FAA - BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT AVIATION RESEARCH 2025

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

Executive Summary:

This FAA Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) is an open, rolling opportunity to submit white papers for aviation research topics. There is no fixed deadline—white papers may be submitted at any time until the expiration of the BAA or until a Topic is removed.

If you are developing technologies in airport pavements, aircraft structures, propulsion, avionics, AI/ML, or safety systems, this is a flexible entry point to secure non-dilutive R&D funding. Because submissions are accepted on a rolling basis, strong teams can engage early and iterate with the FAA.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding varies by topic. Examples explicitly stated include:

• Many topics:

  • Not to exceed $200,000.00 per project, per fiscal year

• Some topics:

  • Approximately $250,000 per project, per fiscal year

  • Approximately $350,000 (total)

  • Not to exceed $400,000.00 per project, per fiscal year

• In several topics:

  • Funding is not specified and will be determined based on the proposed work

All funding is:

• Subject to availability

• Typically awarded annually

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports aviation R&D aligned with FAA priorities, including:

• Airport pavement research (e.g., cracking, materials, instrumentation, modeling)

• Structural integrity of aircraft components

• Propulsion and fatigue testing (e.g., nickel alloy anomalies)

• Flight controls, avionics, and safety systems

• AI/ML applications in aviation systems and certification

• Software tools and engineering models (e.g., FAARFIELD, BAKFAA)

• Oversight systems, safety management, and regulatory innovation

Projects generally include:

• Research, testing, and data analysis

• Modeling and simulation

• Software/tool development

• Field validation and implementation planning‍ ‍

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Direct engagement with FAA technical teams and subject matter experts

• Opportunity to influence FAA standards, Advisory Circulars, and software tools

• Access to FAA datasets, test facilities (e.g., NAPTF), and research infrastructure (where applicable)

• Potential for follow-on work based on performance and results

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

• Submission timeline:

  • White papers may be submitted at any time until the expiration of the BAA or until the Topic is removed

• Project duration:

  • Many topics allow up to 3 years

  • Some specify 12 to 36 months or 24 months

  • Others: not specified

• Funding cadence:

  • Typically annual funding, subject to availability

  • Continued funding is at FAA discretion based on performance and results

• Award timing:

  • Not specified in the solicitation

Where does this funding come from?

• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

• Specifically through the William J. Hughes Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace

This is a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for aviation research.

Who is eligible to apply?

• Eligibility is not explicitly specified in the provided text

The solicitation refers broadly to:

• “Offerors”

• “Aviation community”

• Entities capable of submitting white papers aligned to technical topics

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on the solicitation, competitive projects will:

• Directly address a specific Topic of Interest

• Demonstrate technical feasibility and research rigor

• Leverage real-world data, FAA datasets, or test facilities

• Align with FAA implementation goals (e.g., integration into FAARFIELD, Advisory Circulars)

• Show clear pathways to improving safety, performance, or certification processes

• Incorporate advanced methods (e.g., AI/ML, modeling, novel instrumentation) where relevant

Projects that connect research outputs to practical FAA use cases are strongly aligned.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Submissions must be in the form of white papers aligned to specific Topics

• Work must follow instructions and evaluation criteria in the BAA

• Some topics include specific constraints, for example:

  • Avoiding proprietary system promotion in certain research areas

  • Compatibility with FAA systems or software environments

• Funding is:

  • Subject to availability

  • At FAA discretion based on performance and results

No universal restrictions (e.g., cost share, TRLs) are specified in the provided text.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• The solicitation requires brief descriptive white papers

Estimated effort will depend on complexity, but:

• White papers are typically faster to prepare than full proposals

• Exact preparation time is not specified in the solicitation

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Identify the best-fit FAA Topic(s) for your technology

• Translate your innovation into a compliant white paper aligned to FAA expectations

• Position your work for implementation into FAA standards, software, or guidance

• Help structure a phased engagement strategy to maximize follow-on funding

• Ensure your submission is clear, technically credible, and aligned with evaluation criteria

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.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

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

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

MISSION AREAS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(ii).  Gene array printer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

t.  Simple bioluminescence/chemiluminescence equipment.  

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

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

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

x.  Investigations into virus detection techniques.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4.  CHEMICAL POINT DETECTION:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

e.  Identification of candidate multiband screening material.

f.  Improved dissemination of materials.

g.  Improved ballistic stability of non-solid payloads.

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

i.  Aerosolization of obscurant materials.

j.  Effects of smokes and obscurants on the battlefield.

k.  Vulnerability analysis of threat sensor systems versus obscurants.

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

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

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

(iii).  Robotic delivered smokes.

(iv).  Smoke clearing concepts.

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

(vi).  Spectrally-selective obscurants.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(i).  Surface analysis instrumentation.

(ii).  CATOX reactor/data acquisition systems.

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

(iv).  Adsorption equilibrium measurement systems.

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

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

(i).  Increased filtration efficiency

(ii).  Lower pressure drop

(iii).  Reduced clogging

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. EXPLOSIVES POINT, PROXIMAL, AND STANDOFF DETECTION:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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15.  CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL ADVANCED MATERIALS AND MANUFACTURING SCIENCE:

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

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

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

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

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

16.  ANALYTICAL TOXICOLOGY:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

b.  Use of limited memory machines.

c.  Theory of mind.

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

e.  Advanced model development and validation.

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

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

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Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Access to multiple award pathways, including:

  • Procurement Contracts

  • Cooperative Agreements

  • Other Transactions (OTs) for prototypes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

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

• Authorized under:

  • Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)

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

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

Who is eligible to apply?

• Educational institutions

• Nonprofit organizations

• Private industry (including small businesses)

Additional notes:

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

• Foreign organizations may apply, subject to compliance requirements

• Awards are made to organizations, not individuals

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects are evaluated primarily on:

• Technical merit (highest priority)

• Military and program relevance to CBRNE defense

• Innovation and scientific rigor

• Alignment with DEVCOM CBC mission areas

• Feasibility and clarity of approach

• Availability of funds

Strong proposals will:

• Address clear defense needs

• Demonstrate novel, innovative approaches

• Reduce programmatic risk for the Army

• Align directly with listed mission areas

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• No funding for proposal preparation costs

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

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

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

• Compliance required for:

  • Human subjects research

  • Animal research

  • Environmental regulations

• Awards depend on availability of funds

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Preproposal (required first step):

  • Maximum 3 pages

  • Includes concept, scope, qualifications, and estimated cost

• Full proposal (if invited):

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

  • Timeline for submission provided in RFP

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you to:

• Identify the highest-probability mission areas for your technology

• Develop a competitive preproposal strategy aligned to DEVCOM priorities

• Translate your innovation into DoD-relevant language and positioning

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

• Navigate OT vs contract vs cooperative agreement pathways

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

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

DIU: Robotic Exclusion & Engagement Framework (REEF)

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

Executive Summary:

The Robotic Exclusion & Engagement Framework (REEF) is a bilateral U.S.–UK Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) seeking technologies to detect, track, classify, and defeat underwater threats such as AUVs, UUVs, and semi-submersibles targeting ports and critical waterways. Solutions can address individual components or provide a full system, with preference for approaches that can integrate into a broader REEF architecture.

Selected vendors will work directly with U.S. and UK government teams and must be prepared to integrate and conduct in-water testing within 90 days of award.

Application deadline: 2026-04-03 23:59:59 US/Eastern Time.

How much funding would I receive?

Not specified in the solicitation, but typically will lead to awards between $500k - $2m.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports development and demonstration across four REEF components:

1. Detect, Track, and Classify

• Subsea detection (bearing, range, tracking data)

• Multi-sensor tracking and classification (including AI/ML)

• False alarm and clutter reduction

• Sensors (e.g., sonar, EO/IR, acoustic, magnetic, fiber optic sensing)

• Deployable fixed and mobile systems (USVs, UUVs, UAVs, buoys)

• Open architecture, MOSA-compliant systems

2. Defeat Capabilities

• Non-kinetic: nets, barriers, bubble curtains

• Kinetic: payloads, directed energy, physical disruption

• Decoy systems

3. Data and Network Architecture

• Secure, near real-time data transmission

• Encrypted systems compliant with DoD interfaces

4. COP/C2 (Command and Control)

• Common Operating Picture integration or standalone tools

• AI/ML decision support

• Multi-modal sensor fusion (AIS, radar, RF, acoustic, EO)

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Direct path to follow-on production without further competition under 10 U.S.C. 4022(f)

• Opportunity for adoption across multiple DoD organizations

• Collaboration with U.S. and UK government teams

• Participation in technical development sessions

• Integration into a broader multi-vendor system

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

• Application deadline: 2026-04-03 23:59:59 US/Eastern Time

Post-award requirements:

• Participate in several week-long technical development sessions

• Be ready for:

  • Integration with other systems within 90 days of Other Transaction award

  • In-water testing within that same timeframe

Where does this funding come from?

• Commercial companies

• U.S. and UK

• Non-U.S. companies may apply, subject to export control compliance

Additional requirements:

• Only one submission per vendor

• Must clearly identify which REEF component(s) the solution addresses

Who is eligible to apply?

• All sources capable of addressing the objectives of this CSO are eligible

Additional requirements:

• Must comply with security requirements (including DoD classification guidance)

• Must be able to operate in DoD cloud environments (IL5 with scalability to IL6)

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The government indicates preference for solutions that:

• Show a credible path to a full REEF system

• Are modular, scalable, and rapidly deployable

• Comply with open architecture (MOSA)

• Support the full Detect–Track–Classify–Defeat chain

• Perform reliably in complex maritime environments

• Can integrate with other vendors and systems

Both component-level and end-to-end solutions are encouraged.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Export Controls:

  • U.S. EAR and ITAR provisions apply (with UK-specific exemptions)

  • UK companies may use General Export Authorisation No. 001

  • Non-U.S. companies must comply with home-nation export laws

• Submission limits:

  • Maximum 15 slides or 5-page whitepaper

  • Only one submission per vendor

• Collaboration requirement:

  • Vendors must work with other vendors and government partners

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Based on requirements:

  • A 15-slide or 5-page submission

  • Clear mapping to REEF components

This is structured for rapid preparation, especially for teams with existing technology.

How can BW&CO help?

• Identify the strongest REEF component fit for your solution

• Position your offering for system-level integration

• Translate capabilities into clear defense outcomes

• Ensure compliance with CSO format and evaluator expectations

• Build a concise, high-impact submission (slides or whitepaper)

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($9,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

U.S. Navy NSWC Crane - MOBILITY PROTOTYPING

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

Executive Summary:

This is a U.S. Navy NSWC Crane multi-award IDIQ contract (Mobility MAC Follow-On, N0016426RMP01) to develop and test vehicle mobility prototypes across four technical areas (powertrain, chassis, testing, and integration).

You are not bidding on a single project—you are competing to get on-contract, after which you can compete for individual funded delivery orders.

Deadline: 11 May 2026, 02:00 PM local time

This is a high-value, long-term vehicle prototyping contract with access to DoD customers including USSOCOM and multiple services. If you are a mobility, automotive, or defense engineering company, this is a strategic contract vehicle to secure.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding is not guaranteed upfront beyond a minimum. Instead, funding is awarded through delivery orders after contract award.

• Minimum guarantee: $1,000

• Maximum per order: $25,000,000

• Contract structure: Multi-Award IDIQ (you compete for task orders after award)

The total contract ceiling and number of awards are not specified in the provided sections.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding is used to design, prototype, fabricate, and test mobility systems and components for military vehicles.

Four Technology Areas:

1. Powertrain Performance Prototyping

   • Engines, transmissions, hybrid systems, power generation, fuel economy improvements

2. Advanced Chassis, Body, and Mobility Handling

   • Suspension, steering, survivability, payload, vehicle structure

3. Mobility Testing Services

   • Full vehicle/system testing, durability, environmental, and performance validation

4. General Prototype Fabrication and Integration

   • Building and integrating physical prototypes from designs

Work may include:

• Engineering design, CAD/CAE, and simulations

• Prototype fabrication and integration

• Testing and evaluation (including armor and environmental testing)

• Technical data packages and reports

• Transition to Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP)

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Yes—this is a strategic contract vehicle, not just a grant.

• Access to recurring delivery orders over a 5-year contract period

• Ability to work with:

  • USSOCOM

  • U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps

  • Combatant Commands (CENTCOM, PACOM, etc.)

• Opportunity to:

  • Transition prototypes into production (LRIP)

  • Influence future mobility platforms

• Rolling admissions may allow additional contractors to be added later (limited to small businesses)

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

• Solicitation issued: 19 Mar 2026

• Application deadline: 11 May 2026, 02:00 PM local time

After award:

• You must compete for delivery orders (DOs)

• Each DO will include:

  • Statement of Objectives (SOO)

  • Technical requirements, schedule, and funding

• Funding is received only when you win individual DO competitions

Specific award timing and first funding timeline are not specified in the solicitation.

Where does this funding come from?

• U.S. Navy – Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane

• Supporting broader Department of Defense mobility and vehicle modernization efforts

Who is eligible to apply?

The solicitation refers to “interested vendors” that can demonstrate capability in one or more Technology Areas.

You must:

• Propose capabilities in one or more Technology Areas

• Provide historical documentation and current capabilities

• Be able to perform engineering, prototyping, testing, and integration work

Additional eligibility constraints:

• Must comply with ITAR and export control restrictions

• Work must remain under U.S. control (no foreign involvement without approval)

Small business set-asides may apply at the delivery order level, but overall eligibility categories are not fully specified.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Winners will be companies that demonstrate:

• Strong technical capability in at least one Technology Area

• Proven experience in:

  • Mobility systems engineering

  • Automotive or defense prototyping

  • Testing and validation

• Ability to:

  • Deliver end-to-end prototype development

  • Transition designs toward production

At the delivery order level, proposals are evaluated on:

• Technical approach (most important)

• Schedule

• Past performance

• Price (least important unless proposals are similar)

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes—this is a highly regulated DoD contract.

Key restrictions include:

• ITAR / export control compliance required

• No foreign nationals, facilities, or suppliers without approval

• Government retains data rights for developed work

• Strict:

  • Quality standards (ISO/ANSI requirements)

  • Testing standards (MIL-STD, SAE, etc.)

• Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI) rules may limit future work

• Security and handling requirements for sensitive data and equipment

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Based on requirements, expect significant effort to:

• Document past performance and capabilities by Technology Area

• Prepare a technical proposal demonstrating engineering depth

• Align with DoD standards and compliance requirements

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you by:

• Positioning your company for multi-award IDIQ selection

• Structuring your proposal to align with:

  • Technology Area requirements

  • DoD evaluation criteria

• Developing:

  • Technical narratives

  • Past performance framing

  • Compliance and risk positioning

• Preparing you for delivery order competitions post-award

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($9,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

Ground Vehicle System Center (GVSC) Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)

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

Executive Summary:

The U.S. Army DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) is seeking innovative commercial technologies to support next-generation ground vehicle systems through a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO). This is a rolling, multi-phase opportunity covering a wide range of Areas of Interest (AoIs), including power systems, autonomy, survivability, robotics, logistics, and advanced manufacturing.

Critical deadline: The “Durable Replacement Track System for M88A2 Vehicle” AoI deadline has been extended to 06 April 2026.

Most other AoIs are open on a continuous basis unless a specific suspense date is listed, meaning companies can submit at any time—but priority is given to time-sensitive topics.

This is a flexible, non-traditional DoD contracting pathway designed to move quickly from concept to award, including pilots, prototypes, and commercially ready solutions.

How much funding would I receive?

Not specified in the solicitation, but typically between $500k - $2m.

The CSO explicitly states that:

• “no specific dollars have been reserved for awards”

• awards are subject to availability of government funds

What could I use the funding for?

Funding can support development, demonstration, and deployment of innovative commercial technologies relevant to Army ground vehicle systems.

Examples across AoIs include:

• Power generation, propulsion, and energy systems

• Autonomous systems and robotics

• AI/ML-enabled vehicle capabilities

• Cybersecurity and software systems

• Logistics, maintenance, and supply chain technologies

• Advanced manufacturing and materials

• Vehicle survivability and protection systems

• Modeling, simulation, and training systems

Projects may include:

• Commercial technologies already available

• Adaptations of existing commercial products

• Concept demonstrations and pilots

• Incremental improvements to existing systems

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Access to multiple award pathways, including:

  • FAR Part 12 contracts

  • Other Transaction Agreements (10 U.S.C. 4022)

  • Cooperative Agreements

• Ability to work directly with Army technical teams

• Opportunity for follow-on awards and scaling

• Flexible contracting with potential for industry-standard terms

• Potential to establish long-term partnerships with GVSC

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

Application timeline:

• The CSO is open through 2029 unless extended

• Most AoIs are continuously open unless a specific deadline is listed

• Example:

  • Durable Replacement Track System for M88A2 Vehicle: 06 April 2026

Process timeline:

• Phase 1: Solution Brief submission

• Phase 2: Presentation (if invited)

• Phase 3: Full proposal (CSP)

Additional timing details:

• Presentations remain valid for 90 days

• CSP proposals must be valid for 180 days

• Awards occur only if funding becomes available

The Government may move quickly through phases if priorities are urgent.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Army DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) under the authority of:

• 10 U.S.C. 3458 (Commercial Solutions Opening authority)

• Other DoD acquisition authorities including 10 U.S.C. 4022

GVSC operates under the U.S. Army Futures Command (AFC).

Who is eligible to apply?

The solicitation does not restrict eligibility to a specific entity type. Eligible participants may include:

• Commercial companies

• Small businesses

• Nontraditional defense contractors

• Nonprofits

• Foreign-owned companies (subject to approvals and clearances)

To receive an award, companies must:

• Have a Unique Entity ID (UEI)

• Be registered in SAM.gov

• Not be suspended or debarred

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects are evaluated based on:

• Relevance to the specific AoI

• Technical merit and feasibility

• Level of innovation

• Commercial readiness or near-term applicability

• Risk (technical, schedule, pricing)

• Availability of funding

Priority is placed on:

• Commercially available or near-term solutions

• Technologies that can be demonstrated quickly

• Solutions aligned with Army modernization priorities

• High-TRL technologies with clear transition pathways

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• No reimbursement for proposal or solution brief preparation costs

• Submissions must be unclassified

• Export-controlled data may require approvals

• Awards are not guaranteed, even after proposal submission

• Government may:

  • Skip phases

  • Cancel opportunities

  • Award to all, some, or none of applicants

Additional constraints:

• Typical period of performance is generally no greater than 12 months unless otherwise specified

• Intellectual property terms may be negotiated

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Initial submission (Phase 1):

• Solution brief: up to 5 pages or 15 slides

This is relatively lightweight and can typically be prepared quickly.

Later phases (if invited):

• Presentation (Phase 2)

• Full proposal with technical and pricing volumes (Phase 3)

Effort increases significantly in Phase 3 depending on project complexity.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Identify the right AoI for your technology

• Position your solution for maximum relevance and competitiveness

• Develop a high-impact solution brief aligned with evaluation criteria

• Support Phase 2 presentations and Phase 3 proposals

• Help structure pricing and commercialization strategy

• Navigate DoD contracting pathways and compliance requirements

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

DevX Autonomy: Open Call Solicitation for Innovative AUS Solutions

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

Executive Summary:

The Army Applications Laboratory (AAL) is accepting submissions for the Open Call Solicitation for Innovative AUS Solutions (W911NF-26-S-0040). This is a continuously open opportunity to get your autonomy or unmanned system solution into a government-facing platform that enables award without further competition if deemed “award-ready.”

This is not a traditional grant cycle. Instead, submissions are evaluated monthly, and strong solutions can move directly into contracting pathways. The open call runs from 30 December 2025 – 31 August 2026, with monthly submission cutoffs at 12:00 (Noon) Eastern Standard Time (EST) on the final day of each monthly collection period. Founders should treat each month-end deadline as a real submission opportunity.

How much funding would I receive?

• Not specified in the solicitation, but typically between $500k - $2m.

• No fixed award size, range, or ceiling is provided.

• Pricing is determined later through negotiation prior to award.

What could I use the funding for?

The solicitation is seeking autonomy and unmanned systems (AUS) solutions across hardware, software, and services. Specific focus areas include:

• Autonomous platforms (air, ground, maritime)

• Payloads (sensors, communications, effectors)

• Mission-enabling software/hardware

• Lethal capabilities

• Sustainment solutions (maintenance, fueling, deployment)

• Subcomponents (motors, sensors, controllers)

• Other disruptive autonomy solutions

Solutions may support:

• Research and development

• Prototyping

• Testing and evaluation

• Production and fielding

• Sustainment

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Key benefits include:

• Eligibility for future awards without further competition if deemed award-ready

• Direct visibility to U.S. Government stakeholders

• Feedback from Government Subject Matter Experts

• Opportunity for multiple awards per submission

• Access to rapid acquisition pathways

• Simplified submission process (short video + form)

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

• Open call period: 30 December 2025 – 31 August 2026

• Submissions are accepted continuously

• Monthly deadlines:

  • 12:00 (Noon) Eastern Standard Time (EST) on the final day of each monthly collection period

• Review timeline:

  • Submissions are assessed in the following month

  • Results provided within 30 days after the end of the collection period

Funding timeline:

• Not specified in the solicitation

• Awards occur after selection and negotiation of terms

Where does this funding come from?

• U.S. Army Applications Laboratory (AAL)

• Under the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Research Triangle Park Division

Authorities cited include:

• 10 USC 4021, 4022, 3458

• FAR Part 35

• DFARS Part 235 and Subpart 212.70

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• U.S.-based companies (large and small)

• Traditional and nontraditional defense contractors

• Universities

• Nonprofits and research institutions

• Individual developers

• Foreign entities (if compliant with applicable laws and export controls)

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Solutions are evaluated based on:

• Technical merit

• Technical approach and alignment with Army needs

• Company and team qualifications

• Clear definition of the problem

Higher likelihood of success if your solution:

• Clearly solves a meaningful government problem

• Demonstrates strong technical credibility

• Aligns with Army priorities (open, scalable, supportable, repairable systems)

• Shows real-world applicability or a clear path to maturity

• Includes a compelling demonstration (especially for higher TRLs)

Final “award-ready” decisions are made by a Government Selecting Official (GSO) after peer review.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key constraints include:

• Submissions must be:

  • Unclassified

  • Free of proprietary, export-controlled, or CUI content

• Videos must:

  • Be ≤ 6 minutes

  • Meet strict formatting requirements

• All submission costs are not reimbursed

• Being deemed “award-ready” does not guarantee funding

• Government receives broad license rights to use submitted materials

• Only one solution per video submission

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The submission consists of:

• A ≤ 6-minute video pitch

• A structured submission form with company, technical, and solution details

This is significantly lighter than traditional proposals, but requires:

• Clear messaging

• Strong technical explanation

• Demonstrated alignment with Army needs

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Translate your technology into a compelling 6-minute video script

• Position your solution against DevX evaluation criteria

• Align your messaging with Army priorities and focus areas

• Help structure your submission to maximize “award-ready” likelihood

• Prepare you for resubmissions using assessor feedback

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Parkinson’s Research Program (PRP)

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

Executive Summary:

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

Pre-applications are due October 23rd.

Full applications are due November 6.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding depends on the award mechanism:

Early Investigator Research Award

• Funding Level 1:

  • Up to $300,000 total costs

  • Period of performance: 2 years

• Funding Level 2:

  • Up to $1,000,000 total costs

  • Period of performance: 2 years

Investigator-Initiated Research Award

• Up to $2,000,000 total costs

• Period of performance: 3 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

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

• Disease heterogeneity and its impact on progression and outcomes

• Advanced in vitro model systems that reflect in vivo complexity

• Biomarkers and biological mechanisms tied to unmet medical needs

• Research addressing:

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

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

• Development and testing of interventions, including:

  • Biological, pharmacological, and non-pharmacological approaches

  • Surgical and non-surgical devices

  • Non-invasive CNS stimulation

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

• Pre-applications are due October 23rd.

• Full applications are due November 6.

• Funding opportunity announcements will be posted on Grants.gov

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

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

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

Who is eligible to apply?

Early Investigator Research Award

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

• Eligibility must be verified via an institutional statement

Investigator-Initiated Research Award

• Independent investigators at all academic levels, or equivalent

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive applications will:

• Address one or more of the specified focus areas

• Demonstrate high-impact potential and clinical relevance

• Include:

  • Strong mentorship and career development (early investigators)

  • Preliminary data where required

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

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Early Investigator Research Award

• Clinical trials are not allowed

• Mentorship is required for Funding Level 1

• Preliminary data:

  • Not required for Level 1

  • Required for Level 2

Investigator-Initiated Research Award

• Preliminary data are required

• Clinical trials are allowed

General

• Pre-application submission via eBRAP is required

• Applications must follow final instructions in the official funding announcements

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Not specified in the pre-announcement

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

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you by:

• Interpreting the full funding announcement once released

• Positioning your project against PRP focus areas and review criteria

• Developing a compelling technical narrative and commercialization angle

• Managing pre-application and full submission workflows

• Supporting teaming strategies, including Partnering PI structures

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Research Program (DMDRP)

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

Executive Summary:

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

Pre-applications are due on September 4th.

Full applications are due on September 18th.

How much funding would I receive?

Two award mechanisms are anticipated:

Idea Development Award

• Maximum funding: $500,000 in total costs

• Period of performance: 2 years

Clinical/Translational Research Award

Funding Level 1

• Single PI: $910,000 in total costs

• Partnering PI Option: $1 million in total costs

• Period of performance: 3 years

Funding Level 2

• Single PI: $1.75M in total costs

• Partnering PI Option: $1.9M in total costs

• Period of performance: 4 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

Idea Development Award

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

• Development of macromolecular and cellular therapies targeting primary pathology

• Research must include preliminary data

• Cannot fund clinical trials or clinical trial aims

Clinical/Translational Research Award

• Translational research with near-term clinical impact

• Preclinical work supporting IND-enabling studies

• Clinical research including:

  • Real-world data or post-market studies

  • Combination or sequential therapy studies

  • Long-term safety and efficacy studies

  • Studies to improve care and quality of life

  • Clinical trial tools and outcome measures

  • Natural history studies for trial readiness

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

• Must include preliminary data

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

• Pre-applications are due on September 4th.

• Full applications are due on September 18th.

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

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

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

Who is eligible to apply?

Idea Development Award

• Established independent investigators

• Early-stage investigators:

  • Within 10 years of first faculty appointment

  • Must not have previously received this award

• Transitioning investigators entering DMD from another field

• Must:

  • Be pursuing an active line of DMD research

  • Commit at least 10% effort annually

Clinical/Translational Research Award

• Independent investigators at all academic levels

• Optional Partnering PI must be:

  • Early-career (within 10 years), or

  • Established investigator from another field entering DMD

What companies and projects are likely to win?

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

• Research with clinical relevance and translational potential

• Studies that demonstrate impact across the lifespan, including:

  • Infants

  • Toddlers

  • Non-ambulatory individuals

• Applications supported by strong preliminary data

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Idea Development Award:

  • Cannot fund clinical trials or clinical trial aims

• All applications:

  • Must include preliminary data

  • Must align with specified focus areas

• Pre-application submission via eBRAP is required

• Applications must conform to final FOA requirements once released

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Not specified in the pre-announcement

• However, preparation should begin now given:

  • Required preliminary data

  • Mandatory pre-application step

  • Competitive, high-impact nature of the program

How can BW&CO help?

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

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

• Support Partnering PI strategy and positioning

• Develop compliant pre-applications and full submissions

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

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

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

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

Executive Summary:

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

How much funding would I receive?

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

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

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

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

What could I use the funding for?

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

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

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

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does this funding come from?

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

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

• The strongest projects are likely to be those that:

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

  • present a strong research idea and clear impact;

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

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

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

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

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

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

How can BW&CO help?

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

• Strategize the correct solicitation according to your project

• Help strategize on the nature and scope of the project

• Drafting the initial submission and managing the project of applying

• Increasing likelihood of success and saving time

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

U.S. Army Contracting Command – Anniston Army Depot (ACC-HDA)Organic Industrial Base (OIB) Modernization Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)

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

Executive Summary:

This is a continuously open Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) from the U.S. Army Contracting Command – Anniston Army Depot to fund innovative commercial technologies that modernize the Army’s Organic Industrial Base (OIB). The program is actively seeking solutions across advanced manufacturing, automation, digital enterprise, and related areas.

The CSO is continuously open until September 30, 2030. Companies can submit in response to specific Areas of Interest (AoIs) as they are released on SAM.gov, so timing depends on each AoI posting. Early engagement is strongly encouraged as the government can move quickly through evaluation phases.

How much funding would I receive?

• Not specified in the solicitation, but awards typically range from $500k to $5m.

  • Awards are dependent on specific AoIs and availability of government funds

  • Pricing is proposed by the company (starting with a rough order of magnitude in early phases)

  • Final award amounts are negotiated during the proposal phase

What could I use the funding for?

Funding is intended for innovative commercial technologies, products, and services that support modernization of Army depot operations.

Relevant use cases include:

• Advanced manufacturing and maintenance technologies

• Automation and robotics

• Digital enterprise systems (AI, IoT, cloud, 5G)

• Predictive maintenance and diagnostics

• Logistics and inventory modernization

• Process modernization (e.g., coatings, surface treatment)

• Workforce development systems

• Energy and environmental solutions

Solutions may include:

• Commercial technologies already available

• Adaptations of existing commercial products

• Pilot demonstrations or concept development efforts

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

The CSO highlights several non-dilutive and strategic benefits:

• Streamlined application process with minimal initial requirements

• Negotiable payment terms (non-dilutive capital)

• Negotiable intellectual property (IP) rights

• Direct feedback from DoD end users and mission partners

• Fast-track evaluation timelines for early-stage submissions

• Each proposal evaluated on its own merits (not comparatively)

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

• CSO open until: September 30, 2030

• AoIs are released separately and define specific submission windows

Typical process timeline:

• Phase 1 (Solution Brief): Government aims to evaluate within ~30 days after submission deadline

• Phase 2 (Pitch): Evaluation typically within ~30 days

• Phase 3 (Full Proposal): Timeline not specified

• Awards: Dependent on funding availability and negotiations

The government may accelerate or skip phases depending on urgency and proposal quality.

Where does this funding come from?

• U.S. Army Contracting Command – Anniston Army Depot (ACC-HDA)

• Authorized under:

  • Section 803 of the FY2022 National Defense Authorization Act

  • DFARS Subpart 212-70 (Commercial Solutions Opening authority)

Funding supports Department of Defense modernization priorities for the Organic Industrial Base.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Traditional defense contractors

• Nontraditional defense contractors

• Small businesses

• Nonprofit research institutions

• Foreign-owned companies (subject to clearance and approval requirements)

Additional requirements for award:

• Must obtain a Unique Entity ID (UEI)

• Must be registered in SAM.gov

• Must not be suspended or debarred from federal contracting

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects are evaluated based on:

• Alignment with specific AoI requirements

• Technical merit and feasibility

• Level of innovation and uniqueness

• Commercial readiness and ability to meet immediate needs

• Realistic pricing and schedule

• Company viability and risk profile

Solutions that demonstrate clear applicability to Army needs and strong commercial maturity are most competitive.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• Submissions must be unclassified

• Proposal preparation costs are not reimbursable

• Solution briefs and pitches are generally unpaid

• Period of performance typically should not exceed 12 months (unless specified otherwise)

• Export-controlled technologies may require approvals

• Awards are subject to availability of funds

• The government may select all, some, or none of submissions

• Only a Contracting Officer can execute agreements

Additionally, submissions must follow AoI-specific instructions and deadlines to be considered.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Phase 1 Solution Brief:

  • Up to 5 pages or 15 slides

  • Includes executive summary, technical concept, and rough pricing

Later phases (pitch and full proposal) require more detailed technical and pricing information.

Overall preparation time depends on the complexity of the solution and the phase reached.

How can BW&CO help?

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

• Identify and track relevant AoIs as they are released

• Develop high-impact solution briefs aligned to evaluation criteria

• Prepare pitch materials and messaging for Phase 2

• Build full Commercial Solution Proposals (CSPs)

• Support pricing strategy and negotiation positioning

• Ensure compliance with all CSO 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.

DOE // The Genesis Mission: Transforming Science and Energy with AI (DE-FOA-0003612)

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

Executive Summary:

This Department of Energy (DOE) funding opportunity—“The Genesis Mission: Transforming Science and Energy with AI” (DE-FOA-0003612)—is a large-scale, multi-agency initiative to fund interdisciplinary teams using AI to accelerate scientific discovery and energy innovation.

You can apply for FY26 Phase I by April 28, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern.

This is a high-priority federal AI + energy program with $293.76 million in total funding available, targeting sectors like advanced manufacturing, biotech, nuclear, fusion, semiconductors, and energy systems.

If you are building AI-enabled science or energy technology and can form a strong multi-institution team, this is a flagship opportunity with significant funding and long-term follow-on potential.

How much funding would I receive?

• Phase I: $500,000 to $750,000

• Phase II: Envisioned as 3 to 5 times the Phase I award

• Total program funding: ~$293.76 million

• Project duration:

  • Phase I: 9 months

  • Phase II: 3 years

• Number of awards: Not specified (depends on merit and available funds)

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports R&D using AI models and frameworks to accelerate scientific discovery and energy systems innovation.

Eligible work includes:

• AI-driven scientific workflows and models

• Integration of AI with experimental and computational research

• Development of digital twins, simulations, and predictive models

• Automation of research, experimentation, and analysis

Topic areas include:

• Advanced manufacturing

• Biotechnology

• Critical materials

• Nuclear fission and fusion

• Quantum information science

• Semiconductors and microelectronics

• Energy systems and discovery science

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Potential integration into the American Science Cloud (AmSC)

• Access to DOE/NNSA National Laboratories, datasets, and infrastructure

• Participation in the Genesis Mission ecosystem and consortium collaborations

• Opportunity for Phase II expansion (3–5x funding scale)

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

Key deadlines:

• FY26 Phase I Applications: April 28, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern

• FY26 Phase II Letters of Intent: April 28, 2026, at 5 PM Eastern

• FY26 Phase II Applications: May 19, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern

• Phase II (from Phase I awards): December 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern

• Selection timing: Not specified in the solicitation

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from multiple DOE offices, including:

• Office of Science (SC)

• Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation (CMEI)

• Office of Environmental Management (EM)

• Office of Electricity (OE)

• Office of Nuclear Energy (NE)

• Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Office (HGEO)

Funding is issued using DOE’s Other Transaction Authority (OTA).

Who is eligible to apply?

• All types of domestic applicants (with exceptions noted below)

• DOE/NNSA National Laboratories

• FFRDCs and other federal agencies (with specific rules)

• Industry, universities, and nonprofits

Key requirements:

• Must form multi-institutional teams

• Phase I teams must include partners from at least two of three categories:

  • DOE/NNSA National Lab or user facility

  • Industry

  • IHE / nonprofit / other

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive applications will:

• Demonstrate clear AI advantage in scientific or R&D workflows

• Show quantifiable improvements (e.g., predictive power, speed, automation)

• Leverage DOE data, infrastructure, or national lab capabilities

• Include strong interdisciplinary, multi-institution teams

• Align with one of the defined topic and focus areas

Phase I specifically favors:

• Proof-of-concept workflows

• Measurable indicators of future scalability and impact

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Cost share requirements:

  • Not required for most applicants

  • For-profit entities must provide:

    • ≥20% cost share for R&D

    • 50% for demonstration/commercial activities

• Teaming requirements are mandatory

• Limits on submissions:

  • One lead application per focus area per institution

• Restrictions on PI roles and institutional participation apply (as detailed in the solicitation)

• Applications may be declined without review if requirements are not met

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Based on requirements:

• Multi-institutional coordination

• Technical proposal + budget + compliance documentation

Preparation will likely require significant coordination across partners (not quantified in the solicitation).

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Identify the best-fit topic and focus area

• Structure your multi-institution team strategy

• Translate your technology into DOE-aligned AI advantage narratives

• Develop a clear, competitive Phase I proposal

• Support partner coordination, budget strategy, and submission compliance

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Toxic Exposures Research Program (TERP)

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

Executive Summary:

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

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

How much funding would I receive?

Funding depends on the award mechanism:

• Clinical Trial Award

  • Up to $4.5 million total costs

  • Maximum 4 years

• Translational Research Award

  • Up to $1.5M total costs

  • Maximum 3 years

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award

  • Up to $800,000 total costs

  • Maximum 3 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports research aligned with at least one program goal:

• Predict and prevent

  • Monitoring and prevention strategies

  • Risk factor identification

  • Multigenerational and reproductive effects

  • Exposure tracking technologies

• Diagnose

  • Biomarkers and diagnostics

  • Disease progression understanding

  • Multi-exposure and stressor interactions

• Treat

  • Therapeutics and interventions

  • Preclinical models (non-clinical trial mechanisms only)

  • Strategies to reduce symptoms and disease progression

Projects must also address at least one topic area:

• Neurotoxin Exposure

• Gulf War Illness and Its Treatment

• Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

• Strong encouragement for:

  • Collaboration with military and/or VA researchers and clinicians

  • Inclusion of a clinician on the team

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

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

• This is a pre-announcement

• Application deadlines are not specified

• Future funding opportunity announcements will include:

  • Pre-application (required) via eBRAP

  • Full application (by invitation only)

Additional timing details:

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

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

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

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

Who is eligible to apply?

• Independent investigators at all career levels

No additional eligibility restrictions are specified.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects that:

• Address at least one program goal and one topic area

• Demonstrate clinical relevance and impact on patient outcomes

• Include preliminary data (required across all mechanisms)

• Align with:

  • Prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of toxic exposure effects

• Incorporate:

  • Collaboration with military/VA stakeholders

  • Clinical expertise

  • Consumer (Veteran/military) input where encouraged

Clinical Trial Awards specifically favor:

• Trials ready for rapid implementation

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Preproposal is required; full application is by invitation only

• All applications must include preliminary data

Mechanism-specific restrictions:

• Clinical Trial Award

  • Must include a clinical trial

  • Cannot include preclinical studies (including animal research)

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award

  • Cannot include clinical trials

• Translational Research Award

  • Cannot include clinical trials

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not specified in the pre-announcement.

However:

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

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

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you by:

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

• Structuring a competitive preproposal to secure invitation

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

• Positioning collaborations with military, VA, and clinical stakeholders

• Ensuring compliance with CDMRP and eBRAP submission requirements

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Military Burn Research Program (MBRP)

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

Executive Summary:

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

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

How much funding would I receive?

Funding varies by award mechanism:

• Discovery Award

  • Up to $200,000 total costs

  • Up to 2 years

• Patient-Centered Research Award (PCRA)

  • Single PI: Up to $1.6 million total costs

  • Mentorship Option: Up to $1.8 million total costs

  • Up to 4 years

• Technology/Therapeutic Development Award (TTDA)

  • Single PI: Up to $1.6 million total costs

  • Mentorship Option: Up to $1.8 million total costs

  • Up to 3 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

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

• Cold injury triage, treatment, and prevention

• Acute burn care in combat settings

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

  • Fluid resuscitation issues

  • Endotheliopathy

  • Sepsis

  • Inhalation injuries

  • Fungal infections

  • Hypermetabolism

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

By mechanism:

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

• PCRA: Clinical research and clinical trials only

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

• Access to CDMRP-managed funding infrastructure

• Opportunity to build solutions for military and battlefield healthcare applications

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

• This is a pre-announcement only

• Application deadlines are not yet specified

• Once released:

  • Pre-applications must be submitted via eBRAP

  • Full applications are invitation-only following preproposal review

• Timing for award decisions and funding is not specified

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

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

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

Who is eligible to apply?

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

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

No additional eligibility restrictions are specified.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive applications will:

• Directly address combat-relevant burn care challenges

• Focus on austere, resource-limited, battlefield environments

• Show:

  • Strong scientific rationale

  • Clear study design and analysis plan

  • Alignment with one or more listed focus areas

By mechanism:

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

• PCRA: Clinically actionable research with preliminary data

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

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

• Mechanism-specific restrictions:

  • Discovery: No clinical trials

  • PCRA: No preclinical or animal research

  • TTDA: No clinical research or clinical trials

• Preliminary data:

  • Required for PCRA and TTDA

  • Optional for Discovery

• All applications must follow final FOA requirements once released

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Not explicitly specified

• However, applicants should plan for:

  • Preproposal development

  • Invitation-based full application

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

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you across both stages:

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

• Shape your concept to align with combat burn priorities

• Develop a competitive preproposal strategy

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

  • Technical narrative

  • Commercialization or translation framing (for TTDA)

  • Clinical positioning (for PCRA)

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Joint Warfighter Medical Research Program (JWMRP)

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

Executive Summary:

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

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

How much funding would I receive?

Two award options are available:

• MMRDA

  • Maximum funding: $1.25M (total costs)

  • Period of performance: Up to 3 years

• MMRDA – Clinical Research/Trial Option

  • Maximum funding: $3M (total costs)

  • Period of performance: Up to 3 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding is strictly for continuation of existing projects, including:

• Late-stage preclinical studies

• Late-stage technology development

• Technology demonstration

• Translational research

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

• Development of:

  • Pharmaceutical or biologic candidates

  • Medical devices

  • Medical technologies

Projects must address at least one focus area:

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

• Hemorrhage mitigation and trauma resuscitation

• Injury from temperature extremes

• Musculoskeletal injury (MSKI) treatment and prevention

• Radiation exposure countermeasures (excluding cytokines)

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Not specified in the pre-announcement.

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

• This is a pre-announcement only

• Full FOAs will be released on Grants.gov

• A pre-application is required via eBRAP

• Full applications are by invitation only

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

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

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

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

Who is eligible to apply?

• Extramural and intramural applicants

• Independent investigators at all academic levels (or equivalent)

Additional required eligibility conditions:

• Must have previously received DOW core or congressionally directed funding

• Must propose a continuation of the same research concept

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on stated requirements, competitive projects will:

• Be continuations of previously funded DOW projects

• Be near deployment or impact (TRL 5+)

• Address one or more JWMRP focus areas

• Demonstrate clear progress toward military medical capability gaps

• Be positioned for translation, demonstration, or clinical validation

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes—this program is highly restrictive:

• No new projects allowed

• No basic research allowed

• Must be a continuation of prior DOW-funded work

• Must meet TRL 5 or higher requirement

• Pre-application is mandatory

• Full application is by invitation only

• Must align with at least one focus area

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not specified in the pre-announcement.

How can BW&CO help?

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

We help by:

• Assess whether your prior DOW-funded project qualifies

• Position your continuation strategy to align with JWMRP focus areas

• Develop a compelling pre-application for eBRAP

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

  • Translational readiness

  • Military relevance

  • Programmatic alignment

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

CDMRP: Bone Marrow Failure Research Program (BMFRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Bone Marrow Failure Research Program (BMFRP) pre-announcement is live. This is an early signal to start preparing now—formal funding opportunities will follow on Grants.gov.

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

Pre-Applications are due: August 5th and October 7th

Full Proposals are due: November 4th

How much funding would I receive?

Funding varies by award mechanism:

• Idea Development Award

  • Maximum: $800,000 total costs

  • Period of performance: Up to 3 years

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award

  • Maximum: $1,250,000 total costs

  • Period of performance: Up to 3 years

• Resource Development Award

  • Maximum: $1,250,000 total costs

  • Period of performance: Up to 2 years

Total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

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

• Develop durable resources for the bone marrow failure research community

• Find effective BMF treatments and cures

• Understand the causes and progression of BMF diseases

Each award mechanism has specific intent:

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

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

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

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

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

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

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

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

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

• Pre-Applications are due: August 5th and October 7th

• Full Proposals are due: November 4th

• Pre-application required via eBRAP before full application

• Full applications are invitation-only after preproposal review

• Funding opportunity announcements will be posted on Grants.gov

• Award timing: Not specified in the pre-announcement

Where does this funding come from?

• FY26 Defense Appropriations Act

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

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

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility depends on the award mechanism:

• Idea Development Award:

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

  • Established Investigators (≥10 years from first appointment)

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award:

  • Independent investigators at all career levels

• Resource Development Award:

  • Independent investigators at all career levels

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

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on required criteria:

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

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

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

• Clear translational impact and potential to advance patient care

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

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Preproposal required; full applications are invitation-only

• Clinical trials are not allowed under any mechanism

• Applications must align to specified focus areas

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

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

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The structure implies:

• Initial preproposal preparation (required for all mechanisms)

• Full proposal only if invited

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

How can BW&CO help?

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

We help by:

• Position your project against the three distinct award mechanisms

• Build a preproposal strategy that secures invitation to full application

• Shape your narrative around CDMRP review expectations and translational impact

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

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

ERDC: Geospatial Research Laboratory - Commercial Solutions Openings (CSO)

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

Executive Summary:

The Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) – Geospatial Research Laboratory (GRL) is accepting solutions through a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) for innovative geospatial, mapping, sensing, and navigation technologies that could improve Army mission capabilities.

This opportunity allows companies to propose commercial technologies, services, or R&D solutions aligned with ERDC-GRL research priorities such as 3D mapping, remote sensing, and terrain-based navigation.

Solutions must be submitted through 5PM CST, 30 June 2026 via the ERDCWERX submission portal. Proposals are evaluated quickly—often within 10 days of submission—making this a fast pathway for companies with relevant technology to secure government contracts.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards typically range from $500k - $5m. Key funding notes:

• Funding availability is determined on a proposal-by-proposal basis.

• The government may not have funds available for every technically selectable proposal.

• Offerors are encouraged to provide flexible quantities or pricing options to maximize award potential.

All resulting awards will be firm-fixed-price contracts.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports commercial technologies, services, and research & development solutions that advance ERDC-GRL mission areas.

The solicitation lists six Areas of Interest (AOIs):

• Mission Command decision environments

• Establishing full-3D mapping capabilities

• Building a holistic geospatial foundation

• Remote sensing and mapping capabilities

• Terrain-based positioning and navigation technologies

• Earth system dynamics for situational understanding

Solutions may include:

• New technologies

• New applications of existing technologies

• Commercial products adapted for government missions

• Research and development projects

All proposed items and services are treated as commercial items under the CSO.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

This CSO provides several advantages compared with traditional government programs:

• Fast evaluation timelines (often within 10 days of submission)

• Ability to submit existing commercial technologies

• Potential for prototype agreements, including Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs)

• Opportunities to demonstrate technology during optional Demo Day or site visits

• Collaboration with the government to develop the Performance Work Statement (PWS) before award

The government may also provide feedback to unsuccessful offerors at its discretion.

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

Key dates and timing from the solicitation:

• Solution submission deadline: 5PM CST, 30 June 2026

• Evaluation timeline: Generally completed within 10 days of submission

• Awards: Issued after evaluation and price reasonableness determination

The CSO is structured as an open-continuous solicitation, meaning solutions can be submitted anytime before the deadline.

The government may use either:

• One-step evaluation: direct award decision

• Two-step evaluation: initial review followed by a virtual or in-person demonstration

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) through its Geospatial Research Laboratory (GRL).

ERDC conducts projects for:

• Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology)

• Army Futures Command

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

• Other government organizations

The solicitation is issued under Department of Defense Commercial Solutions Opening authority.

Who is eligible to apply?

The following requirements are explicitly stated:

• Offerors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).

• Entities must be registered to bid on contracts, not just grants.

• Offerors must provide a CAGE Code and Unique Entity ID in their submission.

All items, technologies, and services submitted under this CSO are treated as commercial items.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The government evaluates proposals using three factors:

1. Technical merit

   • Innovation of the solution

   • Feasibility of solving the agency challenge

2. Importance to agency programs

   • Potential to enhance mission effectiveness

3. Funds availability

Strong proposals typically demonstrate:

• Clear alignment with an Area of Interest

• Evidence the solution works in the commercial marketplace

• Technical feasibility and practical application

• Clear explanation of how the technology improves mission capabilities

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• No classified data or sensitive information may be included in submissions

• Proprietary information must be clearly marked

• Prices must remain valid for at least 90 days after submission

• Proposal documents must follow specific file naming conventions

• SAM registration must match the company address listed in the proposal

• The government may choose not to fund any proposals

Additionally, security requirements may apply for projects performed at military installations.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The application is designed to be relatively lightweight.

Required materials include:

Cover Letter (max 2 pages)
Must include:

• Area of Interest

• Team members

• Solution validity date

• Company overview

• Contact information

• CAGE code and DUNS

• SAM registration screenshot

• Relevant NAICS code

Technical Volume

• Solution brief (max 5 pages)

• Pitch deck (max 15 slides)

• Optional 5-minute video demonstration

Price Volume

• Proposed pricing

• Delivery date or period of performance

Many companies can prepare submissions within a few weeks depending on readiness of materials.

How can BW&CO help?

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

We help by:

• Identifying the best Area of Interest alignment

• Structuring your solution brief and pitch deck

• Positioning your technology around Army mission needs

• Building a compliant proposal package

• Preparing your pricing and commercialization narrative

• Supporting Demo Day preparation if invited

Our goal is to maximize your chances of selection while minimizing internal time spent on proposal preparation.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

ERDC: Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory - Commercial Solutions Openings (CSO)

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

Executive Summary:

The Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) is accepting proposals through Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) Solicitation W913E526SC001 for innovative commercial technologies that advance cold regions science and engineering capabilities. The program seeks solutions across areas such as cold-region domain awareness, mobility and maneuver in extreme cold, ice operations, advanced materials, resilient energy systems, and cryospheric biochemical applications.

This is a rolling submission opportunity, meaning proposals are reviewed as they are received and awards may be issued shortly thereafter. The solicitation is open from 01 Jan 2026 through 31 December 2026, and submissions must be received through 5PM EST, the date of closing posted at the start of this solicitation. Companies are encouraged to submit early since funding decisions occur on a rolling basis.

How much funding would I receive?

Awards typically range from $500k - $5m. Key funding details stated in the solicitation:

• Awards may be made as firm-fixed-price contracts.

• The government may also award prototype agreements (e.g., Other Transaction Agreements) under 10 U.S.C. §4022 if deemed appropriate.

• Funding availability is one of the evaluation factors, meaning some technically strong proposals may not receive awards if funding is unavailable.

Because no specific funding amounts are provided, the award value will depend on the proposed solution and available program funding.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports innovative commercial items, technologies, and services, including research and development, that advance cold-region capabilities.

Solutions should address one or more of the following research thrust areas:

• Building Cold Region Domain Awareness

• Enhancing Mobility and Maneuver in Cold Region Environments

• Integrated Ice Operations

• Advanced Materials Development and Applications in Extreme Cold Environments

• Resilient Cold Region Energy Systems

• Advancements in Cryospheric Biochemical Applications

“Innovative” is defined as:

• A technology, process, or method that is new as of the date of proposal submission, or

• A new application of an existing technology or method.

Solutions may include existing commercial technologies or new R&D approaches that improve mission capabilities.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Potential benefits include:

• Direct contracts with the U.S. Army / Department of Defense.

• The possibility of prototype agreements (Other Transaction Agreements) when appropriate.

• Opportunities to demonstrate technology to government evaluators if selected for a demonstration step.

• Potential inclusion of proposals in a government “library” for future funding consideration if technically promising but unfunded initially.

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

Solicitation open period

• 01 Jan 2026 through 31 December 2026

Submission deadline

• Submissions must be received through 5PM EST, the date of closing posted at the start of this solicitation.

Review timeline

• Proposals are reviewed as they are received.

• Evaluation is generally completed within 10 days of submission, though it may take longer for complex submissions or high submission volumes.

Because this is a rolling solicitation, companies are encouraged to submit early rather than waiting for the final closing date.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL).

CRREL executes projects on behalf of:

• Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology) (ASA(ALT))

• Army Futures Command

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

• Other government organizations.

The CSO is authorized under Department of Defense Class Deviation 2022-O0007, allowing DoD organizations to procure innovative commercial solutions.

Who is eligible to apply?

The following requirements are explicitly stated:

• Offerors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).

• Entities must be registered to bid on contracts, not just grants.

• Offerors must provide a CAGE Code and Unique Entity ID in their submission.

All items, technologies, and services submitted under this CSO are treated as commercial items.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Proposals are evaluated using three primary factors:

1. Technical merit

   • How innovative the solution is.

   • Whether the solution is technically feasible.

2. Importance to agency programs

   • Whether the solution enhances the agency’s mission effectiveness.

3. Funds availability

   • Whether sufficient funding exists to procure the solution.

Solutions are more likely to succeed if they:

• Demonstrate clear innovation or a new application of existing technology.

• Show commercial viability or existing market use.

• Provide convincing evidence that the technology solves a real agency challenge.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• No classified or sensitive information may be included in submissions.

• All proposal materials must be submitted as PDFs and the combined package must be 15 MB or less.

• All prices must remain valid for at least 90 days after the response date.

• Hardcopy submissions are not accepted; submissions must be made electronically.

Additionally:

• The government may request additional documentation prior to award, including a contractor-developed Performance Work Statement (PWS).

• The government reserves the right to select none of the submissions.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The proposal package is relatively lightweight compared to many federal R&D programs.

Required components include:

• Cover Letter (max 2 pages)

• Technical Volume

  • Solution brief (max 5 pages)

  • Pitch deck (max 15 slides)

  • Optional video demonstration (max 5 minutes)

• Price Volume (no page limit)

Because of the short format and slide deck option, many companies can typically prepare a submission within a few weeks, depending on technical complexity.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO helps companies turn promising technologies into clear, competitive government submissions for CSO and BAA opportunities like this one.

We support clients by:

• Translating technical solutions into government-ready proposal narratives

• Developing the technical brief and pitch deck

• Positioning your solution to align with CRREL’s Areas of Interest

• Preparing the price volume and submission package

• Managing submission through the ERDCWERX portal

Our goal is to help you present your innovation in a way that clearly demonstrates technical merit and mission impact.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

ERDC: Construction Engineering Research Laboratory - Commercial Solutions Openings (CSO)

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

Executive Summary:

The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) is seeking innovative commercial technologies, products, and services that support military infrastructure, energy systems, robotics, additive construction, environmental management, and facility lifecycle optimization.

This opportunity uses a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to identify promising technologies that could later receive contracts if funding becomes available.

Companies must first submit a short solution brief describing their technology. If the government determines the solution is promising and funding is available, the company may be invited to submit a full proposal and potentially receive a contract.

Solution submissions will be accepted through 5PM CST, 30 October 2026, and companies may submit at any time prior to this deadline.

How much funding would I receive?

The document states that Areas of Interest generally have no known funding specifically available, and funding may become available later through Individual Program Requirements (IPRs).

If a solution is selected and funding is available, the government may request a full proposal and proceed toward an award.

Contracts issued under this solicitation will be firm-fixed-price. Awards typically range from $500k - $5m.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding would support technologies and services aligned with ERDC-CERL mission areas. The solicitation identifies the following Areas of Interest (AOIs):

Materials and Structures

• Sustainable engineered wood, mass timber, and bio-structural building solutions

• Bio-based building insulating and finishing solutions

Installation Energy

Technologies that improve energy and water efficiency and security, including:

• Combined heat and power generation

• Fuel cells and reformers

• Renewable energy systems (wind, solar, hydropower)

• Water treatment, recycling, and storage systems

• Waste-to-energy technologies

Warfighter Engineering

• Additive construction and deployable 3D printing systems

• Autonomous material processing and construction equipment

• Robotics for engineering operations

• Autonomous terrain shaping and infrastructure inspection systems

Operational Energy

• Hybrid power systems

• Energy storage and monitoring technologies

• Power generation systems

• Energy management software and infrastructure

Training Lands and Heritage

• Natural infrastructure condition assessment

• Soil and plant monitoring systems

• Environmental analytics and forecasting tools

Sustainment Management Systems

• Facility lifecycle investment optimization tools

• Building sensor analytics and digital infrastructure management

• Risk-based decision systems for facility maintenance and modernization

Solutions may include research and development, products, technologies, or services, and they do not need to be commercially available at the time of submission.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Companies selected under this CSO may receive:

• Firm-fixed-price government contracts

• Potential use of Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) if appropriate

• Collaboration with government teams to develop performance work statements (PWS) and project details

• Opportunities to demonstrate technologies through virtual or in-person demonstrations

Additionally, solutions that are technically promising but lack immediate funding may remain in the government’s library for consideration for up to three years after submission.

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

Submission deadline

Solution submissions will be accepted through 5PM CST, 30 October 2026.

Application process

Step 1 – Solution Brief Submission

Companies submit a short package including:

• Cover letter (maximum 2 pages)

• Technical solution brief (maximum 5 pages)

• Pitch deck (maximum 15 slides)

• Optional 5-minute video

• Pricing information

Step 2 – Government Evaluation

The government evaluates submissions based on:

• Technical merit and innovation

• Importance to agency programs

• Availability of funds

Step 3 – Request for Full Proposal (if selected)

If the solution is selected and funding is available, the government may issue a Request for Proposal (RFP).

If funding is not immediately available, the solution may be retained for consideration for up to three years.

Companies whose solutions are not selected will generally be notified within 30 days of submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), specifically the Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL).

The program is administered under Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) authority pursuant to DFARS 212.70.

Awards may be issued using:

• FAR-based contracts

• Other Transaction agreements (OTAs)

• Other appropriate contracting vehicles

Who is eligible to apply?

The solicitation is issued on a full and open basis, meaning companies of any size may apply.

Applicants must:

• Be registered in SAM.gov

• Have a valid UEI and CAGE code

• Be registered to bid on contracts, not just grants

Entities not properly registered in SAM at the time of award are not eligible to receive a contract.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

ERDC-CERL evaluates submissions based on three factors:

1. Technical merit and innovation

   • The solution must represent a new technology, process, method, or new application of an existing technology.

2. Importance to agency programs

   • The solution must demonstrate potential to improve the effectiveness of CERL mission areas.

3. Funding availability

The government also encourages submissions that include:

• Evidence of commercialization or market use

• Demonstrations or full-scale examples

• Visual materials such as diagrams or models

• Real-world use cases showing feasibility

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• Proposals must not contain classified data or sensitive information.

• Proprietary information must be clearly marked.

• Prices must remain valid for at least 90 days after the response date.

• If the proposed solution is valued above $900,000 and the company is not a small business, the proposal must include a subcontracting plan prepared in accordance with FAR 19.704.

• The government may conduct site visits or product demonstrations, but participation does not guarantee award.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The initial submission is relatively lightweight and typically includes:

• 2-page cover letter

• 5-page solution brief

• 15-slide pitch deck

• Pricing information

• Optional 5-minute video

For most companies, preparing the initial submission typically requires a short proposal effort, though the solicitation does not specify a preparation timeline.

A more detailed proposal may be required later if the government requests a full solution proposal.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support your application by:

• Determining which Area of Interest best fits your technology

• Developing a high-impact solution brief and pitch deck

• Positioning your technology around CERL’s evaluation criteria

• Preparing the pricing volume and commercialization narrative

• Supporting any full proposal or follow-on RFP request

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.

ERDC: Civil Works Strategic Focus Areas - Commercial Solutions Openings (CSO)

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

Executive Summary:

The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is seeking innovative commercial technologies, products, and services that advance Civil Works research and development priorities across infrastructure, ecosystems, water management, sediment management, crisis preparedness, and AI-driven engineering solutions.

This opportunity is structured as a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO). Companies first submit a short solution brief (maximum three pages) describing their innovation. If the government determines the concept is promising and funding becomes available, the company may be invited to submit a full proposal and receive a contract award.

Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis until 5PM EST, 31 December 2026, making this an ongoing opportunity for companies developing technologies relevant to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works missions.

How much funding would I receive?

The document states that:

• Strategic Focus Areas generally have no known funding specifically available at the time of submission.

• If a submitted solution is selected and funding becomes available, the government will issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) that includes further details and pricing requirements.

Offerors are required to provide a Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) price estimate in the initial solution brief. Awards typically range from $500k - $5m.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding may support innovative commercial technologies, products, services, or research and development efforts that advance Civil Works capabilities.

Projects must align with one of the following Strategic Focus Areas:

Infrastructure – NextGen Water Resources Infrastructure

• Robotic inspection and repair technologies

• Novel and sustainable construction materials

• Sensors and structural monitoring technologies

• Flood and seismic damage prediction and mitigation

• Advanced manufacturing and infrastructure prototyping

• Hydropower innovations

• Corrosion mitigation technologies

• Systems engineering tools for maintenance optimization

Water Modeling – Comprehensive Water Risk Management

• Integrated sensing systems for water monitoring

• Risk-informed decision support tools

• National-scale water simulation frameworks

• Modeling of compound hazards (storms, flooding, groundwater, etc.)

• Arctic environmental modeling

• Drought and groundwater interaction modeling

• Community resilience tools

Sediment Management – Innovation in Sediment Management

• Non-traditional dredging approaches

• Improved dredged material placement

• Sediment prevention technologies

• Autonomous surveying and dredging technologies

• Sediment transport modeling tools

• Real-time dredging monitoring sensors

• Coastal mapping technologies

Ecosystems – Sustainable Species Management

• Aquatic ecosystem restoration technologies

• Environmental decision-support tools

• Monitoring technologies for threatened and endangered species

• Invasive species detection and management technologies

Crisis Preparedness – Crisis Preparedness, Response, and Recovery

• Real-time crisis communication technologies

• Multi-hazard crisis modeling

• Autonomous reconnaissance systems

• Decision-support tools for disaster response

• Debris removal technologies

• Temporary power solutions for critical infrastructure

• Virtual training environments for crisis response

• Post-wildfire risk management tools

AI, Robotics, and Data – Innovative Applications of Big Data and AI

• Data engineering and automation tools

• AI-driven decision-making systems

• Cyber operational technology for infrastructure protection

• Autonomous robotics systems for infrastructure inspection and mapping

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Potential benefits include:

• The opportunity to receive a government contract if a submitted solution is selected and funding becomes available.

• The possibility of direct engagement with ERDC technical teams, including solution pitches and discussions.

• Solutions may remain in the government’s electronic library for consideration for up to three years if initially selected but not funded.

Awards may be issued through FAR-based contracts or Other Transaction agreements, depending on the solution and contracting approach used.

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

Solution brief submission deadline:
5PM EST, 31 December 2026.

Key timeline steps:

1. Submit a solution brief (maximum 3 pages).

2. Government experts review submissions.

3. If promising, the government may:

   • Ask questions via email, or

   • Invite the company to present a solution pitch.

4. If the solution is selected and funding becomes available, the government will issue a Request for Proposal (RFP).

5. After the RFP, proposals will be evaluated and contracts may be awarded.

If a solution is not selected, offerors will generally be notified within 30 days of submission.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding originates from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and is administered through the Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC).

The program supports the Civil Works mission areas, including:

• Flood risk management

• Inland and coastal navigation

• Aquatic ecosystem restoration

The CSO is authorized under a Department of Defense Class Deviation (2022-O0007) that allows the government to acquire innovative commercial solutions through a streamlined process.

Who is eligible to apply?

However, the following requirements are stated:

• Offerors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) to receive an award.

• The company’s address in the proposal must match the SAM registration information.

Solutions must be submitted through the ERDCWERX electronic portal.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Solutions will be evaluated based on:

• How innovative the solution is

• Feasibility of solving a government challenge

• Potential to enhance mission effectiveness

• Availability of funding

Strong proposals typically:

• Demonstrate a clear mission impact

• Provide evidence of commercialization or real-world use

• Include technical evidence, diagrams, models, or figures

• Show how the technology is new or a novel application of an existing technology

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key requirements include:

• Solution briefs must be no more than three pages.

• Submissions must follow specified formatting requirements:

  • 12-point Times New Roman

  • 1-inch margins

  • Single spaced

  • PDF format under 20 MB

• Classified or proprietary information should not be included.

• All submissions must be written in English.

All resulting contracts will be firm-fixed price, and commercial acquisition procedures will be used.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The initial submission is a three-page solution brief, which typically requires significantly less effort than a full proposal.

The solicitation does not specify preparation time requirements, but the short format suggests companies can prepare submissions relatively quickly compared to traditional federal proposals.

If selected, the government may later request a full proposal including a Performance Work Statement (PWS) or Scope of Work (SOW) before award.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO helps companies quickly determine whether this opportunity is a strong fit and prepares competitive submissions by:

• Identifying the best strategic focus area alignment

• Crafting a clear and compelling solution brief

• Demonstrating mission relevance and innovation

• Developing the technical narrative and commercialization evidence

• Preparing companies for potential solution pitches or follow-on proposals

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

MYSTIC DEPOT - Vendor-Agnostic AI Evaluation Infrastructure

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

Executive Summary:

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is seeking commercial solutions for MYSTIC DEPOT: Vendor-Agnostic AI Evaluation Infrastructure, a capability to rigorously evaluate artificial intelligence systems used in national security contexts. The government wants infrastructure that can continuously test new AI models, agents, and human-AI teaming workflows against mission-specific benchmarks as AI capabilities evolve.

The solicitation closes on 2026-03-24 23:59:59 US/Eastern Time, and companies must submit a short solution brief through DIU’s Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) portal before that deadline.

The government is seeking two types of capabilities:

• Evaluation Harness Infrastructure that connects AI models to benchmarks and generates standardized evaluation results.

• Benchmark Development and Methodology that defines how government-specific AI capabilities should be tested across classified and unclassified mission environments.

Prototype awards may lead directly to follow-on production contracts without further competition, which could significantly expand the size of the opportunity.

How much funding would I receive?

The solicitation states that awards will be issued as Prototype Other Transaction (OT) agreements under 10 U.S.C. 4022. Awards typically range from $500k - $5m.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding would support the development and demonstration of solutions addressing one or both of the following Lines of Effort (LOE):

LOE 1: Evaluation Harness

Infrastructure that enables standardized, reproducible evaluation of AI systems.

Key capabilities include:

• Model Interface to connect diverse AI systems to the evaluation harness

• Execution Engine for orchestrating evaluation workflows

• Measurement and Scoring System for benchmarking model outputs

• Human-in-the-loop evaluation to measure performance of human-AI teams

• Output and reporting tools that export results in open, non-proprietary formats

• Continuous monitoring and analytics for ongoing model performance tracking

• Benchmark configuration management

• Simulation of degraded or denied environments (DDIL)

• Agentic AI evaluation for multi-step autonomous behavior

• Adversarial testing and red-teaming

• Multimodal evaluation including video and audio inputs

Solutions should also support:

• Modular architecture

• Containerized deployment

• Deployment across unclassified, classified cloud, and air-gapped environments

• Interoperability between evaluation infrastructure and benchmark content

• Access controls and sensitive data protection

LOE 2: Benchmark Development and Methodology

Creation of mission-relevant AI evaluation benchmarks across unclassified, secret, and top secret workflows.

Benchmark development should address:

• Mission capability requirements

• Task decomposition into measurable evaluations

• Realistic operational scenarios

• Scoring criteria and interpretability

• Baseline model performance

• Validation of reliability and fairness

• Resistance to benchmark gaming

• Ongoing benchmark maintenance

Vendors must also provide training materials so government personnel can maintain benchmarks independently.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Prototype awards may lead to direct follow-on production contracts without additional competition.

Potential follow-on activities include:

• Deployment across additional classification levels and environments

• Expansion of benchmark suites for new mission areas

• Ongoing system maintenance and capability upgrades

• Training and support for government personnel

The solicitation states that the follow-on production award may be significantly larger than the prototype OT agreement.

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

Submission deadline:
2026-03-24 23:59:59 US/Eastern Time

Application process:

1. Companies submit a solution brief through the DIU submission portal.

2. DIU reviews submissions and may invite selected companies to provide a pitch and full proposal.

3. If selected, companies will negotiate the terms of a prototype OT agreement.

The solicitation states that DIU aims to respond within 30 days if it is interested in moving forward with a pitch.

Where does this funding come from?

The opportunity is issued by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) using the Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) process.

Awards are made under the authority of 10 U.S.C. 4022, which allows the Department of Defense to issue Other Transaction (OT) agreements for prototype projects.

The solicitation references the DIU CSO HQ0845-20-S-C001, originally posted to SAM.gov on 23 March 2020.

The program is conducted in partnership with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI).

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants include vendors that are eligible to receive an Other Transaction award in accordance with 10 U.S.C. 4022.

Companies should demonstrate expertise in areas such as:

• AI evaluation methodology

• Benchmark design and measurement

• Security testing and adversarial AI evaluation

Preferred qualifications include:

• Published research on evaluation methodologies

• Contributions to AI evaluation frameworks or benchmarks

• Collaboration with frontier AI labs

• Experience working with government AI evaluation initiatives

• Personnel with Secret clearance minimum (TS/SCI preferred) or the ability to obtain clearance

• Experience deploying systems in DoD or Intelligence Community environments

• Familiarity with national security mission contexts

• Experience evaluating human-machine teaming performance

Vendors may apply individually or in partnership.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The government is seeking solutions that demonstrate:

• Proven expertise in AI evaluation infrastructure or benchmark development

• Ability to support vendor-agnostic evaluation of diverse AI systems

• Experience deploying technology in secure government environments

• Capability to evaluate human-AI team performance

• Infrastructure that supports agentic AI evaluation, adversarial testing, and multimodal inputs

Solutions should be designed for broad applicability across government programs, rather than optimized for a single use case.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• Submissions must be unclassified and contain no data above Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

• Solution briefs must be PDF files under 10MB.

• Briefs should be approximately:

  • 5 pages or fewer, or

  • 15 slides or fewer.

• Vendors must comply with Section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The application requires a solution brief describing your technology and how it meets the desired solution attributes.

Because the submission is limited to approximately 5 pages or 15 slides, most qualified teams can typically prepare a competitive submission within a short timeframe.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO helps startups and technology companies develop competitive DIU solution briefs and prototype proposals.

Support typically includes:

• Interpreting the solicitation requirements

• Positioning your technology against LOE 1 or LOE 2

• Writing and designing the solution brief

• Preparing technical narratives and evaluation plans

• Preparing teams for DIU pitch sessions

• Supporting negotiations for prototype OT agreements

Our goal is to translate your technology into language that aligns with DIU mission priorities and evaluation criteria.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.