xTech|Phantum Competition (ARM26BX01-NP003)
Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).
Executive Summary:
The U.S. Army is seeking small businesses developing quantum sensors and photonics technologies through the xTech|Phantum Competition. This is a gated pathway to SBIR funding—only competition winners can submit a Phase I proposal. Companies can earn prize money, engage directly with the Department of War, and position themselves for follow-on SBIR funding.
White paper submission deadline: May 6, 2026
How much funding would I receive?
Phase I SBIR:
Up to $300,000
6-month period of performance
Prize money:
Not specified in the solicitation
What could I use the funding for?
Phase I funding is for feasibility and concept development, including:
Demonstrating technical advantage over existing solutions
Developing concept plans aligned with Army modernization priorities
Providing supporting technical literature and performance data
Building a commercialization strategy (defense and commercial markets)
Creating a technology development roadmap
Delivering a concept demonstration at the end of Phase I
Technology focus areas include:
Quantum sensors and quantum clocks for non-GPS PNT
Quantum RF sensors
Quantum electromagnetic sensors
Photonics for communications and edge processing
Are there any additional benefits I would receive?
Direct engagement with the Department of War (DoW)
Feedback from Army stakeholders to accelerate technology development
Entry into the Army’s Science & Technology ecosystem
Eligibility to submit a Phase I SBIR proposal (only if selected as a winner)
What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?
White paper submission deadline: May 6, 2026
xTech|Phantum competition selection timeline: Not specified
Phase I SBIR award timing: Not specified
Phase I performance period: 6 months
Where does this funding come from?
Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology (ASA(ALT))
U.S. Army Directorate for Strategy & Transformation (DAMI-ST)
Delivered via the xTech|Phantum Competition and Army SBIR program
Who is eligible to apply?
Must participate in the xTech|Phantum competition
Only competition winners are eligible to submit a Phase I SBIR proposal
Additional eligibility requirements are not specified in the provided document.
What companies and projects are likely to win?
The Army is prioritizing companies developing:
Quantum technologies enabling non-GPS positioning, navigation, and timing
Quantum RF sensors with improved sensitivity, bandwidth, and SWaP
Electromagnetic sensors detecting low-power or non-RF signals
Photonics systems for secure, high-speed communications and edge computing
Strong applications will:
Demonstrate clear technical feasibility and differentiation
Show dual-use commercial potential
Align directly with Army modernization priorities
Provide credible pathways to prototype and field deployment
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Only xTech|Phantum competition winners can submit a Phase I SBIR proposal
Proposals from non-participants or non-winners will not be evaluated
CMMC requirement: Level 1
Other restrictions (e.g., cost share, ownership constraints) are not specified.
How long will it take me to prepare an application?
Not specified in the solicitation
Application requires submission of a white paper by May 6, 2026
How can BW&CO help?
BW&CO can support across both stages of this opportunity:
xTech white paper strategy and drafting
Positioning your technology against Army priorities
Translating commercial tech into defense use cases
Preparing a competitive Phase I SBIR proposal (if selected)
Building commercialization and transition plans aligned with Army expectations
