mound breakwaters; scale modeling of armor unit strength; analysis of structural data for floating breakwaters; investigation of numerical structural models for floating breakwaters; development of wave run-up gage for rough and porous slopes; investigation of attenuation/mooring force models of floating breakwaters; development of materials and techniques to produce high quality breakwater model armor units; analysis of wave run-up overtopping, refraction, diffraction, transmission and/or reflection data on coastal structures and beaches and design of structures for Logistics-Over-The-Shore (LOTS) operations.

• M. Field and Laboratory Measurements, Data Collection, and Analysis (CHL13)

  This topic area includes research in technologies, instrumentation, and monitoring systems in coastal and riverine settings for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data related to measurements of coastal waves, surface currents, water levels, water quality, sediment, and wind, primarily in the field, but also in a sediment laboratory; advanced data analysis (spectral and non-spectral) techniques; remote sensing techniques; bedload and suspended sediment transport; monitoring and evaluating technical and structural stability of coastal projects; advanced hydrographic survey techniques, field measurement of coastal processes; bathymetric survey systems.

• N. Experimental Coastal Model Equipment, Operation and Analysis (CHL-14)

  Research includes development of equipment and techniques for specialized model construction, experimental wave generation equipment, specialized data acquisition and analysis systems, advanced model operations techniques, and laboratory and scale effects in movable bed model studies.

• O. General Coastal Engineering, Coastal Geology, Dredging Investigations CHL-15)

  This topic area includes topics such as sand bypassing systems and equipment; beach fill design; coastal geology and geomorphology; functional design and evaluation of coastal works and coastal structures; methodologies to assess and track coastal resilience performance; littoral transport; coastal and offshore dredging studies; agitation dredging systems and equipment; physical monitoring of dredged material; physical processes in coastal wetlands; application of Geographic Information Systems; design of nearshore and offshore dredged material placement; evaluation of dredged material disposal sites; analysis of dredging operations management.

• P. Regional and Watershed Sediment Management (CHL-16)

  Regional Sediment Management (RSM) research is intended to provide knowledge and tools that the Corps and the Nation need for effective water resource projects. RSM implies the holistic management of sediment within systems or regions to produce environmentally and economically sustainable projects. Goals include improved project design, operation, and maintenance methods, minimized disruption of natural sediment pathways and processes, and mediation of natural processes that have adverse environmental or economic impact. The approach of the Corps research is to produce targeted R&D serving multiple Corps business areas; to employ ongoing projects’ experience (including Demonstration Projects) to provide data and lessons learned; to use enabling technologies of localscale products and tools, including those generated by other R&D programs within and outside the Corps; to generate technologies that integrate the best available knowledge on sediment behavior and regional morphology into management decision support tools for a) regional and basin scale analyses and b) evaluation of the impacts of projects and management decisions on and by long-term, large-scale sedimentation processes. A key element in ERDC research is full coordination with other organizations with sediment management or monitoring expertise.

• Q. Marine Transportation Technologies (CHL-17)

  Research in this topic area serves one of the USACE’s primary missions, to provide safe, reliable, efficient, effective, and environmentally sustainable waterborne transportation systems for movement of commerce, national security needs, and recreation. To accomplish this mission, the USACE requires R&D to facilitate tracking of vessels on inland waterways (shallow draft) and coastal ports (deep draft). Knowing what vessels are arriving, when, the commodities being carried, etc., will provide lock operators and operations project managers valuable tools to improve safety, efficiency, asset management, and help to make decisions on performance-based funding for navigation project maintenance and improvements. Work in this area focuses on software that uses the United States Coast Guard’s (USCG) Automated Identification Systems (AIS) vessel mounted transmitters which broadcasts a radio signal with the vessels name, position, heading, velocity, and a wide range of other information. Proposals are sought for developing the following: a. Capability that will take the full suite of standard CG AIS messages and provide them in near real time to the Corps facilities in the immediate area of the vessel. b. Capability to allow collection of the full suite of standard AIS messages simultaneously at all pertinent Corps Inland and Deep Draft facilities. c. Capability to customize user interface to allow the Corps operations staff to view vessels in the vicinity of the Corps facilities to make decisions on the order in which to allow commercial tows to pass through lock. d. Provide the capability for Corps facilities to transmit pertinent information to the vessels in the immediate vicinity of the Corps facilities via AIS. e. System optimization methods and performance metrics for vessel operations. Special Considerations: The level of understanding of AIS technology and signal processing, the number of successful installations of similar AIS software processing capabilities; experience with USCG staff, facilities, regulations, and procedures.

• R. Post-Wildfire Hydrologic, Sediment, and Geomorphologic Management (CHL-18)

  Post-Wildfire research is focused on improving understanding of post-fire impacts through exploitation of affordable data acquisition methods and enhancement of numerical modeling capabilities to assist with planning, management, and mitigation in post-wildfire environments. Immediately following a wildfire, vegetation is removed, organic soil horizons are reduced to ash, and hydrophobic soils combine to result in increased water and sediment discharge and debris, mud, and hyper concentrated flows. In the years following a wildfire, ecotone shifts, gully formation, and channel incision alter the hydrologic system response, resulting in dramatic changes in hydraulic and sediment impacts down system. Wildfires represent a significant perturbation to natural systems that dramatically alter the morphologic, hydrologic, and sediment regimes of impacted watersheds. The overall purpose of this area of research and development is to investigate post-wildfire impacts on hydrologic and hydraulic response, geomorphic evolution, and sedimentation, with specific research needed in the following areas: a. Studies related to cost-effective (in situ and remotely sensed) data acquisition and processing methods. b. Studies related to better understanding the longer-term geomorphic impacts and subsequent recovery processes in post-fire environments. c. Studies related to hydrological physical processes, empirical approaches, and numerical modeling. d. Studies related to hydraulics and sediment transport physical processes and numerical modeling.

• S. Nearshore Coastal Research in Support of the U.S. Coastal Research Program (CHL- 19)

  Proposals are invited to address nearshore coastal research needs within three broad research themes as identified by the U.S. Coastal Research Program (USCRP) (see Nearshore Process Community, 2015 for more details). Nearshore systems include the complex interactions of physical, biological, chemical, and human influences within the transition region across the land and the continental shelf, spanning (from onshore to offshore) coastal plains, wetlands, estuaries, coastal cliffs, dunes, beaches, surf zones, and the inner shelf. Worldwide, nearly 1 billion people live at elevations within 10 m of present sea level, an elevation zone in need of engineering solutions that reduce risks to life and property produced by various extreme events. The nearshore is a societally relevant region that requires and improved understanding of the feedbacks and couplings that shape, sustain, and alter coastal landscapes. The three broad research themes include a need to understand, better predict, and respond to (1) Long-term coastal evolution due to natural and anthropogenic processes; (2) Extreme Events including: flooding, erosion, and the subsequent recovery; and (3) The physical biological and chemical processes impacting human and ecosystem health. Each is detailed below a. Long-term coastal evolution due to natural and anthropogenic processes: As storms impact increasingly urbanized coastal communities, an understanding of long-term coastal evolution is critical. Improved knowledge of long-term morphological, ecological, and societal processes and their interactions will result in an improved ability to simulate coastal change and develop proactive solutions for resilient coasts and better guidance for reducing coastal vulnerability. b. Extreme Events including flooding, erosion, and the subsequent recovery: U.S. coastal extreme event related economic losses have increased substantially over the past decades. Addressing this research theme will result in an improved understanding of the physical processes during extreme events, leading to improved models of flooding, erosion, and recovery. Utilization and application of the improved models will produce societal benefit in the form of more resilient coastal communities. c. The physical, biological, and chemical processes impacting human and ecosystem health: Nearshore regions are used for recreation, tourism, human habitation, and provide habitat and valuable ecosystem services. These areas must be sustained for future generations, however overall coastal water quality is declining due to microbial pathogens, fertilizers, pesticides, and heavy metal contamination, threatening ecosystem and human health. To ensure sustainable nearshore regions, predictive real-time water- and sediment-based pollutant modeling capabilities must be developed, which requires expanding our knowledge of the physics, chemistry, and biology of the nearshore. The resulting societal benefits will include better beach safety, healthier ecosystems, and improved mitigation and regulatory policies.

• T. Comprehensive Water Risk Management (CWRM) (CHL- 20)

  Proposals are invited to develop and explore the application of next generation technologies, methods and approaches that lead to the creation of a seamless national hydro-terrestrial capability within the USACE and partner agencies. CWRM includes advanced data collection, prediction and management technologies that can provide water managers the tools required to minimize, mitigate, and better manage water hazards under present and future design requirements. Proposals for research in the following specific areas are needed: a. Inland and Coastal Compound Flooding: Research to support the inclusion of inland and coastal compound flooding in the reduction of comprehensive flood risk from riverine flows, precipitation, coastal storms, groundwater emergence, sea level change, snowmelt, wildfires, subsidence, and other natural as well as anthropogenic events. b. Data Collection: Research to support the collection and analysis of water data through in-situ and standoff measurements including satellite, and various uncrewed systems (UxS). For UxS this includes sensing, perception, control, and data process techniques. Needs include data collection techniques for snowpack analysis, soil-moisture determination, wave environment, estimation of under-water bathymetry, reservoir capacity, etc. c. Probabilistic Modeling – Uncertainty quantification and Data Assimilation: Research to support development of methodology for quantifying numerical uncertainty and forward propagation of that uncertainty into numerical prediction. Additionally, research to develop methods for assimilating observations into probabilistic numerical methods to refine predictions for wave, circulation, and morphologic models. d. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) Technologies: Research to support the use AI/ML technologies to increase the accuracy and efficiency of hydrologic and hydraulic numerical models. Capabilities include advanced data assimilation technologies for error reduction and longer forecasts. e. Flash Flooding: Research to improve the technologies to predict and mitigate water hazards due to flash flooding. Research requirements include downscaling of weather forecasts including precipitation, wind speeds, atmospheric pressure, etc. f. Cold Weather Water Hazards: Research to improve the performance of predictive techniques in cold regions including the arctic. Research requirements include the effects of ice cover on wave and storm mitigation, the effects of the permafrost on hydrologic processes, the effects of flood risk mitigation features on freshwater sources, etc. g. Arid Region Water Hazards: Research to improve the performance of predictive techniques in arid regions. Research requirements include infiltration processes, groundwater and surface water interaction, aquifer recharge, wildfire hydrology, etc. h. Numerical Model Coupling Techniques: Research to improve the performance of numerical model coupling methods. Research requirements include inter and intra-model communication for inter-agency model collaboration.

• U. Innovations in Sediment Management (CHL- 21)

  Proposals are invited to develop leap-ahead innovative and sustainable dredging and sediment management solutions to dramatically reduce costs, increase channel/infrastructure reliability, and add significant economic, environmental, and social value to the Nation. Proposals for research in the following specific areas are requested: a. Coastal/ Hydrodynamic Engineering Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and Hybrid Solutions: Research to inform the development of tools, techniques and guidance behind designing and engineering nature-based solutions (NBS) and hybrid solutions. This R&D will help in the development of methods and standards which support effective planning, designing, construction, and O&M of NBS/hybrid solutions to support the reduction of coastal and inland flooding risks. This research should focus on exploring the potential for integrating NBS/hybrid solutions within existing hydrodynamic engineering and land use planning practices. b. Innovative Dredging Technologies/ Autonomous Methods: Research to develop technologies and techniques for improved dredging operations. R&D can address evaluating next-generation technologies and dredging operations (e.g., hydrodynamic dredging), real-time dredge position and bottom mapping techniques, autonomous dredging to reduce costs, increase beneficial use of dredged material, sediment transfer and placement equipment to facilitate more beneficial uses (e.g., thin layer placement, strategic placement), reduce channel and reservoir infilling to reduce dredging need, or renewing reservoir capacity through application of technologies developed for navigation channel maintenance. Proposals are invited to develop leap-ahead innovative and sustainable dredging and sediment management solutions to dramatically reduce costs, increase channel/infrastructure reliability, and add significant economic, environmental, and social value to the Nation. Proposals for research in the following specific areas are requested: a. Coastal/ Hydrodynamic Engineering Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and Hybrid Solutions: Research to inform the development of tools, techniques and guidance behind designing and engineering nature-based solutions (NBS) and hybrid solutions. This R&D will help in the development of methods and standards which support effective planning, designing, construction, and O&M of NBS/hybrid solutions to support the reduction of coastal and inland flooding risks. This research should focus on exploring the potential for integrating NBS/hybrid solutions within existing hydrodynamic engineering and land use planning practices. b. Innovative Dredging Technologies/ Autonomous Methods: Research to develop technologies and techniques for improved dredging operations. R&D can address evaluating next-generation technologies and dredging operations (e.g., hydrodynamic dredging), real-time dredge position and bottom mapping techniques, autonomous dredging to reduce costs, increase beneficial use of dredged material, sediment transfer and placement equipment to facilitate more beneficial uses (e.g., thin layer placement, strategic placement), reduce channel and reservoir infilling to reduce dredging need, or renewing reservoir capacity through application of technologies developed for navigation channel maintenance. c. Hydrodynamic and Geomorphologic Response of Biomaterials: Research into the use of bio-based materials, such as biopolymers, to enhance and increase the resiliency of NBS, including earthen levees, coastal dunes, and dam embankments. This research should focus on the hydrodynamic and geomorphologic response of biomaterials to the impacts of hydrological and meteorological extremes. Considering the performance and sustainability of biobased materials, we seek to understand the potential of bio-based materials to reduce the risk and cost of rehabilitating and maintaining these structures and increase their resiliency against potential threats. We invite research that furthers our understanding and application of bio-based materials for this purpose, as a component of comprehensive water risk management and abilities to adapt to dynamic environmental forcing requirements. The research should be designed to provide evidence and support decision making. It should be based on research available at existing open-source platforms, or data that is proposed to be collected for the research. d. Monitoring of NBS and Beneficial Use of Dredged Sediment Projects: Research to improve the understanding of the performance of NBS and beneficial use of dredged sediment projects through monitoring. Monitoring could include the project’s response to storm events and the post-storm recovery. Monitoring techniques will vary based on the project but may be comprised of satellite data, remote sensing measurements, in-situ measurements, or engaging the public to crowdsource data collection. The monitoring research may also include the development or testing of innovative sensors or monitoring techniques.

• V. Next Generation Water Management (CHL-22)

  Proposals are invited to explore the application of next generation technologies, methods and approaches that are aimed at improving water management practice within the USACE and partner agencies, including efforts that support research, development and implementation of capabilities to support Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO). FIRO is a management approach that seeks to improve water supply, enhance flood risk reduction and achieve additional ecosystem benefits through application of advanced weather and watershed forecast capabilities in water management practice.

  FIRO envisions advanced observation and prediction technology that can provide water managers more lead time to selectively retain or release water from reservoirs based on longer- term forecasts. When storms cause moderate-to-high reservoir levels, normal operation is to release water to re-establish flood control space. FIRO pilot studies have demonstrated that some of that water can be retained for future supply as long as no major precipitation is expected and it can be shown that the retained water can be released past downstream flood prone areas prior to the arrival of the next storm. This strategy permits earlier supply capture in some years, improving supply reliability for downstream water users and improving the timing and volume of releases to protect water quality and provide flows needed for ecosystem benefits. Proposals for research in the following specific areas are needed: a. Improvement of forecast skill to support advanced water management, including meteorological phenomena that are major drivers for floods in various regions across the country including atmospheric rivers, tropical storms/hurricanes, clusters of long-lived thunderstorms and Nor’Easters. This can also include improvements in weather observations and numerical weather forecasting models that result in improved forecasting lead times for water management decision-making.

  b. Improvements in data synthesis, decision support systems and data visualization capabilities to enhance water management decision-making.

  c. Hydrologic and reservoir model development and application, including improvements in watershed monitoring to enhance hydrologic and reservoir models.

  d. Application of FIRO screening process tools to regions of the United States where FIRO has not previously been applied or tested.

  e. Application of FIRO viability assessment processes to systems of dams where multiple dams are operated within a watershed to achieve overall system water management objectives.

  f. Research to support updates to USACE Water Control Manuals (WCMs) using FIRO approaches, scenarios and principles. Updates to WCMs require numerous studies in areas of meteorology, hydrology, hydraulics, ecology and economics. Incorporation of next generation approaches such as FIRO require research efforts to identify best management practices on how to safely and effectively incorporate these new approaches into water management practice as defined in WCMs.

Geotechnical & Structures Laboratory (CHL)

• Overview

  Research performed by the Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory’s (GSL) eight branches consists of investigations in the areas of soil mechanics, engineering geology, geophysics and seismology, earthquake engineering, pavements (both expedient and permanent), mobility and traffic ability of military vehicles, structural design and performance of structures under both static and dynamic loadings, earth dynamics, and the uses and performance of concrete, cement, and other construction materials. Research areas also include measurement and analysis of seismic and acoustic signals to locate airborne and ground military targets and buried objects (including unexploded ordnance) and to characterize earth media. Research on concrete and cement is predominantly related to current recognized needs, both civil and military. Military expediency focuses additional attention on ease and speed of concrete placement, development of very high-strength materials, and use of non-traditional, indigenous, and other special materials in concrete construction. Civil works research focuses primarily on the need to improve the performance of both new and old concrete structures. Structures research involves development, testing, and evaluation of a broad class of structures to resist the effects of static and dynamic loads induced by earthquakes and other sources. The Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory also conducts research involving all aspects for improving the survivability of fixed installations.

• A. Earthquake Engineering (GSL-1)

  Research areas of interest include the dynamic behavior of soil and rock; liquefaction of soils, including coarse-grained and fine-grained soils; in-situ testing to evaluate properties related to dynamic behavior; centrifuge scale-model testing using a multi-waveform shake table; in-situ testing to evaluate susceptibility to liquefaction; methods of analysis of dynamic behavior of earth materials; methods of analysis of dynamic soil- structure interaction; risk-based and probability-based methods of analysis; seismic wave propagation in earth materials; seismically induced settlements in soils and remedial treatment of soils potentially susceptible to earthquake-induced instability or strength loss; computer visualization and dynamic simulation; site response analysis; and strong motion instrumentation.

• B. Geophysics (GSL-2)

  ERDC supports research in the development of land, air, or waterborne geophysical methods to be used for characterization of hazardous waste sites, detection and monitoring of seepage, nondestructive investigation of archeological sites, location of groundwater, and detection of buried objects; analytical and data-processing techniques, borehole surveys, cross hole seismic imaging, electromagnetic detection of anomalies, seismic surveys, sub bottom profiling, and acoustic impedance surveys; and uses of microgravity.

• C. Mobility of Vehicles (GSL-3)

  The Mobility Systems Branch addresses engineering research on the performance of vehicles operating cross country and on-road, and/or in negotiating dry and wet obstacles in worldwide terrains. This is a highly specialized technical area involving engineering mechanics, vehicle dynamics, mathematics, statistics, computer specialties, geology, and soil mechanics. Research in this area includes developing fundamental relations between soil and vehicle running gear; improving criteria concerning the effects of vehicle vibration and ride shock on sensors and data streams from rapidly moving sensors over rough terrain; developing algorithms describing weather effects on terrain, multi-vehicle movements along road nets, stochastic processes describing influence of uncertainties of data elements, and developing modeling and simulation capabilities for near real-time assessments of mobility and counter mobility for battlefield operations and operations other than war.

• D. Pavement Technology (GSL-4)

  Research in this area is conducted in support of the Corps mission to design and construct roads and airfields worldwide and other related engineering functions. This research includes the development of engineering criteria for the design, construction, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of permanent and expedient airfields, pavements, and ports. Research areas of interest include improved design procedures, structural performance modeling, material characterization and evaluation, nondestructive testing, rapid repair of structures, expedient surfacing (to include novel, composite, and metallic systems), aircraft and vehicular ground flotation, access/egress systems, gravel surfaced and non-surfaced areas, the use of geotextiles and geomembranes, grid-confining systems, soil stabilization, dust-control materials and techniques, advanced binder systems, remote assessment, earth anchoring, pavement evaluation, and advanced testing, monitoring, and evaluation equipment, software, and methods to support pavement and pavement related functions.

• E. Soil and Rock Mechanics (GSL-5)

  Research is needed to: (a) improve methods for prediction and control of erosion of unlined spillway channels during uncontrolled releases; (b) develop innovative methods for flood protection and flood fighting, including field evaluations of promising technologies; (c) develop guidance for applications of trenchless technology (e.g., micro tunneling, horizontal directional drilling, pipe ramming, pipe jacking, auger boring, etc.) on Corps structures, including measures to ensure safety and stability of Corps structures when trenchless technology is used to install pipelines, cables, or conduits through or beneath levees and other structures;(d) develop improved methods, including risk-based methods for analyzing earth and rock fill dams and other water control structures for both static- and earthquake-induced stresses; (e) improve the state of knowledge of physical and engineering properties of soil, rock, and clay shales; earth-rock mixtures, granular filters, cohesive and non-cohesive fine- grained soils susceptible to liquefaction; and soils susceptible to drastic volume changes (collapse, consolidation, swell); (f) develop rational analytical procedures and more reliable prediction of behavior of partially saturated soils; (g) determine the response of soils in situ to static and dynamic loading and unloading; (h) determine the susceptibility of earth dams to cracking, hydraulic fracturing, and internal erosion; (i) evaluate improved defensive design measures in use of materials, particularly in filter and transition zones and impervious barriers; (j) improve procedures for monitoring and analysis of the performance of new and existing structures, particularly the use and interpretation of observations and data from specialized instrumentation, and expedient systems for rapid inspection and evaluation of the integrity of dams; (k) improve the understanding of the aging processes in dams and the influence of aging (particularly deterioration of safety-related features) on long-term maintenance and/or rehabilitation requirements for dams; (l) develop a better understanding of failure mechanisms to improve design of defensive measures, to provide information for remedial repairs, to assess potential damages resulting from failure, and to provide a basis for emergency actions; (m) develop expedient remedial measures when hazardous conditions are identified and, thus, reduce the damages and catastrophic potential of dam failures; (n) develop methodology to evaluate forces exerted on structural elements by adjacent soil masses that result from long- term variation in soil properties; (o) develop improved methodology for design and construction procedures for shallow and deep foundations, including mats, footings, piers, and piles for buildings, hydraulic structures and waterfront structures; (p) large-scale physical and numerical modeling of deep underground structures (tunnels, shafts, chambers, and intersections); (q) predictions of rock mass dredgability; (r) acoustic emission (micro-seismic) applications in geotechnical engineering; (s) geotechnical aspects of hazardous and low-level radioactive waste disposal; (t) evaluation of rock for use as riprap; (u) grouting of soil and rock masses; (v) sliding stability of gravity structures, and (w) centrifuge modeling of structures founded on or in rock.

• F. Dam Research (GSL-6)

  Research is conducted in support of the Army’s Dams and Transportation Infrastructure Program, specifically the Dam Safety subcomponents. Research covers design, construction, maintenance, repair, and inspection procedures of Army dams as well as other engineering functions as they relate to transportation structures. This involves the formulation of engineering criteria for the design, construction, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of dams. Research areas of interest include improved inspection procedures, material characterization and evaluation, nondestructive testing, rapid repair, scour, unknown material properties, unknown foundations, and underwater inspection.

• G. Engineering Geology (GSL-7)

  The GSL conducts a broad range of research in the field of engineering geology in support of federal or other Government technical missions. Specific areas of interest within this field include application of remote sensing to geologic and geomorphic assessments; geo-archeological investigations; applied and numerical geomorphic analysis; computer applications in geotechnical engineering; 3-D visualization systems; uses of geographic information systems; geo hydrology in military and civil applications; including water quality and supply issues; geologic mapping; geologic applications of mathematical techniques and geo statistics; groundwater monitoring, including well installation and design; geologic application of groundwater models; integration of geological and geophysical subsurface exploration techniques; land-loss studies; remedial measures at groundwater contamination sites; seismic hazard characterization and evaluation; subsurface exploration methods (drilling and sampling techniques); test site selection; conceptual and geologic and hydro geologic models.

• H. Excavation, Structural Demolition, and Obstacle Creation (GSL-8)

  Current criteria for improved demolitions call for significantly reduced manning levels and preparation times to accomplish assigned missions. Cost effectiveness, versatility, and safety are also of great importance. Current efforts involve technologies for the standoff creation and reduction of all types of battlefield obstacles, and the excavation of fighting positions. A prime consideration is the development of more efficient means for the application of various types of energetic materials to targets of interest. In addition, modern materials and design principles used in typical target structures must be incorporated into future plans and guidelines for demolitions. Typical missions of interest are road cratering, anti-tank ditching, bridge and tunnel demolition, and the breaching of walls, bunkers, levees, and dams.

• I. Ammunition Storage Safety (GSL-9)

  The military services must store large amounts of munitions, both for war reserves and for training purposes. New conceptual designs for components or systems for storage are needed to reduce the likelihood of an accidental detonation of stored munitions, limit the propagation of air blast and fragments, or mitigate the safety hazards produced by an accidental detonation. In addition, test data and simulation techniques are needed to aid in the definition of the safety hazards from such detonations, and the mechanics of blast propagation among munition stores. Obsolete munitions are often disposed of by deliberate, controlled detonation. Research is needed on new methods for safe, efficient, and environmentally acceptable methods for deactivation of a wide variety of munition types.

• J. Physical Simulation of Munition Phenomenology (GSL-10)

  The mechanical effects induced by munition detonations are physically simulated using a variety of energy sources. Simulations are performed at full- and small (1/2 to 1/10) scale. The mechanical effects from conventional energetic materials are normally performed at small scale. These studies could benefit from improved (better fidelity, less expensive) simulators and simulation techniques. They could also enhance the development of test methodology for micro-scale (1/100 to 1/10) testing including centrifuge testing. Micro-scale test methodology includes the miniature high- fidelity energy sources, miniature sensors, advanced optical techniques, high-fidelity construction techniques for miniature structures, and theoretical developments in the scaling of material behavior.

• K. Geophysical Phenomenology - Multi-Modal Geophysical Phenomenology, Modeling, Data Processing, and Data Management (GSL-11)

  The objectives include detecting, classifying, and locating airborne and ground military targets and buried objects using geophysical methods for homeland defense and homeland security applications. Also included are invasive and non-invasive approaches for measuring and quantifying the geophysical/geologic signatures of diverse geo-environments. This can include the development of new and/or improved analytical and numerical models, rapid data- processing techniques, and new subsurface imaging techniques that include active and passive sensor modalities in a variety of rural and urban terrains.

  Of particular interest is the broadband propagation of energy including, but not limited to seismic/acoustic/infrasonic/electromagnetic/ thermal/chemical, under variable conditions using a variety of sensing platforms (fixed, mobile, airborne, space). The development of new tactics, techniques, and procedures for the employment of novel sensing methods as well as the development and/or verification of empirical testing and evaluation techniques is also desirable. Data management and multi-mode integration techniques and platforms are also of interest.

• L. Laboratory Tests and Constitutive Model Development for Geologic Materials (GSL-12)

  This research requires the formulation of mathematical constitutive models to simulate the mechanical behavior of geological and structural materials and incorporation of models into application-oriented prediction/analysis techniques. Also of interest are the development of dynamic test equipment and techniques and the experimental evaluation of geological and structural material response to high-pressure transient loadings.

• M. Projectile Penetration (GSL-13)

  Theoretical and experimental studies of projectile stresses and trajectories due to impact and penetration into geologic and man-made targets and development of design criteria for shield systems include development of equipment and diagnostic techniques to examine the response of targets to low- and high-velocity impact of penetrators, rods, etc.

• N. Computational Structural Mechanics for DOD Applications (GSL-14)

  The efficient use of scalable computers will require fundamentally new concepts in computational mechanics algorithms. Research includes mathematical formulations and development of scalable computational mechanics algorithms in the areas of structural response, penetration, contact impact, structure-medium interaction, multi-scale, multi-physics, and interdisciplinary flow-thermal-structural interactions. This research area also includes development of computational models for new materials and composite construction (consisting of concrete, composite, and/or geologic materials), as well as the behavior and control of structures composed of such composite construction for military applications.

• O. Concrete Materials (GSL-15)

  Research in this area includes improving the performance of concrete materials and systems. Performance could include very high tensile or compressive strength, high ductility, high fracture toughness, low shrinkage, rapid hardening, very low permeability, resistance to abrasion and erosion durability, chemical resistance, shock-attenuating properties, ultra-low density, thermal insulation properties, workability, and other unique attributes. This includes improvements in the materials typically used in a concrete mixture such as aggregate, cement, supplementary cementitious materials, and chemical admixtures. Aggregates could include waste and/or manmade materials such as fly ash (traditional, blended, or reclaimed), silica fume, ground granulated blast-furnace slag, recycled concrete, lightweight aggregates other potentially low cost and/or green materials. Micro- and Nanoscale aggregates, inclusions, pozzolans, cements and reinforcements such as microspheres, nanosilicates, microfibers and low-cost nanotubes or nanofibers would also be included in this research area. Chemical admixtures such as water reducers, set retarders, set accelerators, air-entraining admixtures, and foaming and defoaming agents that lend unique properties would also be considered in this research area. Since reinforcement is a critical element to the ductility and durability of concrete materials, advanced reinforcement materials that enhance these properties fall under this research area. Additionally, this topic area would include research involving nontraditional cement binders including polymer- impregnated concrete, polymer or resin concrete, polymer Portland-cement concrete and geopolymer concretes.

• P. Concrete Properties and Analysis (GSL-16)

  Research in this area if focused on the development of new nondestructive and destructive test methods and analysis techniques to better characterize the properties and performance of concretes and the constituents that they are composed of at scales ranging from the nano-level to the macro-level. There are a vast number of topics in testing and analysis that could be included in this area as related to the physical and chemical properties of aggregates, cements, pozzolans, admixtures, fibers, and their interaction during the mixing, placing, curing, and service phases of a concrete. This could include but is not limited to: 1. Developing test methods and analysis techniques to better quantify material properties at aggregate-paste and fiber-paste transition zones.

  2. Developing tools, test methods and analysis techniques to non-destructively define the spatial distribution of components in a concrete specimen.

  3. Developing better assessment tools and criteria for predicting durability and longevity of concrete and grout.

  4. Developing better methods to define and classify chemical admixtures by chemical composition and mechanism of performance.

  5. Developing innovative systems to construct concrete materials and structures more economically.

  6. Developing theoretical, computational, and experimental methods for effectively characterizing stress, strain, progressive damage, and fracture of engineering materials subjected to static and dynamic loads.

• Q. Maintenance, Repair, and Rehabilitation of Concrete (GSL-17)

  Forensic analyses such as assessment of remaining life, maintenance and minor remedial measures, repair and rehabilitation, and surveillance and monitoring are topics of interest. Structures of interest include concrete locks and dams and appurtenant concrete and steel structures (outlet works, retaining walls, gates, piles, bulkheads, tunnels, intakes, etc.), other horizontal and vertical concrete infrastructure, and metals and polymer systems related to those concrete components.

• R. Other Areas of Materials Research (GSL-18)

  Research is needed in the development, properties, and performance of a range of materials for military and civil applications. Needed materials research for concrete applications includes such materials as: curing compounds, coatings, and overlays; polymers or other agents for improving bond between old and new concrete; water stop materials for use in hydraulic structures, and methods for characterizing and testing such materials; grouts for injection underground in very fine fracture systems or porous media; organic and inorganic composites that are used in construction; and grout materials and technologies for waste-disposal and containment such as for both commercial and defense-related low-level and high-level radioactive wastes.

  Other materials research needs include the development, testing, and prototyping of metals, composites, or other novel materials exhibiting advanced mechanical, thermal, rheological, chemical, electrical, and multi-functional properties, and performances. Research is performed on energy absorbing materials for impact, ballistic and blast resistance; hierarchical, multi- layered, and functionally graded material systems; multi-scale reinforcement for macro performance; self-sensing and self-healing materials; and materials demonstrating advancements in durability, high strength-to-weight, fatigue resistance, and ease of application.

• S. Bridge Research (GSL-19)

  Research is conducted in support of the Army’s Dams and Transportation Infrastructure Program, specifically the Bridge Safety and Waterfront Facilities subcomponents. Research covers design, construction, maintenance, repair and inspection procedures of Army bridges and waterfront facilities worldwide as well as other engineering functions as they relate to transportation structures. This involves the formulation of engineering criteria for the design, construction, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation of permanent and expedient bridge and port facilities. Research areas of interest include improved inspection procedures, material characterization and evaluation, nondestructive testing, rapid repair, scour, unknown material properties, unknown foundations, traffic safety, underwater inspection, fracture critical and fatigue evaluations, load capacity, load testing, and load ratings.

• T. Structures Research (Civil Works) (GSL-20)

  Research is conducted in assessing the performance of critical structures to extreme loads, such as those resulting from seismic, terrorist attack, and storm events, as well as the effects of flow-induced vibrations. Efforts include assessing sensitivity of structural design and analysis procedures, vulnerability of structures, and critical design parameters to develop appropriate load-resistance factors. Techniques for retrofit, including use of new and innovative materials, of structures to resist extreme loads is of interest. Also, a better understanding of long-term behavior and deterioration of civil structures is needed, including factors such as material interactions, thermal stresses, and any issues affecting design of new structures and operation and maintenance of existing structures.

  Nonlinear and linear system identification research includes vibration testing, data acquisition, data processing, and analysis techniques for determining linear and nonlinear dynamic and static response properties of structures and structural systems subjected to earthquakes, blast effects from mining (or other) operations, other transient random, harmonic dynamic loads, and static or pseudo static loads.

• U. Structures Research (Military) (GSL-21)

  1. Research is needed on the response of aboveground and shallow-buried structures subjected to military dynamic loads; specifically, the prediction of the load and response to failure of aboveground and shallow-buried structures. This effort will involve the following research:

  a. Development of techniques to simulate military dynamic loads on aboveground and mounded structures.

  b. Development of design procedures for components in semihardened and protected facilities.

  c. Analysis of structural loading and damage resulting from internal or external detonations.

  d. Development of fast-running models for PC based applications to predict the response of structures, both hardened and unhardened, to single and multiple explosive detonations.

  2. Research on deeply based structures and hardened existing systems involving the following:

  a. Development of comprehensive structural design for deeply buried and surface-buried structures subjected to air blast-induced and direct-induced ground shock from surface and shallow earth-penetrating high-energy sources.

  b. Formulation of computer models for SSI and pre- and post-test analysis of structural response to include correlation and comparison with experimental data.

  3. Research on surveillance and intrusion detection sensors involves the constraints of the environment on sensor systems used to detect intruders and placed along the perimeter of high-value military installations. Improved methods for rapid and accurate measurement of predetermined influential environmental parameters must be developed. Analytical techniques relating to specific sensing phenomenology’s and target/nontarget-generated signatures and signature wave interactions to variations in environmental characteristics are required. Of particular interest is the integration of multiple sensor systems (both detection-type and environmental/background monitoring transducers) that use various sensing phenomena for enhanced target detection and classification and increase nuisance and background signature rejection. Research studies are required in the determination of automated techniques for monitoring sensor system response and sensitivity to provide optimum and consistent performance as a function of time varying changes of influential environmental characteristics.

  4. The Corps of Engineers is involved with research on the design of military facilities for protection from high-energy sources. These efforts include the following research:

  a. Prediction of the response of structural elements common to conventional or expedient construction to military loads.

  b. Methods of retrofitting conventional buildings to harden them against nearby military high-energy sources.

  c. Development of innovative design of structural components, such as windows and doors, subject to high-energy sources.

  d. Development of analytical methods for predicting the effects of forced entry devices on structural components.

  e. Development of innovative designs using low-density materials for expedient protection of troops and equipment from the effects of military high- energy sources.

  f. Development of microprocessor-based software/hardware and supporting documentation to aid in the assessment of structural survivability to the effects of conventional and advanced weapons systems. The software will address the integration of databases, weapons effects calculations, and operational factors associated with engineer survivability missions.

  g. Development of a procedure to ensure robust codes, user-friendly interfaces, and supporting documentation for use in the testing and development of microprocessor-based survivability and structural assessment software/hardware.

  5. Composite Materials for Force Protection-Research in this area includes developing, characterizing, modeling, and testing of layered composite materials for protection against air blast and penetration/fragmentation. These materials are intended for use in lightweight expedient protective systems to protect against improvised explosive devices and conventional weapons such as small arms, standoff weapons, fragmenting weapons, and shape charges. It is envisioned that panels of these materials could be incorporated into protective structure designs to increase survivability of personnel or to protect mission-critical assets. Performance measures include such attributes as build time, low mass, cost, penetration resistance, ductility, and environmental durability. Additionally, this topic area includes methods to develop appropriate material anisotropic and or non-homogeneous material models for incorporation into advanced computational models such as Abaqus, LS-DYNA, and EPIC. Protocols for evaluation and performance testing of composite materials subjected to energetic, high-strain rate events are desired.

  6. Worldwide Construction Practices- This research includes capturing typical construction practices and construction material properties worldwide. Information of interest is material properties of structural components, building types and construction techniques, building footprints, construction timeframe/era of buildings, and location of the building (country, world region, urban terrain zone).

• V. Multispectral Camouflage Research (GSL-22)

  This research area involves all aspects of fixed-facility survivability incorporating signature management and other technical effects. Fixed facilities include stationary and relocatable high-value targets. The general goal is to directly and indirectly increase the survivability of U.S. and Allied facilities and improve the U.S. and allied counterintelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (counter-ISR) capability against adversaries. Multispectral refers to those areas of the electromagnetic spectrum used by the United States and potential adversaries in reconnaissance and surveillance and in attack platform target acquisition and detection. Major objectives include: quantifying or otherwise evaluating counter-ISR technology effectiveness; investigating materials and techniques for signature modification; developing technical effects and physical countermeasures, procedures, and applications; developing computer-based analytical procedures for simulating scenes; developing instrumentation for and conducting target/background signature measurements; assessing the United States and threat operations and sensor capabilities with both currently fielded and new design reconnaissance and surveillance and attack platform sensors and systems; developing applications for intelligence information for military missions; providing guidance to field commanders and information for the RDT&E community; and studies of the interaction of camouflage technology with other operational factors, particularly in determining operational supportability, costs and manpower, interoperability, and joint interoperability requirements.

• W. Advanced Maneuver Technologies (GSL-23)

  This research addresses ground vehicle maneuver in urban environments which poses many new operational and tactical challenges for the Army and Joint Forces. While many improvements have been made in protecting ground vehicles in the last decade, these improvements come with a cost, namely limited situational awareness due to reduced visibility and limited maneuverability in tight spaces because of larger vehicle size. Both of these constraints seriously reduce the mobility of ground vehicles in urban environments. To address these constraints, research is needed to develop technologies to identify nearby dynamic hazards for ground vehicles in urban environments and provide early warning to ground vehicle operators or autonomous driving systems. Specifically, this research will address methods and procedures to develop advanced technologies that will be used for detecting dynamic hazards in urban environments such as traffic flow rates and congestion, pedestrians, buried threats, constricted roads, and other obstacles or anomalous objects in real-time. In addition, further research is needed to develop technologies that will deliver the information in a consolidated or data excerpt manner and report the locations of interest and concern to the driver and or operator. The performance of emerging technologies in sensors and data processing to provide better situational awareness in near real-time to ground vehicle operators maneuvering in dynamic urban terrain is also of interest.

• X. Railroad Technology (GSL-24)

  Research in this area is conducted in support of the Corps mission to design, construct, and operate railroad systems worldwide. This research includes railroad design, construction, inspection, evaluation, maintenance, and rehabilitation. Research areas of interest include advanced and composite materials, rapid repair, non-destructive evaluation, geotextile use in construction, in-situ additive manufacturing of components, soil stabilization, GIS, and remote assessment.

Environmental Sensing

• Overview

  Current research is in the acquisition of information by remote sensor systems, the impact of the environment on imaging and other sensor systems, and advanced signal processing. Sensors using electromagnetic, seismic, and acoustic energy forms are of interest. In addition, work is conducted to determine terrain and other environmental effects on high- technology sensor systems. Sensor systems include optical and infrared millimeter wave (active and passive). Briefly described below are specific research areas.

• A. Sensing (EL-1)

  The EL has an ongoing program to develop and demonstrate advanced technologies that support the Army’s requirements for improved detection and discrimination of unexploded ordnance (UXO), depleted uranium (DU) munitions, radiological threats, and deployment platforms. Additional research work is needed for subsurface (land-based) and underwater (proud and buried) UXO sensing, data analysis, display, and platform navigation/positioning. Special areas of interest include novel sensing concepts for the detection and relocation of buried objects (DU, metallic, and nonmetallic targets) using magnetic, electromagnetic induction, ground penetrating radar, seismic/acoustic, chemical, and/or radiological methods or a combination thereof. Fundamental measurements and models that define/predict the performance of these sensing methodologies in varying environmental conditions for UXO, DU and radiological targets are also of interest. Research is also needed to develop advanced data analysis techniques that can significantly reduce the number of false positives arising from natural anomalies and man-made sources.

• B. Environmental and Military Sensing (EL-2)

  1. Research in this area includes basic and applied research to develop environmental sensing, characterization, and monitoring capabilities necessary to quantify environmental site conditions and trends at local and regional scales. In the military area, research is conducted on basic signature research, to better understand target and environmental background signature characteristics.

  2. Specific areas of required research include:

  a. Development, integration, and application of remote sensing technologies and the use of these data in geospatial models to characterize site conditions over large areas.

  b. Development of innovative data fusion approaches, particularly the combined use of hyper spectral and bathymetric and/or topographic LIDAR data for the extraction of environmental information.

  c. Research to identify, model, and mitigate the effects of the environment on novel sensing techniques that address environmental and military requirements.

  d. Development of ground-based and airborne remote sensing approaches, and associated modeling, for unexploded ordnance detection, minefield detection, military targets and vehicles, and smart weapons development.

  e. Rapid collection, analysis, and visualization of sensor data for environmental quality and military applications.

• C. Environmental, Sensing, Characterization, and Modeling (EL-3)

  There is growing need to utilize and develop artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies for enhanced characterization of forested environments. Novel technologies should leverage remotely sensed and high fidelity in-situ data to improve understanding of complex forest conditions. Numerous benefits for military defense, environmental stewardship, forest resource monitoring and evaluation, and military readiness exist from identifying, quantifying, visualizing, and understanding forest data. Research is needed to capitalize on recent developments in AI-based big data analytics to characterize forests and forest-dwelling species and habitats data to better understand vegetated ecosystems that is traditionally obtained through in situ sampling. Research is needed to capitalize on recent developments in AI based big data analytics to characterize forests and other ecosystems.

  Specific areas of required research include:

  a. Developing novel forest modeling frameworks that utilize remote-sensing and in-situ field data to inform and validate forest characterization—to include vertical stratification.

  b. Quantifying forest characteristics and associated forest-dwelling fauna—to include threatened and endangered species. Provide specialized expertise in the application and deployment of advanced environmental sensors to detect and monitor rare and sensitive species—particularly focused in tropical forested habitats.

  c. Demonstrated experience deploying, managing, and analyzing data from remotely deployed autonomous environmental sensor platforms, including paired acoustic/visual monitoring systems such as Autonomous Recording Units (ARUs), omnidirectional microphones, trail cameras, and related technologies to document rare and sensitive species presence, behavior, and responses to anthropogenic noise disturbances and military training activities.

  d. Tailoring sensor arrays to rapidly detect, evaluate, and quantify both acoustic and visual data in Pacific Island forested ecosystems.

• D. Environmental Instrumentation (EL-4)

  1. Research and development in this area includes basic and applied research and technology demonstrations that support rapid measurement of biological and chemical hazards of the environment.

  2. Specific areas of required research include:

  a. The integration and interoperability of environmental instrumentation with future and existing military robotic systems: this includes unmanned aerial systems, ground robotics, autonomous submersibles, and robotic surface watercraft.

  b. Provide new applications that support faster processing on small low-power hardware to triage environmental measurements to immediately identify biological and chemical hazards.

  c. Techniques that support biomimicry in robotic systems and the differentiation of biotic from abiotic systems. Instruments that are low-power, small, and compact to assess the biological and chemical characteristics of water, soil, and air, in surface and subterranean environments.

  d. Research into sensing of aerosols and/or plumes from either ground or airborne platforms.

  e. Research into novel uses of unmanned aerial systems for environmental characterization and change detection - including fusion of active and passive modalities.

Contaminated Site Characterization, Assessment & Remediation

• Overview

  An extensive research and development program is being conducted by the Department of Defense to assist in the cleanup of contamination at military installations. The EL is developing technologies for characterizing, monitoring, and applying physical, chemical, and biological treatment of toxic and hazardous waste in contaminated surface and ground waters and soils. The EL is also developing, evaluating, and verifying numerical models and guidance for solid waste disposal systems.

• A. Innovative Technology for Environmental Sensors and Tools. (EL-5)

  The EL has an ongoing research program to develop advanced technologies for environmental sensing, characterization, and monitoring in order to quantify environmental conditions at sites of interest. The program is actively developing field-based tools and sensors to conduct rapid site characterization/screening for environmental contaminants. Additional research is needed in the areas of novel sensing technologies for detection of chemical and biological contaminants allowing for rapid field-based data acquisition. Also, research is needed to develop technologies and platforms allowing for rapid data analysis/interpretation/reporting. Fundamental measurements and models that define/predict the performance of new sensing methods in soil, water and air are also of interest.

• B. Innovative Technologies for Treating Contaminated, Sediment, Soil, Surface Water, Ground Water, and Hazardous Waste (EL-6)

  Presently, EL is continuing to conduct research, develop technologies and apply strategies to treat complex organic- and metal-contaminated hazardous liquids, off-gases, soils, sludges, sediments, and residuals from past disposal practices. Research is divided into two major categories: technologies for treating contaminated soils and sediments, and innovative technologies for treating contaminated surface and ground waters. Areas of R&D include: (1) physical and chemical technologies to destroy/detoxify or reduce the quantity and/or toxicity of the contaminated materials, (2) biological processes and methods to detoxify/destroy hazardous waste constituents, (3) techniques for in situ treatment of groundwater aquifers, (4) laboratory design criteria for and field implementation of piloting equipment for promising technologies, (5) computer-based techniques to assess operational performance of various treatment processes/systems and (6) improved analytical chemistry techniques and methodology to assess treatment technologies.

• C. Design, Evaluation, Verification and Modeling of Solid and Hazardous Wastes and Contaminated Sediments (EL-7)

  Efforts are continuing to develop water balance and leachate models for solid waste disposal systems and dredged material disposal facilities. Additional work is needed to model innovative designs, nonsoil surface materials, cobbled surfaces, preferential flow through heterogeneous waste materials and other layers, and effects of complex mixtures of vegetation including trees. Similarly, additional work is needed to verify the existing models.

Sediment Geochemistry and Biological Effects

• Overview

  Potential adverse environmental impacts of disposal of contaminated sediments must be assessed prior to permitting operations. This includes the determination of the impacts that contaminated dredged materials exert on the environment prior to dredging.

• A. Environmental Risk Assessment (EL-8)

  Current research on the fate and effects of environmental contaminants occurs under the general paradigm of Environmental Risk Assessment. Specific studies fall into one or more of the following areas:

  1. Hazard Identification. This is the process of showing causality (i.e., a chemical or complex mixture can cause some adverse effect). If this causality can be demonstrated, the chemical is referred to as a "hazard." If there is no causal link, risk need not be quantified. Important target receptors are also identified by this stage (for example, humans, endangered species, and ecologically or economically important species). Research is conducted to develop the technology for hazard identification and the establishment of causality.

  2. Effects Assessment. While Hazard Identification decides if a chemical or complex mixture is toxic; Effects Assessment establishes the relationship of the toxicant dose and associated biological response. This is accomplished via experimental research in which surrogate species are exposed to gradients (spatial, concentration, etc.) of the hazard in question, and biological effects are monitored. Biologically important endpoints measured include survival, growth, reproduction, and population-level parameters. These endpoints must be accompanied by technically sound interpretive guidance. Results are expressed in dose- response or exposure-response relationships. Research is conducted to develop the necessary experimental/statistical designs, technically sound tests (for example, chronic sub lethal sediment bioassays) and appropriate extrapolations (for example, high dose to low environmentally realistic exposures, and surrogate test species to receptor of interest). Analysis of the uncertainty associated with these effects assessments is also conducted.

  3. Exposure Assessment. In Exposure Assessment, the magnitude, frequency, and duration of contaminant exposure relative to the target receptor(s) are determined. This research is model-intensive, with both descriptive and quantitative models being used to evaluate pathways and routes. A pathway exists if the hazard travels between the initial source of contamination and the ultimate biological receptor. An exposure route is pathway that the chemical contacts the receptor (for example, ingestion, inhalation, dermal absorption, bioaccumulation, trophic transfer). Analysis of the uncertainty associated with these exposure assessments is also conducted.

  4. Risk Characterization, Management, Communication, and Analysis. Outputs from the Effects Assessment and Exposure Assessments are joined in Risk Characterization to yield an estimate of risk. Research is conducted to determine the best ways to characterize risk both numerically and descriptively. Also, uncertainty analysis is undertaken to identify the qualitative and quantitative important sources of uncertainty. Techniques employed include error propagation, probability distributions, sensitivity analysis, Monte Carlo simulation and others. Once environmental risk has been quantified, management action may be required.

  5. Research is conducted to develop management alternatives, which range from no action to extensive (and expensive) remediation. Results of the Environmental Risk Assessment are weighed and balanced with other factors such as applicable laws and regulations, engineering feasibility, potential benefits, costs, economic impacts, and the socio-political decision environment.

  Risk Communication is a dialogue that occurs at two levels: between the risk assessor and the risk manager, and between the risk manager and the public. Research is conducted to identify optimal procedures for communicating environmental risks, including an appreciation for the limits and uncertainties of the numerical results. Risk Analysis is a broad, inclusive term encompassing the processes of Risk Assessment, Risk Management, and Risk Communication as well as any field verification or monitoring activities. Field verification is a study or studies carried out to determine the accuracy of laboratory observations and predictions. Field monitoring (in the context of Risk Assessment) is undertaken to ensure that steps taken to manage the chemical risks were successful. Field research studies are carried out for both verification and monitoring purposes.

  6. Engineering With Nature® (EWN®) Research Supporting Innovative Field Sampling Practices, Natural Infrastructure (NI) Construction/Deployment and Related Technologies. Conduct a broad array of EWN research and development that may include, but is not limited to: research pertaining to placement of scientific instruments and/or pursuit of novel experiments that advance field-based sampling and laboratory practices for the purpose of measuring and archiving the performance of natural infrastructure (NI); conduct research and/or test innovative instrumentation that records/monitors natural and engineering processes resulting from the placement of NI and/or hybrid infrastructure; conduct research and test new technologies that result in accelerated construction/placement of natural and nature based features and/or improved placement strategies for dredged sediment used to construct EWN projects.

  7. Technology Transfer Development for Engineering With Nature® (EWN®) Research Areas. Research, develop and analyze technology transfer concepts; analyze target audiences for technical information; test innovative methods of transferring EWN research results and technology to supplement conventional technology transfer. Included may be such items as interactive internet and PC technology applied to training and general information transfer; technology applications of electronic media using the Internet; and innovative public information systems/products. Audiences include Corps of Engineers and the Department of Defense; Congress and other Federal, State, and local agencies; port and transportation authorities; universities; environmentalists and other public interest groups; and the general public.

• B. Sediment Water Interactions (EL-9)

  Sediment/Soil Water Properties. Current research encompasses a wide range of investigations designed to increase understanding of sediment-water interactions. Emphasis is on conduct of investigations for determining the impacts that sediment/soil properties have on sorption and transformation of explosives and release of semi-volatile contaminants to the atmosphere. Factors responsible for sorption and transformation of explosives include redox potential, pH, and the geochemical characteristics of the soil or sediment. Factors affecting the release of semi volatile contaminants from soil or sediment to the atmosphere include relative humidity, wind speed, contaminant concentration, moisture content, porosity, and organic carbon content. Research is also conducted on colloidal system contaminant transport, accelerated sediment oxidation, and the role of solution chemistry in contaminant partitioning between sediment and water.

  Diverse research activities focused on characterizing microorganisms and microbial communities in natural and engineered environments relevant to contaminant transformations, biogeochemical cycling, host-microbiome-contaminant interactions, bio- enabled materials, synthetic biology, and environmental biological threats are currently underway.

  1. Biodegradation of Contaminants. Studies in the biodegradation area emphasize destruction of organic contaminants for remediation purposes. Emphasis is on (1) bioinformatics of microbial community diversity and activities in various ecosystems; (2) delineating biodegradation pathways, enzymes, and genes; (3) determining intermediate and final end- products; (4) assessing the role of environmental and genetic factors regulating the pathways utilized and the rate and extent of destruction of the parent compound; (5) determining the survival and activity of microorganisms added to ecosystems, and biotreatment systems; and (6) enhancing biodegradation to obtain the maximum destruction of organic contaminants within a soil, sediment, or treatment system.

  2. Microbial Sensing. Novel microbial, cellular, molecular and/or genomic approaches are sought and developed for the rapid functional and DNA-based identification, detection, and monitoring of microorganisms in various environmental matrices including soils, sediments, and surface waters. Novel ecological approaches to detect, monitor and predict prokaryotic/eukaryotic microbes are sought that combine physiology, molecular tools, biochemistry, modeling, and remote sensing for the management of high biomass events and environmental toxins.

  3. Biomaterials and Composite Structures. Novel biological materials and/or techniques are sought to manipulate bioprocesses and biomineralization pathways as additives to aggregate and composite products. These products will support advancements in material structural properties that support civil works and military operations.

  4. Insect and plant field collections, insect husbandry, plant maintenance with greenhouse access is sought for various microbiome projects. Needs will be seasonal and very specific to limited insect or plant systems as dictated by internal projects.

  5. Soil, Sediment and Environmental Chemistry. Research interests broadly center on deciphering environmental processes that shape the emergent chemical, physical and biological properties of soils and sediments in natural and built environments. Studies aim to bridge the gap between fundamental science and practical engineering solutions to enhance understanding of environmental processes, improve infrastructure resilience, and promote sustainable practices in soil and sediment management.

  a. Geochemistry of Soils and Sediments. Topics of interest include understanding i) the cycling of nutrients, metal(loid)s, and radionuclides in soils and sediments, ii) the impact of dynamic chemical conditions on soil physical properties, and iii) complex interactions between chemical reactions and dynamic fluid flow (reactive transport). Of particular interest are soil systems impacted by seawater inundation, wildfire, and other natural and anthropogenic disturbances, which alter the productivity, erodibility and trafficability of soils, and soil characteristics that influence military operations and natural disasters. Studies employ the use of novel field measurements, laboratory experiments, and advanced methods of soil analysis, such as synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy, -X-ray diffraction, and X-ray fluorescence microprobe analysis. Molecular to field-scale processes occurring in soils and sediments are modeled using computational tools such as geochemical and reactive transport modeling.

  b. Soils and Sediments in the Built Environment. Research broadly focuses on the function and characteristics of soil and sediment within built environments, including dynamic urban coastal zones. In the built environment, soils and sediments are altered by human activities and/or derived from human-transported materials. Anthropogenic impacts on soil may be intentional (e.g., engineered for a specific purpose) or unintentional (e.g., accidental release of waste). Our research aims to decipher both intentional and unintentional consequences of anthropogenic activities on the health and function of soils and sediments. Focus area includes (1) standardizing approaches to soil health assessment (2) methods to enhance soil functions in nature-based features such as carbon sequestration and water retention, and (3) fate of legacy contaminants such as lead.

• C. Techniques for Contaminated Dredged Material Disposal and Treatment (EL-10)

  1. Development/implementation of innovative technologies to reduce or eliminate contamination present in surface sediment and/or dredged materials. Research to include 1) technologies for cost effective in situ treatment of surface sediments to reduce bioavailability/toxicity; 2) ex situ treatment technologies to reduce contamination and facilitate expanded opportunities for beneficial use of treated material.

  2. Development or enhancement of computer models to be included in the Automated Dredging and Disposal Alternatives Modeling System (ADDAMS) to evaluate the environmental impacts of dredged material disposal. Evaluations include water quality impacts of initial release in open water, effluent discharge, runoff and leachate, benthic impacts, plant and animal uptake, and volatilization.

  3. Development and/or application of new or improved environmental chemistry methodologies to assess contaminant concentrations of dredged material and other complex matrices (e.g., elutriates, bioaccumulation tissues, etc.) focusing on specific compounds or classes, cost effectiveness, quality assurance, lower detection limits, and removal/reduction of challenging matrix interferences.

• D. EMERGING CONTAMINANTS IN THE ENVIRONMENT (EL-11)

  1. Presently, EL is continuing to conduct research, develop technologies and apply strategies to address emerging contaminants (ECs) in the environment. Research falls into for 5 broad categories:

  a. Detection and Measurement:

  b. Development and application of technologies for the detection and measurement of ECs in environmental media at environmentally relevant concentrations.

  c. Application of innovative technologies to discern source of EC contamination.

  d. Screening level methodologies to facilitate near real time detection and measurement of ECs in the field.

  e. Development of forensic methodologies and computational approaches for detection, measurement, prediction of EC precursors and/or degradation products in environmental media.

  2. Exposure Assessment:

  Development and application of technologies for measuring/predicting the movement and fate of ECs in the environment.

  3. Effects Assessment:

  Development and/or application of technologies for establishing the effects of ECs on important ecological and human health receptors/endpoints.

  4. Risk Characterization/Management:

  a. Development and/or application of innovative technologies for characterizing risk of ECs in environmental media. Development and/or application of decision-making tools to support EC related risk management decision-making.

  b. Development and/or application of innovative technologies to remove, concentrate, and/or destroy ECs in environmental media.

  c. Development and/or application of innovative technologies to assist in identification of safer alternatives.

Environmental and Water Quality Modeling

• Overview

  The Corps of Engineers is involved in research and development related to water quality and contaminant fate/transport modeling for surface water, watersheds, and the subsurface, or groundwater. This encompasses a wide range of environmental issues, such as water quality and ecosystem linkages, contaminant transport and fate, eutrophication, effects of land use/management on watershed runoff quality, total maximum daily loads (TMDLs), and ecological and human health risk assessment as related to contaminants in the environment. Research may include model development and field and laboratory investigations to improve model descriptions and to provide required data for model validation.

• A. Numerical Water Quality and Contaminant Modeling (EL-12)

  This area of work is oriented toward development and application of water quality and contaminant fate/transport models for surface water and the subsurface, or groundwater. Surface water modeling includes watersheds and receiving waters, e.g., riverine, reservoir, wetland, estuarine, and coastal water bodies. Groundwater modeling includes modeling both the unsaturated and saturated zones, as well as multi-component flow and transport. Models are utilized for conventional water quality (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon, dissolved oxygen, etc.) and contaminants, i.e., toxic substances, such as organic chemicals, trace metals, radionuclides, explosives, and other military unique compounds. Emphasis includes the following: formulation of appropriated physical, chemical, and biological algorithms; improvement of mathematical and numerical methods; collection and assemblage of data for model evaluation; conduct of field and laboratory process investigations designed to develop/improve model descriptions, dynamic linkage of water quality and biological models, including biomass-based, individual-based, and population- based biological models; integration of contaminant exposure models with biological effects data or models to quantify risk; incorporation of uncertainty analysis into modeling; linkage of physical/chemical models with biological population models; linkage of cross- domain models for system wide modeling; development of routines/linkages to include the effects on water quality of watershed landscape features (e.g., buffer zones) and vegetation management; development of a risk assessment modeling system; and development of software to provide graphical user interfaces and modeling environments to enhance model utility and ease of application.

• B. Complex Adaptive Systems (EL-13)

  The central goal of this effort is to identify the rules and feedback processes that govern how interactions between modular components in natural system shape important holistic properties, like the global resiliency to disturbances, and, invariably, the fate of the individual components themselves. These tasks are central to basic research efforts in Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS); an area that impacts a wide range of critical needs in both military and civil works (e.g., immune system responses, decision-making, social feedbacks, and ecosystem management). Current research focuses on ecological systems in which the use of different species and study systems is encouraged to provide diverse and novel solutions to understanding, predicting, or improving the resiliency of complex systems. Recent case studies range from a contaminant’s (e.g., altered water quality, noise, chemical) impacts on individual development and performance, the social roots of information cascades in social vertebrates (spanning from fish and humans), to overall ecosystem functioning based on infrastructure design, overharvesting, or mismanagement. This topic area is inherently interdisciplinary and emphasizes team efforts in the combination of analytical, numerical, and laboratory experiments to test competing hypotheses.

• C. Water Quality and Behavior Modeling (EL-14)

  This research topic focuses on developing early warning indicators to demonstrate how changes in water quality can affect critical ecological processes, thereby raising the subsequent risks imposed on animal populations. We focus on demonstrating when environmental quality is not merely a potential hazard, but how it elicits a functional (e.g., physiological) change during early exposure stages that can impact future performance and, invariably, population survival. Anthropogenic disturbances would include sediment plumes, temperature spikes, or contaminants. Animals typically display stable and, generally, predictable physiological and behavioral patterns in non-stressful conditions.

  However, sub- lethal (including chronic) or acute environmental changes can drastically alter behavior and activity, remain undetected, and invariably introduce unacceptable levels of error in model predictions. Current methodologies range from simple bioassays to more complex physiological consequences at the individual level, to long-term costs/benefits at higher ecological levels (i.e., habitat use, populations, and communities). Hypothesis testing based on a combination of laboratory and modeling is encouraged, along with field data when possible. Findings from these efforts play an important role in both civil works and military activities.

Environmental Impact Prediction, Assessment and Management

• Overview

  This research program addresses environmental impact prediction, assessment, and remediation and is intended to provide Corps, Army, and other field operating elements with techniques and methodologies for environmental assessments and EIS preparation, guidance on selecting appropriate planning, design, construction, and operation alternatives, and implementation of the planning function pursuant to NEPA and other legislation and guidance. Specific objectives include:

  A. Developing, verifying, and demonstrating practical prediction and assessment techniques including applying and refining habitat-based evaluation methods, evaluating mitigation measures, developing streamlined frameworks for environmental monitoring, applying ecosystem simulation principles to environmental analysis, and estimating future habitat quality.

  B. Documenting and quantifying environmental effects associated with various types of Corps, Army, and other activities. Research has included the effects of aquatic habitat modification on anadromous fishes, the effects of selective clearing and snagging on in stream habitat, and t h e benefits of channel modification for aquatic habitat in reservoir tail waters and local flood control channels.

  C. Developing and demonstrating design, construction, and management alternatives that will minimize adverse effects and protect natural and cultural resources. Research has included techniques for managing wildlife habitats, preserving archeological sites, and stabilizing eroding shorelines.

  D. Developing, validating, and demonstrating novel systems biology-, computational biology- or bioinformatics-based approaches to understanding and quantifying toxicological impacts of environmental contaminants in environmentally relevant organisms.

• A. Biotechnical Shore Stabilization (EL-15)

  Biotechnical (sometimes called bioengineering) shore stabilization is the use of a combination of live vegetation and structural materials (for example, breakwaters, geotextiles, erosion control fabrics/mats, building materials) for erosion control of shores. Shores of particular interest are those of streams, lakes, or dredged material deposits and subject to erosion from waves, surface runoff, and wind. Research is needed to determine the causes and amounts of erosion and to identify and assess cost-effective biotechnical erosion control methods. Studies may include, but are not limited to, identifying, developing, and cultivating appropriate flood- tolerant plants and varieties or cultivars and cost-effective installation procedures of biotechnical techniques.

• B. Freshwater Fishery Investigations (EL-16)

  Primary areas of research are predicting environmental impacts of navigation and flood control projects on fishes, freshwater mussels, and other aquatic fauna; benefits of restoring aquatic habitat including environmental flows; conservation of endangered fish and mussel species; evaluating freshwater and coastal wetland fish communities; management of invasive species movement and colonization including Asian Carp; and fishery management in vegetated waterbodies. New and innovative approaches to determine physiological, behavioral, population and community level responses of fishes to habitat variables are of interest, along with technological advancements in sampling and multivariate data analysis capabilities. Demographic and landscape habitat models are anticipated products of this research.

• C. Freshwater Macro invertebrate Investigations (EL-17)

  Research focuses on assessment of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrate communities, with emphasis on insects and mussels. Studies include stream and river biotic assessments, terrestrial and aquatic insect surveys, assessment of threatened and endangered invertebrate populations, feeding ecology of fishes, and evaluation of stream and river food webs and energetics. Assessments of environmental effects of USACE activities, including stream and river impoundments and structural changes, are also performed using naturally occurring macroinvertebrate and mussel communities as indicators of current and past ecological shifts. Restoration and management recommendations are also made through the analysis of these invertebrate communities in both freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems. Technical and analytical advancements, including sampling and data analysis are of interest.

• D. Mitigation (EL-18)

  An avoidance, minimization, and/or compensation process is required for impacts from water resources projects on ecological resources (fish, wildlife, habitat, or installation activities). Planning and implementing mitigation are a complex process, and new ideas that contribute to success of mitigation are invited. Subjects such as Best Management Practices for avoiding or minimizing impacts, planning for mitigation based on impact analysis, incremental analysis to justify mitigation, mitigation banking, future predictions, and mitigation for indirect or cumulative impacts are included.

• E. In Stream Flow Requirements for Aquatic Biota (EL-19)

  Research focuses on development and application of fish habitat assessment methods. Currently, the most widely used system, the Physical Habitat Simulation System (PHABSIM), is used to assess the effects of reservoir operations on downstream fish habitat. Research is needed to better quantify the relationships for fish preference and flow conditions, as well as habitat requirements for aquatic invertebrates. When appropriate, laboratory-based studies can support field-based modelling efforts. Verification studies of these models will be required as development continues. Assessment methods must be able to evaluate the impacts of a variety of reservoir operations such as base load or peaking hydropower releases and at multiple scales from single project to basin – wide studies.

• F. Behavioral and Structural Fish Barriers (EL-20)

  Entrainment of fish at Corps hydropower projects may result in passage of fish through turbines with attendant death or injury from impact with runner blades, pressure changes, or shear forces. Evaluations of a number of behaviorally based technologies and structural barrier designs conducted under laboratory and field conditions have yielded results that are generally inconsistent. Consequently, there currently exist no consistent guidelines for selection of appropriate technology for site-specific applications at Corps dams. Research is required to relate effectiveness of different technologies to size and species of fish, dam design, operations, season, and other site-specific conditions. The information produced by this research will be used to develop specifications and guidelines for fish protection technologies at Corps dams to reduce entrainment and mortality. This effort may involve literature synthesis, laboratory research, design and fabrication of prototype systems, or field studies as well as simulation analysis of fish movement/passage patterns.

• G. Fish Guidance and Bypass Systems (EL-21)

  CE water resource activities may result in blockage of historical fish migration routes through waterways. These blockages, with associated fragmentation of habitats, may have severe impacts on anadromous and catadromous fish populations. A variety of bypass system technologies are available to guide fish around dams. However, many of these systems operate at reduced efficiencies because they damage fish, fish are unable to locate entrances to the systems, or because fish become disoriented and "fall back" after an initial successful passage. Research is required to better understand the hydraulic and behavioral characteristics of fish bypass systems, including the use of behavioral technologies to guide fishes towards these systems and to successfully orient them within the system.

• H. Coastal Ecology (EL-22)

  Research topics in coastal ecology include multidisciplinary investigations of the environmental impacts of engineering activities in the coastal zone, such as dredging, dredged material disposal, and construction of coastal structures (e.g., jetties, breakwaters, groins, seawalls, marinas). Emphasis is placed on improved technologies for assessment, protection, and management of fish and shellfish resources and their habitats. Of particular relevance are proposals dealing with endangered species (e.g., sea turtles, marine mammals), beneficial uses of dredged material and habitat restoration in the coastal zone (e.g., marsh, oyster reef or mudflat creation), and application of population dynamics and ecological models for impact prediction and assessment at population/community/ecosystem/watershed levels. Other areas of interest include effects of beach nourishment and use of offshore borrows areas, seasonal restrictions on dredging and disposal operations, artificial reef technologies, and cumulative impact determination and mitigation techniques.

  Other focus areas include:

  a. Effects of beach nourishment on benthic communities and surf-zone (near- shore) fishes,

  b. Active and passive fisheries acoustics to assess fish migratory patterns, spawning habitat, fish density and spatial distribution patterns near dredging operations and placement sites.

  c. Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) protection from increases in turbidities and suspended sediments.

  d. Fish entrainment

  e. Behavioral changes to marine organisms (e.g., migratory blockage of migratory fishes due to the presence of the dredge, particularly in narrow or constricted waterways).

  f. Underwater noise impacts to aquatic species due to dredging and disposal operations.

  g. Ecosystem restoration (e.g., filling offshore/near-shore borrow areas to natural bathymetry).

  h. Artificial reef creation using dredged rock and other suitable material to enhance fisheries and shell fisheries resources.

  i. Thin-layer placement, re-contouring natural bathymetries. Increased costs associated due to compliance with environmental windows/seasonal restrictions imposed on dredging and disposal operations, and cumulative impact determination and mitigation techniques.

• I. Techniques for Designing, Operating and Managing Dredged Material Disposal Facilities and Beneficial Use Projects (EL-23)

  1. Refinement and verification of techniques for designing, operating, and managing dredged material disposal areas.

  2. Development of a computerized economic database for costs associated with dredging sediments; disposing of dredged material; and constructing, rehabilitating, and operating and managing dredged material disposal areas.

  3. Development and refinement of computer models for dredged material management and beneficial use to be included in the ADDAMS.

• J. Systems Biology, Computational Biology, and Bioinformatics for Environmental Impact Assessment (EL-24)

  A wide spectrum of research in systems toxicology, biological networks, synthetic biology, predictive toxicology, genomics, bioinformatic data mining of next-generation sequencing data, adverse outcome pathway development, toxicological modes of action discovery, herbicide resistance mechanisms, structural biology, chemoinformatics, and molecular modeling is currently underway. Proposed research in mechanistic/predictive toxicology, structural biology, bioinformatics, or computational biology would complement current research areas.

  1. Novel genomics, epigenetics and synthetic biology approaches are sought and developed to assess biochemical, physiological, or other toxicological (adverse) effects on the biota at molecular, cellular, tissue/organ, individual, population, community, or ecosystems levels.

  2. Novel in silico modeling and data mining approaches that are based on computational biology, biophysical or bioinformatics principles and techniques are sought and developed to systematically analyze and interpret big data generated using cutting-edge and high- dimensional biotechnologies such as next-generation DNA sequencing, hybridization-based microarray, proteomics, and metabolomics technologies. Novel mathematical approaches and analysis methodologies are also sought to interpret or describe data generated using novel experimental protocols, and which may account for internal forces, energy and information flows that regulate biological, biophysical, or bioenvironmental processes.

  3. Tools for assessing environmental impacts of synthetic biology. This work involves identifying synthetic biology technologies and understand their current state of use, development, technology readiness, as well as their potential environmental impact. This includes hazard identification, effects assessment, fate, transport, and transferability of various technologies. Moreover, the work entails quantifying environmental impacts of synthetic biological technologies through experimental and modeling approaches. This includes establishing screening mechanisms for genetic and physiological traits for synthetically derived systems, microcosm experiments with tractable organisms to assess potential for spread/transfer of synthetic constructs.

Environmental Criteria for Stream Channel Alteration Projects

• Overview

  The Corps of Engineers is involved in the alteration of stream channels for flood damage reduction, navigation, channel stabilization, and ecosystem restoration, as well as alterations performed by others as part of the Clean Water Act. Modifications to channels include removal of snags and vegetation, channel alignment (straightening), channel enlargement, construction of levees, stream bank protection, and grade control. The Corps is also involved in regulating and furnishing technical assistance to States in regard to other types of channel alterations such as gravel mining. Work at the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center’s Environmental Laboratory (EL) and elsewhere has generated environmental design criteria for stream channel alterations to improve the net effect of these projects. Examples of environmental design features include low-flow channels, combinations of structure and vegetation, management of cutoff bend ways and other backwater areas, and recreational trails.

• A. Riparian and In Stream Habitat Restoration (EL-25)

  Current research includes formulating guidelines for stream restoration and environmental enhancement of flood control and aquatic ecosystem restoration projects. Among the general issues addressed are, in-stream and riparian habitat assessment; benefits of habitat improvement, structures, and techniques; impacts of vegetation on flow conveyance and/or sustainability, channel stability, and sediment transport; construction practices; and monitoring and maintenance. Proposals are invited in these general areas and related efforts. In addition, specific needs include the following: (1) Techniques to quantify habitat and other environmental benefits of restoration efforts, as well as quantification of adverse impacts to the aquatic environment, (2) Algorithms that account for momentum losses at vegetated floodplain/channel interfaces, (3) Data supporting evaluations of the hydraulic impacts of in-stream structures, (4) Development and refinement of related computerized databases and models, and (5) Calculating impacts to and identifying vulnerabilities of riparian systems.

• B. Assessing Benefits of Channel Modifications (EL-26)

  Dams and local flood control structures may degrade aquatic habitat conditions in tail waters and streams. In some cases, habitat degradation can be eliminated, stabilized, or reversed through channel modification for aquatic habitat (i.e., construction of low-cost, low head weirs to create pools) with minimal changes in dam operation or flood channel design. However, there are no widely accepted methods available to incrementally relate in stream aquatic habitat value, channel modifications, and in stream flows to allow trade-off analyses among cost, design, and habitat benefits. It is desirable to modify existing in stream flow methods or develop new methods that will allow incremental assessment of habitat values, alternative flows, and different channel designs. This work may involve data collection, analysis, interpretation, and software development.

More topics in progress (see solicitation for all topics).

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the direct funding, ERDC awards provide meaningful strategic advantages:

Government Validation and Technical Credibility:
Selection by ERDC signals strong alignment with U.S. Army and national infrastructure priorities, which can materially strengthen your credibility with customers, primes, and investors.

Non-Dilutive Technology Maturation:
Companies can advance core technology without equity dilution, preserving ownership while increasing enterprise value.

Long-Term Government Relationship Building:
ERDC BAAs are often a gateway into follow-on DoD contracts, reimbursable work, and sole-source opportunities.

Increased Visibility Across DoD and Civil Works:
Successful projects frequently expand beyond a single lab, creating exposure across USACE, DoD, and federal infrastructure stakeholders.

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

This BAA is continuously open until January 1, 2027, and all submissions initially enter the process as pre-proposals. Pre-proposals may be submitted at any time through the ERDCWERX portal and are limited to five pages, plus a one-page executive summary.

ERDC conducts a preliminary technical review of pre-proposals as they are received. Offerors can expect a response within 60 days of submission, either encouraging submission of a full proposal or advising that the pre-proposal was not favorably reviewed.

If a pre-proposal receives a favorable review, ERDC will issue a formal invitation from the Contracting Office to submit a full proposal. Full proposals then undergo scientific peer review, cost evaluation, and funding availability assessment.

There is no fixed award cycle or batch deadline. Awards may be made at any time following successful evaluation and are subject to availability of funds.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) through its Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) and supported DoD research programs.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility is unrestricted, meaning any qualified U.S. or international entity may apply, subject to statutory and regulatory requirements. This includes:

• For-profit companies

• Startups and small businesses

• Universities and nonprofit research organizations

What companies and projects are likely to win?

ERDC evaluates proposals based on:

• Clear alignment with ERDC mission and stated research areas

• Strong scientific or technical merit

• Demonstrated capability of the proposing team

• Practical relevance to military or civil works challenges

• Realistic scope and cost relative to expected outcomes

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• ERDC may limit awards based on funding availability in specific technical areas

• Some projects may be subject to export control, security, or publication restrictions

• Proposals must clearly identify whether research is considered “fundamental”

• Full proposals must be submitted only through designated laboratory channels, not directly to technical staff

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive pre-proposal under this BAA will likely take 20–40 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Our full service support is available for a flat fee of $4,000 for the Pre-Proposal Submission.

Fractional support is $300 per hour.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

See solicitation on sam.gov

Defense Sciences Office (DSO) Office-wide BAA – DARPA

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

Executive Summary:

DARPA’s Defense Sciences Office (DSO) is soliciting proposals under its Office-wide Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) to fund revolutionary basic or applied research that enables breakthrough advances in science, devices, or systems for national security applications. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis through June 2, 2026, and may be submitted as executive summaries, abstracts, or full proposals. This BAA is designed to capture novel, high-risk, high-reward ideas not already addressed by existing DARPA programs.

How much funding would I receive?

DARPA anticipates making multiple awards, but no fixed award size or funding range is specified in the BAA. Award amounts, duration, and structure are determined based on the proposed technical scope, cost realism, and selected award instrument. An accelerated award option is available for select proposals not exceeding $2,000,000, with awards made within approximately 30 days of selection.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may be used to pursue innovative basic or applied research concepts that enable revolutionary (not evolutionary) advances aligned with DARPA’s mission. Proposals may address, but are not limited to, the following DSO technical thrust areas:

• Materials, Manufacturing, and Structures - Breaking the tension between performance and efficiency for critical parts, production processes, energetics, superconductors, and propulsion

• Sensing, Measuring, and Affecting - Developing and leveraging new science to overcome existing barriers limiting the performance and/or practicality of sensing, measurement, and control, to achieve orders of-magnitude improvement in operational capabilities.

• Math, Computation, and Processing - Enabling quantum, reimagining classical, and developing entirely new forms of computing for enhanced efficiency and new capabilities. Solutions may range from new approaches to hardware (implementation) to representation and computation.

• Complex, Dynamic, and Intelligent Systems - Creating new scientific capabilities for classes of systems that evolve and adapt and for which traditional reductionist, data-driven, and statistical methods fail. Systems of interest include, but are not limited to, foundations of intelligence, human-AI ecosystems, homeostatic mechanisms, and global systems.

Proposals focused primarily on incremental improvements or manufacturing scale-up are explicitly excluded.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond direct funding, selection under a DARPA DSO BAA provides substantial indirect value:

• DARPA Validation and Credibility: Being selected signals strong technical merit and alignment with DARPA’s mission to create or prevent technological surprise.

• Increased Visibility: Awardees gain visibility within the national security R&D ecosystem and among DARPA program managers.

• Access to DARPA Engagement Pathways: Participation can lead to future invitations to targeted DARPA programs, Disruption Opportunities (DOs), or Advanced Research Concepts (ARCs).

• Nondilutive De-Risking: Advancing frontier technology with nondilutive capital can materially improve company valuation and future exit outcomes.

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

1. Review Process: Rolling through June 2, 2026

2. Accelerated Award Option: Awards made within ~30 days of selection for qualifying proposals

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) within the U.S. Department of Defense, through the Defense Sciences Office (DSO).

Who is eligible to apply?

1. U.S. and non-U.S. organizations may apply

2. Small businesses, startups, universities, and large firms are eligible

3. FFRDCs, UARCs, and Government Entities (including National Labs) are not eligible

4. Non-U.S. participants must comply with export control, security, and nondisclosure requirements

What companies and projects are likely to win?

DARPA evaluates proposals based on the following criteria:

• Scientific and technical merit of a novel, feasible, and well-reasoned approach

• Relevance and contribution to DARPA’s mission and national security impact

• Clear articulation of technical risk and credible mitigation strategies

• Strong alignment between scope, cost, and schedule realism

• Ability to enable revolutionary—not incremental—advances

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Incremental or evolutionary improvements are not of interest

• Manufacturing scale-up is explicitly excluded

• Some projects may involve Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and require compliance with NIST SP 800-171

• Projects involving human subjects or animal research must follow DARPA approval procedures

• DARPA retains discretion to determine whether work is fundamental or non-fundamental research

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission under this BAA will likely take 120–160 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

• Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development

• Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations

• Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Our full service support is available for a flat fee of $5,000 for the Abstract Submission.

Fractional support is $300 per hour, with most DARPA proposal projects requiring 80–100 hours of expert support from strategy through submission of full proposal.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

See solicitation on sam.gov