United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) - Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) - HTC71126SCSO1

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

Executive Summary:

The United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) (Solicitation Number: HTC71126SCSO1) is a continuously open funding pathway for companies developing commercial technologies that support global mobility, logistics, IT, and cybersecurity missions. Unlike traditional grants, this is a flexible acquisition vehicle that can lead directly to contracts or Other Transaction (OT) agreements.

This opportunity is continuously open until 1 February 2036 , with new Areas of Interest (AoIs) released on a rolling basis—some with dedicated funding and defined submission windows. If your solution aligns with USTRANSCOM’s mission, you can submit at any time, but Specific AoIs may have limited windows and should be monitored closely on SAM.gov.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding typically ranges from $500k to $5m.

What could I use the funding for?

1. AoI-901: Information Technology (IT) and Cybersecurity Solutions:

USTRANSCOM seeks IT and cybersecurity solutions that provide unique capabilities or more efficient approaches not currently in use by USTRANSCOM. These solutions should modernize enterprise systems, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen security posture while meeting stringent security standards to support global integrated mobility operations.

Representative examples include:

• Cloud-based IT services and architecture

• Cybersecurity defense and threat detection systems

• Transportation management systems

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning applications

1.1. Security and Compliance Requirements:

All IT solutions must address: compliance with Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 252.204-7012 for unclassified systems, adherence to National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (32 CFR Part 117) for classified systems, implementation of Risk Management Framework processes, support for Authority to Operate requirements, and incident reporting capabilities per USTRANSCOM requirements.

1.2. Technical Data and Software Rights:

Offerors must identify any intellectual property, data rights restrictions, and licensing requirements associated with their proposed solutions. Submissions should clearly outline how technical data and software rights will be managed to ensure compatibility with USTRANSCOM systems and compliance with applicable regulations.

2. AoI-902: Transportation and Logistics Optimization:

USTRANSCOM seeks solutions that optimize transportation and logistics operations, improve supply chain resilience, and enhance global distribution capabilities. Submissions should offer unique approaches or efficiencies not currently utilized by USTRANSCOM to address operational challenges, visibility, and scalability in support of the global mobility mission.

Representative examples include:

• Supply chain resilience and risk management

• Real-time tracking and visibility platforms

• Predictive analytics for logistics decision support

• Automated transportation and cargo handling systems

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

  • Access to FAR-based contracts or OT Agreements for Prototype Projects

  • Ability to work directly with USTRANSCOM on mission-critical challenges

  • Streamlined acquisition under DFARS Subpart 212.70

  • Potential for multiple awards or follow-on opportunities

No additional non-monetary benefits are explicitly specified beyond contracting pathways.

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

  • CSO open period: continuously open until 1 February 2036

  • General AoIs:

    • Submissions accepted at any time

    • No guaranteed response timeline

  • Specific AoIs:

    • Posted on SAM.gov with defined submission windows

    • Timelines vary by AoI

Process timeline (not fixed):

  1. Phase 1 – Solution Brief submission

  2. Phase 2 – Presentation/Pitch (if invited)

  3. Phase 3 – Full Proposal (if invited)

  4. Award decision

Timing for award decisions and funding is not specified in the solicitation.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), part of the Department of War (DoW) .

Awards are executed under:

  • Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 12 contracts

  • 10 U.S.C. 4022 Other Transaction (OT) authority

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility requirements explicitly include:

  • Must provide commercial products, technologies, or services

  • Must be a registered entity in SAM.gov to receive an award

What companies and projects are likely to win?

USTRANSCOM evaluates submissions based on:

  • Alignment to mission needs

  • Technical feasibility

  • Innovation and uniqueness

  • Milestone schedule realism

  • Prior experience delivering similar solutions

  • Affordability and return on investment

Projects most likely to advance:

  • Demonstrate working capability (not conceptual only)

  • Provide clear value over existing systems

  • Show credible delivery plans and pricing

  • Align directly with AoIs such as IT/cybersecurity or logistics optimization

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

  • Strict submission format requirements (e.g., Scout Card + video for General AoIs)

  • Video must be ≤ 5 minutes and demonstrate working capability

  • Non-compliant submissions will not be evaluated

  • Submission costs are not reimbursed unless explicitly stated

  • Must comply with:

    • DFARS cybersecurity requirements

    • National Industrial Security Program (for classified systems)

    • Risk Management Framework and Authority to Operate processes

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not explicitly specified, but based on requirements:

  • Phase 1 includes:

    • Scout Card submission

    • 5-minute demo video OR up to 6-page white paper (for Specific AoIs)

Preparation time will vary depending on:

  • Readiness of a working prototype

  • Ability to produce a demonstration video

  • Pricing and delivery estimates

How can BW&CO help?

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

  • Identify the right AoIs and timing strategy

  • Develop high-impact Solution Briefs and demo narratives

  • Structure submissions to align with evaluation criteria

  • Prepare Phase 2 pitches and Phase 3 proposals

  • Ensure compliance with format, pricing, and technical requirements

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

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