Multi-Band Approach to Target Discovery - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV055

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a target discovery multi-band approach tool for wide-area ocean surveillance, target tracking, and environmental monitoring, to improve operational effectiveness and national security posture.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) providers prioritize high-resolution imagery for applications demanding detailed ground sampling, primarily done in the X-band. This focus caters to markets like agriculture, urban planning, and disaster response. The Navy has a unique need for wide-area maritime surveillance, particularly in the open ocean, for tasks like search and rescue, tracking surface vessels, and monitoring illegal activities. The Navy also has urgent operational requirements for improved maritime domain awareness and more efficient resource allocation. Currently other methods are being used to perform these tasks; however, utilizing SAR would increase capabilities at a lower cost while providing better services for accomplishing the desired tracking methods. The Navy seeks a solution to utilize advancements in commercial space technology by utilizing dual-band SAR. Currently there is not a way for the Navy to utilize these services.

Dual-band approaches offer substantial benefits across various sectors. Dual-band routers and mobile devices can operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, providing greater bandwidth and network capacity within telecommunications. This technology allows devices to switch to less congested frequencies, improving network performance and reliability in areas with high Wi-Fi density. Dual-band approaches can be used to monitor various environmental parameters, such as soil moisture, snow cover, and water quality, allowing for more accurate land cover classification and identification of specific features like vegetation types or mineral deposits. Within the medical field, dual-band imaging techniques can provide more detailed information about tissue composition and bone density, improving diagnostic capabilities for conditions like osteoporosis. Additionally, this approach can be used to enhance target detection and identification by combining data from different frequencies.

The solution sought will add to the current capabilities of searching, tracking, and monitoring to include dual-band SAR systems.

The system will incorporate a secondary band like S-band or C-band alongside the existing X-band capabilities. The system will increase area coverage and use lower frequency bands (S-band or C-band) that have wider beamwidths, enabling larger swaths of ocean to be imaged in a single pass. The increase in area coverage provided by a multi-band approach is not directly quantifiable with a single number as it is highly dependent on the specific bands used, the sensor technology, the platform, and the application. Rather than a percentage increase, it is more accurate to discuss the types of coverage improvements that multi-band approaches offer, such as wider swath width, increased temporal coverage, and coverage in different domains. The benefits will be realized through the synergistic combination of different bands, each contributing unique information and capabilities.

The system must also have improved target detection through utilizing multiple frequencies that will allow for comprehensive target characterization. Different bands interact differently with various materials and sea states, enabling better discrimination among vessels, ice, and ocean features.

The dual-band SAR will provide enhanced environmental monitoring by providing valuable data for oceanographic applications, such as wave height and direction estimation, current monitoring, oil spill detection, flood monitoring, land cover classification, and sea ice monitoring.

Dual-Band performance validation will be accomplished through:

1. Frequency Band Coverage: Verification of operation within the specified frequency bands. Data will include spectral analysis in each band.

1. Simultaneous Operation: Demonstration of concurrent and independent operation in both frequency bands. Data will include recordings of simultaneous signal reception and processing in each band. Interference Mitigation: Assessment of the system's ability to mitigate interference between the two bands and from external sources. Data will include measurements under various interference conditions in each band.

Area Coverage Enhancement will be shown through:

1. Field of View (FOV) Measurement: Quantification of the increased FOV achieved by the dual-band approach compared to a single-band baseline system. Data will include geometric measurements and visualizations of the detectable area.

1. Detection Range: Determination of the maximum detection range in each band and in dual-band mode. Data will include plots of detection probability versus range for various target types and environmental conditions.

1. Target Tracking Accuracy: Evaluation of the system's ability to accurately track targets within the expanded FOV. Data will include measurements of target position error and tracking stability.

1. Open Ocean Search and Tracking Performance will be shown through:

Simulated Search Scenarios: Testing of the prototype in simulated open ocean environments with representative targets and clutter. Data will include detection and tracking performance metrics for various scenarios.

1. Environmental Impact Assessment: Evaluation of the system's performance under varying environmental conditions. Data will include performance metrics under different environmental parameters.

Prototype Robustness and Reliability will be shown through:

1. System Stability: Assessment of the system's stability and reliability during extended operation. Data will include continuous operation logs and failure rate analysis.

1. Power Consumption: Measurement of the system's power consumption under various operating conditions.

Navy Requirements Compliance will be shown through:

1. Specific Performance Metrics: Testing against specific Navy-defined performance metrics. Data will include direct measurements and comparisons to the required values. Performance specifications will be provided during Phase I.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a dual-band SAR and demonstrate through modeling and analysis that it feasibly meets the parameters in the Description. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capability to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype dual-band SAR based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate that the prototype meets parameters of the Description. Support Government testing at a Government-provided facility to determine the capability meets the performance goals of Navy. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is possible that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use, which will include scaling up production and integrating with existing Navy systems.

Integrate the dual-band SAR system with Navy systems by collaborating with the Commercial Space Program Office (CSPO), integrating dual-band SAR data into workflows, creating software and algorithms that allow for effective processing and target detection, and provide personnel with training and support for interpreting data.

The objective is to secure long-term contracts with the Navy to provide ongoing access to dual-band SAR data/services with the benefit of marketing the technology to other government agencies in the future.

To obtain successful commercialization and production, the performer will refine and optimize the prototype based on the Navy’s testing and feedback from Phase II and set up manufacturing processes to produce the dual-band SAR system(s) at scale. This is valuable for applications like airport security, border surveillance, and traffic monitoring. The underlying principle is that using two or more frequency bands allows systems to leverage the unique characteristics of each band, enhancing performance, reliability, and overall capabilities.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Optimizing Satellite Imagery across Commercial Vendors - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV056

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a software application that uses a hub and spoke-style negotiating service for commercial satellite data providers (i.e., Imagery Synthetic Aperture Radar/ and Research and Development (SAR/RD)), utilizing their native Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to forecast collection opportunities while optimizing resolution, speed of collection, and cost across multiple providers.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Satellite imagery provides a critical foundation for maritime domain awareness (MDA), allowing the Navy to monitor vast ocean expanses, track vessel movements, and detect unusual activities while also supporting intelligence gathering by providing visual confirmation of suspected activities, revealing adversary capabilities and intentions, and informing strategic decision-making. The Navy primarily relies on its own dedicated reconnaissance assets and a limited number of Government contractors to receive imagery from satellites, which limits the speed of imagery reception and imposes reliance issues on accurate resources. A solution to the limiting factors would be to expand resources to multiple commercial satellite vendors, thus diversifying the sources of information and reducing reliance on single points of failure. The Navy seeks resilience in contested environments where access to a single vendor might be disrupted by weather or other conditions by development of an advanced hub and spoke-style scheduling optimization capability that will forecast opportunities and provide optimizing resolution, speed of collection, and costs across multiple commercial satellite providers. No known commercial capability can meet this need.

The solution application tool must provide a way to combine the following parameters.

1. It must achieve seamless multi-vendor integration that can be used for accessing a single, unified system and dynamically adapt to weather conditions by integrating real-time weather data and predictive models directly into the scheduling process.

2. It must also provide a prioritization capability for time-critical requirements such as tracking a high-value target or responding to a developing crisis.

3. It will optimize cost-efficiency for the scheduling process by selecting the most cost-effective vendor for a given task.

4. It will minimize redundant collections.

5. It will leverage opportunities for data sharing and collaboration among the commercial satellites.

6. It will enhance data fusion and analysis by combining imagery from different sources.

7. It must ensure data security and integrity by incorporating security measures.

The solution will be tested and must meet the following parameters:

1. System Functionality and Performance: includes integration testing, automated tasking and re-tasking, scalability and load testing, and user interface and functionality.

2. Imagery Quality and Usability: includes image resolution and clarity, cloud cover and obstruction analysis, and data fusion and processing.

3. Operational Effectiveness: includes simulated scenarios, field demonstrations, and user feedback/evaluation.

4. Security and Interoperability: includes security testing and interoperability testing.

5. Cost-Effectiveness Analysis: includes cost modeling and analysis.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a software hub and spoke-style scheduling optimization capability that feasibly meets the requirements in the Description. Demonstrate feasibility through modeling and analysis. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype software hub and spoke-style scheduling optimization capability. Demonstrate that the prototype meets the parameters in the Description. Support testing of the prototype at a facility provided by the Government to determine it meets the required performance goals as stated in the Description. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is possible that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use. Assist in testing the capability in the Government test facilities to ensure that the system meets the demanding requirements of the Maritime Targeting Cell-Afloat/Expeditionary (MTC-A/X) program and provides for future development and deployment decisions, ultimately contributing to a more effective and responsive imagery acquisition capability.

Outside of the military, this technology has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, such as law enforcement, marine wildlife protection, climate change research, vessel collision avoidance, supply chain management, coordination of rescue/relief efforts, and meteorology. The system could be deployed across multiple domains, improving safety, efficiency, and environmental protection in diverse environments.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Gun Weapon Systems Ammunition Handling and Controls Modernization - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV057

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop an electro-mechanical capability for the sustained tactical loading and unloading of 5-inch/54 caliber naval ammunition.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

A component of both terminal defense and land-attack missions, a MK 34 GWS with the increased reliability and firing rates are expected to increase capability and survivability during missions in contested areas with large (10+) threat swarms. In these scenarios, the effective firing of ammunition to engage targets is essential due to relatively low-cost and on-hand inventory of shipboard ammunition (versus missiles).

Major Caliber Naval Gun Weapon Systems currently cycles conventional ammunition from storage conditions up through firing by way of circa-1960s electro-hydraulic power technology. With a high power-to-weight ratio and simple control circuits, this technology (militarized from the chemical and food machinery industry of the day) transformed ammunition handling systems from a manual to a semi-automated process aboard Navy ships.

The technology is old and has limitations on guided ammunition handling that include high maintenance requirements, obsolescence, complex troubleshooting, exposure to petroleum products, high intensity noise, and sustained operation limited by operator “in-the-loop” actions. There is currently no commercial technology that could solve the need for gun weapon systems ammunition handling and controls modernization for the Navy.

The Navy seeks a solution to modify existing fielded MK 34 Major Caliber Gun Weapon System guns (utilizing the MK 45 MOD 2 & 4 5-Inch Gun System) with automated ammunition loading systems that provide higher reliability (i.e., operational availability of .9 or greater), increased sustained loading (i.e., firing) rate (i.e., greater than 12 rounds per minute), and/or reduced exposure to occupational exposure to petroleum-based hydraulic fluids.

Potential innovations may incorporate electric motor drive technology, industrial control systems or testing system technologies, human-assist technologies, or process optimization. The solution shall be restricted to the MK 45 Gun System Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) profile, requiring no modification to the platform (i.e., ship). All solutions shall utilize Model-Based Engineering (MBE) design principles.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for an ammunition loading system for the MK 45 Gun System that meets the parameters in the Description. Establish feasibility through modeling and analysis of the design. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype based on Phase I results. Demonstrate that the prototype will meet the requirements in the Description for each unique area of application within the Gun System. Install the prototype in a Government land-based test Gun System for testing and evaluation. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is possible that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in successfully transitioning the technology to Navy use directly to both in-service and new production MK 45 5-inch Gun Mounts, the main component within the MK 34 Gun Weapon System aboard U.S. Navy Destroyers.

Upon successful transition of this R&D effort to the MK 34 GWS, other military applications of this technology include smaller caliber Gun Weapon Systems (20mm to 57mm). Non-military applications of this technology include industrial operations that require complex material handling and storage, including but not limited to, the automotive industry.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

High-Throughput Embarked Data Transfer - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV058

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a small form factor device (total stowed volume of one cubic foot, including transceiver) and any required software to enable high-throughput data package transmission off embarked Navy platforms.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

U.S. Naval platforms defended by the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) combat management system (CMS) routinely traverse hostile regions of the world threatened by modern anti-ship weapons. SSDS CMS data recorded at sea are transmitted from embarked platforms back to various ashore support organizations for system performance analysis. Results are used in a variety of ways, which include but are not limited to improving CMS functionality, updating tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), and ensuring warfighters are trained to defend platforms against modern threats in difficult scenarios. However, providing timely system improvements and guidance depends on timely receipt of large volumes of data for analysis. Existing methods of transmitting these data can be slow and bandwidth constrained, potentially reducing the cadence of this process and delaying the provision of important information.

The Navy seeks a small form factor device (total stowed volume of one cubic foot, including transceiver) and any required software to enable high-throughput data package transmission from embarked Navy platforms. The solution must transmit at least four terabytes of data in 60 seconds (i.e., at a sustained bandwidth of about 67GB/s) over more than 5,000 nautical miles. Currently no Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) solutions are available for use in this manner.

Three SSDS Top Level Requirements (TLRs) are necessary.

• (U) The SSDS Combat System (CS) shall enable extraction of selected data for analysis and playback. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1041]

• (U) The SSDS CS shall provide extracted and recorded data for external processing. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1039]

• (U) The SSDS CS shall provide a method of updating its reference databases on a periodic basis, or on demand. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1207]

While modern techniques in radio, microwave, free space optical (FSO), or other data transmission modalities capable of satisfying these requirements are welcome, proposed solutions must be resilient to highly dynamic and challenging atmospheric or environmental effects on selected modalities and/or waveforms. Additionally, solutions must be capable of deployment on Navy surface combatants in fewer than ten minutes from stowed to transmission ready. Solutions should plan to accept data from COTS data storage devices, including removable disk drives, removable Flash-based storage, and written optical media. Solutions must also be able to integrate with Department of War (DoW) Program of Record (PoR) communications architecture(s). The solution should provide technical details and clearly map those details to desired capability needs. The architecture should also provide high-level details regarding integration with DoW PoR communications architecture(s) or system(s), and should be designed and implemented in accordance with relevant DoW cybersecurity and information assurance (IA) standards.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a small form factor device to enable high-throughput data package transmission and demonstrate feasibly that it meets all the requirements of the Description. Demonstrate feasibility of this concept to meet the conditions outlined in the Description through modeling, analysis, event-driven simulation of software capabilities, or other methods. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype small form factor device to enable high-throughput data package transmission and any required software capabilities that enable integration with the DOW PoR communications architecture(s) based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate that the prototype meets the required parameters in the Description. Support testing by the Government in a relevant environment provided by the Government. Deliver a prototype to the Navy.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use through system integration and qualification testing. Deliver the technology to support an IWS 80 critical test conducted jointly by the performer and the combat system engineering agent (CSEA), which is expected to take place on a surface combatant equipped with SSDS CMS software, demonstrating the full end-to-end data transmission process between the surface combatant and a Government ashore analysis and support activity.

Dual-use applications to consider include extension of these technologies and capabilities to expeditionary or remote use cases where exceptionally high throughput data package transmissions are required, including but are not limited to disaster recovery and relief, remote research and scientific operations such as polar science missions, and time-critical marine monitoring and regulatory oversight efforts.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Real-time Zero Trust Data and Access Control for Combat Systems - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV059

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a real-time Zero Trust data access control system for combat systems.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

The Navy relies on combat system data for critical decision-making in wartime. This data must be secure to prevent unauthorized access and ensure its integrity. Current security measures are struggling to keep up with evolving threats, making it difficult to guarantee data is only seen by authorized personnel. This vulnerability compromises tactical advantages and risks operational effectiveness. Traditional security approaches are often too slow and inflexible for the dynamic nature of modern naval operations. An answer to this need is not commercially available.

The Navy seeks an adaptive "Zero Trust" data control system. Zero Trust is a security strategy for modern multi-cloud networks. Instead of focusing on the network perimeter, a Zero Trust security model enforces security policies for each individual connection between users, devices, applications and data.

Zero Trust operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify” rather than granting implicit trust to all users inside a network. This granular security approach helps address the cybersecurity risks posed by remote workers, hybrid cloud services, personally-owned devices, and other elements of today’s networks. This goes beyond simply having usernames and passwords. The Navy needs to verify every data access request in near real time, regardless of the user's location or device.

The sought solution requires leveraging both Government and commercial technologies: Advanced Authentication - moving beyond passwords to biometrics, multi-factor authentication, and behavioral analysis; Micro-segmentation - dividing data into smaller highly-controlled compartments to limit the impact of any potential breach (think of it like having separate locked filing cabinets for different types of sensitive information); Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) - detecting anomalous behavior and automatically adapting security measures, which could involve analyzing user access patterns to identify potential threats in real-time; and Blockchain Technology - exploring its potential for secure data logging and access control, ensuring an immutable record of all data transactions.

This Zero Trust system must ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data, regardless of location or device type, which is crucial for maintaining a tactical advantage in future conflicts where information superiority will be paramount. Existing, new, and emerging technologies will be crucial in building this system.

While promising technologies exist, they are not currently integrated or robust enough to meet the Navy's stringent security requirements. The new system must address real-time performance and must ensure access verification suitable for fast-paced combat scenarios. The Navy requires near-instantaneous system access to effectively respond to dynamic and evolving threats.

Furthermore, scalability and integration with complex Navy networks and systems must be ensured, along with system resilience to cyberattacks and the ability to function in degraded environments (i.e., situations where critical infrastructure or communication links may be compromised due to enemy action, natural disasters, or other disruptive events). The solution must develop faster (reduce average authentication time from 15 seconds to 5 seconds) and more efficient authentication methods; implement micro-segmentation techniques to reduce the attack surface by dividing a network into smaller isolated security segments; integrate AI/ML for real-time threat detection and response; and explore and adapt blockchain technology for secure data management. The Navy aims to achieve significant improvements compared to existing systems, including reducing access latency by at least 50%, reducing the risk of unauthorized data access by at least 90%, and streamlining data management processes to reduce administrative overhead by at least 25%.

The developed technology will be evaluated against National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards for compartmented data control, cybersecurity and data integrity (e.g., NIST SP 800-207, Zero Trust Architecture).

The Navy requires the development and integration of an adaptive "Zero Trust" data control system to secure critical combat data. This system must leverage advanced authentication, micro-segmentation, and AI/ML to provide near real-time, verified access for authorized personnel across any device or location. Key performance requirements include reducing authentication time to under five seconds, decreasing the risk of unauthorized data access by at least 90%, and ensuring the system is scalable, resilient in degraded environments, and compliant with NIST standards.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a real-time Zero Trust data access control system for combat systems, specifically addressing the NIST standards associated with compartmented data control. Demonstrate the feasibility of this concept by providing detailed system architecture, including key technologies, algorithms, and data flow diagrams, which must include modeling and simulation to show the system's potential to meet Navy performance goals in the Description. (Note: If modeling and simulation alone cannot sufficiently demonstrate feasibility for specific aspects of the concept, propose and justify the use of subscale prototypes or surrogate systems, outlining their required characteristics and how they will contribute to a comprehensive feasibility assessment. For example, a subscale prototype might demonstrate the performance of a novel authentication mechanism under simulated network conditions, while a surrogate system could represent a simplified version of a combat system component for integration testing.)

The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype of the Zero Trust data access control system for combat systems based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate the core functionalities of the proposed system, including authentication, authorization, micro-segmentation, and real-time threat detection. Support testing of the prototype in a representative environment mirroring the complexity and data flow of a combat system network and including simulated cyberattacks and operational scenarios to assess the system's resilience and performance under stress. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use. Transition the prototype Zero Trust data access control system into a fully operational capability for Navy use within the Maritime Targeting Cell - Afloat/Expeditionary (MTC-A/X) platform. The final product will be a robust, scalable, and secure system capable of managing and controlling access to sensitive combat system data in real-time, adhering to NIST standards and achieving the performance improvements outlined in previous phases.

The core technology developed under this effort has significant potential for dual-use applications in various commercial sectors. The need to protect sensitive data is not unique to the military. Businesses across numerous industries, including finance, healthcare, and energy, face similar challenges in safeguarding proprietary information and customer data from cyber threats and unauthorized access. The Zero Trust security model developed for the Navy can be adapted to protect sensitive corporate data, such as financial records, intellectual property, and personal health information.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Intra-Satellite Communications - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV060

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a hardware capability that communicates rapidly between any commercial satellites to reduce latency of data transmission to track open ocean targets.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

The current model for commercial satellite communication involves each satellite independently communicating directly with ground stations or geostationary relay satellites. This architecture presents a significant challenge for tracking mobile targets, especially across wide areas. Because satellites do not communicate directly with each other, a target moving out of the field of view (FOV) of one satellite requires a time-consuming handoff process involving ground stations. This process introduces latency and inefficiencies, especially when trying to coordinate tracking across multiple satellites, whether from the same constellation or different vendors.

The use of existing commercial satellite infrastructure could provide the capability to mitigate these latencies and inefficiencies without the substantial cost of developing and deploying a dedicated military satellite network.

The Navy seeks a hardware solution to be installed on Government satellites that enables inter-satellite communication (ISC) within commercial satellite constellations. No existing commercial capability can accomplish this requirement. This proposed capability will allow satellites to directly share tracking data and other information and significantly improve the tracking of open ocean targets.

The solution must meet the following parameters:

1. Use Seamless Target Handoff to enable real-time communication between satellites, allowing for seamless tracking of objects as they move across the coverage areas of different satellites, eliminating the need for ground station intervention.

2. Use enhanced Tracking Accuracy and Persistence to direct communication between satellites.

3. Enable faster and more accurate correlation of target data from multiple viewpoints compared to the current time it takes to establish these same parameters.

4. Improve tracking accuracy, particularly for maneuvering targets.

5. Ensure persistent tracking even in challenging environments.

6. Establish an inter-satellite linked network that creates a dynamic and responsive network that adapts to changing operational needs.

7. Enable satellites to quickly share information about new targets or changes in target behavior, enhancing overall situational awareness.

8. Allow direct communication between satellites to reduce the time currently required to transmit critical tracking data to decision-makers.

9. Measure the data transfer latency between satellites under various network load and orbital configurations, as compared to latency experienced with traditional ground-relay communication systems.

10. Evaluate the data throughput capacity of the inter-satellite links and provide a determination of the maximum data rate that can be reliably sustained between satellites.

11. Assess the stability and reliability of the inter-satellite links under operational conditions for distances between satellites and atmospheric interference.

12. Test the effectiveness of routing data efficiently between satellites and route the data according to the most efficient routing protocol to achieve the most efficient routing between satellites, thus managing network congestion.

13. Improve target tracking accuracy achieved by using ISC compared to the accuracy using traditional methods with improved accuracy over the traditional methods. (Note: A baseline of traditional methods will be established to measure against an improvement provided by the solution, which must include the ability to measure the latency and message fidelity efficiency and seamlessness of target handoff between satellites including any associated loss of tracking data.)

14. Provide for assessing the coverage area of interest (AOI) footprint within the satellite pass and provide a determination of the ability of the network to maintain continuous tracking of targets moving across large areas.

15. Capable of simultaneously tracking multiple targets in accordance with the Commander’s intent, including targets with varying speeds and trajectories.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for an intra-satellite communication hardware capability. Demonstrate feasibility through modeling and simulation showing the parameters in the Description can be achieved. Compare the cost of implementing and operating the intra-satellite communication system to the cost of alternative solutions, such as reliance solely on ground-based tracking systems. Assess the return on investment (ROI) achieved by leveraging commercial satellite infrastructure and implementing intra-satellite communication. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype intra-satellite communication hardware capability based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate that the prototype meets the parameters in the Description and the performance goals of Navy requirements. Support the Navy’s comprehensive testing to validate the effectiveness of the system using evaluation metrics to quantify the system’s performance. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology for use in a wartime environment to track objects of interest. Assist the Navy in testing the technology’s performance in actual conditions, which must be validated by demonstrating that the system meets the demanding requirements of modern naval operations via system integration and interoperability via operational testing in simulated scenarios and field testing.

Once operations of the system have provided feedback on its usability, effectiveness, and suitability for operational needs, the system will be used to inform future development and deployment decisions, ultimately providing concrete evidence of the system's capabilities and its potential to transform naval operations.

Outside the military, this technology has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, such as law enforcement, marine wildlife protection, vessel collision avoidance, supply chain management, coordination of rescue/relief efforts, and meteorology and space. The system could be deployed across multiple domains, improving safety, efficiency, and environmental protection in diverse environments.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Predictive Movement for Object Oriented Tracking - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV061

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a capability using Artificial Intelligence (AI) that investigates, tracks, and assigns priority for future state forecasting such as Geospatial-temporal Pattern of Life Analysis and change detection for the Maritime Targeting Cell (MTC).

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Maritime Targeting Cell is a high-tech “fusion” node, which receives massive amounts of data from diverse sources (e.g., satellites, sensors), making it difficult to process and interpret effectively. Current tracking relies heavily on manual methods, which can overwhelm staff and lead to inefficient resource allocation. They are essentially trying to find the proverbial needle in a haystack. Without an automated system, it is difficult to prioritize which objects require immediate attention, which can lead to critical threats being overlooked.

The Maritime Targeting Cell has a need to increase readiness for potential conflicts with adversaries. There are currently a large number of objects that need to be tracked, both above and below the surface of the ocean, across the globe. These objects include U.S. Navy Ships, other U.S. Government vessels, allied and partner Naval vessels, commercial vessels, adversary vessels, U.S. and other nations’ submarines, underwater drones and sensors, and aircraft. The Navy needs to utilize efficient tracking methods for large numbers of objects so future state forecasting, pattern of life, and change detection can enable analysts to investigate targets, maintain track custody, and assign priority to objects detected.

As more sensors come online, the data volume will only increase, exacerbating existing problems. The current manual processes simply cannot scale and as the Navy’s specific requirements are unique and complex, off-the-shelf tracking software is insufficient. Currently no existing commercial technology can meet this need.

The Navy envisions an AI-driven solution that aims to address these challenges by automating key aspects of the tracking process.

The solution must meet the following parameters:

1. It must use AI-powered tracking algorithms to process sensor data, identify and track objects, and predict their future movements.

2. It must use Automated Prioritization in which AI is used for activity prediction and Pattern of Life (POL) analysis to assign a priority level to each tracked object, allowing analysts to focus on the most important targets first.

3. It must use Predictive Forecasting and Change Detection to analyze historical data and current behavior and predict future object states and quickly identify deviations from expected patterns, enhancing situational awareness.

4. It must contain Hierarchical Target Management to allow the system to maintain track custody of all objects, but present them to analysts in a prioritized hierarchy, allowing for efficient resource allocation.

5. It will need to have Enhanced Scalability so as new sensors are added, the AI can seamlessly integrate the additional data without requiring a proportional increase in manpower.

6. It will need to have Improved Response Time through automating analysis and prioritization to accelerate the decision-making process, enabling faster responses to developing situations.

In essence, the proposed AI solution aims to transform the Navy from a reactive overwhelmed center to a proactive highly efficient hub for maritime domain awareness, which will empower the Navy to better manage the vast amount of data it collects and make more informed decisions, ultimately enhancing national security.

Evaluation metrics will be used to quantify the system’s performance, including accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score (a balanced measure of precision and recall), processing time, false positive rate, and false negative rate. These metrics will measure how often the system correctly identifies and tracks objects, the proportion of correctly identified objects out of all identified and all actual objects, a balance of precision and recall, the data processing time, and the rates of incorrect object identification and missed object identification.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for an AI-driven maritime tracking system that automates data processing, object identification and tracking, and threat prioritization. Demonstrate the feasibility of this concept through modeling and simulation, showing how the proposed algorithms can achieve the required levels of accuracy in object identification, tracking, and prioritization using simulated sensor data representing realistic maritime scenarios. Ensure that this simulation demonstrates (1) the concept's ability to handle increasing data loads that reflect the Navy's future needs, (2) improved response times compared to current manual methods, and (3) the feasibility of hierarchical target management to prioritize objects based on predicted threat level. (Note: While full prototypes are not expected in Phase I, performers might need to develop subscale prototypes or surrogates of specific AI modules, such as predictive forecasting or POL analysis components.)

The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype AI-driven maritime tracking tool based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate the core functionalities of the prototype, including AI-driven tracking, prioritization, predictive forecasting and change detection, hierarchical target management, enhanced scalability, and improved response time. Support rigorous prototype testing using simulated and/or real-world maritime sensor data and evaluation on the performance against metrics defined in the Description, including accuracy, prioritization effectiveness, and response time improvement. (Note: If a full prototype is cost-prohibitive, advanced modeling and simulation using representative data can be used to demonstrate the technology's potential.) Ensure that the prototype meets key requirements including specified accuracy levels, prioritization thresholds, and demonstrable improvements in response time and scalability.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use. Support testing to ensure that the system meets the demanding requirements of modern naval operations via operational testing in simulated scenarios and field testing to assess its performance in actual conditions.

Once operators of the system have provided feedback on its usability, effectiveness, and suitability for operational needs, the system will be used to inform future development and deployment decisions, ultimately contributing to an enhanced scalability and improved response time.

Outside of the military, this technology has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, such as law enforcement, marine wildlife protection, climate change research, vessel collision avoidance, supply chain management, coordination of rescue/relief efforts, and meteorology. The system could be deployed across multiple domains, improving safety, efficiency, and environmental protection in diverse environments.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Secure Tasking of Commercial Assets - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV062

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a capability for intercommunication between Government and commercial satellites.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Maritime Targeting Cell-Afloat/Expeditionary (MTC-A/X)’s purpose is to provide weapons-quality tracks to support over-the-horizon targeting by using multi-intelligence capabilities across all domains and deliver direct sensor data downlink capability. To maintain a tactical advantage, the Navy requires the ability to task commercial satellites at Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)/Information Level-5 (IL-5) and Secret Level (IL-6) to ensure tasking is not discoverable by adversaries.

The Navy could task commercial satellites for missions requiring secure handling of sensitive information, like targeting; however, commercial satellite providers typically do not offer the security levels required for classified Government operations [CUI impact levels (IL)-5 or Secret IL-6]. They could modify existing military systems for commercial use but that is prohibitively expensive and impractical for commercial vendors. Nothing that is commercially available can fulfill this communications need.

The Navy needs a capability to securely task commercial satellites at the required classification levels. This requires a solution leveraging both Government and commercial technologies, such as implementing end-to-end encryption within existing commercial tasking interfaces, secure data transfer protocols, and blockchain-based solutions for verifying the authenticity and integrity of tasking requests. The performer must evaluate the feasibility of integrating commercial security technologies like secure cloud platforms and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and explore emerging technologies such as quantum-resistant cryptography for enhanced long-term security.

The solution must establish a baseline for data security with an initial focus on establishing secure methods for tasking commercial satellites at the required CUI levels. Subsequent efforts will focus on solutions that demonstrate measurable reductions in tasking latency - measuring the speed and efficiency of the tasking process, verifying a targeted 90% reduction in tasking time compared to current methods, for which standard tasking can take up to 14 days from order to delivery. Seamless integration across different cybersecurity requirements will further contribute to more timely tasking, increased tasking opportunities, and a stronger overall cybersecurity posture.

The developed technology will be evaluated in a simulated environment against National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards for secure communications and data handling at the specified classification levels. This performer will also leverage existing Navy contracts, such as those managed by the Commercial Space Program Office (CSPO), to ensure rapid transition and widespread adoption across the DoW.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a secure satellite tasking system that meets the parameters in the Description. Demonstrate the feasibility of this concept by providing a detailed concept design, including system architecture, security protocols, integration plans with existing commercial tasking interfaces, and modeling and simulation to show the system's potential to meet Navy performance goals in the Description. (Note: If modeling and simulation alone cannot sufficiently demonstrate feasibility for specific aspects of the concept, propose and justify the use of simulations or subscale demonstrations to illustrate key aspects of the concept, particularly related to security and integration. For example, a simulation demonstrating the secure transfer of encrypted tasking data between a mock commercial interface and a simulated secure government network would be beneficial.)

Specify the number and delivery schedule of any prototype articles provided to the Government for testing in the Phase II SOW based on the specific approach proposed by the performer.

The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype secure satellite tasking system based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate the core functionality of the secure tasking system, including secure communication channels, data encryption/decryption, authentication and authorization mechanisms, and integration with representative commercial tasking interfaces.

(Note: If full prototype development is deemed too costly within the Phase II budget, the contractor may propose alternative evaluation methods, such as detailed simulations or analytical modeling, to demonstrate the prototype meets Navy performance goals. These alternative methods must be clearly justified and provide sufficient evidence to support the claims.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the secure satellite tasking system to operational use within the Navy. The prototype will be developed and integrated within the Maritime Targeting Cell program and seamlessly integrated with commercial satellite providers.

Support the transition process by refining and hardening the system: addressing any remaining bugs or vulnerabilities identified during Phase II testing and optimizing performance for operational use; developing comprehensive documentation and training materials to provide Navy personnel with the necessary resources to operate and maintain the system effectively; providing ongoing technical support; and assisting the Navy with system integration, deployment, and troubleshooting.

While developed for military applications, this secure satellite tasking technology has significant potential for dual use in the commercial sector. Many industries rely on satellite imagery but face challenges protecting sensitive or proprietary information. This technology could be adapted to provide secure tasking and data transfer for secure commercial applications and safeguard proprietary information from unauthorized access. Other potential applications include precision agriculture to protect sensitive crop data from competitors; environmental monitoring to secure data related to pollution or resource exploration; and urban planning to protect sensitive infrastructure information.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Anomalous Behavior Detection and Alerting for Congested Maritime Environments - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV063

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a capability for automated Pattern of Life (PoL) analysis in congested maritime environments.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

U.S. Navy platforms defended by the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) combat system frequently transit maritime regions of the world that are congested with oceangoing vessels and aircraft traffic, which may include fishing vessels, tankers and cargo container ships, commercial airliners, or hostile entities such as enemy surface combatants or anti-air warfare (AAW) threats. In those congested maritime environments, enemies may attempt to hide within the noise of maritime congestion in an effort to gain initiative and surprise against U.S. Navy forces. There are some information sources at the disposal of Ship’s Force to detect adversaries. For example, both surface vessels (using Automatic Identification System (AIS) or aircraft (using Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B)) publicly broadcast certain types of information about themselves, including but not limited to Global Positioning System (GPS) location, speed, altitude, destination, and other identifying information as appropriate. However, not all regions have requirements that all traffic must broadcast this information, and actors conducting nefarious or illegal activity have been known to disable AIS and ADS-B systems on their craft. Non-cooperative methods to determine the intent of these craft have been developed in response to the risks posed by uncompliant vessels or aircraft, including PoL analysis. Here, longitudinal records of typical traffic patterns are established over time, then compared against real-time observations to identify anomalous – and therefore potentially nefarious or threatening – activity that is out of family from those records, such as deviation from established vessel traffic separation schemes (TSS), frequently-traveled flight paths or air corridors, or fishing activity in unexpected areas, among others. Anomalous contacts can then be flagged for increased scrutiny by human operators or other actions. However, detailed monitoring and analysis can be difficult for human operators and watchstanders to do for an entire transit duration or extended stay within a congested environment. For example, it requires close attention to detail over long periods of time, which can induce attentional fatigue and missed indicators by operators. Additionally, in the absence of digital historical records and/or when traversing new areas, Ship’s Force may have no historical collective knowledge of maritime traffic patterns against which to compare observations. The safety-critical nature of this task, coupled with the challenge it poses for humans, suggests a unique and important target for automation. Currently no commercial answer to the problem exists.

The Navy seeks the capability to analyze PoL behaviors exhibited by nearby maritime traffic for various regions of the world. Solutions must comprehensively explore all traffic (surface and air) within a 360-degree coverage area around a notional ship, using one or more PoL methods to identify targets that are anomalous and potentially threatening to the ship. Solutions must leverage common sources of maritime traffic data and include at a minimum AIS, ADS-B, and notional air or surface contacts detected by notional radars; other data sources can be specified, but must be realistic for Navy ships to collect, then identify and describe. Tracks or conditions of interest identified by the system must generate alerts for operators via decision support systems or other capabilities that are developed alongside automated analysis and detection logic. Selected alerting content and methods are flexible, but at a minimum must include system track numbers, select descriptive details of the track, provide an explanation of the machine reasoning for the alert that was generated, and compile a machine confidence assessment of the conclusion.

Proposed solutions must (1) function without large volumes of historical traffic patterns and trends stored within the combat system’s computers or databases, (2) include a notional plan for future integration with the SSDS combat system and its operator displays, and (3) be accompanied by an architecture that specifies at a minimum: sources of input data required for analysis; communications and/or data exchange pathways to support analysis needs; specific points of integration between algorithm(s) or method(s) used to perform PoL analysis and selected data sources; and operator alerting and information dissemination capabilities that could integrate with SSDS displays.

Proposals should address data volume concerns associated with storing large PoL databases and describe methods to execute the proposal without requiring significant additional data storage devices and without limiting PoL data to temporary “region-specific” data holdings that must be expunged as ship Operating Areas (OPAREAs) change.

Improved methods of automated PoL analysis that can identify potentially threatening sea or air contacts and communicate findings to watchstanders would significantly improve safety conditions for SSDS vessels transiting these regions.

Three SSDS Top Level Requirements (TLRs) would be supported by this investigation.

• The SSDS CS shall generate and display the [Common Tactical Picture] to support command situation awareness and combat coordination. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1222]

• The SSDS CS shall provide a means by which operators are notified and are able to participate in the resolution of identification conflicts. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1492]

• The SSDS CS shall determine ID and classification with whatever data is available. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1486]

Work should include contacts and composite track data that are produced organically by SSDS combat system sensors, as well as architectural updates that specify the methods or approaches by which PoL analysis will be performed using a fusion of maritime tracks and organic SSDS composite tracks.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for an automated PoL analysis method in congested maritime environments meeting the requirements in the Description. Assess feasibility through modeling, simulation, or other means. Ensure that selected methods are explainable. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype automated PoL analysis method in congested maritime environments. Demonstrate functionality and performance of a full 360-degree coverage capable of meeting realistic operational SSDS use cases and needs for specific regions, as well as a detailed plan for integrating this solution with SSDS. (Note: To support successful Phase II efforts, the Acquisition Office will provide information regarding the SSDS architecture, U.S. Navy consoles and display environment capabilities, and world regions of interest.) Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use through system integration and qualification testing for the prototype hardware capability developed in Phase II. Deliver the prototype to support an IWS 80 critical experiment conducted jointly by the performer and the combat system engineering agent (CSEA), to take place in a live environment with tactical SSDS combat system software. (Note: The transition will require integration of the prototype into SSDS.)

Dual-use applications to consider include but are not limited to sea- or land-based private or third-party transportation, shipping, and logistics applications; personnel security; event security; and environmental and resource extraction regulatory monitoring.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Terminal Defense Weapon System Coordinator - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV064

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a Terminal Defense System Weapon System Coordinator (TDSWC) for terminal defense system weapon system engagements.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

PEO IWS 11 is responsible for providing terminal defense weapon systems for ship self-defense against Anti-Ship Missile (ASM), Helicopter, Aircraft, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), and Surface Threats. The program’s portfolio includes Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM), Close-in Weapon System (CIWS), Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (CUAS), Directed Energy, and Guns.

Ship combat systems direct and manage terminal defense weapon system engagements so terminal defense weapon system upgrades require an update to the ship combat system. In addition, ship combat system weapon direction and management require complex algorithms in the ship combat system plus a detailed understanding of weapon systems’ performance.

Ship combat system weapon system updates are part of the combat system’s major releases. This takes years of development, followed by years of fielding.

The Navy seeks a capability that decouples weapon system upgrades from ship combat system updates and allows terminal defense systems to develop and field updates within two months. Currently no existing commercial technology can meet this need. The solution will move the ship combat system terminal defense weapon system responsibilities for managing upgrades and weapon system coordinating engagements from the combat system to the weapon system coordinator in real-time without latency.

Development of the weapon system coordinator solution must use model-based system engineering (MBSE) for documenting requirements, developing the architecture, and testing the behavior. The coordinator shall use Artificial Intelligence (AI) for engagement coordination by implementing AI heuristics and machine learning. The MBSE model shall include a code generator that will translate the model to an executable program that can be run on a RED HAT LINUX platform. The coordinator will include a combat system interface for managing combat system commands as well as cyber secure interfaces to each terminal defense weapon system.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NASEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a TDSWC concept using MBSE. Demonstrate feasibility in meeting the weapon system coordinator requirements using modelling, simulation, and analysis. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and a capabilities description to build a prototype in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a TDSWC prototype based on results of the Phase I. Demonstrate the prototype meets the Description parameters by integrating the executable software into a Navy-provided simulation testbed that complies with the combat system and terminal defense systems interface requirements. Verify the prototype meets the defined requirements and architectures. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the prototype TDSWC model and executable to a Navy appointed warfare center for future development and maintenance. Provide oversight during the transition of the TDSWC. Assist the Navy in product field testing, implementing upgrades, and porting the executable to different computing platforms.

Successful use of MBSE to document requirements, architecture and executable is desirable for products that can be used on a variety of computing platforms. The design and behavior of the product remains the same while the implementation of the product changes based on the computing platform’s characteristics (physical configuration, manufacturer, instruct set architecture, etc.). As such, this technology is useful for all computing architectures in corporations.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Adaptive Sensor Management - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV065

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop an algorithmic capability for dynamic resource allocation that characterizes existing Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) sensor tasking allocations, the relative magnitude of each sensor’s fire control data contributions to composite tracks, identify sensor resources that could be released for other more impactful tasking without sacrificing current track quality metrics of relevance, and specify existing or potentially new sensor tasking that would benefit most from re-allocation of those resources.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Navy aircraft carriers and amphibious warfare (L-class) ships are defended by the SSDS, a combat system comprised of weapons, sensors, communications systems, computers, and other elements working together to detect, track, and engage inbound anti-ship missiles and other threats. SSDS platforms sense their environments and identify tracks of interest by integrating inputs from a variety of sensors, which include rotating, fixed face and fire control or target illumination radars that cover a variety of radar bands, as well as electronic support (ES) sensors that process received Radio Frequency (RF) waveforms. Each of these sensors provides its update to the combat system at different rates. For example, while phased array radars can provide rapid target measurements and schedule beams or dwells across a wide field of view, rotating radars may have much narrower fields of view (FOVs) and provide full rotations only once every several seconds. However, because each sensor strives to maximize performance and provide the information necessary for SSDS to build and maintain fire control quality tracks on targets of interest, there are conditions in which further aggregation of sensor data may provide diminishing returns related to fire control track quality (e.g., continuing to provide updates on certain well-characterized tracks may not offer significant track state covariance reductions or additional fire control quality improvements over its current state). It may be advantageous in these cases to shift some of those sensor tasks to other combat system needs, specifically where those additional tasks could substantially improve track quality on other targets or help improve situation awareness via other means. Nothing available commercially can provide this capability.

The Navy seeks an algorithm-based software solution that automatically detects which sensors are contributing to fire control quality tracks on particular targets, assesses the relative magnitudes of their contributions, identifies conditions in which particular sensor resources could be released for other sensor tasking, and specifies which current or potentially novel sensor tasking would benefit most from allocation of those released resources. Proposed solutions should be dynamic, adaptive, responsive to rapid changes in track hostility characterization (i.e., solvable in real-time or better, minimizing algorithmic worst-case time complexity), and work with heterogeneous combinations of sensor tasking and resource utilization feedback parameters. Solutions must identify each sensor’s capability that is controllable by SSDS (e.g., search sectors, search modes, track-based controls, and cueing capabilities, among others) and leverage those realistic features in a solution for SSDS.

Examples of alternative sensor tasking include but are not limited to: executing surface-, volume-, or sector-specific search patterns; modifying or updating search modes; applying track-based controls; cueing other sensors on a specific target; or other actions. Example algorithmic techniques and fields from which approaches could be derived include stochastic and Bayesian optimization, metaheuristics, model predictive control theory, or others. Proposals using artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches will also be considered, but proposers should note that candidate solutions must be capable of generating resource re-allocation recommendations in scenarios that may be completely novel to the combat system and for which little to no prior exposure has been provided. Finally, proposed solutions should correspond to and be compatible with the existing SSDS Program of Record sensors. The initial solution will focus on mathematical and algorithmic development needed to address interactions between four radars that either are or will be installed on most SSDS platforms: SPS-48, SPQ-9B, MK-9 Tracker/Illuminator, and SPY-6(V)3. Solutions should be demonstrable under low to medium-fidelity modeling and simulation approaches, and the algorithmic solutions included in the proposed solution must be explainable.

Five SSDS Top Level Requirements (TLRs) would be supported by this investigation (note that, in the requirements language below, EW signifies Electronic Warfare, and ES signifies Electronic Support):

• The SSDS Combat System (CS) shall provide a sensor cueing capability that automatically selects and assigns air tracks to specified own ship sensors for the purpose of achieving requisite track confidence and track data quality to support automatic engagement recommendations at maximum range allowed by engagement doctrine. [SSDS_CS_TLR-289]

• The SSDS CS shall perform cued radar search for high-priority ES tracks that meet specified criteria but are not correlated or associated with existing SSDS CS active radar tracks. [SSDS_CS_TLR-291]

• The SSDS CS shall detect resource utilization conflicts between sensors and resolve them based on the sensor resource priorities established. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1300]

• The SSDS CS shall have automated and manual capabilities to request additional target EW data by ES sensor(s) for a specified track to support updates to EW classification. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1607]

• The SSDS CS shall coordinate above water radar activities based on radar capabilities, availability, and tactical and operational conditions. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1631]

Solutions explored during a potential Phase II award must include an expanded set of sensors, the last of which is an ES sensor. The full sensor suite will therefore include SPS-48, SPS-49, SPQ-9B, SPY-6(V)2, SPY-6(V)3, MK-9 Tracker/Illuminator, and SLQ-32(V)6.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a dynamic resource allocation software capability that characterizes existing SSDS sensor task allocations and provides a solution that meets all requirements identified in the Description. Show feasibility of the concept using modeling, simulation, analysis, or other methods that are explainable, as well as references from sensor tracking and resource management open literature for resource management inputs. (Note: To support realistic demonstration and candidate solution development, the performer will be provided with a reference combat system architecture example and additional sensor tasking information.) Phase I solutions will be advisory in nature, where recommendations will be provided to sensor and/or combat system operators for evaluation and action. If the Phase I Option is exercised, include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype dynamic resource allocation algorithm-based software capability that characterizes existing SSDS sensor tasking allocations based on the results of Phase I, expanding to include the Phase II sensors identified in the Description as well as SSDS-specific fire control quality tracking and sensor resource management details. Phase II will also include a trade study to explore overall system performance where resource allocation actions are automatically taken by the system vice made to human operators for consideration and possible action. (Note: Phase II will require a notional plan for integrating the product into the SSDS combat system.) Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use through system integration and qualification testing for the prototype hardware capability developed in Phase II. Deliver the prototype to support an IWS 80 critical experiment conducted jointly by the proposer and the combat system engineering agent (CSEA), expected to take place in a live environment with tactical SSDS combat management system (CMS) software. (Note: The transition will require integration of the prototype into the SSDS CMS.)

Dual-use applications to consider are self-driving cars, vehicles, and other platforms equipped with multiple sensors; manufacturing and production quality control systems; and other applications where systems must dynamically prioritize and allocate sensor coverage to maintain maximum system efficiency.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Manufacturing Technologies for Ryberg-based Atomic Sensors (MANTRAS)-SBIR XL - SBIR Topic DPA26BZ03-DV011

Funding Amount:

Est. $5,000,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Demonstrate a low-SWaP, ruggedized, and manufacturable platform for real-time measurement, data acquisition, and analysis of wideband RF signals using Rydberg-based atomic sensors.

Description:

Rydberg-based RF receivers are a class of emerging quantum technologies that are potentially capable of reception over an immensely broad carrier band (from HF/UHF to the millimeter-wave regime), high sensitivity, and passive operability within a single compact package.[1] Each of these attributes can, in turn, lend themselves to disruptive applications beyond the capabilities of conventional electro-optic, antenna-based, or plasmonic receivers. While the potential capabilities of Rydberg-based receivers have been validated to an extent within laboratory-scale proof-of-concept demonstrations, there are several technical challenges that need to be addressed en route to a viable DoW-relevant technology. Each of the particular attributes of Rydberg-based sensors that allow for beyond-SoA performance, i.e. all-optical tunability across orders of magnitude in reception frequency, quantum-limited sensitivity, coherent detection within compact vapor cells etc, also require the development of low-SWaP photonic and optolectronic systems for quantum state preparation and measurement; integrated optical frequency combs for wide tunability; and low-latency systems for control, measurement, and spectral analysis. At present, such quantum-enabling technologies have yet to demonstrate the stringent performance requirements needed to supplant larger, laboratory-scale infrastructure. This void has stymied the transition of such quantum devices to widely deployable, low-SWaP technologies as well as the future scalability of such systems to address a growing landscape of applications in atom-based sensing and PNT. In this context, ongoing programs at DARPA[2] are developing integrated photonic architectures ranging from on-chip narrow-linewidth laser sources and amplifiers at wavelengths of relevance to workhorse atomic species; microcomb-driven photonic integrated circuits for the stabilization and distribution of light; low-loss optical modulators and filters that could be harnessed for quantum state preparation, control and interrogation of atoms; and high-speed optical routing and processing architectures. Although the current performance of these enabling technologies is still some distance away from matching the performance of state-of-the-art laboratory-scale components, it is anticipated that continued progress in chip-scale photonics will lead to the maturation of these enabling technologies at a level that can match, and eventually surpass the performance of large-scale laboratory setups. It is also anticipated that the development of such chip-scale or integrated sub-systems can lead to advances and novel capabilities in deployable Rydberg-based quantum technologies that are not currently accessible with conventional antenna-based, electro-optic, or plasmonic techniques. The unique attributes of Rydberg-based RF receivers also pose challenges to the design and performance of control and signal processing architectures that are required to operationalize these systems. To achieve requisite levels of low-latency control, wideband signal processing, and autonomy of Rydberg-based devices, the aforementioned efforts on photonics will need to be complemented by innovative designs of low-latency system-on-chip (SoC) control and signal processing systems.[3] Further, in anticipation of the large landscape of applications for such receivers, it is preferable that such control and signal processing systems are co-designed in an application-oriented fashion, and compatible with an open-system architecture that enables seamless inter-operability of multiple application-specific control and signal processing architectures with the same photonic and optoelectronic system. This solicitation seeks to co-integrate Rydberg photonic systems with flexible low-latency control architectures for real-time measurement and processing of wideband RF signals for a low-SWaP and manufacturable platform for Rydberg atomic receivers.

PHASE I

Proposers wishing to proceed directly to Phase II may do so upon providing documentation of the following proof-of-concept capabilities:1. Laboratory scale performance of Rydberg-based atomic receivers for the proposed application showing performance comparable to, or exceeding, that of conventional antenna-based, plasmonic, or electro-optic receivers. 2. Proof-of-concept signal acquisition and processing algorithms implemented on Rydberg-based receivers. This proof-of-concept implementation does not need to be in a fully integrated ASIC or low-SWaP system, but should be compatible with an eventual real-time implementation in a compact platform that meets the SWaP metrics indicated in the solicitation.

PHASE II

Phase II base will produce a system-level design and laboratory prototype demonstration of a full integrated photonic/electronic control and signal processing system for a Rydberg atomic receiver. To enable appropriate comparisons with the performance of conventional RF systems, proposers may choose a specific application (e.g. wideband spectrum awareness, communications, signal identification and classification etc.) for the demonstration of their fully integrated Rydberg atomic receiver. Proposers should provide appropriate justifications that their proposed integrated Rydberg atomic receiver is amenable to other potential applications through nominal changes to the electronic control/signal processing system with minimal alterations to the photonic/optoelectronic architecture. The full system should target a form factor of <10L and a total power consumption of <50W. The design should be capable of meeting the following metrics for environmental ruggedness and deployability: • Operational temperatures: -10 to 55 ?C• Vibration noise (up to 1 kHz): 0.01 g2/Hz• Radiative emissions as per MIL-STD-461 for the proposer-defined application/platformThe Phase II base period of performance is 12 months and should conform to the schedule indicated below. (i) Schedule/Milestones/Deliverables for Phase II basePhase II base fixed milestones for this program should include:• Month 1: Preliminary report on Phase II base design for the integrated system, and report on acquisition and fabrication schedule for the end-of-Phase II base laboratory demonstration• Month 6: Interim report describing component fabrication, assembly, and testing. The report should include a discussion of any differences between realized component/system performance and the design requirements. • Month 12: Report describing the results of laboratory demonstrations of performance of integrated system for the proposed application, and a comparison to the SoA performance of conventional receivers for the same application. Report should also include preliminary testing and evaluation of the laboratory prototype for environmental resilience as per the metrics enumerated above. Phase II option will build upon the successful Phase II base efforts to demonstrate field testing and performance of a ruggedized and deployable Rydberg receiver system in a realistic operational environment. The Phase II option period of performance is 12 months and should conform to the schedule indicated below. (i) Schedule/Milestones/Deliverables for Phase II optionPhase II option fixed milestones for this program should include:• Month 1: Preliminary report on system-level integration, ruggedization, and real-time signal processing sub-systems of the deployable Rydberg receiver; and a testing schedule for the Rydberg receiver system in an operational environment.• Month 6: Interim report describing system assembly, testing, and performance of the deployable unit with comparisons relative to specifications of Phase II base design. The report should also include test results and evaluation of the deployable unit as per the environmental resilience metrics enumerated above. • Month 12: Final report describing the results of field tests of the integrated Rydberg atomic receiver and performance comparisons against the conventional SoA.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

The development of integrated, low-SWaP quantum systems for applications to sensing and PNT are each of critical relevance to several DoD applications. In addition, these technologies are crucial for various commercial markets including communications, spectrum awareness, design and testing of telecommunications infrastructure, and automation. It is anticipated that the development of scalable, robust and compact platforms for wideband Rydberg-based signal acquisition and processing will inform and enable these, and other, applications.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Engineering Sleep for Cognitive Performance - SBIR Topic DPA26BZ03-DV012

Funding Amount:

Est. $2,000,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop and demonstrate a wearable, non-invasive, closed-loop system that enhances the restorative functions of sleep. The system must monitor neurophysiological signals in real-time to deliver non-pharmacological stimuli that measurably improve physiological recovery and sustain cognitive performance under conditions of operational stress, such as sleep restriction.

Description:

The ability to sustain cognitive performance and accelerate physiological recovery is critical in demanding operational environments. Severe sleep restriction is known to degrade essential functions by disrupting the brain's natural restorative processes [1], including glymphatic waste clearance [2,3] and synaptic plasticity, which are tightly coupled to specific neurophysiological events during sleep [4].

PHASE I

This topic seeks the development of a wearable, closed-loop system that directly enhances the efficiency and restorative quality of sleep through precisely-timed, non-pharmacological intervention. Proposals should describe a system that integrates sensors to monitor neurophysiological signals in real-time, with the specific goal of identifying slow-wave sleep (SWS) and other key features of the sleep architecture. Upon detection of these opportune moments, the system should deliver precisely-timed, non-invasive stimuli to augment the brain's intrinsic restorative mechanisms. The primary modalities of interest for this intra-sleep intervention are auditory stimulation and/or photic stimulation. The proposed system should be able to demonstrate that the intervention measurably enhances the underlying biological processes, such as by increasing slow-wave activity or improving biomarkers associated with glymphatic clearance. Proposals that also incorporate a synergistic, pre-sleep conditioning modality (e.g., non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation) to prime the neuro-immune state are encouraged. The ultimate goal is a fieldable prototype that improves sleep efficiency and sustains cognitive function. Proposals not focused on a closed-loop, wearable system using targeted sensory stimulation to modulate sleep architecture will not be considered. Phase I fixed payable milestones for this program should include:• Month 2: A report detailing the initial system architecture, selection of hardware/software components, and the proposed biological mechanisms of action. The report must define the preliminary evaluation metrics (cognitive and physiological) and their expected relationship to cognitive resilience and operational readiness.• Month 4: A report on system integration and closed-loop algorithm performance (using simulated or pilot data). • Month 6: An interim demonstration of the working integrated proof-of-concept prototype. Must include a complete human subjects research (HSR) protocol for the Phase II study, demonstrating a study design and statistical power analysis sufficient to detect a 15% improvement in cognitive performance metrics under sleep restriction/stress compared to a sham/control group. Submission of this clinical study protocol to the local Institutional Review Board (IRB).• Month 9: Final report summarizing the Phase I approach and benchtop/usability testing results, including a detailed description of the prototype. The report must detail any additional engineering that needs to be completed (if any) in Phase II to achieve fully functional closed-loop control. Must include a detailed technical Statement of Work (SOW) for the Phase II effort.

PHASE II

This topic is soliciting both Phase I and Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals. DP2 Feasibility Criteria: Proposers should demonstrate that the scientific and technical feasibility, equivalent to the completion of a Phase I effort, has already been established. This feasibility documentation is a prerequisite for evaluation. To be considered, proposers should provide detailed evidence of a functional, closed-loop neuromodulation prototype. This documentation should substantiate that the existing system is capable of: (1) Real-Time Monitoring: Monitoring and processing relevant physiological signals (e.g., EEG) to identify specific features of sleep architecture in real-time. (2) Closed-Loop Stimulation: Delivering targeted, non-invasive stimuli (e.g., acoustic, photic) in a closed-loop manner, triggered by the detection of specific neurophysiological events. (3) Measurable Biological Effect: Producing a quantifiable, statistically significant modulation of a desired biological process. Evidence should be provided showing that the stimulus successfully engages the target mechanism (e.g., demonstrates enhancement of slow-wave activity, alters a relevant biomarker, etc.) compared to a control condition. This evidence may include peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, patent applications, or other detailed data packages from prior work. The documentation should be sufficient for a thorough technical review and confirm that the core scientific principles have been successfully demonstrated. Phase II: Building upon the demonstrated feasibility, the objectiveof Phase II is to mature the existing prototype into an advanced, integrated system (TRL 6) suitable for rigorous testing and validation in a human study. Performers will focus on optimizing the system's design for robustness, reliability, and user comfort for multi-night use, while advancing the on-board algorithms for sleep stage classification and precise stimulus delivery. The central effort of Phase II will be to conduct a formal validation study under a relevant stressor, such as a multi-day sleep restriction protocol. This study should be designed to demonstrate a statistically significant and operationally relevant benefit compared to a sham or control condition. Primary outcome measures should include both: Cognitive Performance: Quantifiable improvement (>15%) on validated tasks measuring vigilance, processing speed, and/or executive function (e.g., Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST)). Physiological Mechanisms: Evidence of successful target engagement, such as measurable enhancements in sleep architecture (e.g., increased slow-wave activity), or changes in physiological or blood-based biomarkers associated with glymphatic clearance and/or neuroinflammation. By the end of Phase II, performers will deliver the advanced prototype(s), all associated control software/source code, user manuals, and the complete, documented results from the validation study. The final report should include a comprehensive plan for transition, addressing manufacturing readiness, production cost estimates, and reliability data. Phase II fixed milestones for this program should include: • Month 11 (Month 2 of Base): Report detailing machine learning model pre-training and hardware integration of sensors and stimulation arrays. Must provide an initial cost estimate for manufacturing scale-up. Submission of the local IRB-approved protocol to the Office of Human and Animal Research Oversight (OHARO) for secondary review.• Month 14 (Month 5 of Base): Report on validation recordings and model artifact-robustness testing against expert scoring (Cohen’s ? = 0.75 vs. expert scoring). • Month 18 (Month 9 of Base): Report detailing initial data from pilot or human-factors testing to provide an early indication that sleep is being improved. The report must explicitly address the established physiological and cognitive metrics (e.g., initial data indicating a trajectory toward the 15% enhancement in physiological recovery or restorative biomarkers compared to baseline/sham).• Month 21 (Month 12 of Base): Comprehensive Phase II Base report documenting the completed in-lab study. This report must detail the system's efficacy, specifically demonstrating whether the system successfully achieved the targeted cognitive improvement metrics (15% improvement) as measured by the Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), and Task Switching assessments compared to the sham/control group.Phase II Option fixed milestones for this program should include: • Month 22 (Month 1 of Option): Interim report detailing the progress of the operational environment study. Must include a data quality review from the field, assessing device robustness, protocol compliance in a real-world setting, and preliminary analysis of the primary cognitive and physiological endpoints.• Month 27 (Month 6 of Option): Interim report detailing the progress of the operational environment study. Must include a data quality review from the field, assessing device robustness, protocol compliance in a real-world setting, and preliminary analysis of the primary cognitive and physiological endpoints.• Month 33 (Month 12 of Option): A comprehensive fielding guide, commercialization documentation, and a revised cost estimate for manufacturing scale-up. The Final Report must synthesize both the in-lab and operational environment data, providing definitive proof of the technology’s efficacy in real-world, high-stress conditions by demonstrating whether the system achieved improvement in the cognitive assessments compared to the sham/control group.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

The successful development of this technology is expected to create a transformative, non-pharmacological tool for cognitive sustainment and physiological recovery. Phase III efforts will focus on transitioning the mature technology by securing non-SBIR funding from government partners and/or private sector investors to scale manufacturing, obtain any necessary regulatory clearances, and enter military and commercial markets. Military/DoD Applications: The system could be transitioned to programs focused on warfighter performance and resilience. Potential applications include use in pre-deployment conditioning to build resilience, during operational periods to sustain cognitive function when sleep is limited, and in post-deployment settings to accelerate recovery and support long-term brain health, potentially mitigating risks associated with TBI and neurodegenerative disease. Commercial Applications: This technology has broad commercial potential in clinical and consumer health sectors. Applications include therapeutic devices for sleep disorders, tools for mitigating the effects of shift-work in aviation and commercial transport, performance optimization tools for elite athletes, and consumer wellness devices for individuals seeking to improve their daily sleep quality and cognitive function.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Expeditionary Closed and Air-Independent Power and Energy (ExCAIPE) - SBIR Topic DPA26BZ03-DV013

Funding Amount:

Est. $2,000,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

The goal of ExCAIPE is to develop closed, electrically rechargeable, high-energy-density and high-power-density batteries that can operate independently of an external air source. Performers are expected to produce prototypes for integration and evaluation in real devices and work closely with end users to ensure that their solutions are compatible with user requirements.

Description:

Electrically rechargeable batteries are of central importance for powering a wide range of military applications, including vehicles, computational assets, and sensing and communication devices. However, endurance is currently limited by the low-energy-density of state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries (~400 Wh/kg). Recent advances in air-breathing battery and fuel cell chemistry have made it feasible to envision electrically rechargeable systems with specific energy many times that of lithium-ion chemistry, potentially dramatically extending range and endurance for electrically powered assets.[1,2] The drawback with these systems is that their reliance on air renders them impractical or impossible to use in applications where free oxygen is depleted or absent, such as underwater, at very high altitudes, or in space.ExCAIPE aims to extend high-energy-density battery advancements to air-independent devices. The chemistry of air-independent batteries is more constrained than that of air-breathing devices, but several options exist in principle for reaching high energy densities.[3,4] DARPA seeks proposals to develop air-independent power sources that can meet or exceed the following metrics:End of Base Phase:• Specific energy of >1 kWh/kg at the cell level, given C/4 rate of discharge• Electrical rechargeability over 500 cycles with total capacity fade limited to <20%End of Option Phase:• Specific energy of >1.5 kWh/kg at the cell level, given C/4 rate of discharge• Loss of no more than 20% of the specific energy at pack level, including casing, battery management system (BMS), and thermal management• Electrical rechargeability over 5000 cycles with total capacity fade limited to <20%• Power density in excess of 1 kW/kg is highly desired but not mandatory.

This SBIR topic is a Direct to Phase 2 (DP2) effort with an 18-month Base Phase and an 18-month Option Phase. The Base Phase will prepare devices for potential testing by stakeholders and end users, and the Option Phase. Exceptional performers may be invited to present their technology to end user stakeholders at DARPA’s ExPEDitions Showcase, to occur roughly coincident with the end of the Base Phase. If performance at this event leads to strong interest from commercial or DoW entities, performers may be selected to continue their work in the Option Phase. The Option Phase will focus on integrating, testing, and evaluating devices in end user applications and refining their performance and design based on this activity. The Option Phase will culminate in a high-visibility Expo, “Powered By DARPA”, which will include demonstrations and technical talks from performers and end users who participated in the Showcase.DARPA will entertain proposals that are completely closed as well as proposals that use water as an oxidizer. However, in the latter case, proposals must outline how the variable composition and impurities in water will be managed (across a range of salinities, temperatures, and pressures, and in the presence of organic and other particulate matter) and how buoyancy changes in the device will be minimized. All devices must show the ability to recharge solely from electrical input.Proposals must show quantitative support for the proposers’ ability to meet the energy, power, and recharge metrics. This can include, but is not limited to, preliminary unpublished or published data, relevant literature claims, or theoretical calculations and estimations. Proposals must also clearly demonstrate that the proposed solution will reach a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 5-6 by month 18 of the effort. Proposals must also include information about expected form factor and operational conditions (temperature, pressure, etc.) of their device as well as benchmark ‘starting points’ for the performance of their proposed technology in comparison to the solicitation metrics. These starting points can be taken from current commercial offerings or derived from current component or lab-scale performance measurements.

PHASE I

This topic is soliciting Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals only. Proposals will be considered for DP2 funding based on documented ability of the proposing team to build air-independent high-energy-density power sources at the lab or benchtop scale. Proposals must clearly demonstrate that the proposed technology can satisfy the following feasibility criteria:• Data showing experimental energy density (based on current lab-scale prototype) and an extrapolation how the system will achieve >1 kWh/kg at the cell level• Data from tests conducted in a controlled environment with zero ambient air to show closed-system capability• Data should be substantiated by mass balance calculations showing that all reactants and oxidizers are contained within the battery’s initial mass• Data showing initial cyclability tests showing capacity retention of >98% for 20 cycles

PHASE II

Phase II fixed milestones for this program should include:Base PeriodPerformers are expected to produce a closed, electrically rechargeable, high-energy-density and high-power-density battery prototype that can operate independently of an external air source. Milestones should include:• Month 3: Report that documents the current battery prototype design and any modification or optimizations to the design that occurred since the beginning of Phase 1 and their rationale. Include the pathway towards delivering the Preliminary Design Review (PDR). • Month 6: PDR that includes a simulation or technical validation of design for battery prototype delivered in Month 9. This will consist of a review meeting to go over a PDR document. The document should contain:o Preliminary designs for the performer’s device.o Market analysis based on specific, identified use cases.o Manufacturability and critical materials analysis.• Month 9: Report that benchmarks current prototype performance against the following program metrics: o Specific energy of >1 kWh/kg at the cell level, given C/4 rate of dischargeo Electrical rechargeability over 500 cycles with total capacity fade limited to <20%• Month 12: Report that includes a detailed task list outlining the optimizations required to achieve performance improvement prior to the benchmark report in Month 15.• Month 15: Report that benchmarks current prototype performance against the following program metrics: o Specific energy of >1 kWh/kg at the cell level, given C/4 rate of dischargeo Electrical rechargeability over 500 cycles with total capacity fade limited to <20%• Month 16: Present a preliminary showcase pitch to assist with preparing for the Showcase. The Government will provide feedback to assist with finalizing the pitch for end users. • Month 18: Showcase participation to highlight the advanced capabilities of the battery prototype and secure a partnership with an end-user. A final report documenting the metrics achieved by the battery prototype in the Base phase and an optimization plan for the Option phase. In addition to the reports described above, performers should have monthly telecons with DARPA.Option PeriodPerformers are expected to integrate their prototype system into an end-user platform. Milestones should include:• Month 3: Report the current battery prototype design and any modification or optimizations to the design that occurred since the end of Phase 1 and their rationale. Include the pathway towards delivering the Critical Design Review (CDR).• Month 6: CDR. Design review for battery prototype to be delivered at month 9. This will consist of a review meeting to go over a CDR document. The document should contain:o Designs for the performer’s device based on feedback from the user-partner during and after the showcase period.o Concrete plan for manufacturing and scale-up, including analysis of materials and manufacturing costs at different scales, and clear statement of the targeted scale post-program.o Preliminary Intellectual Property (IP) landscape analysis and a strategy for IP protection and licensing.• Month 9: Report that benchmarks current prototype performance against the following program metrics: o Specific energy of >1.5 kWh/kg at the cell level, given C/4 rate of dischargeo Loss of no more than 20% of the specific energy at pack level, including casing, battery management system (BMS), and thermal managemento Electrical rechargeability over 5000 cycles with total capacity fade limited to <20%o Power density in excess of 1 kW/kg is highly desired but not mandatory• Month 12: Report that includes a detailed task list outlining the optimizations required to achieve performance improvement prior to the benchmark report in month 15.• Month 15: Report that benchmarks current prototype performance against the following program metrics: o Specific energy of >1.5 kWh/kg at the cell level, given C/4 rate of dischargeo Loss of no more than 20% of the specific energy at pack level, including casing, battery management system (BMS), and thermal managemento Electrical rechargeability over 5000 cycles with total capacity fade limited to <20%o Power density in excess of 1 kW/kg is highly desired but not mandatory• Month 16: Present a preliminary Expo pitch to assist with preparing for the DARPA Expo. The Government will provide feedback to assist with finalizing the presentation for stakeholders. • Month 18: Expo participation to demonstrate the battery prototype integrated into the end-user’s platform. This will include a presentation to Government and commercial stakeholders to facilitate additional transition of the technology developed. A final report documenting the metrics achieved by the battery prototype in the Option phase and transition plan for the device. In addition to reports described above, performers should have monthly telecons with DARPA.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

The end goal of this effort is to demonstrate electrically rechargeable, air-independent power sources at high TRL and with a specific energy in excess of 1.5 kWh/kg. Phase III will be oriented toward transition within DoW/military and further commercialization of the technology. Funding for Phase III is obtained from the private sector or a non-SBIR/STTR Government source. This is to develop the prototype technology into a viable product or service for sale (e.g., a deployable, ruggedized, user-friendly device) in military or private sector markets. The following are the potential commercial and DoW/military applications and use cases:

•  High-endurance, long-range power sources for undersea or space-based military assets, including unmanned undersea vehicles and satellites.

•  Long-lived power sources for ocean or freshwater exploration, surveying, and underwater resource prospecting.

•  Onboard power for civil space exploration, particularly when recharge events are precluded for long periods, such as lunar night.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Real-Time Pathogen-Host Interactome Prediction - SBIR Topic DPA26BZ03-DV014

Funding Amount:

Est. $1,750,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop and demonstrate a capability to rapidly characterize host–pathogen interactions from pathogen protein sequence alone, enabling timely medical countermeasure prioritization and force health protection against novel or emerging biological threats.

Description:

When novel or emerging pathogens (bacteria, viruses, parasites) are encountered, characterization of their interactions with human hosts currently requires weeks to months of experimental work, often yielding incomplete understanding. This capability gap limits rapid therapeutic response and countermeasure development. Recent advances in protein language models and large-scale protein-protein interaction (PPI) prediction make computational threat characterization feasible. This topic seeks to develop and validate an operationally deployable capability that can characterize any pathogen—naturally emerging, accidentally released, or engineered—from protein sequence data alone. The system must: (1) predict host-pathogen protein interactions with high accuracy across viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogen classes; (2) demonstrate zero-shot prediction capability on previously unseen pathogens; (3) provide comprehensive functional annotation of both pathogen and host proteins; (4) generate ranked mechanistic hypotheses about infection pathways through automated analysis; and (5) complete core predictions within 15 minutes and full characterization reports within one hour on standard computing hardware. Proposers must demonstrate rigorous evaluation methods to ensure the system generalizes to unseen pathogens rather than memorizing training data. Performance must be benchmarked against established protein interaction databases and validated experimentally using standard binding assay techniques. The end-state capability enables rapid biological threat characterization to support medical countermeasure prioritization and force health protection.

PHASE I

This topic is soliciting Direct to Phase II proposals only. Feasibility Requirements: Proposers must demonstrate that Phase I feasibility has been achieved through prior work. Required documentation includes: • Benchmark Performance Data: Quantified PPI prediction results on at least one pathogen class with rigorous data separation methods • Zero-Shot Validation: Demonstrated recovery of known host-pathogen interactions without training on that specific pathogen system • Pipeline Demonstration: At least one complete end-to-end run from pathogen sequence input to mechanistic characterization report meeting timing requirements • Functional Annotation Capability: Operational tools for protein functional prediction including gene ontology terms, subcellular localization, and pathway enrichment analysis

PHASE II

DP2 Program Structure DP2 Base Period (9 months): Scale and validate the computational pipeline across expanded pathogen coverage including higher-consequence agents. Deliver comprehensive experimental validation of novel predicted interactions. DP2 Option Period (9 months): Complete transition-ready software delivery with full documentation, demonstrate drug repurposing capability, and provide final performance characterization across the full threat spectrum. Phase II represents a major research and development effort that scales the validated Phase I pipeline into a deployable threat-characterization capability, with comprehensive experimental validation, druggability and drug-repurposing demonstration, and extension to higher-consequence pathogens. The Phase II effort culminates in a well-defined deliverable prototype — an end-to-end software pipeline and accompanying validation dataset — that can be transitioned to an operational user. Phase II fixed payable milestones for this program should include: DP2 Base Period • Month 2: Updated system architecture report and expanded pathogen coverage plan • Month 4: Evaluation dataset acquisition report covering higher-consequence pathogens and biological toxins • Month 6: Interim performance report with comprehensive benchmarking results • Month 9: Base period final report with experimental validation of =25 novel interactions (=30% hit rate) and drug repurposing demonstration DP2 Option Period• Month 12: Live demonstration to DARPA with prospective characterization run on Government-selected pathogen • Month 15: Final software delivery with source code and documentation • Month 18: Final report with transition plan and performance characterization

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Military Applications: Biosurveillance and rapid threat characterization, medical countermeasure prioritization, force health protection for deployed personnel, and intelligence analysis support. Commercial Applications: Drug discovery and repurposing, vaccine target identification, diagnostic biomarker development, veterinary and agricultural biosecurity, and integration with existing bioinformatics platforms.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Biomanufacturing of Hierarchical Biocomposites for High-Performance Thermal Interface Materials - SBIR Topic DPA26TZ03-DV002

Funding Amount:

Est. $1,800,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop and demonstrate a flexible, polymer-matrix thermal interface material with tunable thermal and mechanical properties, leveraging hierarchical, biocomposite-based microstructures for scalable, sustainable, low-cost thermal management of high-performance electronics and power applications.

Description:

This topic addresses the thermal management challenge of dissipating the large amount of heat generated by today’s high-density microelectronics and power storage systems to ensure and maintain performance, reliability, and safety [3, 4, 6].

Thermal interface materials (TIMs) are a critical component in thermal management. TIMs are designed to fill microgaps and surface irregularities between otherwise bare surfaces of a device and its cooling system. Without a TIM, if two nominally flat and smooth solid surfaces are joined to form a bare contact, surface microroughness can limit the actual area of contact between the two solids to about 1–2% of the apparent contact area [11].

The solid-to-solid conduction through the contact points, along with conduction through the air trapped in noncontact regions, are poor thermal conductors and limit heat transfer from one surface to another. This thermal contact resistance must be reduced by inserting a TIM at the interface to eliminate air voids and fill the gap between the device and cooling system.

The general requirements for a good TIM include:

• Low interfacial thermal resistance

• High thermal conductivity

• Low elastic modulus

• Good adhesion

• Good conformability

• Long-term stability

• Appropriate thermal expansion

This is particularly challenging for mechanically flexible applications because the soft, polymeric materials commonly used as TIM matrices generally have low thermal conductivity (TC) [7, 1], making it difficult to meet thermal management demands.

Drones and electric vehicles present another classic thermal management challenge due to high C-rate battery pack discharge and charge cycles during operation. The drone case may be especially difficult because payload and flight-time constraints often dictate passive thermal management approaches such as heat sinks and air cooling [5], with TIMs serving as a critical component for thermal coupling between the heat sink and battery packaging.

In addition to thermal conductivity demands, power and high-frequency systems often require TIMs that combine high heat conduction with:

• Electrical insulation

• Breakdown resistance

• Low leakage

• Geometric conformity

While traditional thermal pastes and greases perform well under certain conditions, they still face challenges such as insufficient thermal conductivity, aging, and poor reliability when applied in high-frequency, high-power-density applications.

In recent years, significant progress has been made in the design and synthesis of high-performance TIMs. However, balancing interfacial thermal resistance, thermal conductivity, and mechanical properties continues to pose a significant challenge.

Biomanufactured and biocomposite filler-type TIMs with simultaneous high thermal conductivity and electrical insulation [8, 9] may be ideal materials to address these requirements while offering a lower-cost, more sustainable supply-chain solution compared to advanced fillers such as boron-based semiconductors and carbon nanotubes.

PHASE I

This topic is soliciting Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals only.

The Government expects that the small business has already completed a Phase I-type feasibility effort and developed a prototype TIM that addresses, at a minimum, the basic requirements outlined in the objective above.

For this DP2 STTR, a technical report containing Phase I Feasibility Documentation is required to demonstrate that Phase I feasibility has been met. The documentation must contain a detailed description of the technical plan, milestones, and supporting data demonstrating that the proposed technology satisfies the Phase I deliverables and is at an appropriate maturity level for Direct to Phase II funding.

The proposer must substantiate that Phase I-equivalent feasibility has been achieved outside of the SBIR/STTR program.

PHASE II

The Direct to Phase II effort will focus on developing, integrating, and demonstrating a scalable biocomposite thermal interface material capable of balancing high thermal conductivity, electrical insulation, and mechanical flexibility.

Candidate TIMs must demonstrate scalable (bio)manufacturing and structural control of biocomposite filler architectures. The proposed materials must achieve thermal conductivity exceeding current state-of-the-art boron nitride-based soft polymer composite TIMs, specifically greater than 23 W/m-K through-plane thermal conductivity.

The effort should include modeling of processing-structure-property relationships to enable optimization of thermal conductivity while maintaining flexibility. Mechanical properties must be tunable while preserving thermal performance and electrical insulation.

Candidate biocomposite TIMs must demonstrate:

• Tailorable thermal conductivity across an achievable performance range

• Tunable flexibility versus thermal conductivity

• Stable thermal conductivity after 1,000 bending cycles at 100% maximum strain

• Sufficient adhesion, such as performance measured through a 90° peel test

• Modulus and flexibility comparable to common elastomers

Demonstration testing must be conducted using a prototype system operating in a realistic environment. Suitable demonstration platforms include passively cooled lithium-ion battery packs used in FPV drones or electric vehicles operating under high C-rates, as well as state-of-the-art CPUs and GPUs operating at maximum thermal design power (TDP).

Thermal performance will be compared against conventional TIM solutions, including thermal pastes containing metal or metal oxide fillers, phase-change materials, and alumina-based thermal pads.

The objective is to demonstrate that the biocomposite TIM successfully manages thermal loads in conditions where conventional TIMs fail. Examples include maintaining battery pack temperatures at or below 35°C regardless of discharge rate and ambient conditions, or maintaining CPUs and GPUs below maximum junction temperature during peak operation. The biocomposite TIM must provide a statistically significant reduction in device temperature compared to standard TIM technologies.

In addition to technical development, the project must include commercialization and transition planning. Throughout the effort, proposers are expected to engage both commercial and military stakeholders to refine operational requirements and deployment scenarios. Manufacturing scale-up plans and a technoeconomic analysis (TEA) must also be developed.

The final report must include technology transfer documentation identifying pathways for both commercial and military adoption.

Base Milestones

Month 1: Identify candidate TIM compositions, biocomposite designs, processing methods, and a design-of-experiments approach for optimization. Establish target performance metrics.

Month 3: Complete initial processing-structure-property modeling, provide preliminary TEA results, and downselect to final TIM candidates.

Month 6: Conduct initial thermal management testing in real-world systems and validate modeling results.

Month 9: Quantify thermal and mechanical performance, compare results against state-of-the-art alternatives, and provide initial long-term stability data.

Month 12: Demonstrate prototype TIM performance in an operational environment.

Base Deliverables

Month 1: TIM candidate selection and design-of-experiments report.

Month 3: Modeling results and technoeconomic analysis report.

Month 6: Thermal management performance report and model validation results.

Month 9: Laboratory prototype demonstration and report documenting thermal, mechanical, and stability performance.

Month 12: Final Phase II report documenting the prototype TIM composition, microstructural design, materials processing and scale-up approach, thermal and stability performance, operational testing results, validated models, TEA findings, and commercialization and transition plans.

Option Milestones

Month 15: Scale manufacturing to pilot plant quantities.

Month 18: Integrate the high-thermal-conductivity TIM into a battery thermal management system.

Option Deliverables

Month 15: Delivery of 20 grams of high-TC biocomposite TIM and a report documenting pilot plant design, operations, and batch-to-batch consistency in thermal and mechanical performance.

Month 18: Report detailing battery thermal management system integration and resulting performance improvements.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Successful development of a biomanufactured, high-thermal-conductivity biocomposite TIM could support a broad range of military and commercial applications.

Potential Department of Defense applications include military FPV drones, soldier-worn power systems, ground vehicle power electronics, and directed-energy thermal management systems.

Potential commercial applications include delivery drones, electric vehicle battery packs, data center CPUs and GPUs, and LED lighting systems.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

AFGSC - Handheld Drone Detection Device Prototype

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

Executive Summary:

Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC), through the AFGSC OTA Partnership coordinated by Collaboration Link and Army Contracting Command – Rock Island, is seeking prototype handheld drone detection devices manufactured in the United States. The effort is focused on improving force protection and situational awareness at Priority Level 1 nuclear military installations.

The government is looking for lightweight handheld counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) detection devices capable of detecting, identifying, tracking, and assessing small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) during both day and night operations. Required features include integrated thermal imaging and night vision functionality, range detection over 1,000 yards, onboard storage, and image capture capabilities.

Applications are due by Jun 11, 2026 at 04:00 PM.

How much funding would I receive?

Estimated awards are between $500k - $2m.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding would support the prototyping and potential fielding of handheld drone detection devices with capabilities including:

• Day and night usage

• Drone detection capabilities

• High precision infrared capabilities

• Image capture and recording options

• Range detection over 1,000 yards

• Onboard storage capabilities

• Manufacturing in the United States

The devices are intended to improve installation security posture, enable early threat warning, support security forces response actions, and reduce vulnerabilities posed by commercial and adversarial drone technologies.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Potential benefits include:

• Opportunity to prototype technology for Air Force Global Strike Command

• Potential pathway through an AFGSC OTA contracting vehicle

• Exposure to defense and national security end users

• Participation in a rapid down-select process anticipated within 30 days of posting

The solicitation does not specify follow-on production opportunities or additional program benefits.

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

The challenge posting opened on May 21, 2026 at 05:00 PM. Applications are due by Jun 11, 2026 at 04:00 PM.

ONI anticipates a rapid down-select within 30 days of posting.

The solicitation does not specify award timing, funding disbursement timing, or project start dates.

Where does this funding come from?

This opportunity is being issued through the AFGSC OTA Partnership. The effort is coordinated by Collaboration Link on behalf of Air Force Global Strike Command’s Rapid Capability Division. Award is expected to be made under the AFGSC OTA in coordination with Army Contracting Command – Rock Island.

Who is eligible to apply?

To be eligible, companies must:

• Be a small business with fewer than 500 employees

• Be located in the United States

• Have at least 50% ownership by U.S. citizens or permanent residents

• Perform all funded work in the United States

• Employ a Principal Investigator (PI) at least 20 hours per week

• Have the PI commit at least one month (173 hours) of work per six months of project duration

NSF states it does not fund:

• Companies majority-owned by multiple venture capital firms

• Companies majority-owned by private equity firms

• Companies majority-owned by hedge funds

The PI does not need advanced degrees.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The solicitation appears to favor companies with:

• Existing handheld drone detection technology

• U.S.-manufactured products

• Integrated thermal imaging and night vision capabilities

• Long-range detection capability exceeding 1,000 yards

• Experience supporting defense or security applications

• Ability to rapidly prototype and field solutions

The government specifically references concerns related to unauthorized drone incursions at strategic military installations and evolving adversary drone threats.

The posted scoring rubric places the highest weight on:

• Detection and identification performance (20%)

• Thermal and night vision integration (15%)

• U.S. manufacturing and supply chain compliance (15%)

Submissions will be evaluated using a combination of subject matter expert review and One Nation Innovation’s AI-powered rubric generation tools.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions and requirements include:

• Devices must be made in the United States

• Responses must be between 2–10 pages maximum

• Respondents must submit through https://gocolosseum.org

• Proposals must include:

  • Proposed Period of Performance

  • Proposed Applicable Documents

  • Proposed Technical Approach

  • Proposed Deliverables

  • Proposed Schedule with Milestones

  • Proposed Payment Schedule

  • Proposed Patents and Data Rights

  • Proposed Costs by Milestone including labor category breakdowns and ROM costs

• Respondents must complete the Agreement Holder’s Representations form

The solicitation does not specify cost share requirements, security clearance requirements, or export control restrictions.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The application appears designed for rapid submission.

Required responses are limited to 2–10 pages and require:

• Technical concept

• Implementation approach

• Company information

• Past performance

• Milestone schedule

• ROM pricing and cost breakdowns

Companies with an existing prototype or mature drone detection capability could likely prepare a submission relatively quickly.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can help your team:

• Position your technology against the government’s stated drone threat priorities

• Translate technical capabilities into defense customer language

• Develop a compliant OTA-style white paper submission

• Build milestone-based project plans and ROM budgets

• Strengthen your technical approach and deliverables package

• Support rapid-turn proposal preparation for accelerated timelines

Additional Resources

Learn more about the program here.

National Science Foundation (NSF) 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 program provides non-dilutive funding to U.S.-based startups and small businesses developing high-risk, high-impact technologies with strong commercial potential. NSF states it funds “nearly everything from biotechnology to wireless communications to quantum to semiconductors.” Companies begin by submitting a required Project Pitch to determine fit with the program before being invited to submit a full proposal.

The NSF SBIR/STTR program looks forward to receiving the submission of new Project Pitches in response to the new solicitations beginning on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. Full proposal submission deadlines are:

• July 27 2026

• November 4 2026

• March 4 2027

Proposal submission is due by 5:00 PM submitter’s time on the specified due date.

NSF emphasizes that the program is intended for technologies requiring substantial high-risk R&D and not “straightforward engineering or incremental product development tasks.” The process is highly competitive, with historical NSF SBIR/STTR Phase I funding rates between 10% and 20%.

How much funding would I receive?

If your proposal is awarded, NSF states you may receive:

• Up to $305,000 for a Phase I award.

• Up to $1,250,000 over two years for a Phase II award.

The solicitation materials provided do not specify award minimums, matching requirements, or the number of anticipated awards.

What could I use the funding for?

NSF states funding is intended for:

• High-risk research and development

• Deep technologies

• Foundational science and engineering innovations

• New products, services, and scalable solutions

• Technologies with strong commercial potential and societal impact

The program specifically supports technologies that:

• Require substantial technical innovation

• Address significant societal or national problems

• Create sustainable competitive advantages

• Demonstrate meaningful market pull and scalability

NSF explicitly states it does not fund:

• Straightforward engineering

• Incremental product development tasks

Areas of Interest

• Advanced Manufacturing (M)

  The Advanced Manufacturing topic aims to support emerging innovations in manufacturing with the potential to stimulate the nation’s manufacturing sector by improving efficiency, competitiveness and sustainability. Proposals should be driven by a foundational technology that significantly advances the way products are made. This can include, but is not exclusive to, technologies in new manufacturing processes, equipment, automation, modeling, and materials/minerals.

  Sub-Topics

  M1. Building and Infrastructure
  M2. Carbon Sequestration
  M3. Cybermanufacturing
  M4. Distributed Manufacturing
  M5. Ecomanufacturing
  M6. Modeling and Simulation
  M7. Natural Resources and Critical Minerals
  M8. Quantum Device Manufacturing
  M9. Sustainable Chemical Manufacturing
  M10. Other Manufacturing Technologies

• Advanced Materials (AM)

  The Advanced Materials topic addresses the development of new and improved materials for a wide variety of commercial and industrial applications. Proposals may focus on the creation of innovative material systems and/or on critical fabrication, processing or manufacturing challenges involved in the successful demonstration and commercialization of novel advanced materials. A broad range of applications areas will be considered as part of this topic.

  Sub-Topics

  AM1. Advanced Engineering Materials
  AM2. Coatings and Surface Modifications
  AM3. Metals and Ceramics
  AM4. Novel Advanced Materials-based Sensors
  AM5. Structural and Infrastructural Materials
  AM6. Other Advanced Materials Technologies

• Advanced Systems for Scalable Analytics (AA)

  The Advanced Systems for Scalable Analytics topic focuses on innovations needed for building systems that organize and process large and ever-increasing volumes of structured, semi-structured and unstructured data to reveal actionable new insights. It also includes innovative knowledge management and data mining technologies that complement deep learning. Sample topics include data and knowledge management technologies for data acquisition, integration, annotation, governance and provenance; hardware and software for addressing the performance needs of analytical systems; technologies for continual learning in dynamic environments; technologies in data mining, visualization and optimization; and marketplaces for data and models.
  
  These subtopics are only meant to serve as examples. All proposals focused on the development of a new high-risk technical innovation and significant potential commercial and societal impact are welcome to apply, regardless of subtopic.

  Sub-Topics

  AA1. Building Analytical System for Learning from Dynamic Environments
  AA2. Data Mining, Machine Learning (Non-deep learning-based), and Reinforcement Learning
  AA3. Decision Support and Optimization
  AA4. Knowledge and Data Management Technologies
  AA5. Marketplaces for Data and Models
  AA6. Novel Visualization Technologies
  AA7. Software Technologies for Scalable Analytical Systems
  AA8. Other Novel Technologies

• Agricultural Technologies (AG)

  The Agricultural Technologies topic supports innovations enabling farm production ecosystems that support the proper utilization of natural resources. Such technologies may encompass systems-level and multidisciplinary solutions to enable complex agricultural practices that support increased biodiversity balanced with yield production.

  Sub-Topics

  AG1. Agroforestry
  AG2. Expanding Access to Farming
  AG3. Food Waste Mitigation
  AG4. Harvesting Complex Systems
  AG5. Improved Resilience through Interspecies Interchange
  AG6. Nature-based Solutions
  AG7. Polyculture Systems
  AG8. Precision Agriculture
  AG9. Resilient Supply & Distribution
  AG10. Other Agricultural Technologies

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

  The Artificial Intelligence topic focuses on cutting-edge technologies in the field of deep learning-based AI systems and AI-based hardware. The recent successes in computer vision, machine translation, natural-language processing and speech recognition have led to widespread use of learning-based systems in production and an unprecedented growth in AI systems that interact frequently with and/or on behalf of humans in highly personalized contexts. This topic especially emphasizes next-generation AI technologies that are not only safe and reliable but also fair, robust against sophisticated adversaries, privacy preserving, and efficient in terms of computational resources, energy, training data size, etc. It also includes cutting-edge hardware technologies needed for sustainable AI (i.e., novel devices and architectures to support the tremendous processing power needed by AI technologies), edge devices (i.e., intelligent systems on a chip for applications such as voice assistants) and AI technologies that lead to better hardware systems.
  
  These subtopics are only meant to serve as examples. All proposals that are focused on developing a new high-risk technical innovation and that have significant potential commercial and societal impact are welcome to apply, regardless of subtopic.  

  Sub-Topics

  AI1. Cognitive Science-based Technologies
  AI2. Computer Vision Based AI Technologies
  AI3. Conversational AI Technologies
  AI4. Language-Based AI Technologies
  AI5. Novel AI Hardware Technologies (e.g. Neuromorphic Computing, High-performance Technologies for AI, Smart and Secure Edge Devices, etc.)
  AI6. Sustainable AI Technologies for Low Resource Environments
  AI7. Technologies for Trustworthy AI (safe, fair, transparent, privacy-preserving, explainable, and/or secure)
  AI8. Other Novel Technologies

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

  The Augmented, Virtual and Mixed Reality (AR/VR/MR) topic aims to support entrepreneurs and startups at the earliest stages of development of innovative, differentiated and novel hardware/software that can create shared experiences to translate research-based insights into commercializable opportunities for scalable, real-world application.
  
  Technologies in this portfolio include those applying AI in education or workforce development, training tools, upskilling an aging workforce, improving health and wellbeing, as well as technologies as an enabling platform to deliver shared experiences, virtual collaboration, and experiential learning.

  Sub-Topics

  AV1. Differentiated Hardware Technologies for AR/VR/MR
  AV2. Differentiated Software Technologies for AR/VR/MR
  AV3. UI/UX for Immersive AR/VR/MR
  AV4. Advanced Analytics for Collaboration in AR/VR/MR
  AV5. Other Augmented, Virtual, and Mixed Reality Technologies

• Biological Technologies (BT)

  The Biological Technologies topic covers a wide range of technology areas to advance engineering and science innovation across the biological spectrum. Biological technologies have disrupted decades-old chemical, agricultural and medical products and services, producing a new bioeconomy. Potential breakthroughs in this space are on course to make major socioeconomic contributions by boosting productivity in industrial and agricultural processes, improving human health, and making advances toward environmental sustainability.
  
  Proposed projects should be focused on using or modifying living organisms, systems or biological processes to develop new technologies to produce biochemicals and medical and agricultural products. They may involve bioengineering to improve function in molecules, cells and tissues in humans, plants, animals and microbes. NSF also encourages proposals for enabling new technologies, such as new tools for genomics, proteomics and drug discovery; instruments for biological applications; computational and bioinformatic tools; and new manufacturing technologies for cells, tissues, organs and biologics (with the exception of clinical trials and schedule I substances).
  
  Subtopics are not aimed at supporting or conducting clinical trials, clinical efficacy or safety studies, the development pre-clinical or clinical-stage drug candidates or medical devices, or work performed primarily for regulatory purposes. Limited studies with human subjects may be acceptable to the extent that they are performed in support of feasibility, such as proof-of-concept studies of early-stage technologies. Proposals that request support for clinical studies will be deemed noncompliant with the SBIR/STTR solicitations and returned without review.

  Sub-Topics

  BT1. Animal Biotechnology
  BT2. Aquaculture
  BT3. Bio-Inspired Technologies
  BT4. Bioinstruments and Biosensors
  BT5. Cell and Tissue Engineering
  BT6. Fermentation
  BT7. Life Science Research Tools
  BT8. Microbiome and Microbial Diversity
  BT9. Plant Biotechnology
  BT10. Synthetic Biology and Metabolic Engineering
  BT11. Other Biological Technologies

• Biomedical Technologies (BM)

  The Biomedical Technologies topic aims to support the early-stage development of novel products, processes or services that will enable the delivery of high-quality, economically efficient healthcare.
  
  Subtopics are not aimed at supporting or conducting clinical trials, clinical efficacy or safety studies, the development pre-clinical or clinical-stage drug candidates or medical devices, or work performed primarily for regulatory purposes. Limited studies with human subjects may be acceptable to the extent that they are performed in support of feasibility, such as proof-of-concept studies of early-stage technologies. Proposals that request support for clinical studies will be deemed noncompliant with the SBIR/STTR solicitations and returned without review.
  

  Sub-Topics

  BM1. Diagnostics
  BM2. Drug Delivery Methods
  BM3. Materials for Biomedical Applications
  BM4. Medical Imaging
  BM5. Monitoring Devices
  BM6. Other Biomedical Technologies

• Chemical Technologies (CT)

  The Chemical Technologies topic covers a wide range of technology areas of current and emerging commercial significance to many areas, including the broad chemical industry; food processing and technology; agrochemicals; chemical alternatives and organics; green chemicals; water treatment and separations; advanced catalysts and materials; and biochemicals. Sensing, data and advanced analytics technologies relevant to these fields are also appropriate for this topic area. Beyond improvement on technical specifications, it is important to also clearly identify the competitive landscape of what is currently possible and why the proposed innovation will have an impact commercially and/or from a societal benefit standpoint.

  Sub-Topics

  CT1. Biochemicals
  CT2. Catalysts, Advanced Chemicals and Materials
  CT3. Chemical and Environmental Sensing and Data
  CT4. Food Processing, Chemicals and Agriculture
  CT5. Green Chemicals and Chemical Alternatives
  CT6. Separations and Water Treatment
  CT7. Other Chemical Technologies

• Cloud and High-Performance Computing (CH)

  The Cloud and High-Performance Computing (HPC) topic focuses on innovations that result in substantial improvements to cloud computing or high-performance computing platforms. These improvements may be to computing power and efficiency, energy management, data storage, latency, data integrity and availability, cost, or any other factor of importance in such platforms, and may result from software- or hardware-based innovations. These subtopic areas are meant to serve as examples; all proposals with technical innovation and significant commercial potential are welcome, regardless of the specific area of focus of the project.

  Sub-Topics

  CH1. Algorithms and Applications
  CH2. Computational Architecture
  CH3. Convergence of AI and Cloud/HPC
  CH4. Edge Computing
  CH5. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
  CH6. In-memory Processing
  CH7. Interconnects
  CH8. Middleware
  CH9. Performance Monitoring
  CH10. Processing on Encrypted Data
  CH11. Processor Architecture and Design
  CH12. Resilience and Resource Management
  CH13. Other Cloud and High-Performance Computing Technologies

• Cybersecurity and Authentication (CA)

  The Cybersecurity and Authentication topic focuses on innovations related to the security and integrity of data and data processing and the authentication of people and devices. These subtopic areas are meant to serve as examples; all proposals with technical innovation and significant commercial potential are welcome, regardless of the specific area of focus of the project.

  Sub-Topics

  CA1. Computation on Encrypted Data
  CA2. Cryptography, including Post-quantum Cryptography
  CA3. Data Privacy and Integrity
  CA4. Device Authentication
  CA5. Distributed Ledger
  CA6. Encryption, including Homomorphic Encryption
  CA7. Network and Device Security
  CA8. Personal Authentication
  CA9. Secure and Trusted Computing
  CA10. Secure Machine-to-Machine Communication
  CA11. Security of Cloud and High Performance Computing (HPC) Platforms
  CA12. Other Cybersecurity and Authentication Technologies

• Digital Health (DH)

  The Digital Health topic aims to support entrepreneurs and startups at the earliest-stages of development of innovative, differentiated and novel technologies that aim to improve physical or mental wellbeing or health, enable or assist individuals to increase or regain independence and quality of life and improve the delivery of healthcare including efficiency, reducing cost or improving outcomes.
  
  Technologies in this portfolio include those applying AI in healthcare or general wellness (medical image analysis, personalized medicine, EHR/EMR, Clinical decision support, Computer aided diagnostics, support or therapy, smart/connected medical devices) as well as technologies that enable or provide assistance to aging or disabled populations and individuals undergoing rehabilitation.

  Sub-Topics

  DH1. Assistive, Enabling and Rehabilitative technologies
  DH2. AI in healthcare and drug discovery
  DH3. Healthcare Workflow, Economics and Delivery
  DH4. Medical Diagnostics and Devices
  DH5. Physical, Mental and Behavioral Health
  DH6. Other Digital Health Technologies

• Emerging Technologies (EM)

  Breakthroughs at the edge of science and engineering are reshaping industries, redefining human capabilities, and creating new market spaces. The Emerging Technologies topic within the NSF Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer program is designed for startups working on transformative innovations that defy conventional classifications — pioneering discoveries that could set the stage for the next technological revolution.
  

  This topic is for radical, high-risk ideas that leverage deep science and engineering to push beyond existing limitations. Proposals should introduce disruptive, category-defining solutions that may not fit within traditional NSF topic areas but have the potential to create entirely new industries or fundamentally alter how we interact with the world.
  

  Examples include, but are not limited to:

  • Post-Silicon Computation & Intelligent Systems: Quantum logic, molecular computing or bio-inspired artificial intelligence architectures

  • Matter & Machines at the Extreme: Self-assembling nanostructures, programmable materials, or biohybrid robotic systems that blur the lines between biology and engineering

  • Living Technologies & Engineered Evolution: Synthetic biology innovations that harness evolution to create self-improving therapeutics, biocomputers, or sustainable biomaterials

  • Radical Energy & Resilient Earth Innovations: Zero-point energy exploration, deep-space resource utilization, or engineered photosynthesis for planetary-scale impact

  • Cognition & Human Augmentation: Direct brain-machine integration, digital telepathy, or neuroplasticity-enhancing interfaces that redefine intelligence

  • Unconventional Sensing & Interaction: Quantum sensors, femtosecond imaging, or technologies enabling new dimensions of perception If your startup is pioneering a new technological paradigm, building something that did not exist before, and pushing the limits of what's possible, the Emerging Technologies topic is your opportunity to secure early-stage funding for world-changing innovation.

  Sub-Topics

  EM1. Emerging Technologies

• Environmental Technologies (ET)

  Environmental Technologies covers a variety of areas of current and emerging commercial significance including environmental sensing, data, and advanced analytics. Please highlight any aspects of the proposed technology or approach that address a problem without a current solution, or one which is underdeveloped.

  Sub-Topics

  ET1. Conservation, Adaptation and Restoration
  ET2. Digital Ecosystem for the Environment
  ET3. Emission or Waste Reduction and the Circular Economy
  ET4. Food, Regenerative Agriculture, and Energy
  ET5. Measurement
  ET6. Resiliency
  ET7. Sustainable Community Systems
  ET8. Water Treatment, Resilience, and Sanitation
  ET9. Other Environmental Technologies

• Human-Computer Interaction (HC)

  The Human-Computer Interaction (HC) topic aims to support entrepreneurs and startups at the earliest stages of development of innovative, differentiated and novel HCI in the context of domains, such as health, education, families, or work to design new computing systems to amplify humans’ physical, cognitive, and social capabilities which translate research-based insights into commercializable opportunities for scalable, real-world application.
  
  Technologies in this portfolio include multimedia and multimodal interfaces, such as haptic, tangible, gestural, spatial, and wearable; brain-computer interfaces; intelligent and interactive user interfaces; affective computing; human state estimation involving interaction; and methods for interaction with artificial intelligence. This topic includes commercialization of computational methods and systems for creating and authoring video, audio, textual, visual, and multimedia forms in support of creative expression and ideation and includes technology-supported human-to-human communication and systems which foster innovation and dismantle barriers to scientific progress in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and the development of information, interaction, networks, systems, and other forms of computation in response to human needs, desires, and intentions.

  Sub-Topics

  HC1. Multimedia and Multimodal Interfaces
  HC2. HC Computational Methods and Systems
  HC3. Smart Integrated Systems
  HC4. Human-to-Human Communication Systems via Technology
  HC5. Other Human-Computer Interaction Technologies

• Instrumentation and Hardware Systems (IH)

  The Instrumentation and Hardware Systems topic addresses the research and development of new and improved instrumentation and related systems for a wide variety of commercial and industrial applications. Proposals in this topic may deal with new instruments for use in scientific, industrial, engineering or manufacturing environments, among others. Systems and tools designed for the purposes of detection, manipulation, characterization, measurement, processing, control or monitoring will be considered. A wide variety of applications areas will be considered as part of this topic.

  Sub-Topics

  IH1. Instrumentation or Hardware Systems for Actuation, Control, and Manipulation
  IH2. Instrumentation or Hardware Systems for Detection and Characterization
  IH3. Instrumentation or Hardware Systems for Imaging
  IH4. Other Instrumentation or Hardware Systems Technologies

• Internet of Things (I)

  The Internet of Things (IoT) is a rapidly evolving field that involves the interconnection and interaction of smart objects (objects or devices with embedded sensors, onboard data processing capability, and a means of communication) to provide automated services that would otherwise not be possible. IoT is not a single technology, but rather involves the convergence of sensor, actuator, information and communication technologies. Emerging IoT implementations will use smaller and more energy-efficient embedded sensor technologies, more sophisticated actuators, enhanced communications and advanced data analytics to collect and aggregate information. These new tools will enable intelligent systems that understand context, track and manage complex interactions and anticipate requirements. Market verticals that are potentially impacted by innovations in this area include connected cities and homes, smart transportation, smart agriculture, industrial IoT, and retail IoT.

  Sub-Topics

  I1. IoT Communications
  I2. IoT Integrated Systems
  I3. IoT Sensors and Actuators
  I4. Networking
  I5. Other IoT Technologies

• Learning and Cognition Technologies (LC)

  The Learning and Cognitions Technologies topic aims to support entrepreneurs and startups at the earliest stages of development of innovative, differentiated and novel innovations which disrupt educational norms, challenge conventional methods of content delivery and workforce development with measurable results while remaining firmly anchored in foundational research. They equip individuals for success in emerging industries and undefined roles, bridging the gap between established curricula and the swiftly evolving knowledge landscape.
  
  Technologies in this portfolio include those applying AI in education or workforce development, training tools, upskilling an aging workforce, improving health and wellbeing, as well as technologies as an enabling platform to deliver innovative approaches to learning and cognition development which leverage groundbreaking technological advancements rooted in research.
  
  Limited studies with human subjects may be acceptable to the extent that they are performed in support of feasibility, such as proof-of-concept studies of early-stage technologies. Proposals that request support for clinical studies will be deemed noncompliant with the SBIR/STTR solicitations and returned without review.

  Sub-Topics

  LC1. Advanced Learning Technologies
  LC2. Workforce Development and Upskilling
  LC3. Advanced Analytics for Learning and Cognition
  LC4. Innovative Approaches to Multimodal Learning
  LC5. Other Learning and Cognition Technologies

• Medical Devices (MD)

  The Medical Devices topic aims to develop novel medical device platforms, introduce innovative medical technologies or translate emerging scientific principles into health practice. Proposals should be considered leading edge innovations, typically based on a discovery, new approach or new scientific principle to medical devices or technologies.
  
  Limited human subject clinical studies may be acceptable if they are performed in support of feasibility or proof-of-concept objectives. The program does not support proposals to conduct clinical trials for sample size calculations, statistically demonstrate safety or efficacy or the development of pre-clinical or clinical-stage drug candidates. Clinical work performed primarily for regulatory purposes or post market surveillance are also not allowed. Proposals requesting support for clinical trials are noncompliant with the SBIR/STTR solicitation and returned without review.

  Sub-Topics

  MD1. Diagnostic Imaging or Monitoring
  MD2. General Medical Devices
  MD3. Implantable
  MD4. Manufacturing Processes or Prototyping Methods
  MD5. Materials (non biological)
  MD6. Procedural Technologies or Visualization
  MD7. Rehabilitation
  MD8. Wearables
  MD9. Women's Health

• Mobility (MO)

  The Mobility topic encourages novel innovations in the land, air, and sea-based movement of goods and people that improve sustainability and resiliency. Proposals responsive to this topic may include technical breakthroughs that address infrastructure and flow issues in global, urban and rural environments. Interdisciplinary and collaborative innovations to address multiple mobility grand challenges are welcome. All proposed innovations must be capable of a sustainable business model.

  Sub-Topics

  MO1. Traffic Congestion and Routing
  MO2. Safety and Navigation
  MO3. Disaster Resilience 
  MO4. Efficiency
  MO5. Supply Chain Transparency and Security
  MO6. Labor Shortages
  MO7. Accessibility
  MO8. Other Mobility Topics

• Nanotechnology (N)

  The Nanotechnology topic addresses the creation and manipulation of functional materials, devices and systems with novel properties that are achieved through the control of matter at a submicroscopic scale (from a fraction of nanometer to about 100 nanometers). This includes, but is not limited to, innovative hierarchical nanostructures, nanolayered structures, nanowires, nanotubes, quantum dots, nanoparticles, nanofibers and other nanomaterials and biomaterials and their composite structures.

  Sub-Topics

  N1. Nanomanufacturing

• Other Topics (OT)

  For projects that do not seem to fit into one of the other technology topic areas, but still meet the NSF SBIR/STTR goals of supporting research and development of deep technology with commercial viability and the potential to benefit society, please pick Other Topics and subtopic OT1. Project pitches and proposals submitted to Other Topics are typically transferred and reviewed in the topic area that best matches the underlying technical innovation. The program does not reject Project Pitches or proposals based on a non-ideal choice of topic areas. The program routinely moves Project Pitches or proposals internally among topic areas that seem to best describe the underlying technical innovation and to ensure the right program officer and reviewer panel sees the project.

  Sub-Topics

  OT1. Other Topics

• Pharmaceutical Technologies (PT)

  The Pharmaceutical Technologies topic covers a wide range of technology areas that advance the discovery, formulation, and manufacture of novel drugs, moieties, compounds, products, processes, platforms or services that will improve the selection, quality or price of pharmaceutical and biologic therapies.
  
  The Pharmaceutical Technologies topic is not aimed at supporting or conducting clinical trials, clinical efficacy and safety studies, the development of pre-clinical or clinical-stage drug candidates, work on medical devices or schedule I substances, or work performed primarily for regulatory purposes. Limited studies with human subjects may be acceptable if they are performed in support of feasibility, proof-of-concept studies of early-stage technologies and must follow NSF policies on research on human subjects. Proposals that request support for clinical studies are noncompliant with the SBIR/STTR solicitations and returned without review.
  
  The NSF SBIR/STTR program no longer supports the development of specific therapeutic molecules. Drug Discovery and Manufacturing are still supported by the program.
  
  Subtopics are not aimed at supporting clinical trials, the clinical validation of information technologies, or medical devices or studies performed primarily for regulatory purposes. Limited studies with human subjects may be acceptable to the extent that they are performed in support of feasibility, such as proof-of-concept studies of early-stage technologies. Proposals that request support for clinical studies will be deemed noncompliant with the SBIR/STTR solicitations and returned without review.

  Sub-Topics

  PT1. Drug Discovery
  PT2. Pharmaceutical and Biologic Manufacturing
  PT3. Other Pharmaceutical Technologies

• Photonics (PH)

  The Photonics topic addresses the research and development of new materials, devices, components, and systems that have the potential for revolutionary change in the optics and photonics industries. Photonic technologies can include anything generally operating in or using photons in the electromagnetic spectrum, from gamma rays down to long radio waves. Examples include lasers, various light emitting diode technologies (LED, OLED, QLED), radiation detectors, photonic integrated circuits, optical systems and novel communications technologies.

  Sub-Topics

  PH1. Advanced Metrology and Sensors
  PH2. Advanced Optical Components and Systems
  PH3. Communications, Information, and Data Storage
  PH4. Lighting and Displays
  PH5. Photonic Devices
  PH6. Photonic Energy Conversion
  PH7. Photonic Materials
  PH8. Photonic Metamaterials and Plasmonics
  PH9. Quantum Optics and Nanophotonics
  PH10. Silicon Photonics and Photonic Integrated Circuits
  PH11. Other Photonics Technologies

• Power Management (PM)

  The Power Management topic address the development of novel technologies that enable new power and thermal management solutions. Innovations supported could range from device-scale breakthroughs to embedded or standalone systems or grid-scale technologies.

  Sub-Topics

  PM1. Energy Harvesting Devices and Systems
  PM2. Materials and Devices for Power Electronics
  PM3. Materials and Devices for Thermal Management
  PM4. Novel Power and Thermal Management Sensors
  PM5. Power Electronics Circuits and Control Systems
  PM6. Power Management Infrastructure and Smart Grid Systems
  PM7. Systems for Thermal Management
  PM8. Other Power Management Technologies

• Quantum Information Technologies (QT)

  This topic focuses on innovations in information and communications technologies that rely fundamentally on quantum mechanical properties and interactions. Typically, such innovations will involve the generation, detection, or manipulation of quantum states to provide faster, more efficient or more secure information processing and communications. Proposals may include innovations at the component, sub-system or system level that result in substantial and usable improvements in the generation, transmission, detection, storage or processing of information, or the security and privacy of information. Proposed innovations must offer the potential for robustness, reliability, scalability and operation at temperatures that are practical within the constraints of the intended application. Innovations at the component and sub-system level should aim for compactness and energy efficiency, consistent with the requirements of the application.
  
  Examples of technology innovations in the quantum computing subtopic could include qubit generation and detection, development of computational models (quantum circuits, etc.), error correction, software, hardware sub-systems and systems and Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) computers. Examples of technology innovations in the quantum communications subtopic could include components such as sources, memories, repeaters, detectors, hardware sub-systems and systems, networks, cryptography and key distribution.

  Sub-Topics

  QT1. Quantum Algorithms
  QT2. Quantum Communications
  QT3. Quantum Computing
  QT4. Quantum Sensing and Metrology
  QT5. Quantum Simulation
  QT6. Other Quantum Information Technologies

• Robotics (R)

  The Robotics topic covers robot intelligence and experiential learning, particularly in the areas of high-performance processors or hardware that provides situational awareness and improved artificial intelligence. Innovations in voice, obstacle and image recognition, emotional response and hand-eye coordination are encouraged. We encourage proposals describing projects that borrow features from other animal nervous systems and include biologists, neuroscientists and psychologists on their team to exploit new knowledge in the study of the brain and behavior.
  
  NSF also seeks proposals that address next-generation automation; the flexible and rapid reconfiguration of assembly lines allowing mass customization; the use of advanced control, scheduling, modularization, and decentralization with agile, mobile robotic systems that can enable the cost-effective manufacture of small lot-size products; and on-demand parts manufacturing.
  
  Proposals to support the physical and educational needs of individuals with disabilities (e.g., vision, hearing, cognitive, motor related) are sought. Robotic applications in healthcare, smart drones and drone networks are appropriate. Medical devices focused on providing new capabilities to doctors including surgery; robotic exoskeletons to enhance human strength; personal robots with an emphasis on human-centered end use and interaction, personal caregiving and increased autonomy; future of work; flying taxis; reverse engineering the human brain; robot sense, motion, thought, and emotion; human-robot art; and robots of augmentation are welcome.
  
  Subtopics are not aimed at supporting or conducting clinical trials, clinical efficacy or safety studies, the development pre-clinical or clinical-stage drug candidates or medical devices, or work performed primarily for regulatory purposes. Limited studies with human subjects may be acceptable to the extent that they are performed in support of feasibility, such as proof-of-concept studies of early-stage technologies. Proposals that request support for clinical studies will be deemed noncompliant with the SBIR/STTR solicitations and returned without review.

  Sub-Topics

  R1. Human Assistive Technologies and Bio-related Robotics
  R2. Human-Machine Interfaces and Control/Architecture
  R3. Robotic Applications
  R4. Robotics in Agile Manufacturing, and Co-Robots
  R5. Underground or Underwater Robotics for Low-Visibility, Poor-Connectivity or Hidden Topography
  R6. Other Robotics Technologies

• Semiconductors (S)

  The Semiconductors topic addresses the research and development of new designs, materials, devices and manufacturing systems that have the potential for impactful change in the semiconductor and microelectronics industry.

  Sub-Topics

  S1. Electronic Devices
  S2. Electronic Materials
  S3. Integrated Circuit Design
  S4. Microelectronics Packaging and Systems Integration
  S5. Novel Semiconductor-based Sensors
  S6. Processing and Metrology Technology
  S7. Sustainable Semiconductor Manufacturing
  S8. Wide Bandgap Power Devices and Materials
  S9. Other Semiconductor Technologies

• Space (SP)

  The Space topic seeks transformative technologies to create solutions for sustainable space exploration, habitation or industrialization that could also have a positive impact on human lives.
  
  Applicants should address known capability gaps for enabling technologies for the space or terrestrial industries. Proposals in this area may focus upon launch vehicles or satellite and vehicle propulsion systems, in-space research or manufacturing systems and services, human sustainability, spaceflight or exploration infrastructure, data processing and communication technologies, orbital servicing, asteroid mining and microgravity applications.

  Sub-Topics

  SP1. Launch vehicles and propulsion
  SP2. Satellite technology
  SP3. Spaceflight infrastructure
  SP4. Data and communication
  SP5. In space services and production
  SP6. Human viability and sustainability

• Wireless Technologies (W)

  The Wireless topic involves next-generation wireless communication technologies requiring systems with high data rates, low costs and that support a wide variety of applications and services while maintaining full mobility, minimum latency, and long battery life. Devices and subsystems that increase data throughput rates via cell density; increased spectrum; multiple input, multiple output (MIMO); and new “antenna” concepts are encouraged. NSF welcomes proposals involving modulation and demodulation techniques for signal generation and reception through spectral efficiency, noise immunity, jamming immunity, and power efficiency; radio frequency (RF) pollution: devices and circuits; processing algorithms/3D spatial control; and high efficiency devices such as micro-TWT (traveling-wave tube), smart dust and inductive couplers. NSF seeks proposals in the areas of spectrum-related research and development activities that improve the efficiency by which the radio spectrum is used, and the ability of all members of the public to access spectrum-related services. Mobile and automotive radar, smart solar panels, on-panel DC-AC converters, openRAN (Radio Access Networks)-related devices and applications and self-testing and self-networking devices are also of interest.

  Sub-Topics

  W1. Communication and Networking Technologies
  W2. Networked Sensors and Sensing
  W3. Wireless Devices and Components
  W4. Wireless Systems
  W5. Other Wireless Technologies

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Additional benefits described in the solicitation materials include:

• Access to external technical and commercialization reviewers

• Feedback from NSF experts and review panels

• Eligibility for supplemental funding opportunities after Phase II

• Ability to apply for additional NSF funding after successful Phase I progress

NSF also notes that access to most Phase I award funds occurs at the time of award notification.

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

Application process timeline:

1. Complete the Project Pitch Assessment

2. Submit a required Project Pitch

3. Receive a response from NSF in approximately 1–2 months

4. If invited, submit a full proposal

5. Undergo proposal review and due diligence

6. Receive funding decision approximately 5–7 months after proposal submission deadline

Full proposal submission deadlines are:

• July 27 2026

• November 4 2026

• March 4 2027

Proposal submission is due by 5:00 PM submitter’s time on the specified due date.

NSF states:

• Proposal review occurs approximately 1–3 months after submission

• Additional due diligence may occur approximately 3–5 months after submission

• Funding decisions occur approximately 5–7 months after submission

Where does this funding come from?

The funding comes from:

• The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)

• America’s Seed Fund

• NSF SBIR/STTR programs

The solicitation references:

• NSF 26-510: Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I, Phase II, Fast-Track Programs SBIR/STTR: Developing Deep Technologies that Advance U.S. Competitiveness and Security

• NSF 26-511: Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I, Phase II, Fast-Track Programs: A Pilot Emphasis on Scientific Instrumentation

Who is eligible to apply?

To be eligible, companies must:

• Be a small business with fewer than 500 employees

• Be located in the United States

• Have at least 50% ownership by U.S. citizens or permanent residents

• Perform all funded work in the United States

• Employ a Principal Investigator (PI) at least 20 hours per week

• Have the PI commit at least one month (173 hours) of work per six months of project duration

NSF states it does not fund:

• Companies majority-owned by multiple venture capital firms

• Companies majority-owned by private equity firms

• Companies majority-owned by hedge funds

The PI does not need advanced degrees.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

NSF states it looks for companies and projects with:

• Strong technological innovation

• High-risk, unproven R&D

• Significant societal or national impact

• Sustainable competitive advantages

• Commercial potential and market pull

• Scalable business opportunities

• Technically qualified and commercially motivated teams

NSF specifically evaluates:

• Intellectual Merit

• Broader Impacts

• Commercial Impact

The solicitation materials state that proposals are reviewed by external technical and commercialization experts in addition to NSF program staff.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Important restrictions and requirements include:

• Only one Project Pitch per submission deadline is allowed

• Companies with a pending Project Pitch, Open Invitation, or proposal under review must wait before submitting another Project Pitch

• All funded work, including consultant and contractor work, must occur in the United States

• SAM registration is required before proposal submission

• SAM registration can take up to three weeks to complete

• Proposal submission is due by 5:00 PM submitter’s time on the specified due date

NSF also notes that:

• An invitation to submit a proposal does not guarantee funding

• Historical Phase I funding rates have been between 10% and 20%

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The solicitation materials do not specify a required preparation timeline.

However, NSF states:

• Writing a full proposal requires a “significant investment of time and effort”

• Companies should begin registration processes “as soon as possible”

• SAM registration can take up to three weeks

• Research.gov registration can take up to 48 hours

The application process includes:

• Completing a Project Pitch

• Receiving NSF feedback

• Preparing a full proposal if invited

• Completing multiple federal registrations

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can help companies:

• Assess fit with NSF SBIR/STTR evaluation criteria

• Develop a compelling Project Pitch

• Position the technical innovation and commercial potential clearly

• Draft and manage the full NSF proposal process

• Prepare commercialization and market positioning content

• Coordinate registrations and submission workflows

• Improve competitiveness against NSF review criteria

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.

DE-TA1-0003589: Critical Minerals & Materials Accelerator (CMMA)

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

Executive Summary:

The Critical Minerals and Materials Accelerator Notice of Funding Opportunity (DE-FOA-0003589) offers up to $69,000,000 to fund prototype- and pilot-scale technologies that strengthen U.S. critical mineral supply chains.

This is a time-sensitive, multi-deadline opportunity:

• Letter of Intent Due: 04/21/2026 5pm ET

• Application due: Topic Area 1: 05/26/2026 5pm ET; Topic Area 2: 06/22/2026 5pm ET; Topic Area 3: 07/20/2026 5pm ET

DOE is targeting companies that can move technologies from bench scale (TRL 3–4) to prototype (TRL 6) and ultimately to commercialization within 3–7 years.

If you are building technologies in critical minerals processing, recycling, semiconductor materials, or lithium extraction, this is a high-priority funding opportunity with follow-on capital pathways (Phase 2).

How much funding would I receive?

Funding varies by topic area and phase:

Total program funding:

• $69,000,000 total available funding

Phase 1 (Prototype Scale):

• Topic Area 1: Up to $2,000,000 per award (10–14 awards)

• Topic Area 2: Up to $2,000,000 per award (1–5 awards)

• Topic Area 3A: Up to $2,000,000 per award (4–6 awards)

• Topic Area 3B/3C: $1,000,000 – $3,000,000 per award

Phase 2 (Pilot Scale, competitive down-select):

• Up to $8,000,000 per project

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports prototype and pilot-scale development of critical mineral technologies, including:

• Prototyping and piloting technologies proven at bench scale

• Scaling materials processing and manufacturing technologies

• Validation, benchmarking, and testing in industry-relevant environments

• Techno-economic analysis (TEA) and life-cycle assessment (LCA)

• Collaboration with national labs and testbeds

• Development of domestic supply chain capabilities

Topic areas include:

• Recovery and production of critical materials (including rare earths)

• Semiconductor materials processing (gallium, germanium, silicon carbide)

• Lithium extraction, separation, and processing

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Yes. Key non-dilutive and strategic benefits include:

• Access to DOE national labs and testbeds

• Voucher-supported technical assistance (no cost share required for certain lab work)

• Participation in the Critical Materials Collaborative (CMC)

• Potential pathway to Phase 2 pilot funding (up to $8M)

• Opportunity to attract follow-on private capital

• Potential equity participation discussions with DOE during negotiations

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

Key deadlines:

• Letter of Intent Due: 04/21/2026 5pm ET

• Application due: Topic Area 1: 05/26/2026 5pm ET; Topic Area 2: 06/22/2026 5pm ET; Topic Area 3: 07/20/2026 5pm ET

Other timeline milestones:

• Anticipated selection: July 2026 – August 2026

• Anticipated awards: September 2026 – December 2026

• Project period: September 2026 – December 2029

Where does this funding come from?

• U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

• Offices:

  • Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Office (AMMTO)

  • Office of Geothermal (OG)

Authorized under multiple federal statutes including the Energy Act of 2020 and Energy Policy Act of 2005.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants:

• Domestic entities, including:

  • For-profit companies

  • Nonprofits

  • Universities

  • State/local governments

  • Indian Tribes

Additional eligibility notes:

• Foreign entities are generally not eligible (waiver required)

• Work must be performed in the U.S. unless a waiver is approved

• FFRDC participation is allowed under specific conditions

What companies and projects are likely to win?

DOE is prioritizing projects that:

• Advance technologies from TRL 3–4 to TRL 6

• Demonstrate a clear path to commercialization within 3–7 years

• Address critical supply chain gaps in U.S. mineral production

• Include strong industry partnerships

• Show scalability, cost competitiveness, and supply chain integration

• Incorporate TEA, LCA, and adoption readiness (ARL) considerations

High-priority solutions include:

• Recycling and recovery of critical materials

• Semiconductor material processing

• Lithium extraction technologies

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• Minimum cost share:

  • Phase 1: 20%

  • Phase 2: 50%

• Cost share must come from non-federal sources

• All work must be performed in the United States (unless waived)

• Entities of Concern are prohibited from participation

• Applications must:

  • Be submitted to the correct topic area

  • Include a prior Letter of Intent

  • Meet strict formatting and submission requirements

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not explicitly specified in the solicitation.

However, based on required components, applications include:

• Technical Volume

• Statement of Project Objectives (SOPO)

• Project Management Plan

• Budget and cost share documentation

• Letters of commitment

• Environmental and compliance documentation

Given the complexity, preparation time is not specified in the solicitation, but the scope suggests a substantial effort.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you by:

• Positioning your technology against DOE evaluation criteria

• Building a clear commercialization and scale-up narrative (TRL → market)

• Structuring strong industry partnerships and teaming strategy

• Developing TEA/LCA-aligned messaging

• Preparing compliant and competitive application materials

• Managing submission strategy across topic areas

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

DARPA DSO: Mathematics of Boosting Agentic Communication (MATHBAC)

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

Executive Summary:

DARPA is funding foundational research to mathematically formalize how AI agents communicate, collaborate, and accelerate scientific discovery. This is a highly technical, early-stage research program aimed at breakthroughs—not incremental improvements.

Awards will support teams developing new mathematical frameworks, algorithms, and tools for multi-agent AI systems, with a strong emphasis on theory, not product development.

Key deadlines:

• Proposal Abstract Due Date: April 30, at 4:00 p.m. (ET)

• Proposal Due Date: June 16, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. (ET)

If you are a research-heavy team working on AI, mathematics, systems theory, or scientific discovery platforms, this is a time-sensitive opportunity to engage DARPA at the frontier of agentic AI.

How much funding would I receive?

• Phase I awards: Up to $2,000,000 per award

• Number of awards: Multiple awards are anticipated

No total program budget or Phase II award size is specified in the solicitation.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports foundational research, specifically:

• Developing mathematical frameworks for agent communication protocols

• Advancing systems theory and information theory for AI collaboration

• Creating algorithms and tools for extracting generalizable scientific principles from data

• Designing multi-agent communication systems for scientific discovery

• Building software tools to simulate and optimize agent interactions

Explicitly not allowed / not the focus:

• Incremental improvements to existing approaches

• Product development or application-layer systems

This program is focused on basic and applied research, not commercialization.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Opportunity to work directly with DARPA Defense Sciences Office (DSO)

• Participation in a 34-month program with potential continuation to Phase II

• Access to IV&V evaluation infrastructure and benchmarking

• Ability to collaborate in “Evolution Teams” in Phase II

• Potential to influence next-generation AI science discovery paradigms

No additional non-monetary benefits are explicitly guaranteed beyond program participation.

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

Key Dates (all ET):

• Posting Date: April 7, 2026

• Proposers Day: April 21, 2026

• Proposal Abstract Due Date: April 30, at 4:00 p.m.

• Question Deadline: June 4, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.

• Proposal Due Date: June 16, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.

Award timeline:

• Estimated Period of Performance Start: September 15, 2026

Program structure:

• Total duration: 34 months

  • Phase I: 16 months

  • Phase II: 18 months (subject to selection and funding availability)

Where does this funding come from?

• Agency: Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA)

• Office: Defense Sciences Office (DSO)

• Program: Mathematics of Boosting Agentic Communication (MATHBAC)

Funding is issued via Other Transaction Agreements (OTs) for Research under 10 U.S.C. § 4021.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible:

• All responsible sources capable of meeting DARPA’s needs

• U.S. and non-U.S. organizations (subject to compliance requirements)

• Academic institutions, companies, and research organizations

Encouraged (but not set aside):

• Small businesses

• Minority-serving institutions

Not eligible:

• Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs)

• University Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs)

• Government entities (as performers under this solicitation)

Additional requirements:

• Must comply with security, export control, and nondisclosure requirements

• Must submit required representations and certifications

What companies and projects are likely to win?

DARPA will prioritize proposals that:

• Deliver novel, non-incremental approaches

• Provide strong mathematical and theoretical foundations

• Demonstrate feasible, well-structured technical plans

• Address either:

  • TA1: Agent communication protocols

  • TA2: Discovery of generalizable principles from data

• Show clear alignment with scientific discovery use cases

• Include baseline metrics and evaluation plans

• Identify technical risks and mitigation strategies

• Demonstrate team expertise in AI, mathematics, and systems/information theory

Projects focused on end-to-end applications without foundational advances are unlikely to be competitive.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Research must not focus on incremental improvements

• Program is not intended for product or application development

• Must use Other Transaction (OT) structure (not grants/contracts)

• Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI) rules apply

• Must comply with Fundamental Research Risk-Based Security Review (FRRBS)

• Some research may be required to align with fundamental research guidelines or accept restrictions

• Proposals must follow strict DARPA submission templates and attachments

Additionally:

• Phase I proposals must not exceed $2,000,000

• Must address only one Technical Area (TA1 or TA2) in Phase I

• Must include a draft Phase II plan or risk being non-conforming

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The solicitation does not specify preparation time.

However, based on requirements, applicants should expect significant effort due to:

• Detailed technical proposal volumes

• Required cost workbook and OT agreement markup

• Multiple attachments and templates (A–I, X)

• Defined milestones, metrics, and evaluation plans

• Need for draft Phase II Statement of Work and ROM cost

This is a high-complexity DARPA proposal.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support:

• Translating your technical concept into a DARPA-aligned narrative

• Structuring proposals to meet TA1 or TA2 expectations

• Developing clear technical rationale and differentiation

• Building evaluation metrics and milestone frameworks

• Drafting Phase II strategy and Evolution Team positioning

• Ensuring compliance with DARPA formatting and submission requirements

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.