NSF X-LABS INITIATIVE | NSF-OTASO-FY26-XLabsInitiative

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

Executive Summary:

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP) is launching the NSF X-Labs initiative to fund ambitious, full-time R&D teams developing sector-defining platform technologies that could reshape entire scientific fields or technology industries.

Unlike traditional grants, NSF X-Labs will support operationally independent organizations with milestone-based funding, long-term support potential, and significant autonomy over staffing, partnerships, IP, and research direction. The program is specifically designed for high-risk, high-reward platform technologies that existing university labs, startups, and corporate R&D groups are not structured to pursue.

NSF anticipates awarding up to $1.5M for Phase 0 and up to $50M per year for Phase 1 teams. Only the most promising teams will advance between phases.

This opportunity is best suited for elite technical teams capable of building an independent research organization around a clearly defined mission with the potential to unlock entirely new scientific or technology sectors.

How much funding would I receive?

NSF anticipates awarding:

• Phase 0: no more than $1,500,000 per team

• Phase 1: no more than $50,000,000 per year per team

Additional Phase 2 or Phase 3 funding may be considered based on team performance and availability of funds. Specific funding levels for later phases are not specified.

Funding will be milestone-based, with payments tied to successful completion of NSF-approved deliverables and milestones.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding is intended to support:

• Full-time R&D teams

• Development of novel platform technologies

• Use-inspired scientific breakthroughs

• Early-stage prototypes

• Organizational buildout and operational infrastructure

• Technical milestone execution

• Team scaling and recruitment

• Partnership development

• IP management and commercialization strategy

• Research security management

• Governance and operational autonomy development

Examples of platform technologies referenced in the solicitation include:

• Very Large-Scale Integration (VLSI)

• The Internet

• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

• Brain-computing interfaces

• Next-generation sequencing

• AI models for protein structure prediction

• Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)

The solicitation specifically states that the following are not within scope:

• Incremental technology improvements

• Projects with substantial existing venture capital or industry investment

• General advancement of multiple research areas without a focused mission

• Testbeds or data centers as the primary focus

• Projects where the only barriers are non-technical

Published Topics:

Quantum Systems: Interconnects and Integrated Photonics - NSF-Topic1-FY26-XLabsQuantumSystems

• Summary: NSF is seeking full-time X-Labs teams developing foundational platform technologies for next-generation quantum systems, specifically quantum interconnects, integrated quantum photonics, and supporting technologies that could enable scalable, connected, second-generation quantum computing and quantum information systems. The focus is on transformative technologies that solve major technical bottlenecks in quantum architectures and create broadly deployable platform capabilities for future industry adoption.

• Written Proposal Deadline: July 24, 2026; 5:00 p.m. Eastern

• Oral Presentations: August 31 – September 4, 2026

• Phase 0 Start: December 2026

• Unique Technical Focus Areas:

  • Quantum interconnects transferring coherence and entanglement between subsystems

  • Integrated quantum photonics

  • Quantum transducers

  • Reconfigurable quantum photonic circuits

  • Quantum light sources

  • Low-loss waveguides

  • Integrated single-photon detectors

• Examples of In-Scope Challenges:

  • Scalable modular quantum architectures

  • Interconnection of heterogeneous quantum subsystems

  • Compact multi-qubit photonic operations

  • System-level integration technologies for future quantum systems

• Examples Specifically Considered Out of Scope:

  • Pure software or computational approaches without integration into physical quantum systems

  • Technologies unsuitable for future scaling or commercialization

  • Incremental state-of-the-art improvements

  • Technologies already mature enough for full-scale commercialization

• Additional Unique Restriction: Lead organizations may submit a maximum of two Written Proposals under this Topic Announcement, and Senior/Key Personnel may only appear on one proposal for this topic.

Scientific Instrumentation for Sensing and Imaging - NSF-Topic2-FY26-XLabsSensingandImaging

• Summary: NSF is seeking X-Labs teams developing transformative sensing and imaging platform technologies capable of enabling fundamentally new scientific measurement and observation capabilities. The topic focuses on breakthrough instrumentation systems that overcome major technical limitations in sensing, imaging, microscopy, and detection, particularly where entirely new modalities or AI-enabled instrumentation approaches could unlock new scientific fields or dramatically expand research capabilities.

• Written Proposal Deadline: July 13, 2026; 5:00 p.m. Eastern

• Oral Presentations: August 17 – August 21, 2026

• Phase 0 Start: November 2026

• Unique Technical Focus Areas:

  • Quantum sensing

  • AI-driven computational imaging

  • Adaptive AI-based sensing algorithms

  • Entirely new sensing and imaging modalities

  • Scientific instrumentation platforms

• Examples of In-Scope Challenges:

  • Molecular-scale single-reaction event detection

  • MRI-free deep tissue imaging

  • Non-destructive biomolecule microscopy

  • High-sensitivity quantum sensors

  • Instruments designed for next-generation AI training pipelines

  • Whole-brain activity sensing at cellular resolution across long timescales

• Examples Specifically Considered Out of Scope:

  • Pure software or computational approaches without integration into instrumentation systems

  • Narrow-use technologies without broad deployability

  • Fundamental research lacking platform technology applications

  • Incremental improvements to existing systems

  • Technologies already mature enough for full-scale commercialization

• Additional Unique Restriction: Lead organizations may submit a maximum of two Written Proposals under this Topic Announcement, and Senior/Key Personnel may only appear on one proposal for this topic.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

In addition to funding, selected teams may receive:

• Multi-year support potential through Phase 2 and possibly Phase 3

• Operational autonomy uncommon in traditional grants

• Flexibility to renegotiate milestones as technology landscapes evolve

• Ability to engage across academia, industry, nonprofits, philanthropy, and national laboratories

• Support for building entirely new organizational structures

• Potential acceleration toward commercialization and ecosystem growth

NSF also emphasizes that teams may evolve organizationally over time, including changing lead organizations during Phase 0 or Phase 1.

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

Program structure includes:

• Phase 0: approximately 9–12 months

• Phase 1: approximately 24–36 months

• Phase 2: variable duration

• Possible Phase 3 support in certain cases

The process includes:

1. Submission of an 8-page Written Proposal

2. NSF down-selection

3. Invitation-only Oral Proposal Package and oral presentation

4. Negotiation of milestone plans and budgets

5. Phase 0 award issuance

6. Go/No Go evaluation for advancement into Phase 1

Oral Proposal Packages will be due approximately 5 business days prior to scheduled oral presentations. Senior/Key Personnel disclosures are due approximately 48 hours after oral presentation invitations are issued.

Where does this funding come from?

The funding comes from the:

• U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)

• Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP)

Awards will be issued using NSF’s Other Transaction Authority under 42 U.S.C. § 19116.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any domestic responsible entity may submit a proposal for Phase 0 consideration.

Key eligibility requirements include:

• Lead organization must be registered in SAM.gov

• Awards will be made to one lead organization per NSF X-Labs team

• Teams must demonstrate operational autonomy and independence

• Senior/Key Personnel may only appear on one proposal per Topic Announcement

• Senior/Key Personnel and/or core leadership must be dedicated full-time by the beginning of Phase 1 unless otherwise approved by NSF

The solicitation places heavy emphasis on organizational independence, including:

• Independent leadership structure

• Internal control over funding allocation

• Internal control over research direction

• Independent IP ownership and licensing control

• Independent hiring authority

• Independent governance boards

The following are prohibited from participation:

• Foreign entities of concern

• Certain foreign nationals

• Parties associated with malign foreign talent recruitment programs

• Organizations or individuals appearing on specified federal restricted entity lists

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The strongest teams are likely to demonstrate:

• A clearly defined mission capable of reshaping an entire scientific field or technology sector

• A novel platform technology with transformative downstream potential

• Significant technical ambition

• Full-time dedicated leadership

• Strong interdisciplinary expertise

• Ability to operate independently from traditional institutional constraints

• Clear milestones and measurable outcomes

• Strong commercialization and ecosystem growth potential

• Novel organizational structures and partnerships across industry, academia, government, and philanthropy

NSF states it will evaluate teams based on:

• Team qualifications and structure

• Mission clarity and outcomes

The solicitation repeatedly emphasizes that this program is not intended for incremental R&D efforts.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes. Key restrictions include:

• Projects must align with a current NSF X-Labs Topic Announcement

• Teams must operate within the United States

• Funding is milestone-based

• NSF may terminate advancement at Go/No Go reviews

• Teams must comply with extensive research security requirements

• Certain foreign entities and individuals are prohibited

• Parent institutions cannot retain control over funding, IP, hiring, or research direction for Phase 1 teams

• Written Proposals are limited to 8 single-sided pages

• Oral Proposal stage participants must fully restate all technical and programmatic details because NSF will not rely on the Written Proposal during oral-stage evaluation

The solicitation also requires:

• Data Management and Privacy Plan

• IP Management Plan

• Research Security Management Plan

• Governance Structure Plan

• Conflict of Interest disclosures

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

This will likely require a substantial preparation effort due to:

• Complex organizational structure requirements

• Milestone-based budgeting

• Multi-phase planning

• Governance design

• Research security compliance

• IP strategy development

• Team assembly and commitment requirements

• Oral presentation preparation

The Written Proposal itself is limited to 8 pages, but competitive submissions will require significant strategic and operational planning before submission.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support companies and teams with:

• Opportunity qualification and fit assessment

• Mission positioning and narrative development

• NSF X-Labs strategy development

• Technical and commercialization storytelling

• Milestone architecture and roadmap development

• Proposal drafting and editing

• Governance and autonomy positioning

• Oral presentation preparation

• Budget strategy

• Research security and compliance coordination

• Team structuring and partnership positioning

Review solicitation here.

OUSW P - Regional Threat Network Fusion and Prioritization Prototype Open Challenge

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

Executive Summary:

The OUSW P – Regional Threat Network Fusion and Prioritization Prototype Open Challenge is seeking configurable intelligence analytics capabilities that can ingest, fuse, and analyze global and regional data sources to support Western Hemisphere security operations. The Government is looking for prototype-driven solutions that can identify hidden relationships across transnational criminal organizations, nation-state actors, and commercial networks while enabling persistent monitoring, automated alerting, and predictive threat analysis.

This is an Open Challenge, meaning submissions remain open for extended durations with multiple Government organizations reviewing submissions on a rolling basis. ONI anticipates rapid down-select within 30–45 days of posting, creating urgency for companies with relevant threat fusion, intelligence analytics, entity resolution, or network analysis capabilities to engage quickly.

How much funding would I receive?

The solicitation does not specify award amounts, total funding availability, number of awards, or individual contract sizes.

Problem Statement:

Current Western Hemisphere intelligence operations face multiple capability gaps in threat fusion and prioritization. Analysts cannot rapidly fuse disparate regional data sources to identify and assess threat relationships. Identity and entity resolution across sources remains manual and inconsistent. Threat detection relies on static rules that fail to identify evolving criminal-commercial-state actor networks. The Government requires prototype-driven approaches capable of operationalizing data fusion, dynamic threat behavior modeling, and traceable analytics to enable rapid threat identification and prioritized decision support.

Desired Solution:

● Ingest and fuse heterogeneous regional/global datasets (commercially available and Government-approved sources) using repeatable pipelines suitable for analyst use.

● Perform identity/entity resolution across sources with measurable confidence scoring, provenance, and analyst override/auditability.

● Produce network mapping and relationship analytics to reveal hidden associations across criminal, commercial, and state-linked entities.

● Provide persistent monitoring with automated alerting based on evolving behaviors/patterns, not solely static rules.

● Support retrospective incident reconstruction and forward-looking threat assessments, including escalation indicators and network evolution hypotheses.

● Provide traceable analytic reasoning (explainability/provenance) sufficient for operational decision support and mission trust.

● Enable configuration by mission/region/use case without rearchitecture (new data sources, indicators, models, and reporting views).

● Demonstrate and refine the prototype through direct engagement with analysts and decision-makers, incorporating iterative user feedback.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Potential benefits include:

• Opportunity to engage directly with mission analysts and Government decision-makers

• Ability to refine capabilities through operational user feedback

• Potential pathway to production use without system rearchitecture

• Access to award opportunities under ONIX OTA in coordination with ACC-RI

The solicitation also notes that multiple Government organizations may review submissions.

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

The solicitation states that this is an Open Challenge that remains open for extended durations with rolling submissions and biweekly reviews.

The Government states:

• “Submissions are generally reviewed biweekly.”

• “ONI anticipates rapid down-select within 30–45 days of posting.”

No final submission deadline is specified in the solicitation. No award start date or funding disbursement timeline is specified.

Where does this funding come from?

The effort is being managed through ONI and states that awards will be made under “ONIX OTA in coordination with ACC-RI.”

Who is eligible to apply?

The solicitation states the opportunity is:

• “Open to U.S.-based industry, academic, and nonprofit organizations.”

Respondents must:

• Register on https://gocolosseum.org to submit

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The Government appears to be prioritizing solutions that can rapidly demonstrate operationally relevant capabilities rather than lengthy requirements-driven development efforts.

Competitive submissions are likely to include:

• Existing prototype capabilities rather than conceptual-only approaches

• Demonstrated data fusion and entity resolution capabilities

• Explainable analytics and traceable reasoning

• Automated monitoring and alerting functionality

• Configurable architectures that do not require rearchitecture for new missions or regions

• Strong approaches to analyst usability and operational iteration

• Clear implementation schedules, milestones, and deliverables

• Relevant past performance in intelligence analytics, network analysis, threat detection, or related mission systems

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

The solicitation includes the following submission requirements and constraints:

• Responses should be 2–10 pages maximum

• Respondents must include:

  • Technical concept

  • Implementation approach

  • Company information

  • Point of contact

  • Past performance

  • Proposed period of performance

  • Proposed applicable documents

  • Proposed technical approach

  • Proposed deliverables

  • Proposed schedule with milestones

  • Proposed payment schedule

  • Proposed patents and data rights

  • Proposed milestone-based costs or ROM pricing

The solicitation also notes that formatting guidance is suggested rather than mandatory, and ONI may pass along submissions regardless of formatting compliance.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Because the Government is requesting relatively short submissions (2–10 pages maximum), companies with existing capabilities or prior prototype work may be able to prepare a response relatively quickly.

However, the solicitation requires:

• Technical approach details

• Milestone schedules

• Payment schedules

• Cost estimates

• Past performance information

• Data rights and patent considerations

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can help your team:

• Position your capability around the Government’s stated operational gaps

• Translate technical platforms into mission-focused prototype language

• Build concise OTA-style white papers optimized for rapid evaluation

• Develop milestone-based scopes, schedules, and ROM pricing

• Strengthen differentiation around explainability, entity resolution, and operational deployment

• Prepare submission materials aligned to ONI evaluation expectations

Review solicitation here.

ARPA-H - TIGAR Exploratory Topic | ARPA-H-SOL-26-144

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

Executive Summary:

ARPA-H is seeking high-risk, high-impact biopreservation technologies through the Technology InteGrator and AcceleratoR (TIGAR) Innovative Solutions Opening (ISO). This opportunity is focused on enabling temperature-flexible storage of regenerative tissues, organs, organoids, engineered tissues, and other complex biologics. ARPA-H is specifically looking for approaches that can stabilize larger and more complex biological systems without introducing high cost or operational complexity.

This is an early-stage R&D opportunity designed for ambitious technical teams pursuing novel approaches involving areas such as new materials, AI/ML, high-throughput screening, biological interventions, devices, analytical technologies, processing methods, and packaging systems.

There are two intake cycles. The first Solution Video deadline is June 8th, 2026, 5:00 PM ET and the first Full Proposal deadline is August 5th, 2026, 5:00 PM ET. The second Solution Video deadline is December 8th, 2026, 5:00 PM ET and the second Full Proposal deadline is February 5th, 2027, 5:00 PM ET. The ISO closes on February 5th, 2027, 11:59 PM ET. Companies interested in this opportunity should begin preparing immediately due to the required two-step submission process and detailed technical proposal requirements.

How much funding would I receive?

ARPA-H states that the total funding requested “must not exceed $2 million USD over the 18-month period of performance.” Awards are anticipated to be made as “Multiple Other Transaction (OTs) Agreements.”

Areas of Interest

Funding is intended to support development of enabling technologies for biopreservation and temperature-flexible storage of complex biologics and regenerative tissues.

Proposed solutions may include combinations of:

• New materials

• Artificial intelligence/machine learning

• High-throughput screening methods

• Biological interventions

• Devices

• Processing methods

• Analytical technologies

• Packaging approaches

Projects must demonstrate progress toward functional preservation of:

• Entire biological structures such as organoids, organs, or organ sub-units; or

• One (1) cubic centimeter volumes of tissue

Projects must target storage durations of “≥30 days” at practical temperatures achievable with conventional equipment, including:

• -80˚C

• -20˚C

• 4˚C

• 20˚C-25˚C room temperature (RT)

ARPA-H states that innovations focused only at the cellular level “without a strategy for deployment in thick tissues will not be considered.” Preferred demonstration systems include:

• Organoids

• Donated tissues

• Whole organs

• Organ sub-structures

• Vascularized allografts

• Engineered tissues

The proposed effort must be structured as an 18-month program with:

• Two 9-month phases

• A down-select decision at the end of Phase 1

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Potential additional benefits include:

• Direct engagement with ARPA-H program staff

• Opportunity to advance foundational proofs-of-concept aligned with future ARPA-H research priorities

• Ability to position technologies for future commercial, clinical, and biomedical applications

• Potential future commercialization advantages for successful technologies

ARPA-H also states that “resource sharing is encouraged,” including:

• Shared-use infrastructure

• Data or IP access arrangements

• Performer contributions

• ROI or value-sharing mechanisms

The solicitation additionally notes that open-source software approaches and interoperability standards are preferred.

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

Key dates are:

• Posting Date: April 22nd, 2026

• Webinar: May 20th, 2026

• Webinar Registration deadline: May 18th, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET

Intake Group 1:

• Solution Video due date: June 8th, 2026, 5:00 PM ET

• Full Proposal due date: August 5th, 2026, 5:00 PM ET

Intake Group 2:

• Solution Video due date: December 8th, 2026, 5:00 PM ET

• Full Proposal due date: February 5th, 2027, 5:00 PM ET

ISO closing date:

• February 5th, 2027, 11:59 PM ET

The submission process includes:

1. Submission of a required Solution Video package

2. Submission of a Full Proposal

ARPA-H states it will “generally respond within 30 business days of receipt” for both Solution Video reviews and Full Proposal evaluations.

Where does this funding come from?

This funding comes from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H), specifically through the Scalable Solutions Office.

The funding opportunity is titled:
“Technology InteGrator and AcceleratoR (TIGAR)”

The solicitation number is:
“ARPA-H-SOL-26-144”

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible proposers may include:

• Universities

• Non-profit organizations

• Small businesses

• Other commercial entities

ARPA-H states that all sources capable of satisfying the government’s needs may respond unless suspended or debarred.

However, the solicitation specifically excludes:

• Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) as primes or sub-performers, unless ARPA-H determines unique capabilities are necessary

• Government entities and government employees

• Individuals or entities currently providing professional support services to ARPA-H

• Entities suspended or debarred from doing business with the government

• Certain foreign entities and individuals restricted under the CHIPS and Science Act and other federal statutes

Foreign entities may participate if they comply with applicable regulations, export controls, and security requirements.

Applicants must:

• Be registered in SAM.gov

• Have a valid UEI

• Maintain active registration throughout the award period

What companies and projects are likely to win?

ARPA-H states proposals will be evaluated primarily on:

1. Overall Scientific and Technical Merit

2. Proposer Capabilities and Experience

3. Contribution to the ARPA-H Mission and User Experience

4. Cost/Price Reasonableness

Competitive projects will likely include:

• Highly innovative and technically sound approaches

• Clear, testable experimental designs

• Logical technical milestones

• Strong risk mitigation plans

• Experienced interdisciplinary teams

• Clear commercialization or clinical relevance

• Practical solutions that improve storage and distribution of biologics

• Approaches that reduce dependence on tightly controlled temperature environments

• Technologies capable of preserving large or complex biological systems

ARPA-H also states strong proposals should:

• Consider end-user adoption and clinical workflow

• Address affordability and accessibility

• Align with interoperability and open standards

• Include commercially friendly open-source software approaches where applicable

The solicitation notes that ARPA-H prefers “novel solutions” and discourages low-risk proposals designed primarily to minimize budget.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes. Key restrictions and requirements include:

• Total requested funding cannot exceed $2 million USD

• Cellular-only preservation approaches without thick tissue deployment strategies are out of scope

• All submissions must be in English

• Non-conforming submissions may be rejected without review

• Submission is only allowed through the ARPA-H Solution Submission Portal

• Registration delays will not excuse late submissions

Additional restrictions include:

• Compliance with research security disclosure requirements

• Restrictions related to foreign entities and malign foreign talent recruitment programs

• Compliance with intellectual property and software interoperability standards

• Potential requirements for open-source alignment

• Human subjects and animal research compliance requirements where applicable

• Restrictions on dangerous gain-of-function research

• Restrictions on procurement of synthetic nucleic acids from non-compliant suppliers

ARPA-H also reserves the right to:

• Select all, some, one, or none of the proposals

• Negotiate only portions of proposals

• Remove proposals from consideration during negotiations

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Applicants should expect a meaningful preparation effort due to the two-step submission process and detailed proposal requirements.

The required Solution Video package includes:

• A 7-minute prerecorded video

• Transcript

• Supplemental slides

• Team overview

• Risk mitigation strategies

• Timeline and milestones

• Cost summary

The Full Proposal package requires:

• Technical & Management Proposal

• Cost Proposal

• Cost Proposal Workbook

• Administrative & National Policy documentation

Companies pursuing competitive submissions will likely need substantial coordination across technical, regulatory, commercialization, and management teams. Early registration in SAM.gov and the ARPA-H submission portal is strongly advised because registration processing may take “7–10 business days” or longer.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support applicants throughout the TIGAR application process, including:

• Assessing program fit and competitiveness

• Developing commercialization and technical positioning

• Structuring milestone-driven workplans

• Drafting and editing Solution Video materials

• Preparing compliant Full Proposal packages

• Developing cost narratives and supporting documentation

• Assisting with risk mitigation and evaluation alignment

• Supporting submission strategy across intake groups

We can also help teams translate complex technical concepts into clear, ARPA-H-aligned proposal narratives focused on impact, feasibility, commercialization potential, and user adoption.Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

AFWERX SBIR Open Topic Program

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

Executive Summary:

The AFWERX Open Topic and STRATFI/TACFI programs are designed to help commercial technology companies transition dual-use technologies into Department of the Air Force (DAF) applications. These programs are among the most founder-friendly defense funding pathways because companies propose their own technology solutions rather than responding to narrowly defined technical requirements.

The Open Topic provides multiple entry points:

• Phase I feasibility studies

• Traditional Phase II prototype development

• Direct to Phase II (D2P2) for companies with mature technology and existing Air Force customer relationships

STRATFI/TACFI is intended to help companies bridge the “Valley of Death” between SBIR/STTR Phase II and Phase III commercialization and scaling efforts.

The STRATFI/TACFI PY26.2 Notice of Opportunity is “Coming Soon,” and AFWERX states additional details and submission guidance will be released over the next few weeks. No application deadline is currently specified in the materials provided.

How much funding would I receive?

Open Topic Phase I:

• Maximum award of $75K (SBIR)

• Maximum award of $110K (STTR)

Open Topic Phase II:

• Maximum award of $2M (SBIR)

• Maximum award of $2M (STTR)

Direct to Phase II (D2P2):

• Maximum award of $1.25M (SBIR)

The STRATFI/TACFI follow-on funding provides anywhere from $375k to $15m with private and government matching requirements.

Areas of Interest

Autonomous Mass:

• Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA)

• Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS)

• Weapons Technology

Command, Control, & Battle Management:

• Communications, & Battle Management (C3BM)

• Advanced Mission Systems Architecture & Engineering

Counter Incursion:

• Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (cUAS)

• Kinetic/Non-Kinetic Defeat

Agile Combat & Readiness

• Contested Logistics

• Manufacturing & Readiness

Alignment with the DOW’s Critical Technology Areas (CTAs):

• Applied Artifical Intelligence

• Biomanufacturing

• Logistics Technologies

• Battlefield Information Dominance

• Scaled Hypersonics

• Scaled Directed Energy

What could I use the funding for?

Phase I funding is intended to:

• Conduct technical feasibility studies

• Identify a DAF end user and customer

• Secure a signed Customer Memorandum

• Prepare for a Phase II proposal

Phase II funding is intended to:

• Conduct further R&D

• Build and adapt prototypes

• Develop dual-use solutions for Air Force applications

• Work directly with an Air Force Technical Point of Contact (TPOC)

D2P2 funding is intended for companies that:

• Already have a prototype-ready solution

• Have identified an Air Force end user and customer

• Already possess a signed Customer Memorandum

STRATFI/TACFI funding is intended to:

• Bridge the “Valley of Death” between Phase II and Phase III

• Support transition and scaling efforts

• Deliver strategic capabilities for the DAF

Phase III efforts may include:

• Products

• Services

• Research/R&D

• Testing and evaluation

• Production contracts

• Commercialization activities funded by non-SBIR/STTR dollars

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Potential benefits include:

• Direct access to Air Force and Space Force customers

• Ability to transition commercial technology into defense markets

• Opportunity to secure sole-source Phase III awards

• Access to Air Force Technical Points of Contact (TPOCs)

• Potential follow-on commercialization opportunities

AFWERX states that:

• “The Open Topic is the front door to working with the Department of the Air Force.”

• More than 75% of companies received their first Air Force SBIR/STTR contract through AFVentures

• 27% of participating companies are receiving private investments

• Over $1.12B has been executed through AFVentures to date

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

Open Topic Phase I:

• Period of Performance: 3 months

Open Topic Phase II:

• Period of Performance: Up to 21 months

Direct to Phase II (D2P2):

• Period of Performance: Up to 21 months

STRATFI/TACFI PY26.2:

• Notice of Opportunity “Coming Soon”

• Additional submission guidance will be released “over the next few weeks”

• No application deadline is specified in the provided materials

AFWERX notes that solicitation dates are subject to change.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from:

• AFWERX

• SpaceWERX

• Department of the Air Force (DAF)

• Air Force SBIR/STTR programs

Phase III efforts specifically must be funded by sources other than SBIR/STTR set-aside funding.

Who is eligible to apply?

Open Topic eligibility is intended for:

• Small businesses

• Companies with dual-use technologies

• Firms capable of supporting Department of the Air Force missions

STRATFI/TACFI eligibility requires ALL of the following:

• Company must qualify as a Small Business Concern (SBC)

• SBC must be eligible for a SBIR/STTR award

• Company must be on an active SBIR/STTR Phase II effort or have completed Phase II within two years of Capability Package submission

• The subject Phase II effort must not already have received a second (“sequential”) Phase II

• At least 90 days must have passed since the beginning of the associated SBIR/STTR Phase II execution

• SBC must not be executing a prior STRATFI effort at the time of submission

• Anticipated work must be performed in the United States

Submission for STRATFI/TACFI must be completed by a Government POC only.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

AFWERX states it is interested in:

• Innovative technology domains with demonstrated commercial value

• Dual-use technologies and solutions

• Technologies that can support Air Force mission needs

• Companies capable of transitioning solutions to warfighters

Strong applicants are likely to have:

• Existing commercial traction

• Identified Air Force customers and end users

• A signed Customer Memorandum

• Clear transition and commercialization plans

• Prototype-ready technology for D2P2 opportunities

For STRATFI/TACFI, companies with active Phase II transition momentum and strong government/customer alignment are likely to be more competitive.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions and requirements include:

• STRATFI/TACFI submissions must be completed by Government POC only

• Incomplete submissions will not be considered

• Phase III efforts cannot be funded with SBIR or STTR dollars

• Phase III work must derive from, extend, or complete prior SBIR/STTR efforts

• Phase III contracts must comply with SBIR/STTR data rights requirements

• D2P2 applicants must demonstrate technical merit and possess a signed Customer Memorandum

The materials also state:

• Phase III contracts may involve non-SBIR/STTR federal funding sources

• Work is anticipated to be performed in the United States

• Sole-source Phase III awards may be made because competition requirements were satisfied during Phase I and II

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The solicitation does not specify expected application preparation timelines.

However, companies should expect substantial preparation work related to:

• Identifying Air Force end users and customers

• Securing a signed Customer Memorandum

• Preparing technical and commercialization materials

• Coordinating with Government POCs

• Completing submission templates and guidance documentation

STRATFI/TACFI applicants are instructed to:

• Review FAQs and submission checklists

• Review guidance documentation

• Complete required templates

• Submit through the online application system

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can help companies:

• Position commercial technology for AFWERX Open Topic alignment

• Develop compelling dual-use commercialization narratives

• Identify and support Customer Memorandum strategies

• Prepare SBIR/STTR Phase I, Phase II, D2P2, and STRATFI/TACFI applications

• Translate technical capabilities into defense-relevant outcomes

• Build transition and scaling strategies for Phase III opportunities

• Manage submission preparation and compliance requirements

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

ARPA-H | IGoR - Intelligent Generator of Research

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

Executive Summary:

ARPA-H is seeking multidisciplinary teams to build an AI-enabled interoperable research ecosystem through the Intelligent Generator of Research (IGoR) program. The goal is to dramatically accelerate biomedical research and therapeutic development by creating mechanistic disease models, AI-driven experiment orchestration, standardized protocols, and a distributed network of validated laboratories. ARPA-H states the system is intended to enable researchers to create validated knowledge “at least 10x more rapidly than conventional approaches.”

This is a 5-year, 3-phase program under the ARPA-H Proactive Health Office. ARPA-H anticipates awarding approximately three Other Transaction (OT) agreements to teams capable of addressing all four technical components of the program.

Solution Summaries are due by 06/25/2026, 12:00 PM Eastern Time. Full Proposals are due by 08/06/2026, 12:00 PM (Noon) Eastern Time. Companies interested in applying should begin organizing teaming structures and registrations immediately, particularly because SAM.gov registration can take 7–10 business days.

How much funding would I receive?

The solicitation does not specify total funding amounts or individual award sizes.

ARPA-H states it anticipates making:

• “Multiple Other Transaction (OTs) Agreements”

• Approximately three awards to multidisciplinary teams

The solicitation does not specify:

• Ceiling amounts

• Floor amounts

• Cost share requirements

• Phase-specific funding allocations

What could I use the funding for?

Funding is intended to support development of the IGoR ecosystem, including:

• Mechanistic disease models encoding causal biological relationships across scales

• An AI orchestration layer that identifies knowledge gaps and designs experiments

• A layered protocol architecture enabling reproducible experimentation

• A distributed marketplace of validated laboratories returning standardized data

ARPA-H expects performers to address all four technical components as part of an integrated system.

The solicitation states the objective is to:

• Eliminate longstanding inefficiencies in research

• Accelerate development of therapies for complex diseases

• Enable validated knowledge generation at least 10x faster than conventional approaches

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Potential additional benefits include:

• Participation in a high-visibility ARPA-H initiative

• Access to collaboration and networking opportunities through the Proposers’ Day

• Ability to form multidisciplinary teams and partnerships

• Flexibility associated with Other Transaction (OT) agreements compared to traditional federal contracts

ARPA-H also states that:

• Resource sharing is encouraged

• A recording of the Proposers’ Day will be posted publicly

The solicitation does not specify additional commercialization support, follow-on funding pathways, or transition assistance.

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

Key dates:

• Proposers’ Day: T.B.D.

• Solution Summaries due: 06/25/2026, 12:00 PM Eastern Time

• Full Proposals due: 08/06/2026, 12:00 PM (Noon) Eastern Time

Submission process:

1. Submit a Solution Summary

2. Receive feedback from ARPA-H indicating whether proposal submission is encouraged or discouraged

3. Submit a full proposal

ARPA-H notes that proposers may still submit full proposals even if discouraged after the Solution Summary review.

The solicitation does not specify:

• Award announcement dates

• Negotiation timelines

• Expected project start dates

• Timing of funding disbursement

Where does this funding come from?

This funding comes from:

• Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H)

• Proactive Health Office

Program:

• Intelligent Generator of Research (IGoR)

Solicitation Number:

• ARPA-H-SOL-26-155

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants may include:

• Universities

• Non-profit organizations

• Small businesses

• Other commercial entities

ARPA-H states that all sources capable of satisfying the government’s needs may respond unless otherwise restricted.

Restrictions include:

• Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) generally may not participate as prime or sub-performers unless ARPA-H determines unique capabilities are necessary

• Government entities and government employees are generally prohibited

• Current ARPA-H support service providers are ineligible

• Certain foreign entities and individuals are prohibited under the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 and related national security restrictions

Applicants must:

• Be registered in SAM.gov

• Have a valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)

• Maintain active SAM.gov registration through award

ARPA-H states new SAM.gov registrations take an average of 7–10 business days.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

ARPA-H states it anticipates selecting approximately three multidisciplinary teams capable of addressing all four components of the IGoR ecosystem.

Competitive proposals will likely demonstrate:

• Integrated multidisciplinary capabilities

• AI and machine learning expertise

• Mechanistic disease modeling capabilities

• Experimental protocol standardization

• Large-scale laboratory coordination capabilities

• Reproducible data generation approaches

• Ability to execute across all technical areas described in Appendix A

The solicitation emphasizes:

• Bold and unconventional research directions

• Accelerated knowledge generation

• Interoperable research infrastructure

• Reproducibility and standardization

ARPA-H also encourages resource sharing and teaming.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• FFRDCs and government entities generally cannot serve as prime or sub-performers

• Current ARPA-H support contractors are ineligible

• Certain foreign entities and individuals are prohibited

• Submissions containing proprietary information must be clearly marked

• All Solution Summaries must:

  • Be in English

  • Use sans serif fonts no smaller than 11-point

  • Be limited to five pages (excluding cover pages and references)

ARPA-H also notes:

• It will not reimburse proposal preparation costs

• Late submissions caused by delayed registration may not be considered

• Large language models (LLMs) may be used during review under controlled security conditions

The solicitation does not specify:

• Mandatory cost share

• Manufacturing requirements

• Export control classifications

• Intellectual property terms beyond standard OT agreement references

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

This opportunity will likely require substantial preparation effort because:

• ARPA-H expects multidisciplinary teams

• Applicants must address all four major technical components

• Teaming and integration strategies will likely be critical

• OT-based proposals are often highly technical and milestone-driven

Preparation activities may include:

• Forming consortium relationships

• Finalizing technical architecture

• Building execution and management plans

• Completing SAM.gov registration

• Preparing a Solution Summary followed by a full proposal

The solicitation does not specify expected proposal preparation timelines.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can help your team:

• Assess fit with the IGoR program objectives

• Build a competitive teaming strategy

• Translate technical concepts into ARPA-H-ready proposal language

• Develop Solution Summaries and full proposals

• Structure OT-compliant submissions

• Build milestone-driven technical plans

• Coordinate multidisciplinary proposal development

• Prepare management, commercialization, and execution materials

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

ARPA-H | HEARING - Hearing Enhancement through ARtificially Intelligent NeurotechnoloGy

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

Executive Summary:

ARPA-H’s Hearing Enhancement through ARtificially Intelligent NeurotechnoloGy (HEARING) program is seeking teams capable of developing the first minimally invasive, brain-connected hearing restoration platform that can read and write auditory information directly with the brain’s auditory cortex. The program aims to move beyond traditional hearing aids and cochlear implants by creating closed-loop systems that can reduce background noise in real time, personalize hearing restoration, and restore hearing close to normal for people with mild to severe hearing loss.

This is a highly ambitious, systems-level program requiring integrated teams spanning neurotechnology, wireless power and communications, AI/ML auditory decoding, clinical audiology, neurosurgery, regulatory affairs, and device commercialization. ARPA-H explicitly requires proposals to address all three Technical Areas (TAs) and all three program phases.

Solution Summaries are due Monday, June 29, 2026, 2:00 PM ET. Full Proposals are due Friday, August 14th, 2026, 2:00 PM ET. Companies interested in leading or participating in a team should begin partner discussions immediately because the solicitation strongly emphasizes multidisciplinary integration and system-level execution.

How much funding would I receive?

The solicitation states that ARPA-H anticipates making “Multiple Other Transaction (OTs) Agreements.”

The solicitation does not specify:

• Total program funding

• Individual award sizes

• Ceiling amounts

• Floor amounts

• Number of awards

• Funding by Technical Area

• Funding by phase

Cost sharing is “Encouraged (Optional).”

What could I use the funding for?

Funding is intended to support development of a fully integrated closed-loop hearing restoration platform across three Technical Areas:

• TA1: Intracortical Device(s)

  • Minimally invasive brain interfaces

  • Recording and stimulation technologies

  • Wireless brain-connected devices

  • Cortical targeting technologies

  • Implant delivery systems

• TA2: Dynamic Sound Modulator

  • Wearable hearing-aid-like devices

  • Wireless power transfer

  • Bidirectional communications

  • Closed-loop auditory systems

  • External processing hardware

• TA3: Auditory Read & Write Algorithms

  • AI/ML auditory decoding

  • Neural signal interpretation

  • Personalized hearing restoration algorithms

  • Closed-loop neuroprocessing software

  • Auditory stimulation and modulation systems

The program also supports:

• Animal studies

• Human data collection

• Pre-clinical validation

• Regulatory engagement with FDA

• First-in-human (FIH) studies

• Manufacturing scale-up

• Clinical protocols

• System integration activities

The solicitation requires all proposals to address all three TAs and all program phases.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Potential additional benefits include:

• Direct engagement with ARPA-H

• FDA engagement and regulatory planning support

• Participation in ARPA-H performer meetings

• Collaboration opportunities with multidisciplinary teams

• Potential commercialization pathways

• Clinical translation support

• Access to a high-visibility national neurotechnology initiative

ARPA-H states it is uniquely positioned to:

• Convene multidisciplinary teams

• Set aggressive system-level milestones

• Provide commercialization support

• Provide regulatory support

The solicitation also encourages:

• Open or permissive licensing for interoperability components

• Shared data standards

• Shared benchmarking tools

• Shared reference datasets

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

Key dates are:

• Proposers’ Day: Monday, June 8, 2026

• Questions & Answers (Q&A) due date: Monday, June 15th, 2026, 5:00 PM ET

• Solution Summaries due date: Monday, June 29, 2026, 2:00 PM ET

• Full Proposals due date: Friday, August 14th, 2026, 2:00 PM ET

The HEARING program is structured as a 4.5-year effort consisting of:

• Phase 1: Research & Development (18 months)

• Phase 2: Pre-Clinical (24 months)

• Phase 3: Clinical / First-in-Human Studies (12 months)

The solicitation does not specify:

• Award announcement dates

• Contract negotiation timelines

• Expected project start dates

• Payment schedules

Where does this funding come from?

This funding comes from:

• Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H)

• Health Science Futures (HSF) Office

Program title:

• Hearing Enhancement through ARtificially Intelligent NeurotechnoloGy (HEARING)

Solicitation number:

• ARPA-H-SOL-26-154

Announcement type:

• Innovative Solutions Opening (ISO)

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible proposers include:

• Universities

• Non-profit organizations

• Small businesses

• Other than small businesses

The solicitation states:
“All responsible sources capable of satisfying the Government’s needs may submit a proposal to this ISO.”

Additional eligibility requirements and restrictions include:

• Proposals must address all three Technical Areas and all program phases

• Proposals must be submitted under a single prime awardee

• Teams must include interdisciplinary expertise

• Teams must include representative end-user, clinical, and regulatory expertise

• Proposers may submit a maximum of:

  • One (1) proposal as prime proposer

  • Two (2) proposals as sub proposer

• SAM.gov registration is required

Non-U.S. entities:

• May participate subject to applicable regulations and restrictions

• ARPA-H will prioritize work conducted in the United States

Ineligible entities include:

• Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) as prime or sub performers, unless specifically approved

• Government entities and federal employees as performers

• Organizations with unmitigable organizational conflicts of interest

• Certain foreign entities identified under applicable federal statutes

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The strongest proposals will likely include:

• Fully integrated multidisciplinary teams

• Existing expertise in neurotechnology and BCIs

• Strong preliminary data

• Demonstrated ability to execute complex hardware/software integration

• FDA and clinical strategy experience

• Real-world hearing restoration validation plans

• Commercialization pathways

• Human data collection capabilities

• Experience with wireless implantable systems

• AI/ML auditory decoding expertise

ARPA-H explicitly states that proposals should:

• Be innovative and feasible

• Be supported by preliminary evidence

• Address major technical risks

• Include clear mitigation strategies

• Demonstrate commercialization potential

• Consider end-user experience and accessibility

• Improve speech-in-noise outcomes

• Support real-world usability

Projects that are likely to be noncompetitive include:

• Incremental improvements to existing hearing aids

• Solutions addressing only one TA

• Programs lacking system integration capability

• Solutions requiring craniotomy or craniectomy for the final TA1 device

• Technologies without sufficient preliminary evidence

• Systems with cumbersome form factors

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes. Key restrictions include:

Technical restrictions:

• Proposals must address all TAs and all phases

• Final TA1 devices cannot require surgical skull access (e.g., craniotomy or craniectomy)

• Implanted batteries subdurally or deeper into the brain are out of scope

• Solutions cannot rely on cumbersome form factors

• Solutions functioning only in controlled environments may be deemed non-responsive

Administrative restrictions:

• Solution Summary submission is required before submitting a Full Proposal

• Submissions must be in English

• Submission must occur through the ARPA-H Solution Submission Portal

• SAM.gov registration is required

Program restrictions:

• FFRDCs and Government entities are generally prohibited from participating as performers

• Current ARPA-H support contractors may be ineligible due to OCI restrictions

• Certain foreign entities are prohibited

Regulatory requirements:

• FDA engagement is expected

• IND/IDE approvals or equivalent permissions are required before Phase 3

• Human subject research approvals are required where applicable

The solicitation also notes that ARPA-H may impose publication restrictions for projects involving sensitive information.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

This will likely require a substantial proposal effort.

The solicitation requires:

• A single integrated proposal

• Coverage of all three Technical Areas

• Coverage of all three phases

• Detailed technical milestones

• Regulatory planning

• Clinical planning

• Manufacturing planning

• Animal study plans

• Human data collection strategies

• System integration plans

• Commercialization considerations

• Cost proposals

• Extensive interdisciplinary teaming

Most teams will likely need:

• Multiple institutional partners

• Clinical collaborators

• Regulatory consultants

• Neurotechnology expertise

• AI/ML expertise

• Hardware and firmware engineering support

• Program integration leadership

Teams without existing partnerships and preliminary work may face compressed timelines before the:

• Solution Summaries due date: Monday, June 29, 2026, 2:00 PM ET

• Full Proposals due date: Friday, August 14th, 2026, 2:00 PM ET

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support:

• Go/no-go evaluation

• Teaming strategy and partner identification

• Technical narrative development

• System integration positioning

• ARPA-H proposal strategy

• Workplan and milestone development

• Commercialization positioning

• Regulatory strategy framing

• Competitive differentiation

• Budget development support

• Full proposal writing and coordination

• Submission management

For HEARING specifically, BW&CO can also help teams:

• Translate highly technical neurotechnology concepts into ARPA-H-ready narratives

• Align deliverables with program metrics

• Structure multidisciplinary proposals across all three TAs

• Position preliminary data effectively

• Build compelling transition and clinical translation strategies

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

CDMRP - Prostate Cancer Research Program (PCRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Prostate Cancer Research Program (PCRP), administered by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), is expected to release multiple funding opportunities supporting innovative, high-impact prostate cancer research with clinical relevance. The program is focused on eliminating death and suffering from prostate cancer through new therapies, improved clinical care, survivorship research, and better understanding of disease progression.

This is currently a pre-announcement. Funding opportunity announcements will be posted later on Grants.gov and will include official pre-application and application deadlines. At this time, the application deadline is not specified in the solicitation.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding amounts depend on the award mechanism.

• Data Science Award

  • Maximum allowable funding is $1.4 million for total costs

  • Maximum period of performance is 3 years

• Early Investigator Research Award

  • Maximum allowable funding is $630,000 for total costs

  • Maximum period of performance is 3 years

• Idea Development Award

  • Established Investigator Option:

    • Maximum allowable funding is $1.7M for total costs

    • Maximum period of performance is 3 years

  • New Investigator Option:

    • Maximum allowable funding is $2.1M for total costs

    • Maximum period of performance is 4 years

• Physician Research Award

  • Maximum allowable funding is $1.1M for total costs

  • Maximum period of performance is 4 years

The solicitation states that total costs include direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

The allowable use of funds depends on the award mechanism.

Data Science Award supports research that develops or uses quantitative and analytical approaches, processes, and/or systems to obtain knowledge and insight from large and/or complex sets of prostate cancer data in areas including:

• Analysis of clinically annotated datasets

• Analysis of “-omics” data

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning

• Bioinformatics

• Computational biology

• Digital pathology

• Epidemiology

• Medical imaging

Early Investigator Research Award supports prostate cancer research conducted by early-stage investigators under mentorship from experienced researchers.

Idea Development Award supports innovative, high-risk and high-gain approaches to prostate cancer research.

Physician Research Award supports mentored research experiences for physicians pursuing careers in prostate cancer research and clinical practice.

Several mechanisms allow clinical research and correlative studies associated with ongoing or completed clinical trials, but clinical trials themselves are not allowed under these awards.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Potential additional benefits include:

• Access to CDMRP-administered funding programs with national visibility

• Support for researcher career development and mentorship under the Early Investigator Research Award and Physician Research Award

• Flexibility for multidisciplinary and multi-institutional collaboration under certain award mechanisms

• Opportunity to pursue high-risk, high-gain research concepts through the Idea Development Award

The solicitation also encourages, but does not require:

• Preliminary data for several award mechanisms

• Multidisciplinary projects

• Multi-institutional projects

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

This notice is a pre-announcement only.

The solicitation states that:

• Funding opportunity announcements will be posted later on Grants.gov

• Once released, the funding opportunity announcements will include pre-application and application deadlines

• The PCRP requires submission of a letter of intent prior to full application submission

• Before full application submission, the CDMRP requires submission of a pre-application through eBRAP prior to the pre-application deadline

The application deadline is not specified in the solicitation.

The timing for award decisions or funding distribution is not specified in the solicitation.

Where does this funding come from?

The funding comes from the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act and is administered through:

• Defense Health Agency Research and Development (DHA R&D)

• Medical Research and Development Command (MRDC)

• Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP)

The funding opportunity is part of the FY26 Prostate Cancer Research Program (PCRP).

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility depends on the award mechanism.

Data Science Award

• Independent investigators at all levels

Early Investigator Research Award

• Early-career investigators possessing a doctoral degree, or equivalent, with fewer than 3 years of postdoctoral research experience at the application submission deadline, excluding clinical residency or clinical fellowship training

Idea Development Award
Established Investigators:

• Independent investigators at all levels

New Investigators:

• Independent investigators that:

  • Have not previously received a PCRP Idea Development Award and/or Health Disparity Research Award

  • Either completed at least 3 years of postdoctoral training or fellowship or are within 10 years after completion of terminal degree, excluding residency or family medical leave

Physician Research Award

• Early-career clinician investigators that are either:

  • In the last year of an accredited medical residency or medical fellowship program

  • Within 5 years of initiating a faculty appointment, including instructor positions or equivalent

Additional personnel requirements apply for mentored mechanisms.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Projects are likely to be competitive if they:

• Address one or more of the PCRP’s overarching challenges

• Demonstrate clinical relevance and potential impact

• Propose innovative approaches to prostate cancer research

• Focus on improving outcomes for patients with lethal prostate cancer

• Advance survivorship, wellness, or clinical care

• Improve understanding of progression to lethal prostate cancer

The solicitation specifically emphasizes:

• Innovation and impact equally under the Idea Development Award

• High-risk and high-gain approaches

• Quantitative and analytical methods for large and complex prostate cancer datasets under the Data Science Award

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• Applications cannot support clinical trials under all listed award mechanisms

• Data Science Award applications cannot support prospective recruitment of human subjects

• Several awards require submission of a letter of intent prior to full application submission

• Full applications must conform to the final funding opportunity announcements available on Grants.gov

• Certain mechanisms require mentorship and researcher development plans

• Physician Research Award applications strongly encourage protection of at least 20% of the PI’s time for prostate cancer research

The solicitation states that this announcement is only a pre-announcement and should not be construed as an obligation or promise by the government.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The solicitation does not specify expected preparation time.

However, applicants should anticipate preparing:

• A pre-application through eBRAP

• A letter of intent

• A full application package

• Research development plans for mentored mechanisms

• Supporting documentation related to eligibility, mentorship, and project scope

Because official funding opportunity announcements and deadlines have not yet been released, applicants may benefit from beginning project planning early.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can help companies and research teams:

• Evaluate which FY26 PCRP mechanism best aligns with their technology or research program

• Position projects around the program’s stated overarching challenges

• Develop commercialization and impact narratives

• Coordinate scientific, clinical, and subcontractor partners

• Manage proposal development, writing, compliance, and submission

• Prepare pre-applications, letters of intent, and full proposals

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

CDMRP - Neurofibromatosis Research Program (NFRP)

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

Executive Summary:

The FY26 Neurofibromatosis Research Program (NFRP), administered by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), is expected to fund multiple award mechanisms supporting innovative, high-impact neurofibromatosis (NF) and schwannomatosis research. The program is specifically focused on improving understanding, diagnosis, treatment and quality of life outcomes for people affected by NF and schwannomatosis, including Service Members, Veterans and their families.

This is currently a pre-announcement. The CDMRP states that funding opportunity announcements will be released on Grants.gov at a later date and will contain official pre-application and application deadlines. At this time, application deadlines are not specified. The program recommends investigators begin planning early.

How much funding would I receive?

The FY26 NFRP includes multiple anticipated award mechanisms with varying funding levels:

• Exploration-Hypothesis Development Award

  • Maximum allowable funding: $160,000 total costs

  • Maximum performance period: 2 years

• Investigator-Initiated Research Award

  • Maximum allowable funding: $525,000 total costs

  • Maximum performance period: 3 years

  • Applications using the Qualified Collaborator or NF Open Science Initiative options may request up to $575,000 total costs

• Neurofibromatosis Research Academy – Leadership Award

  • Maximum allowable funding: $2.4 million total costs

  • Maximum performance period: 4 years

• Neurofibromatosis Research Academy – Scholar Award

  • Maximum allowable funding: $1.2 million total costs

  • Maximum performance period: 4 years

• Synergistic Idea Award

  • Maximum allowable funding: $3.2 million total costs

  • Maximum performance period: 3 years

Total costs include both direct and indirect costs.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding is intended to support innovative and impactful neurofibromatosis and schwannomatosis research projects.

Potential project areas include:

• Schwannomatosis and NF2-related research

• Biomarker and endpoint validation

• Data science applications

• Pain and cognitive manifestation research

• Sleep-related NF research

• Genomics, epigenetics and systems biology

• Drug discovery and target identification

• Preclinical efficacy studies

• Nutritional and environmental modifiers of NF

• Health services research

Specific award mechanisms also support:

• Early-stage exploratory concepts

• Multi-investigator collaborative projects

• Early-career investigator development

• Multi-institutional mentoring academies

• Pilot research projects within academy structures

Clinical trials are not allowed under the listed award mechanisms.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Depending on the award mechanism, applicants may receive additional benefits such as:

• Access to collaborative research partnerships

• Participation in the NF Open Science Initiative

• Intensive mentoring and career development

• National networking opportunities

• Participation in a virtual NF research academy

• Access to NF Consumer Consultant Panels

• Multi-institutional collaboration opportunities

The Neurofibromatosis Research Academy mechanisms are specifically designed to support mentorship, networking and long-term investigator development in the NF field.

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

The CDMRP released this pre-announcement on April 22, 2026.

Application deadlines are not specified in the pre-announcement. The CDMRP states that official funding opportunity announcements will later be posted on Grants.gov and will include pre-application and application deadlines.

The program requires submission of a pre-application through eBRAP prior to full application submission.

Periods of performance vary by award mechanism:

• 2 years for Exploration-Hypothesis Development Awards

• 3 years for Investigator-Initiated Research Awards

• 4 years for Academy Leadership Awards

• 4 years for Academy Scholar Awards

• 3 years for Synergistic Idea Awards

The solicitation does not specify anticipated award start dates or funding disbursement timelines.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act through the Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), managed within 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.

Exploration-Hypothesis Development Award:

• Investigators at all career levels

• Includes postdoctoral fellows or equivalent

Investigator-Initiated Research Award:

• Investigators at or above the level of Assistant Professor or equivalent

• Must commit a minimum of 10% effort throughout the award

Neurofibromatosis Research Academy – Leadership Award:

• Academy Director must be an established NF investigator at or above Associate Professor or equivalent

• Academy Deputy Director must also be at or above Associate Professor level and affiliated with a different institution

Neurofibromatosis Research Academy – Scholar Award:

• Scholars must be early-career investigators within 10 years of terminal degree or clinical fellowship

• Requires an eligible Career Guide who is an established NF investigator

Synergistic Idea Award:

• Investigators at or above the level of Assistant Professor or equivalent

Additional eligibility requirements may be included in the final funding opportunity announcements.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The NFRP is seeking projects that are:

• Innovative and high-impact

• Clinically relevant

• Focused on improving patient outcomes

• Addressing one or more stated Areas of Emphasis

• Advancing understanding, diagnosis or treatment of NF and schwannomatosis

Competitive applications are likely to include:

• Strong scientific rationale

• Significant translational potential

• Collaborative or multidisciplinary approaches

• Novel technologies or methodologies

• Preliminary and/or published data where required

Certain award mechanisms specifically encourage:

• High-risk, high-gain concepts

• Multi-investigator collaboration

• Data science approaches

• Open science participation

• Mentorship and workforce development in NF research

The solicitation also emphasizes research that could benefit Service Members, Veterans and the broader public.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes. Key restrictions include:

• Clinical trials are not allowed under the listed award mechanisms

• Several award mechanisms require preliminary and/or published data

• All applications require a pre-application submission through eBRAP before full application submission

• Multiple award mechanisms require submission of a letter of intent prior to full application submission

• Applications must conform to the final funding opportunity announcements posted on Grants.gov

The pre-announcement states that investigators should not construe the notice as an obligation or promise by the government.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Preparation timelines will vary significantly depending on the award mechanism.

Applicants pursuing:

• Multi-institutional collaborations

• Academy proposals

• Large-scale synergistic projects

• Open science options

should expect substantially longer preparation timelines due to coordination requirements, mentoring structures, collaborator commitments and supporting documentation.

Because all applications require pre-applications and several require letters of intent, applicants should begin planning before the official funding opportunity announcements are released.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support applicants with:

• Opportunity assessment and award mechanism selection

• Research strategy positioning

• Commercialization and impact narrative development

• Proposal writing and editing

• Collaboration structuring

• Project management and submission coordination

• Budget development support

• Grants.gov and eBRAP submission support

• Reviewer-style proposal feedback

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

ARPA- E INSPIRING GENERATIONS OF NEW INNOVATORS TO IMPACTTECHNOLOGIES IN ENERGY 2026 (IGNIITE 2026)

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

Executive Summary:

The IGNIITE 2026 program from ARPA-E is a high-prestige, early-career funding opportunity designed to support transformational, high-risk energy technologies. It is not founder-friendly in structure (no teams, no co-PIs), but offers meaningful non-dilutive funding and strong ecosystem access.

You must first submit a Concept Paper by 9:30 AM ET, May 29, 2026.

If selected, you may be invited to submit a full application. With only ~$10M total funding and awards capped at $500K, this is a competitive but accessible entry point into ARPA-E for early-career innovators.

How much funding would I receive?

• Individual awards: up to $500,000

• Potential additional funding:

  • Up to $250,000 Director’s Award (at ARPA-E’s discretion)

• Total program funding: approximately $10 million

• Number of awards: Not specified (ARPA-E may issue one, multiple, or no awards)

What could I use the funding for?

Applicants are advised to assess whether their proposed technologies are aligned with the DOE’s current areas of interest. Those areas include, but are not limited to:

• Energy supply chain security (to include critical minerals)

• Advanced nuclear (to include fusion, fission)

• Geothermal

• Grid reliability and security

• American manufacturing competitiveness

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Yes—this program includes structured ecosystem access:

• Participation in the IGNIITE Annual Program (two one-week sessions in Washington, D.C.)

• Training (e.g., proposal writing, commercialization, pitching)

• Direct engagement with:

  • ARPA-E Program Directors

  • Investors

  • Federal stakeholders

• Mentorship and networking opportunities

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

Key deadlines:

• Concept Paper questions deadline: 5 PM ET, May 19, 2026

• Concept Paper submission deadline: 9:30 AM ET, May 29, 2026

• Invite / Not Invite notifications: 5 PM ET, July 14, 2026

• Full application deadline: Not specified (TBD)

• Selection notifications: September 2026 (anticipated)

• Award start: December 2026 (anticipated)

Period of performance:

• December 2026 – December 2028

Where does this funding come from?

• Advanced Research Projects Agency—Energy (ARPA-E)

• Within the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

Authorized under federal statute (America COMPETES Act and subsequent amendments).

Who is eligible to apply?

This program is highly specific and restrictive:

Principal Investigator (PI) requirements

• Must be an early-career researcher

• PhD received within 8 years of the Concept Paper deadline

• Must be:

  • U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or green card applicant

• If at a university:

  • Must be a pre-tenure Assistant/Associate Professor

• Must self-direct the project (no co-PIs allowed)

Eligible organizations

• For-profit companies

• Universities

• Nonprofits

• DOE labs / FFRDCs

Additional constraints:

• Must apply as a standalone applicant (no teams or subrecipients)

• Must be U.S.-based with majority domestic ownership

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive projects will:

• Be transformational (not incremental)

• Have potential to be disruptive in the market

• Demonstrate clear technical risk with high upside

• Include hypothesis-driven R&D with measurable outcomes

ARPA-E prioritizes:

• Novel concepts that could create new technology “learning curves”

• Technologies with clear commercialization potential

• Strong technical justification and feasibility

Projects will be rejected if they:

• Are incremental improvements

• Lack scientific rigor

• Cannot scale or become disruptive

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• No cost share required

• Must spend at least 5% on Technology Transfer & Outreach (TT&O)

• Work must generally be performed in the U.S.

• Limited or restricted:

  • Foreign participation (requires waiver)

  • Foreign travel

  • Major construction

Other constraints:

• Cannot submit more than one application per PI

• Must comply with strict federal reporting, disclosure, and security requirements

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Based on requirements:

Concept Paper (required first step)

Includes:

• Technical concept (4 pages)

• Personal qualification summary (2 pages)

• Summary slide

• Letter of support

• Transcript

Full Application (if invited)

Includes:

• 15-page technical volume

• Budget workbook

• Multiple federal forms and disclosures

• Biosketches and support documentation

Estimated effort:

• Concept Paper: 2–4 weeks

• Full Application: 6–10+ weeks

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you across the full process:

• Positioning your concept as “transformational” (not incremental)

• Translating technical ideas into ARPA-E-aligned narratives

• Structuring your Concept Paper for invite likelihood

• Building a clear commercialization and impact story

• Managing compliance with ARPA-E formatting and submission rules

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

Low-Cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System (LUCAS) Component Challenge

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

Executive Summary:

The Low-Cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System (LUCAS) Component Challenge is an open, rolling solicitation seeking dual-use technologies that reduce cost and improve performance across LUCAS subsystems. This is not for building a full aircraft—it is strictly for components that can integrate into existing or future LUCAS platforms.

The challenge window is open for one hundred twenty days from posting, with weekly reviews and rapid down-selects anticipated within thirty to forty-five days of submission. Companies that are ready to deliver testable prototypes quickly should apply as early as possible to maximize selection odds.

Deadline is June 24th, 2026.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding typically ranges from $500k - $5m per award.

Desired Solution

The government seeks prototypes and concepts that reduce cost, increase performance, improve manufacturability, and strengthen mission adaptability across the LUCAS family. Components may target aircraft already fielded, upcoming variants, or platform-agnostic interfaces intended for future LUCAS systems.

These technology areas include:

a) Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machine learning, perception, autonomy, and decision aids that enhance mission planning, predictive maintenance, and autonomous performance while reducing operator workload.

b) Mission Command Planner and Executor: Tools that translate commander intent into executable tasking for LUCAS platforms, enabling rapid re-tasking, synchronization, and secure mission execution.

c) Payload – Kinetic and Non-Kinetic: Modular payloads providing offensive, defensive, and sensing effects, emphasizing rapid interchangeability, safe integration, and interoperability across mission profiles.

d) Navigation Systems: Avionics and navigation suites resilient to degraded or GPSdenied environments, leveraging multi-sensor fusion, inertial navigation, and antijam/anti-spoofing technologies.

e) Alternative Energy: Onboard or distributed energy systems that extend endurance, reduce logistics burden, and enable sustained operations, including hybrid, fuel cell, or regenerative power options.

f) Engines: Power and propulsion units focused on reliability, maintainability, and energy efficiency, supporting rapid maintenance and multi-fuel adaptability.

g) Manufacturing Capabilities: Advanced production methods such as additive manufacturing and modular assembly that reduce cost, shorten lead times, and improve supply chain resilience.

h) Test and Evaluation Capabilities: Rapid, repeatable validation tools and instrumentation, including hardware-in-the-loop, automated test frameworks, and performance data analytics.

i) Integration Labs: Physical or virtual environments that accelerate interoperability testing, software-hardware integration, and government-industry co-development using standardized interfaces.

j) One-Way Attack Systems: Affordable, expendable loitering or single-use systems emphasizing safety, accuracy, and low-cost production for tactical effects.

k) Range-Extending Technologies: Communication relays, propulsion enhancements, or networked systems that expand operational reach, endurance, and mission duration. Together, these areas represent the spectrum of component and subsystem innovation needed to enhance LUCAS performance, reduce lifecycle costs, and enable scalable production across multiple mission sets.

l) Swarm & Collaborative Autonomy: Distributed sensing, mesh networking, cooperative tasking, and multi-vehicle behaviors.

m) Safety, Reliability & Self-Diagnostics: Pre-flight auto-check systems, onboard selfassessment tools, safe-to-arm mechanisms, and lightweight encryption modules.

n) Launch & Recovery Innovations: Low-cost launch systems, expeditionary recovery kits, modular or disposable launch rails, and ruggedized capture solutions.

o) Environmental Hardening & Weatherization: Corrosion protection, weatherproofing, low-temperature battery chemistry, and ruggedized housings.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Yes. Selected companies may receive:

• Direct collaboration with LUCAS manufacturer (Spektreworks) or integrator (Neany)

• Access to government-provided interfaces, labs, and test environments (post down-select)

• Opportunity for follow-on funding for testing or production

• Exposure to multiple government stakeholders reviewing submissions on a rolling basis

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

• Application window: open for one hundred twenty days from posting

• Submission reviews: weekly

• Down-select decisions: typically within thirty to forty-five days of submission

• Post-award expectation: solutions should be ready for demonstration within ninety days of award

Funding timing beyond this is not specified in the solicitation.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is issued through:

• One Nation Innovation (ONIX) Other Transaction Authority (OTA)

• Operated on behalf of government partners, with coordination from OUSD R&E

Who is eligible to apply?

The challenge is broadly open to:

• Small and nontraditional vendors

• Startups and early-stage companies

• Commercial dual-use developers

• International partners (subject to regulations)

No prior DoD experience is required.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive submissions will:

• Demonstrate clear cost reduction or cost-per-effect improvements

• Be ready for testing within ninety days of award

• Integrate easily with government systems and open interfaces

• Show manufacturability, scalability, and supply chain resilience

• Provide a credible delivery schedule and transition pathway

Evaluation prioritizes:

• Open architecture and interoperability

• Cost and total ownership impact

• Technical maturity and readiness

• Integration simplicity and safety

• Speed to delivery

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• This challenge does not fund full LUCAS aircraft development—components only

• Work is expected to be unclassified, but may involve export control or CUI compliance

• CUI cannot be submitted through the platform

• Vendors are responsible for regulatory compliance

• Selected vendors may receive controlled government data post down-select

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The solicitation requires:

• A proposal of no more than 10 pages in 12-point Arial

• A separate cover page with company and contact details

Required content includes:

• Technical approach and cost reduction strategy

• Integration and testing plan

• Rough order of magnitude pricing

• Past performance

• Delivery schedule

Preparation time is not specified in the solicitation.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Position your component against LUCAS evaluation criteria

• Translate your technology into a clear cost-reduction and integration narrative

• Align your proposal with OTA expectations and rapid prototyping goals

• Develop a compelling, compliant 10-page submission optimized for fast down-select

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

Fort Stewart & Hunter Army Airfield Energy Resiliency Microgrid Prototype & Lines of Effort (LOEs) Challenge through ONIX OTA Partnership

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

Executive Summary:

The USARMY – Fort Stewart & Hunter Army Airfield Energy Resiliency Microgrid Prototype is a prototype-focused opportunity to design, build, and validate a solar-plus-storage microgrid supporting mission-critical operations. The Army is seeking solutions that can demonstrate real-world resiliency performance and produce a replication package for future deployments.

Applications close May 19, 2026 at 07:00 PM.

This is a fast-moving opportunity with a 30–45 day anticipated down-select, requiring concise (2–10 page) submissions and a clear, executable approach.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding typically ranges from $500k - $5m per award.

AREAS OF INTEREST

LOE 1: Prototype / Program Management, Permitting, and Stakeholder Coordination

Provide program management and dedicated oversight to execute the Fort Stewart microgrid prototype, including end‑to‑end coordination of permitting and stakeholder actions required for successful deployment.

● Provide program management, schedule/risk governance, and coordination to execute the Fort Stewart microgrid prototype within the Government-directed timeline.

● Lead and track permitting actions for the solar farm and adjacent battery facility (BESS); coordinate documentation packages and approvals with installation stakeholders and authorities having jurisdiction, as directed.

● Maintain an integrated risk register and readiness gates for design, permitting, installation, commissioning, and testing; provide recurring status reporting and issue resolution as directed.

● Coordinate site access, safety planning, and installation coordination actions required to enable on‑site work and testing activities, as directed.

LOE 2: Prototype / Microgrid Design, Build, Integration, and Commissioning (Fort Stewart)

Execute the Fort Stewart solar-plus-storage microgrid prototype to validate installation energy resiliency under outage/degraded-grid conditions, while coordinating required permitting and stakeholder actions to enable successful deployment.

● Design and implement the solar‑plus‑storage microgrid architecture, including interconnection, controls, protection schemes, and operating modes necessary to support mission‑essential loads during outages/degraded grid conditions, as directed.

● Install, integrate, and commission the solar farm and battery energy storage system (BESS), and deliver as‑built documentation and configuration baselines for the prototype system.

● Coordinate construction/installation sequencing with Government stakeholders to support access, safety, and continuity of installation operations, as directed.

● Prepare commissioning checklists and acceptance test procedures consistent with Government-directed requirements; document results and corrective actions through closeout.

LOE 3: Prototype / Performance Validation, Sustainment Readiness, and Replication Package (HAAF)

Validate prototype performance through representative testing, deliver sustainment readiness artifacts, and provide a replication kit to accelerate sequential deployment at Hunter Army Airfield.

● Execute a Government‑approved demonstration plan that includes at least one planned utility‑outage/islanding demonstration and one degraded‑grid scenario; document results, constraints, and recommended design/process changes.

● Establish baseline resiliency performance and report measurable deltas from testing (e.g., critical load support duration, transfer time to islanded operations, system availability/uptime, recovery time), with decision‑quality evidence suitable to inform sequential deployment.

● Deliver operator/maintainer training, safety procedures, sustainment recommendations, and turnover artifacts required for continued operations, as

directed.

● Deliver a microgrid replication kit to accelerate sequential deployment at Hunter Army Airfield, including process map, permitting playbook, reference

architecture, commissioning checklist, operator training package, and lessons‑learned delta list.

● Coordinate with the Government to define the mission-essential load set and target sustainment duration for demonstration events prior to execution, as directed.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Yes—non-dilutive and strategic benefits include:

• Opportunity to deliver a first-of-its-kind microgrid at Fort Stewart

• Positioning for follow-on deployment at Hunter Army Airfield (approximately 1+ year out)

• Creation of a replicable implementation package for future Army installations

• Direct engagement with the U.S. Army and ONI through an ONIX OTA contracting pathway

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

• Application deadline: May 19, 2026 at 07:00 PM

• Down-select timeline: ONI anticipates 30–45 days from posting

• Project duration: Approximately 1–1.5 years for Fort Stewart execution

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

Where does this funding come from?

• U.S. Army (Fort Stewart & Hunter Army Airfield)

• Contracting via ONIX OTA in coordination with ACC-RI

Who is eligible to apply?

• U.S.-based industry (i.e., small businesses), academic, and nonprofit organizations

• Must register and submit via https://gocolosseum.org

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Proposals will be evaluated across four weighted categories:

1. Technical Approach & Design (30%)

• Strong solar + battery integration design

• Clear outage/islanding capability

• Robust permitting and compliance strategy

2. Execution Capability & Schedule (25%)

• Realistic 1–1.5 year execution plan

• Defined staffing and resource allocation

• Credible cost and milestone structure

3. Deliverables & Outcomes (30%)

• Demonstrable performance metrics (e.g., load support duration, uptime)

• Complete replication package

• Strong sustainment readiness documentation

4. Past Performance & Organization Capability (15%)

• Relevant microgrid or energy resiliency experience

• Experience working on military or government installations

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• This is a prototype-focused effort; recurring environmental compliance services are not intended unless explicitly directed

• Submission format is flexible, but proposals must include required elements (e.g., technical approach, schedule, costs, deliverables)

• Responses must be 2–10 pages maximum

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The solicitation requires a short response (2–10 pages) including technical, cost, and execution details.

Typical preparation effort will depend on readiness, but the required components include:

• Technical approach

• Schedule and milestones

• Cost estimate (ROM)

• Past performance

• Company information

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support:

• Translating your microgrid solution into a clear, evaluation-aligned proposal

• Structuring your response to directly match the scoring rubric (technical, execution, outcomes, past performance)

• Developing a credible ROM cost model and milestone plan

• Positioning your team’s experience for DoD evaluators and OTA pathways

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

AIR COMBAT COMMAND A2 & AIR FORCE INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY (ACC/A2 & AF IC) COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS OPENING (CSO) SOLICITATION NUMBER: FA7037-26-S-C001

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

Executive Summary:

This is an Air Combat Command A2 & Air Force Intelligence Community (ACC/A2 & AF IC) Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) seeking innovative commercial technologies to support intelligence, AI, cyber, and multi-domain operations.

Important: You cannot apply yet. This is an umbrella CSO with Calls, meaning proposals are only accepted when specific Calls are released. Unsolicited proposals are not accepted.

The CSO is open-ended and allows Calls to be issued indefinitely with annual updates.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding typically ranges from $500k - $5m per award.

AREAS OF INTEREST

TOPIC 001: Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Decision Dominance

AI-Driven Predictive Intelligence Analysis

AF IC seeks solutions that leverage Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) to move from a reactive to a predictive intelligence posture. Capabilities should include the autonomous analysis of multi-intelligence (multi-INT) data to anticipate adversary actions, identify emerging threats, and drastically reduce the time required to generate and disseminate tactical intelligence.

Human-Machine Teaming for Accelerated Sense-Making

To overcome information overload, AF IC seeks intuitive platforms that enable seamless collaboration between human analysts and AI agents. The Government is interested in solutions that augment human cognition, automate laborious tasks, and utilize advanced visualization to help analysts make sense of vast, complex datasets at machine speed.

Commercial Data Integration and Analysis

AF IC requires innovative methods and platforms to rapidly identify, vet, ingest, and integrate commercially available information and data streams into our intelligence workflows. This includes, but is not limited to, commercial satellite imagery, Radio Frequency (RF) sensing data, public records, and internet-of-things (IoT) data to enrich and add context to classified intelligence.

Information Operations and Counter-Disinformation

AF IC seeks solutions capable of monitoring the global information environment to detect, analyze, and track adversary propaganda and disinformation campaigns. Key capabilities include sentiment analysis, source attribution, and the generation of data-driven counternarratives to ensure information superiority.

TOPIC 002: All-Domain Command & Control

Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2), Data Integration and Fusion

To realize the vision of AF IC, the JADC2 needs a robust "digital backbone" to fuse data from disparate sensors and platforms across all domains. The Government seeks solutions for a common data layer that can normalize, process, and share Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) data in a secure, resilient, and cloud-native environment to create a common operating picture.

Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) Battle Management

AF IC is interested in advanced battle management tools that enable the planning, 6 coordination, and synchronized execution of multi-domain operations. Solutions should provide the Government with decision-making aids to understand the cross-domain impacts of kinetic and non-kinetic effects in a dynamic environment.

Digital Twin and Engineering for Mission Rehearsal, Tactics Development, and Training

AF IC seeks to create a high-fidelity, continuously updated digital twin of the battlespace. The primary purpose of this environment is to enable the testing of tactics, rapid development and validation of new Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs), and advanced mission rehearsal for aircrews, operators, and planners in complex, multidomain contingencies, thereby improving readiness while reducing risk.

TOPIC 003: Resilient Cyber and Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance Operations

Advanced Sensing and Data Processing at the Edge

As operations expand into contested, communication-denied environments, the Government requires solutions that enable the processing, exploitation, and dissemination (PED) of sensor data at the tactical edge. AF IC is interested in low Size, Weight, and Power (low-SWaP) hardware and software that can perform on-platform AI/ML inference to deliver time-sensitive intelligence directly to the warfighter.

Advanced Cyber Threat Intelligence

To proactively defend our networks, the Government seeks predictive analytic platforms that can identify emerging cyber threats, TTPs, and malware before they are used against government systems. Solutions should provide actionable, machine-readable threat intelligence that can be automatically ingested by government defensive cyber platforms.

Quantum-Resistant Cryptography and Secure Communications

AF IC requires a layered defense to detect, track, identify, and neutralize hostile Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) threats. The Government is soliciting for commercial solutions for all aspects of the counter sUAS mission, including passive and active sensors, command and control integration, and kinetic and non-kinetic effectors.

Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Modernization

AF IC seeks to modernize government SIGINT capabilities with commercial technologies that leverage software-defined radios (SDR), advanced signal processing, and AI/ML for automated signal detection, classification, and geolocation across a congested and contested electromagnetic spectrum.

Cognitive Electronic Warfare (EW)

AF IC seeks to modernize our SIGINT capabilities and develop a cognitive EW capability that leverages AI/ML for automated signal detection, classification, and geolocation. The Government is interested in software-defined systems that can autonomously sense and dynamically respond to novel threats across a congested and contested electromagnetic spectrum.

TOPIC 004: Foundational Digital Infrastructure

Multi-Cloud Abstraction, Orchestration, and FinOps for C2E

The AF IC operates in a multi-cloud environment via the Intelligence Community's Commercial Cloud Enterprise (C2E) contract. The Government seeks a common abstraction layer or Cloud Management Platform (CMP) to provide a "single pane of glass" for managing, deploying, and securing applications across multiple classified cloud providers. Key capabilities include Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) portability, unified security governance, and a robust Financial Operations (FinOps) dashboard to optimize cloud spending across the enterprise.

TOPIC 005: Enterprise Wide Integration and Architecture Modernization

The ACC/A2 seeks innovative solutions to support the integration of data across disparate monitoring phenomenologies and modernization of hardware/software architectures. This topic includes:

• New solutions to integrate data access and discoverability across varying monitoring phenomenologies to lower detection thresholds and/or increase efficiency of current operations.

• Technologies to modernize hardware/software architectures or implement improved software design and accrediting processes to more flexibly meet mission needs.

TOPIC 006: Enterprise Asset and Lifecycle Management Improvements

The ACC/A2 seeks innovative solutions that can provide enterprise-wide asset management visibility as well as improve our lifecycle management capabilities. This topic includes:

• Increase accuracy of forecasting of requirements and scheduling of procurements through the use and exploitation of supply chain demand data

• Supply chain management, specifically: Automated systems to reduce/eliminate inefficiency, improve asset control, decrease touchpoints and minimize inventory

• Automated identification and reporting of components and systems with substandard reliability

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

The CSO states potential for:

• Contracts or Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs)

• Follow-on increases in award value and scope as solutions mature

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

A deadline is to be released in the coming days. We’re planning to assist companies with meeting appropriate personnel and are beginning that work promptly.

Where does this funding come from?

• Air Combat Command A2 (ACC/A2)

• Air Force Intelligence Community (AF IC)

• Authorized under:

  • 10 U.S.C. 3458

  • R-DFARS 212.70

Who is eligible to apply?

For Step Two (full proposal), offerors must:

• Be registered in SAM.gov

• Be considered responsible under federal regulations

• Have a satisfactory performance record

• Be eligible under federal law

The solicitation references:

• Small businesses

• Nontraditional defense contractors (as defined in 10 U.S.C. § 2302(9))

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on the solicitation, competitive solutions will:

• Be innovative (new or new application of existing tech)

• Be commercial or commercializable

• Align directly with AF IC mission needs

• Be built for:

  • Cloud-native environments

  • AI-enabled workflows

  • Secure, scalable deployment

Strong proposals will also demonstrate:

• Integration with Zero Trust and ICAM

• Compatibility with DevSecOps and continuous ATO (cATO)

• Use of open architectures (SOSA / OMS)

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes:

• Unsolicited proposals will not be accepted

• Do not submit proprietary, classified, or sensitive information in responses

• Must comply with:

  • Cybersecurity requirements (CMMC levels per Call)

  • SAM registration and UEI requirements

Other constraints:

• Government may award all, part, or none

• Government is not obligated to make any award

• Offerors bear all proposal preparation costs

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The structure implies:

• White Paper (2–5 pages) + Quad Chart for Step One

• Full proposal only if invited

Actual timelines will be defined in each Call.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support you to:

• Monitor and identify relevant Calls as soon as they are released

• Shape your solution to align with:

  • AF IC priority topics

  • Zero Trust, DevSecOps, and open architecture requirements

• Develop:

  • High-impact white papers and quad charts

  • Full proposals for Step Two

• Position your company as a credible commercial partner to DoD/IC buyers

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC) -Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) - RFP 26-01

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

Executive Summary:

The Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC) is soliciting prototype solutions to address critical domestic supply chain vulnerabilities and manufacturing capability gaps across four priority areas. These efforts are funded under the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program using RDT&E appropriations and are tied to Congressional Interest.

Companies should move quickly if aligned—this is a targeted, single-award-per-topic opportunity with defined funding ceilings and strong Government interest in scaling domestic capacity.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding is structured as single awards per topic, each capped at the following levels:

• Topic 1: Secure Processor Development — Up to $8,300,000 (RDT&E)

• Topic 2: Rare Earth Magnet Manufacturing — Up to $2,500,000 (RDT&E)

• Topic 3: Industrial Forge Quenching Capacity Improvement — Up to $2,500,000 (RDT&E)

• Topic 4: RF Contested Environments — Up to $4,400,000 (RDT&E)

The Government intends to make one award per topic, not exceeding the stated funding limitation.

RESEARCH TOPICS:

• Topic 1: Secure Processor Development

  The Government requires a prototype project to develop, mature, and scale the domestic production of advanced secure processors for defense applications. Modern defense systems operating at the tactical edge require high-performance computing (eg, AI/ML processing, sensor fusion) while maintaining an absolute Zero-Trust hardware posture. Current commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) processors are vulnerable to supply chain interdiction, side-channel attacks, and reverse engineering.

  • Technical Focus: Solutions should emphasize hardware roots of trust (RoS), secure boot mechanisms, inline memory encryption, and resistance to physical and electrical side-channel attacks. Proposals may include advanced 2.5D and 3D heterogeneous integration (HI) packaging, or the integration of secure processor chiplets (such as RISC-V architectures with integrated memory guards) into larger systems on a chip (SoC).

  • Funding Limitation: Up to $8,300,000 (RDT&E). The Government intends to make a single award no greater than the funding limitation. Teaming arrangements are acceptable and encouraged to meet complex supply chain requirements.

• Topic 2: Rare Earth Magnet Manufacturing

  The Government requires prototype solutions to establish or enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities for high-performance rare earth permanent magnets, specifically Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) and Samarium-Cobalt (SmCo). These magnets are critical for defense electric drive systems, radar, missile guidance fins, and advanced actuators (e.g., F-35 and submarine platforms). Currently, foreign entities of concern control over 85% of the global magnet processing and production capacity.

  • Technical Focus: The project must advance a verifiable, secure "mine-to-magnet" supply chain completely bypassing foreign entities of concern. The project may use virgin material sources or recycled materials. Technical approaches should highlight advanced sintered manufacturing processes, heavy rare earth (HRE) separation capabilities (specifically isolating Dysprosium and Terbium), or the use of Grain Boundary Diffusion (GBD) technology to maximize high-temperature performance while reducing overall reliance on scarce HREs.

  • Funding Limitation: Up to $2,500,000 (RDT&E). The Government intends to make a single award no greater than the funding limitation. Teaming arrangements are acceptable and encouraged to meet complex supply chain requirements.

  • Economic Participation: To ensure a resilient domestic supply chain, the Government seeks solutions demonstrating shared financial investment and long-term commercial sustainment. In alignment with the IBAS mission to establish and diversify regional centers of excellence, the Government will favorably evaluate proposals that build or utilize robust industrial infrastructure, integrate localized supply chains, and develop specialized workforces for domestic magnet manufacturing. The highest evaluation preference will be given to proposed solutions that strategically locate operations within established or rapidly emerging U.S. automotive, aerospace, or advanced manufacturing corridors to leverage existing industrial synergies."

• Topic 3: Industrial Forge Quenching Capacity Improvement

  Heavy forging is a foundational requirement for major defense platforms, particularly within the Submarine Industrial Base (SIB), shipbuilding, and heavy armor. The Government requires a prototype project to design, upgrade, and validate improved industrial forge quenching capacity. Current domestic infrastructure is a major bottleneck, leading to extended lead times for ultra-large cast and forged components.

  • Technical Focus: Solutions must demonstrate the implementation of advanced quenching infrastructure (eg, large-scale water, oil, or polymer quench tanks). The technical approach should feature automated, sensor-driven temperature monitoring and controlled cooling rates to guarantee metallurgical consistency, prevent stress fractures in heavy steel/titanium alloys, and significantly increase throughput for Navy and Army platform components.

  • Funding Limitation: Up to $2,500,000 (RDT&E). The Government intends to make a single award no greater than the funding limitation. Teaming arrangements are acceptable and encouraged to meet complex supply chain requirements.

  • Economic Participation: To meet the IBAS strategic requirement for expanding geographically distinct heavy industrial infrastructure, the Government seeks proposals that drive direct economic participation and localized industrial impact. The highest evaluation preference will be given to proposed solutions that establish or expand operations within regions offering established heavy manufacturing ecosystems, high-capacity energy grids, and strategic logistical access to rapidly scale domestic infrastructure capabilities."

• Topic 4: RF Contested Environments

  The Department of War (DoW) requires domestic, trusted prototyping and low-rate initial production of advanced microelectronics capable of maintaining spectrum dominance in severely contested and congested electromagnetic environments.

  Currently, the U.S. Defense Industrial Base (DIB) faces a critical gap in fielding ultra-wideband, low-latency RF signal processing components at the tactical edge. Near-peer adversaries have proliferated sophisticated Electronic Warfare (EW) systems designed to jam, spoof, or degrade DoW communications, radar, and precision-guided munitions. Existing silicon-based microelectronics lack the instantaneous bandwidth and dynamic range required to filter intentional interference and isolate signals of interest in real-time, posing a severe risk to Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) survivability.

  ·         Technical Focus: The solution must be centered on the design, development, and prototyping of advanced microelectronic architectures capable of maintaining spectrum dominance in highly contested and congested Radio Frequency (RF) environments. To counter sophisticated near-peer Electronic Warfare (EW) and jamming capabilities, the proposed solution must deliver ultra-wideband signal processing beyond the state of the practice at the tactical edge. This requires moving beyond traditional narrowband, high-latency digital conversion by integrating analog, mixed-signal, or photonic pre-processing directly on-chip. These advanced microelectronic components must demonstrate the high dynamic range necessary to simultaneously nullify high-power, frequency-hopping interference while isolating and preserving critical, low-power signals of interest in real-time without introducing processing lag.

  Furthermore, the technical focus mandates strict adherence to Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C) optimization to ensure the resulting prototypes are viable for integration into constrained platforms such as Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), precision-guided munitions, and mobile Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) nodes. A critical execution requirement of this effort is the active utilization and maturation of the domestic supply chain, specifically leveraging the established optics, photonics, and RF microelectronics industrial base. Performers must explicitly demonstrate how their technical approach integrates specialized manufacturing, advanced prototyping, and research capabilities to deliver military-grade, environmentally hardened sub-systems (targeting Technology Readiness Level 5 or 6) that are ready for transition into Department of War (DoW) Programs of Record.

  • Funding Limitation: Up to $4,400,000 (RDT&E). The Government intends to make a single award no greater than the funding limitation. Teaming arrangements are acceptable and encouraged to meet complex supply chain requirements.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

This program is structured around Government equity, meaning participation may include:

• Government Purpose Rights (GPR) to technical data and software

• Priority access or reserved production capacity

• Delivery of prototypes, tooling, or LRIP units

• Shared licensing or royalty-free use of developed IP

Additionally, projects are tied to Congressional Interest and may position companies for future defense production and transition opportunities.

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

A deadline is to be released in the coming days. We’re planning to assist companies with meeting appropriate personnel and are beginning that work promptly.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from:

• Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) appropriations

• Managed under the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program

• Executed through the Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC)

These efforts are explicitly tied to national security priorities and Congressional Interest.

Who is eligible to apply?

• Members of the Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC) may submit solution papers

• Teaming arrangements are acceptable and encouraged

No additional eligibility criteria are specified in the solicitation.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Competitive proposals will:

• Directly address critical supply chain vulnerabilities

• Demonstrate ability to scale domestic manufacturing capacity

• Align tightly with IBAS objectives

• Show regional industrial impact and infrastructure development

• Include shared financial investment and long-term sustainment plans (where applicable)

• Leverage or build localized supply chains and workforce development

Highest preference is given to projects that:

• Strengthen regional industrial hubs

• Integrate into existing U.S. automotive, aerospace, or manufacturing corridors

• Reduce reliance on foreign entities of concern

All topics are evaluated independently.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key requirements and constraints include:

• The Government expects equity commensurate with its investment

• Projects must align with IBAS statutory objectives

• Solutions must support domestic supply chain resilience

• Certain topics require fully domestic supply chains bypassing foreign entities of concern

• Deliverables may include data rights, IP access, and production commitments

Additional topic-specific technical constraints apply (e.g., SWaP-C requirements, secure architectures, metallurgical controls).

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not specified in the solicitation.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support:

• Opportunity qualification and topic alignment strategy

• Structuring competitive Solution Papers

• Positioning your project for IBAS evaluation criteria

• Building teaming strategies and supply chain narratives

• Translating technical concepts into clear, fundable proposals

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

U.S. DOT SBIR Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Phase I

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

Executive Summary:

The U.S. DOT SBIR FY26 Phase I Pre-Solicitation is now open and represents an early opportunity to align with upcoming federal R&D funding across transportation, AI, safety, and infrastructure.

The pre-solicitation is open through May 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET, which is the key near-term deadline to engage, ask questions, and position your solution.

While this is not the formal application window, companies that act now—by refining their concept, engaging in Q&A, and aligning to specific topics—will be significantly better positioned for the estimated solicitation period: June 3, 2026 – July 7, 2026.

How much funding would I receive?

Phase I funding is up to $200,000 for 6 months.

RESEARCH TOPICS:

• 26-FH1: Edge AI-V2X Integrated Practical Solutions for Congestion Prevention and Mitigation

  This topic seeks an integrated system combining AI, edge/cloud computing, and V2X communication to detect, predict, and mitigate traffic congestion in real time across multiple intersections or regions. The solution should ingest diverse traffic data, generate location-specific operational guidance (e.g., speed, lane changes, detours), and securely deliver it to vehicles, infrastructure, and agencies. A key focus is on balancing workloads between edge and cloud systems while ensuring low latency, scalability, and secure communications.

• 26-FH2: Automated Mobile Catch-basin Inspection System

  FHWA is looking for a vehicle-mounted, multi-sensor inspection system that can assess catch-basin conditions (e.g., water, sediment, debris) without removing grates or requiring manual inspection. The system should use sensors (optical, lidar, radar, etc.) and AI to interpret basin conditions while in motion, improving safety and efficiency for DOTs managing large, distributed infrastructure networks.

• 26-FR1: Mobile High-Power Emergency BESS De-energizer System for Rail Vehicle Propulsion

  This topic calls for a mobile system capable of safely discharging high-voltage lithium-ion battery systems (BESS) in rail vehicles after accidents or during maintenance. The system must handle at least 400 kW of stored energy, include robust safety features, and be operable by trained personnel. It should support multiple discharge methods (resistive, regenerative, or hybrid) and integrate with emergency response and rail maintenance workflows.

• 26-FT1: Person-Centered, Carefree, Complete Trip Planning - Powered by AI

  FTA seeks an AI-powered trip planning tool that supports the entire “Complete Trip,” from deciding to use transit through navigation and adaptation during travel. The system should integrate multimodal transportation data, personalize recommendations based on user preferences, and ensure accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities. The goal is to make transit a seamless, intuitive option compared to other modes.

• 26-OS1: Predictive Safety Analytics for Commercial Transport Modernization

  This topic focuses on developing predictive analytics tools that use AI and integrated data sources to proactively identify safety risks in commercial transportation. A core component is a “Trusted Intermediary” framework that securely combines private industry data with public datasets while preserving privacy. The system should generate actionable, explainable insights to improve safety outcomes and resource allocation.

• 26-OS2: Freight Corridor Predictive Intelligence

  This topic seeks an AI-enabled system that predicts freight bottlenecks and supply chain disruptions using multimodal data, edge analytics, and federated learning. The solution should provide real-time insights and decision-support tools for public and private stakeholders, including dashboards and alerts. It aims to improve corridor efficiency, resilience, and coordination across transportation systems.

• 26-PH1: Increase End-of-Life Battery Safety and Recovery of Rare Earth Minerals

  PHMSA is looking for a safe, fast, and cost-effective method to remove residual energy from end-of-life lithium-ion batteries, reducing explosion risk during transport. The solution should enable safer shipping and improve the economics of recovering critical minerals, with potential to support regulatory changes and broader commercialization.

• 26-PH2: Thermal Indicator Coatings for Hazardous Materials Packaging Safety

  This topic seeks a thermochromic coating for hazardous materials packaging that visibly changes color when internal temperatures reach dangerous levels. The coating should be durable, low-cost, and compatible with various packaging materials, providing first responders and operators with a clear, intuitive warning signal during transport or emergencies.

• 26-PH3: Self-repairing Hazardous Materials Packaging

  PHMSA is interested in self-repairing materials or coatings that can automatically fix damage (e.g., cracks, corrosion, punctures) in hazardous materials packaging. The solution must meet existing regulatory standards and improve safety, durability, and cost-effectiveness across bulk and non-bulk packaging applications.

• 26-PH4: Improved Response to Lithium-ion Battery Fires

  This topic calls for a low-cost, easy-to-deploy solution to suppress lithium-ion battery fires quickly and prevent reignition. The system should work across different battery types and scenarios, integrate with emergency response workflows, and be scalable for widespread use by first responders, shippers, and operators.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Not explicitly specified, but the document indicates:

• Opportunities to work with federal agencies and transportation operators

• Potential pilot deployments with state/local partners

• Path to Phase II funding for prototype development and validation

• Early positioning in priority areas like AI, safety, and infrastructure modernization

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

Key dates provided:

• Pre-solicitation open through May 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET

• Pre-solicitation Q&A period: April 29, 2026 – May 29, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. ET

• Estimated solicitation period: June 3, 2026 – July 7, 2026

Funding timing after submission is not specified in the provided materials.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) SBIR program, including:

• Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)

• Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)

• Federal Transit Administration (FTA)

• Office of the Secretary (OST)

• Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)

Who is eligible to apply?

• For-profit small businesses

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on the topic descriptions:

• Companies building real, testable systems (not just concepts)

• Teams that integrate:

  • AI + real-world data

  • Hardware + software systems

  • Existing infrastructure (e.g., V2X, sensors, rail systems)

• Proposals that demonstrate:

  • Clear Phase I feasibility approach

  • Path to Phase II deployment

  • Partnerships with agencies or industry stakeholders

• Solutions that address:

  • Safety, reliability, and scalability

  • Real-world operating constraints (latency, environment, compliance)

  • Human usability and adoption

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Examples from the topics include:

• Must integrate with existing infrastructure and systems

• Must meet safety, regulatory, and operational requirements

• Some topics require industry partnerships (e.g., rail stakeholders)

• Certain exclusions apply (e.g., radioactive materials excluded in PHMSA 26-PH3)

• Solutions must be practical, scalable, and deployable

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Given the timeline:

• You effectively have until July 7, 2026 (estimated) to prepare for submission once the solicitation opens

• Early preparation during the pre-solicitation period (through May 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET) is strongly implied

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can help you:

• Select the right topic across FHWA, FRA, FTA, OST, and PHMSA

• Translate your product into a Phase I-ready technical concept

• Build a clear commercialization and Phase II pathway

• Develop a competitive SBIR proposal aligned to DOT expectations

• Use the pre-solicitation window to refine positioning and de-risk your application

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

Department of Education - SBIR/STTR Opportunities (IA, IB, and DT2)

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

Executive Summary:

The U.S. Department of Education (ED), through the Institute of Education Sciences (IES), is offering three SBIR funding tracks in 2026: Phase IA, Phase IB, and Direct to Phase II. These programs fund education technology companies at different stages—from early prototype to full-scale commercialization.

• Phase IA: Build a brand-new product (early-stage)

• Phase IB: Improve an existing product (mid-stage)

• Direct to Phase II: Scale a proven innovation (late-stage)

All three tracks are competitive and mutually exclusive (you cannot submit the same or similar proposal across tracks).

Application deadline: June 29, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) for Phase IA and IB, and June 29, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) for Direct to Phase II.

How much funding would I receive?

• Phase IA: $250,000 for 9 months

• Phase IB: $250,000 for 9 months

• Direct to Phase II: $1,000,000 for 2 years

What could I use the funding for?

Across all three tracks, funding supports:

• Research and development (R&D)

• Product development

• Pilot testing with users

• Data collection and analysis

• Personnel and subcontractors

Key differences:

• Phase IA: Build a new prototype from scratch

• Phase IB: Develop a new component integrated into an existing product

• Direct to Phase II:Scale and commercialize an existing evidence-based innovation

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Phase IA and IB awardees can apply for $1,000,000 Phase II funding the following year

• All tracks provide federal validation and commercialization support

• Direct to Phase II provides immediate access to $1M scale funding without Phase I

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

Application timeline:

• White Papers per Program: Continuous, after the posting of Q&As (Preferred)

• Full proposals: By invitation only

Process:

1. Submit White Paper

2. Government evaluates for viability

3. If selected → invited to submit full proposal

4. If selected → negotiation → award

Award timing:
Not specified in the solicitation.

Where does this funding come from?

• U.S. Department of Education (ED)

• Institute of Education Sciences (IES)

• Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program

Who is eligible to apply?

• For-profit small businesses

Track-specific requirements:

• Phase IA: Little or no prior product development

• Phase IB: Must have an existing functioning prototype or product

• Direct to Phase II: Must work with an existing evidence-based innovation developed by a university or nonprofit and include the original researcher on the team

What companies and projects are likely to win?

• Phase IA: Novel, high-risk ideas with strong potential impact

• Phase IB: Companies with working products and a clear, innovative upgrade

• Direct to Phase II: Teams with strong research evidence and a credible plan to scale

Across all tracks:

• Clear problem-solution fit

• Strong research and technical approach

• Path to commercialization

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Cannot submit the same or similar proposal across Phase IA, IB, or Direct to Phase II

• Phase IA: Must be a new, independent product

• Phase IB: New component must be distinct and not a continuation

• Direct to Phase II:

  • Innovation must be originally developed by academic or nonprofit researchers

  • Cannot already be widely deployed at scale

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• Phase IA / IB: Typically 4–8 weeks

• Direct to Phase II: Typically 6–10+ weeks

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support:

• Identify the right track (IA vs IB vs Direct to Phase II)

• Position your company and product for competitiveness

• Develop full technical, research, and commercialization narratives

• Build compliant budgets and submission packages

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

NIH, CDC and FDA Small Business Innovation Research Grant (Parent SBIR [R43/R44] Clinical Trial Optional) - PA-27-100

Executive Summary:

The NIH, CDC, and FDA Parent SBIR program provides non-dilutive funding to U.S. small businesses developing innovative health, life sciences, biomedical, public health, and FDA-relevant technologies. This program supports projects from early-stage feasibility through later-stage R&D and commercialization activities through Phase I, Phase II, Direct to Phase II (NIH only), and Fast-Track (NIH only) awards.

This is one of the broadest health-focused SBIR opportunities available and is designed for companies whose technologies align with the mission of a participating NIH Institute, CDC Center, or FDA Center. Clinical trials are optional, although not all participating components accept clinical trial applications.

The first application deadline is September 05, 2026 by 5:00 PM local time of applicant organization. Additional deadlines occur on a recurring schedule through the expiration of the NOFO. No late applications will be accepted.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding depends on the participating Institute, Center, or Office (ICO), project phase, and project scope. Award amounts generally may not exceed SBA guidelines unless specifically allowed by the participating component.

Examples of NIH component budgets include:

Phase I

• Up to $700,000: NCI, NIA, NIAID, NIGMS, NIMH, NINDS, NCCIH

• Up to $400,000: NHLBI, NHGRI, NIAAA, NICHD, NIDCD, NIDDK, NIDA, NINR, and others

• SBA guideline budgets for certain Institutes and Offices

Phase II

• Up to $3,000,000: NHLBI, NIA, NIAID, NIDCD, NIDA, NIGMS, NIMH, NINDS

• Up to $2,500,000: NCI, NIAAA, NICHD, NIDDK, NINR, ORWH

• SBA guideline budgets for certain Institutes and Offices

Applicants should propose a budget that is reasonable and appropriate for completion of the project.

What could I use the funding for?

Funds may support research and development toward a commercially viable product or service aligned with the missions of NIH, CDC, or FDA (see below). Eligible costs include personnel, materials, prototypes, testing, IP protection, and other R&D expenses. Phase II and IIB funds may also be used for scale-up, validation, regulatory preparation, and commercialization efforts. Click below to see the various areas of interest:

• National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)

  NCATS supports research including, but not limited to, clinical technology, instruments, devices, and related methodologies that may have broad application to clinical research and better patient care. Our interests are in four main categories

  (1) Preclinical Drug Discovery and Development

  (2) Biomedical, Clinical and Health Research Informatics

  (3) Clinical, Dissemination and Implementation Research

  (4) Rare Diseases and Unmet Needs.

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Intestinal fibrosis

  • Cardiovascular disease / cardiac regeneration

  • Cancer (including cancer immunotherapy and solid tumors)

  • Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD)

  • Primary ciliary dyskinesia

  • Pulmonary fibrosis

  • Cystic fibrosis

  • Asthma

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

  • Non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis

  • Lung cancer

  • Huntington's disease (including prodromal Huntington's disease)

  • Heart failure

  • Hypertension

  • Cardiomyopathies

• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)

  The NCCIH will support applications on the development of technologies and therapies relevant to complementary and integrative approaches.

  Complementary health approaches include a broad range of practices and interventions that can be classified by their primary therapeutic input, including:

  • nutritional and natural products (e.g., special diets, dietary supplements, botanicals, probiotics, and microbial-based therapies),

  • psychological (e.g., meditation, hypnosis, music-based interventions, relaxation therapies),

  • physical (e.g., acupuncture, massage, chiropractic manipulation, other force-based manipulations, or devices related to these approaches), or

  • a combination of psychological and physical (e.g., yoga, tai chi, or some forms of art therapies, such as music-based interventions) input.

  Additionally, NCCIH will support applications that explore the impact of complementary and integrative health approaches on health promotion, resilience, and whole person health.

  Overall, NCCIH will support applications that include complementary and integrative health approaches, including multicomponent interventions that combine two or more complementary and integrative health approaches, or one or more complementary approaches integrated with one or more conventional care interventions. 

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Anxiety disorders

  • Major depressive disorder / depression

  • Stress-related psychiatric disorders

  • Chronic inflammatory disorders

  • Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)

  • Youth mental health / social isolation

• National Cancer Institute (NCI)

  NCI supports the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs by engaging domestic small business concerns in federal cancer research and development that has the potential for commercialization. 

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Skin cancer (melanoma and non-melanoma)

  • Lung cancer (including non-small cell lung cancer)

  • Liver cancer / hepatocellular carcinoma

  • Pancreatic cancer (pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, including mutant KRAS/RAS)

  • Prostate cancer (including metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer)

  • Colorectal cancer (including microsatellite stable colorectal cancer)

  • Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)

  • Oral / oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

  • Breast cancer

  • Ovarian cancer

  • Cervical / gynecological cancer (dysplasia screening)

  • Glioblastoma / glioma / brain cancer

  • Melanoma (metastatic / Stage IV)

  • Cholangiocarcinoma

  • Multiple myeloma

  • Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (pediatric)

  • Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

  • Lymphoma (including non-Hodgkin's lymphoma / relapsed-refractory B-cell malignancies)

  • Hereditary cancer syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome) / cancer previvors

  • Cancer-related fatigue and sleep disturbances (cancer survivorship)

  • Solid tumors / pan-cancer (general)

  • Diabetic foot ulcers and knee osteoarthritis (secondary indications)

  • Liver transplant ischemia-reperfusion injury / end-stage liver disease (secondary indication)

• National Eye Institute (NEI)

  NEI supports research including, but not limited to, the following:

  • Commercializable research and clinical innovations in ophthalmology and vision sciences

  • Commercializable therapeutics including drugs, biologics, devices, or combination therapeutics that prevent or reduce blindness or improve ocular health

  •  Market-ready technologies and diagnostic tools for predicting, identifying, or monitoring eye diseases and vision-related conditions

  • Commercializable devices and services that assist people with blindness or visual impairments to improve quality of life Commercial-grade devices and support services that help individuals with blindness or vision impairments to improve and enhance their daily living experience

  • Market-ready technologies that correct, enhance, or augment human vision

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Age-related macular degeneration (neovascular/wet AMD and dry AMD)

  • Dry eye disease (including Meibomian gland dysfunction)

  • Glaucoma (including post-trabeculectomy scarring and intraocular pressure management)

  • Diabetic retinopathy (including diabetic macular edema)

  • Retinitis pigmentosa / inherited retinal degeneration

  • Leber congenital amaurosis type 1 (LCA1)

  • Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)

  • Corneal endothelial disease / Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy

  • Corneal injuries and wounds (e.g., alkali burns)

  • Persistent corneal epithelial defects (PCED) / neurotrophic keratitis

  • Myopia (pediatric myopia and myopia progression)

  • Optic neuropathies / neuro-ophthalmic disease (including optic neuritis)

  • Visual impairment following traumatic brain injury (mTBI/concussion)

  • Refractive error / higher-order aberrations (contact lens correction)

  • Uveitis and ocular infections (secondary)

  • Blindness and low vision (assistive technology / accessibility focus)

• National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI)

  Interest Areas:

  • Significant innovations in genomic methods or technology development. This includes, but is not limited to, advancements in nucleic acid sequencing, synthetic nucleic acid synthesis, functional genomics, single cell genomic analysis, transcriptomics, multi-omics, instrumentation, or molecular kits. 

  • Tools and techniques that use genomics to improve patient health, such as approaches to incorporate genomic results into electronic medical records, clinical decision support tools, or genomic directed health care. 

  • Strategies to enhance ethical, legal, and social aspects of genomics research or translation of genomics into health care. 

  • Bioinformatics software or platforms for genomic, genetic, or sequence data processing or analysis, functional genomics, associations between genomic data and diseases or phenotypes, interpretation of variants, or genomic data integration into clinical decision making. 

  • Databases and data management platforms for genomics research and application including platforms for sequence, functional, or phenotypic data or annotation of variants. 

  • Development and application of methods for machine learning, pattern detection, or knowledge networks for genomics science or translation into health care. 

  • Informatics methods and platforms that adopt data standards, enhance data sharing with privacy, and improve data exchange in genomics science or translation of genomics into health care. 

  • Use of cloud and other computing models to improve scale, reproducibility, interoperability, cost-effectiveness, and utility of genomic and clinical data in genomics or translation into health care. 

  • Development of curriculum and educational opportunities that increase the genomics knowledge of participants at the undergraduate, postbaccalaureate, graduate, postdoctoral, or professional levels. 

• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)

  Interest Areas:

  The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) is interested in supporting the development of novel therapeutics, devices, diagnostics, digital health technologies, research tools, and other innovative solutions for advancing the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heart, lung, blood, and sleep (HLBS) diseases and disorders. 

  Topics of particular interest for the NHLBI SBIR/STTR program include, but are not limited to, the following topics: 

  • Technologies addressing HLBS complications relevant to maternal health and women’s health  

  • Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning technologies to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of HLBS diseases and disorders 

  • Precision medicine approaches to treating HLBS diseases and disorders 

  • New approach methodologies, tools, and point-of-care technologies to improve detection and therapeutic development for HLBS diseases and disorders

  Indications Of Interest:

  Lung / respiratory

  • Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) / interstitial lung disease

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

  • Asthma

  • Cystic fibrosis and primary ciliary dyskinesia

  • Pulmonary hypertension

  • Sarcoidosis

  • Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) / acute lung injury

  • Radiation-induced lung injury (pneumonitis/fibrosis)

  • Respiratory failure (ECMO/mechanical ventilation context)

  • Empyema / parapneumonic effusion

  • Pulmonary embolism

  • End-stage lung disease (lung transplant)

  • Other fibroses noted: scleroderma skin fibrosis, kidney fibrosis (CKD), intestinal fibrosis (Crohn's)

  Heart / cardiovascular

  • Cardiovascular disease (general risk assessment)

  • Coronary artery disease / coronary heart disease

  • Myocardial infarction / ischemic heart disease (including reperfusion injury)

  • Heart failure (including HFrEF and chronic heart failure)

  • Coronary microvascular and vasomotor dysfunction (CMVD)

  • Ventricular tachycardia / arrhythmias

  • Cardiac arrest / ventricular fibrillation (including refractory)

  • Mitral regurgitation / mitral valve disease

  • Heart valve disease (transcatheter and surgical valves)

  • Hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathies (HCM/DCM)

  • Hypertension

  • Congenital heart disease (including hypoplastic left heart syndrome / single-ventricle / Fontan physiology, pulmonary valve defects)

  • Infantile hemangioma

  • Abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysm

  • Aortic dissection

  • Atrial fibrillation / stroke prevention

  • Peripheral artery disease / critical limb ischemia (CLTI)

  • Conduction system disorders / pacing (bradycardia, LV dysfunction)

  Blood / hematologic

  • Sickle cell disease / sickle cell anemia

  • Anemia

  • Hemophilia A

  • Thrombosis / clotting disorders (including catheter-related thrombosis)

  • Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)

  • Bleeding / hemostasis (antiplatelet reversal)

  • Hematologic malignancies / blood disorders (hematopoietic stem cell transplant)

  • Neutropenia

  • Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) / alloimmunization

  Sleep

  • Obstructive sleep apnea (infants, children, adults)

  • Central sleep apnea

  Other / cross-cutting

  • Organ transplantation (heart, lung, liver, kidney; xenotransplantation)

  • Perioperative / postoperative complications

  • Sepsis

  • PFAS exposure / cardiometabolic risk

• National Institute on Aging (NIA)

  The NIA is interested in proposals to develop and validate technologies that enhance the health and wellbeing of older adults. Areas of high interest include technologies intended to address unmet needs and have clear competitive advantages, development of commercialized solutions that are cost-effective and widely available, and small businesses that are new to SBIR/STTR funding.

  Scientific areas of interest include but are not limited to:

  Alzheimer's Disease (AD), AD-Related Dementias (ADRD), and Age-Related Cognitive Decline:

  Development of innovative tools, technologies, and interventions to prevent, diagnose, treat, monitor, or slow progression of AD/ADRD, cognitive decline, age-related sleep disorders, and delirium, including:

  • Biomarkers, research tools, diagnostics, imaging technologies, and AI/ML methods for early detection and monitoring.

  • Treatments, including cell and gene therapies, exosome-based therapeutics, behavioral and digital interventions as well as other novel approaches.

  Aging Biology and Age-Related Diseases:

  Development of technologies, therapeutics, biomarkers, and tools to measure, prevent, treat, or slow progression of age-related biobehavioral decline and conditions, including:

  • Therapeutics targeting aging biology mechanisms and personalized medicine approaches.

  • Research tools and data science technologies to understand aging and predict health outcomes.

  Aging in Place of Choice and Care Delivery:

  Development of technologies and interventions that promote healthy aging, support aging in place of choice, improve care delivery, or reduce caregiving burden, including: 

  • Assistive devices, robotics, sensors, digital health products, and technologies to enhance care.

  Indications Of Interest:

  Cognitive / neurodegenerative (the dominant focus)

  • Alzheimer's disease (diagnosis, biomarkers, therapeutics — by far the largest area)

  • Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) / dementia generally

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)

  • Lewy body disease / Lewy body pathology

  • Frontotemporal dementia (FTD)

  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

  • Limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (LATE)

  • Agitation/aggression and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD)

  • Postoperative delirium / perioperative neurocognitive disorders (elderly)

  • Delirium (hospitalized elderly)

  • Vascular dysfunction in AD / amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA)

  Other aging-related conditions

  • Sarcopenia / age-related muscle loss (including GLP-1–associated)

  • Obesity (older adults)

  • Menopause / menopausal symptoms

  • Falls and fall-related injuries

  • Pressure ulcers / pressure injuries (including in darkly pigmented skin)

  • Urinary/fecal incontinence (in dementia)

  • Hearing loss (with co-occurring memory concerns)

  • Osteoporosis / vertebral compression fractures

  • Knee osteoarthritis (total knee arthroplasty)

  • Chronic low back pain / chronic pain

  • Obstructive sleep apnea

  • Insomnia

  • Social isolation / loneliness

  • Dysphagia / upper-extremity mobility impairment (self-feeding)

  • Sepsis and ARDS (geriatric)

  • Systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD)

  • Anticholinergic drug-induced cognitive impairment / polypharmacy adverse events

  • Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (Long COVID) neurocognitive deficits

  • General biological aging (epigenetic/senescence biomarkers, healthspan)

  • Conditions monitored via digital biomarkers: UTIs, C. difficile infection, GI bleeding, dehydration, constipation, colorectal cancer

• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

  Interest Areas:

  NIAAA-specific SBIR and STTR interests are tailored toward commercializing technologies that address the unique physiological, social, and clinical challenges of alcohol misuse.

  The NIAAA specifically encourages small business applications in the following high-priority areas:

  • Biosensors and Wearables: Developing non-invasive, wearable devices for real-time alcohol monitoring (e.g., transdermal sensors) that provide more accurate data than self-reporting for research and clinical use.

  • Digital Health and Telehealth: Creating mobile applications, AI-driven platforms, and software for the remote delivery of evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or recovery support services.

  • Pharmacotherapy Development: Advancing the discovery and testing of new medications to treat Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), specifically focusing on those with commercial potential and lower side-effect profiles.

  • Diagnostic Tools and Biomarkers: Innovating point-of-care diagnostic tests and biological markers for early detection of alcohol-induced organ damage (liver, brain, heart) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).

  • Advanced Data Analytics: Utilizing machine learning and big data tools to analyze large health datasets to predict relapse, identify high-risk drinking patterns, or personalize treatment plans.

  • Regulatory Support: Utilizing the Commercialization Readiness Pilot (CRP) to fund late-stage R&D, such as IND-enabling studies, manufacturing scale-up, or clinical trial verification required for FDA clearance.

  • Behavioral Interventions: Developing tools designed to improve treatment adherence, reduce stigma, or provide prevention and therapies to treat alcohol use disorder

• National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

  Interest Areas:

  The NIAID Small Business portfolio supports product development and commercialization in the areas of: 

  • The immune system, microbe biology, and host-microbe interactions, 

  • Diagnostic and prevention strategies 

  • Treatment and cure strategies 

  Indications Of Interest:

  Bacterial infections / antimicrobial resistance

  • Tuberculosis (drug-susceptible, drug-resistant, and latent TB)

  • Nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (M. abscessus, M. avium complex)

  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections (including in bronchiectasis)

  • Bronchiectasis (with chronic respiratory infection)

  • Sexually transmitted infections (including multidrug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae)

  • Recurrent bacterial vaginosis

  • Burn wound and skin/soft-tissue infections (multidrug-resistant)

  • Healthcare-associated infections / surface biofilms (incl. C. difficile, Candida auris)

  • Acinetobacter baumannii (carbapenem-resistant) infections

  • Klebsiella pneumoniae infections

  • Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

  • Bloodstream infections

  • Surgical site / post-surgical infections (GI surgery)

  • Clostridioides difficile infection (including with IBD)

  • Cholera

  • Pertussis (whooping cough)

  • Q fever, leptospirosis

  • Secondary bacterial pneumonia (NTHi after influenza)

  Fungal infections

  • Invasive / drug-resistant fungal infections (Candida, C. auris, Aspergillus, Cryptococcus)

  • Invasive aspergillosis

  • Mucormycosis

  • Cutaneous fungal infections / ringworm (dermatophytes)

  • Onychomycosis

  • Pneumocystis (and other DHFR-target fungi)

  • Alcohol-associated hepatitis (fungal/Candida target)

  Viral infections

  • HIV (treatment, prevention, cure/reservoir)

  • SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19

  • Influenza (seasonal and pandemic)

  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

  • Human metapneumovirus

  • Chronic hepatitis B (including HIV/HBV co-infection)

  • Hepatitis A

  • Cytomegalovirus (drug-resistant, in transplant)

  • Neonatal herpes simplex virus

  • High-risk human papillomavirus (cervical cancer prevention)

  • Marburg and Ebola virus disease

  • Dengue

  • Powassan virus

  • Prion diseases / transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (CJD)

  Parasitic / vector-borne

  • Malaria

  • Babesiosis

  • Cryptosporidiosis

  • (Mosquito control for dengue, yellow fever, Zika)

  Autoimmune / immune-mediated and allergic diseases

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus / lupus nephritis

  • Sjögren's syndrome

  • Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)

  • Immune-mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP)

  • Type 1 diabetes

  • Celiac disease

  • Alopecia areata / autoimmune skin diseases

  • Multiple sclerosis

  • Severe allergic asthma

  • Food allergy / peanut allergy

  • Chronic urticaria

  Immunodeficiency / cellular-therapy targets

  • Primary immunodeficiencies / inborn errors of immunity (incl. ADA-SCID, CARD11 gain-of-function)

  • Common variable immune deficiency (CVID)

  • Enzymopathies (e.g., Mucopolysaccharidosis type I / Hurler syndrome)

  • Transplant rejection and graft-versus-host disease (kidney transplant, HSCT)

  Other / cross-cutting

  • Acute radiation syndrome (gastrointestinal ARS)

  • Cyanide poisoning (antidote)

  • Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)

• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)

  Interest Areas:

  The NIAMS small business program supports research and development of products and services for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic, musculoskeletal and skin diseases. The research topics include, but are not limited to, the following: 

  1. Rheumatic Diseases.  The NIAMS supports research on rheumatic and related diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), Lyme arthritis, viral arthritis, gout, calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (CPDD), spondyloarthropathies, and systemic autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic scleroderma (SSc), and autoimmune myositis. 

  2. Musculoskeletal Diseases.  The musculoskeletal system is composed of the skeleton, the muscles, and connective tissues such as cartilage, tendon, and ligament. The NIAMS supports research aimed at improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system and its component tissues. The topics in this area include research on musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, muscular dystrophy, and osteogenesis imperfecta; tissue engineered products; orthopedic devices and implants; and sports medicine and fitness. 

  3. Skin Diseases. The NIAMS supports research on chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis, rosacea, acnevulgaris, atopic dermatitis; autoimmune skin diseases such as pemphigus, vitiligo, and alopecia areata; skin repair and regeneration in treatment of chronic wounds and reducing scar formation; and skin cancer prevention such as products preventing skin cancer in early-stage development.

  Indications Of Interest:

  Muscle / muscular dystrophies

  • Duchenne muscular dystrophy / dystrophinopathies (including Becker)

  • Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1)

  • Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy 2B (LGMD2B) / dysferlinopathies

  • Skeletal muscle loss/trauma (regenerative reconstruction)

  Joints / bone / orthopedic

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Osteoarthritis (including knee OA)

  • Meniscal injuries / post-meniscectomy syndrome / post-traumatic osteoarthritis

  • Arthrofibrosis

  • Distal femoral / traumatic fractures (nonunion)

  • Revision total knee arthroplasty (implant longevity)

  • Diabetic Charcot foot / Charcot osteoarthropathy and osteomyelitis

  • Lumbar interbody fusion / degenerative spine

  • Limb loss / amputation (skeletal prosthesis attachment)

  • Chronic / neuropathic joint pain (RA-associated)

  Skin

  • Psoriasis

  • Acne vulgaris

  • Allergic contact dermatitis

  • Wound healing / surgical flap reconstruction

• National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB)

  Interest Areas:

  The NIBIB Small Business Program aims to translate cutting edge technologies into commercial products to address critical healthcare challenges. Through grants and contracts, the program supports the development of innovative biomedical technologies that improve human health. Areas of interest span biomedical imaging, medical devices, health informatics, diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, and related innovations at the intersection of biology and engineering. Projects should demonstrate strong commercial potential while addressing significant unmet clinical needs in biomedical imaging and bioengineering.

  Specific program guidance includes:

  • Technologies may be demonstrated using a specific indication or model system, but the core innovation must be broadly applicable without significant reengineering. 

  • Applications fall outside NIBIB's mission if the primary focus is

    • developing technologies to elucidate basic biological functions or disease mechanisms, or

    • applying and testing previously developed tools or technologies.

  • Per NOT-EB-21-005, NIBIB only supports early-stage clinical trials, i.e., feasibility, Phase I, first-in-human, safety, or other small clinical trials, that inform technology development. NIBIB will notsupport applications with efficacy, effectiveness, or a post-market concern as an outcome.

  • NIBIB may modify or decline funding applications for budgetary, administrative, or programmatic reasons. This includes reducing budgets, shortening award periods, or choosing not to fund applications.

  • Awardees are strongly encouraged to contact NIBIB's Small Business Team about the Concept to Clinic: Commercializing Innovation (C3i) Program, a mentored, entrepreneurial training course that provides innovators with essential business tools to assess the commercial viability and potential business opportunity for their product.

  Indications Of Interest:

  Traumatic internal hemorrhage / occult abdominal bleeding

  • CNS diseases requiring blood-brain-barrier crossing: Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, glioblastoma, brain metastases

  • Adverse pregnancy outcomes (fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia)

  • Otitis media (pediatric acute otitis media and otitis media with effusion)

  • Critical-illness / surgical organ-function monitoring (and catheter-associated bloodstream infections)

  • Spinal surgery complications (dura / nerve root injury)

  • Bone marrow / hematologic sampling adequacy (diagnostic)

  Note: Several awards (surgical suturing trainer, X-ray detectors, small-animal imager, antibody purification) are general-purpose tools or manufacturing platforms with no specific disease indication.

• Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)

  Interest Areas:

  NICHD supports research that includes, but not limited to the following:

  • Reproductive health, including fertility, conception, contraception, and pregnancy

  • Health of women before, during, and after pregnancy, and fetal development and infant survival

  • Typical and atypical development and growth in children and adolescents, including experiences of trauma and critical illness 

  • Gynecologic health and disease; safe and effective therapeutics and devices for children and pregnant and lactating women; dynamics of human populations across the lifespan

  • Optimizing function in people with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities

  Indications Of Interest:

  Gynecologic / reproductive / contraception

  • Infertility (IVF, male infertility, tubal patency evaluation)

  • Endometriosis

  • Uterine fibroids (hysterectomy / myomectomy)

  • Vulvodynia / vestibulodynia and chronic pelvic pain

  • Pelvic floor disorders (vaginal stenosis, dyspareunia, vaginismus, vaginal atrophy)

  • Contraception (non-hormonal female, male, and multipurpose prevention against HIV/STIs)

  • Perimenopause / menopause

  • Vaginal cuff dehiscence (surgical complication)

  Maternal / pregnancy

  • Severe maternal morbidity and mortality

  • Maternal / postpartum hemorrhage

  • Preterm / impending labor prediction

  • Adverse pregnancy outcomes (fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia)

  • Labor induction/augmentation and postpartum uterine atony (oxytocin)

  Neonatal / pediatric

  • Preterm infant nutrition (NICU, total parenteral nutrition, human-milk fortification)

  • Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)

  • Pediatric injury prevention (side-impact head injury in child safety seats)

  Rare metabolic / genetic / neurodevelopmental disorders

  • Long-chain fatty acid oxidation disorders (LCFAODs)

  • Urea cycle disorders / hyperammonemia

  • Homocystinuria

  • Rare monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders

  Disability / rehabilitation

  • Limb loss / amputation (pediatric and adult prosthetics)

  • Spinal cord injury / tetraplegia

  • Traumatic brain injury / concussion and chronic brain injury

  • Stroke (upper-extremity rehabilitation)

  • Pediatric neuromuscular conditions (mobility / standing wheelchair)

  • Intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)

  Child development / behavioral / family

  • Child behavior problems / self-regulation and behavioral sleep problems

  • Effects of high-conflict divorce on children

  Other diagnostic targets

  • Muscle injury (rhabdomyolysis, muscular dystrophy), cardiac injury, and inflammatory myopathies (dermatomyositis, polymyositis) via CPK testing

• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

  Interest Areas:

  Consistent with NIH and Presidential priorities, the NIDA Small Business Program supports research and development of innovative medical and non-medical products and services for substance use disorders (SUDs) and adverse health consequences related to non-disordered drug use. Proposed solutions should improve access, affordability, and coordinated care across prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. NIDA prioritizes scalable solutions deployable within integrated delivery networks across healthcare, criminal justice, workforce, education, housing, and social service systems. Specific areas include, but are not limited to:

  • Novel, mechanism-based treatments addressing the evolving overdose crisis (e.g., synthetic opioids, stimulants, polysubstance use)

  • Best-in-class opioid use disorder treatments that improve retention and outcomes for individuals not adequately served by existing medications

  • Innovative smoking cessation therapies that enhance adherence and long-term effectiveness

  • First-in-class pharmacotherapeutics and medical devices for stimulant and cannabis use disorders

  • Diagnostic tools for detection and quantification of drug exposure

  • Medical devices, including digital diagnostics and therapeutics, and clinical decision support systems supporting SUDs and comorbid mental health conditions, with particular attention to pediatric populations.

  • Digital health technologies addressing health-related social needs

  • Human-biology-based new approach methodologies and other commercial research tools

  • Forensic testing technologies identifying emerging drugs

  • FDA Drug Development Tools and Medical Device Development Tools

  NIDA strongly encourages applications that include early FDA engagement, consideration of regulatory pathways, payer engagement strategies, real-world evidence generation, and plans for sustainable adoption within integrated delivery networks and value-based care models.

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Opioid use disorder (OUD) — the dominant focus (medications, digital therapeutics, monitoring, diagnostics)

  • Substance use disorder (general / polysubstance)

  • Opioid overdose and opioid-induced respiratory depression

  • Opioid withdrawal syndrome

  • Cocaine use disorder

  • Methamphetamine / amphetamine / stimulant use disorder

  • Nicotine dependence / smoking cessation

  • Nicotine vaping dependence (vaping cessation)

  • Cannabis use (youth)

  • Anabolic androgenic steroid / performance-enhancing drug use

  • Xylazine intoxication (including fentanyl-xylazine)

  • Neonatal abstinence syndrome

  • Substance use disorder in co-occurring conditions (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, psychiatric comorbidity)

  Note: Many awards are fentanyl/xylazine detection tools, overdose-detection wearables, and digital therapeutics that all sit under the OUD/SUD umbrella above.

• National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)

  Interest Areas:

  NIDCD supports research including, but not limited to, the following:  

  • Novel technologies for studying, diagnosing, and treating hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance disorders.  

  • Novel diagnostic tools for testing human chemosensory function throughout the lifespan. 

  • Novel technologies for studying, diagnosing, and treating voice, speech, and language disorders such as laryngeal dystonia (spasmodic dysphonia), phonotrauma, stuttering, dysarthria, developmental language disorders, and aphasia.   

  • Innovative in vivo imaging capabilities that significantly advance visualization, diagnosis, and treatment of communication disorders in the clinic.  

  • Novel systems of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for individuals with motor speech impairment, including a brain-computer interface (BCI) prosthesis for communication. 

  • Novel assessments and interventions for late talking children or minimally verbal/ non-speaking individuals. 

  • Novel applications of machine learning / artificial intelligence algorithms in hearing aids, cochlear implants, AAC devices, or for the analysis of voice, speech, and language. 

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Hearing loss (sensorineural and severe-to-profound; cochlear implants and hearing aids)

  • Congenital / genetic hearing loss (e.g., TOMT- and otoferlin-linked)

  • Noise-induced hearing loss (occupational and recreational)

  • Age-related hearing loss / presbycusis

  • Tinnitus (including pulsatile tinnitus)

  • Otitis media with effusion (the leading cause of childhood hearing loss)

  • Newborn / pediatric hearing screening and diagnosis (auditory brainstem response)

  • Olfactory dysfunction / smell disorders

• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)

  Interest Areas:

  NIDCR supports small business–led development of technologies and products that translate dental, oral, and craniofacial (DOC) research into clinically actionable solutions across the lifespan. Emphasis is on feasibility, validation, regulatory readiness, and commercialization. Projects should align with NIDCR’s goal to rapidly translate oral health innovations toward clinical impact. Early engagement with program staff is encouraged to ensure alignment with mission and priorities. Scientific areas of interest include: 

  • Targeted DOC diagnostics and therapeutic platforms for tooth-related diseases and periodontal/peri-implant conditions

  • Orofacial pain assessment and management technologies, including clinical decision support

  • Oral microbiome-based diagnostics and therapeutic platforms for polymicrobial diseases

  • AI/ML-enabled predictive health and clinical decision support tools for DOC care

  • Advanced dental materials, restorative technologies, and digital manufacturing systems

  • Regenerative medicine technologies for craniofacial and dental tissue reconstruction

  • Immunomodulatory and precision therapeutic delivery systems for oral and craniofacial conditions

  • Digital behavioral and monitoring tools targeting DOC outcomes

  • Real-world evidence and patient outcome data platforms to support clinical adoption, evidence generation, and downstream coverage considerations

  • Implementation and dissemination technologies for priority-population oral health interventions

  • Integrated oral–systemic health assessment and intervention platforms

  • Regulatory and commercialization readiness tooling to support evidence generation, usability, and market adoption

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Dental caries / tooth decay (remineralization, caries arrest, diagnosis)

  • Periodontitis / periodontal disease (alveolar bone loss)

  • Xerostomia / dry mouth (radiation-induced, Sjögren's syndrome, medication-induced, age-related)

  • Radiation-induced oral and salivary gland fibrosis (head and neck cancer)

  • Oral cancer and oral lichenoid / premalignant lesions

  • Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV-related)

  • Acute and subacute oral/dental pain (opioid-free analgesia)

  • Pulp and dentin damage from decay or trauma (regeneration / endodontics)

  • Tooth loss / dental implants (osseointegration and bone-quality assessment)

  • Oral and craniomaxillofacial bone defects (guided bone regeneration)

  • Craniomaxillofacial reconstruction (congenital, acquired, post-traumatic, and oncologic defects; nasal reconstruction)

  • Infant cranial malformations (e.g., plagiocephaly / craniosynostosis)

  • Obstructive sleep apnea (oral-cavity-based screening)

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

  Interest Areas:

  NIDDK is interested in projects that include robust timelines for commercialization, requisite fundraising, and all required regulatory milestones.

  For those projects intended to support completion of research needed for an Investigational New Drug (IND) application, Investigational Device Exemption (IDE), or other regulatory clearance or approval, NIDDK is interested in projects that demonstrate how formal consultation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has informed the research strategy.

  NIDDK is interested in Phase IIB and Commercialization Readiness Pilot projects that propose to continue the process of developing products that ultimately require clinical evaluation and approval by a Federal regulatory agency, and that position the projects for independence from NIH support after the project period. 

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Type 1 diabetes (monitoring, prevention/delay, bioartificial pancreas, therapeutic antibodies)

  • Type 2 diabetes / general diabetes management (continuous glucose and metabolic monitoring)

  • Obesity and associated metabolic disorders (insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, fatty liver disease)

  • Childhood nephrotic syndrome

  • Glycogen storage disease type 1b (with associated neutropenia and inflammatory bowel disease)

  • Lipodystrophy

  • Variceal bleeding / upper GI hemorrhage (in cirrhosis / portal hypertension)

• National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)

  Interest Areas:

  NIEHS SBIR/STTR grants help small businesses transform cutting-edge research into developing innovative and commercially viable products such as tools, technologies, assays, or services to translate and communicate environmental health research into improvements in human health. NIEHS SBIR/STTR program uses a combination of research & development, technology transfer, and communication strategies to aid the mission of NIEHS. 
  The institute’s scientific areas of emphasis include, but are not limited to, the following: 
  •    Tools/technologies such as sensors, computational methods, and exposomics approaches  for detecting and assessing human exposures to environmental hazards 
  •    Innovative and/or alternative high-throughput or high-content assays/model systems,  computational toxicology approaches, and other related new approach methodologies (NAMs) for toxicity testing and understanding effects on human health and disease
  •    Tools/methods/applications for evaluating environmental health and safety of engineered nanomaterials and micro/nanoplastics
  •    Biomonitoring technologies   such as point-of-care approaches for personal exposure assessment and exposure mediated biological response biomarkers.
  •    Intervention technologies and precision environmental health approaches to prevent or reduce human exposures or adverse health effects related to environmental stressors
  •    Educational materials to promote or support understanding of environmental health science
  The NIEHS Superfund Research Program (accepting SBIR applications only) focused on detection and remediation technologies for hazardous substances with relevance to Superfund and/or other contaminated sites

  The NIEHS Worker Training Program (accepting SBIR applications only) also participates

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Obesity / metabolic disorders (endocrine-disrupting chemical exposure)

  • Organophosphate/carbamate pesticide toxicity (cholinergic neurotoxicity)

  • PFAS-related health effects (thyroid dysfunction, cancer, developmental toxicity)

  • Particulate matter / air pollution effects on cardiovascular and respiratory health

  • Heavy-metal exposure (arsenic, lead) from mining dust

  • Harmful algal bloom (eutrophication)-related health risks

  • Chemical genotoxicity / cancer risk (susceptibility in sensitive populations)

• National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)

  Interest Areas:

  NIGMS supports the development of technologies to address complex and interdisciplinary research questions in i) basic research, ii) clinical areas that impact multiple organs systems and iii) biomedical workforce development/training through educational activities, that may require additional resources.

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Burn injuries and wounds (severity assessment; relevant to infection and hypertrophic scarring)

  Note: The other two awards are general-purpose technologies — long-acting peptide drug delivery (microencapsulation) and lipid-nanoparticle manufacturing for nucleic-acid delivery — with no specific disease indication.

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

  Interest Areas:

  To advance its mission, NIMH supports small businesses to develop technologies, including, but not limited to, the following: 

  • Neurotechnology development to enhance research on brain structure and function 

  • Central nervous system (CNS) drug discovery/development for treating mental disorders – novel drug screening assays, novel compounds and drug targets; Research & Development (R&D) ranging from compound synthesis up to early stage clinical trials 

  • Novel brain modulation methods/devices as potential therapeutics 

  • Biological markers for CNS dysregulation/function and mental illness - objective, measurable biological indicators of physiological or disease processes to further assess replicability, reproducibility, stability, etc. at the subject level 

  • Digital health technologies – as interventions or service delivery tools, to augment clinical care, and/or to enhance clinical research, and clinical trial design/implementation at the subject/patient level 

  • Technologies addressing basic, behavioral, and implementation science related to people living with HIV – including all areas listed above 

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Suicidal behavior / suicide risk and non-suicidal self-injury (including among juvenile-justice-involved youth)

  • Early childhood / child mental health problems (externalizing and internalizing symptoms)

• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)

  Interest Areas:

  NINDS utilizes the SBIR and STTR programs to enable the commercial development of tools and technologies that serve the NINDS mission space. Priority is given to proposals with the greatest potential to advance the NINDS mission. 

  NINDS is especially interested in the following, in no preferential order:

  1. Novel and innovative technologies that address significant unmet needs 

  2. Technologies in development for their first indication or initial market opportunity

  3. Technologies with a compelling need for federal support, such as those at a stage of development requiring de-risking to attract private investment, New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), and those addressing underserved markets including rare and pediatric disease indications

  4. Under-resourced technologies, indications, markets, and geographical regions within the NINDS SBIR/STTR portfolio and mission space

  5. New applicants pursuing their first SBIR/STTR-funded technology

  6. Applicants with a demonstrated track record of advancing technologies through commercialization milestones

  7. For continuation applications, applicants who have achieved intended outcomes under prior funding

  8. Applications demonstrating robust rigor in their approach and preliminary data

  Indications Of Interest:

  Neurodegenerative

  • Parkinson's disease (including deep brain stimulation programming)

  • Huntington's disease

  • Frontotemporal dementia / frontotemporal lobar degeneration

  • CLN1 Batten disease

  Cerebrovascular

  • Acute ischemic stroke (thrombolysis, cell therapy, and neurorehabilitation)

  Injury / trauma

  • Traumatic brain injury (recovery monitoring and therapeutics)

  • Spinal cord injury

  • Peripheral nerve injuries

  Seizure / pain / headache

  • Epilepsy (including treatment-resistant epilepsy)

  • Migraine (episodic and chronic)

  • Painful diabetic neuropathy / neuropathic pain

  Lysosomal storage / genetic

  • Mucopolysaccharidosis I (Hurler syndrome), IIIB, and IIIC

  Tumors / structural

  • Brain tumors (intraoperative surgical guidance)

  • Schwannoma / NF2-related schwannomatosis

  • Hydrocephalus (ventricular shunt monitoring)

  Note: A few awards are enabling neurosurgical/imaging tools (portable intraoperative MRI, real-time resting-state fMRI) applied broadly across brain disease rather than to a single indication.

• National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR)

  Interest Areas:

  Areas of interest include innovative small business proposals as they relate to NINR research priority areas of intervening on the conditions of daily life that influence health, using multilevel or multi-sectoral approaches to prevent chronic conditions and improve the outcomes of those with chronic conditions, promoting healthy school environments, meaningful engagement of communities at all stages of the research process, and integrating technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), to streamline and improve healthcare outcomes.

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Adolescent and young adult cancer (and febrile neutropenia as the key treatment complication)

  • Work-related musculoskeletal back injuries (occupational injury prevention among direct care workers)

• National Library of Medicine (NLM)

  Interest Areas:

  The NLM Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program supports the development of biomedical informatics tools and methods which are best disseminated through commercialization.

  The program aims to encourage small businesses to develop innovative technologies, tools, methods, and software platforms that advance:

  • Trustworthy, reproducible, and rigorous biomedical AI

  • Biomedical data infrastructure at scale

  • Sustainable biomedical reference resources and platform science

  • Market innovative human-centered use and impact informed biomedical informatics tools and methods

  Applications which utilize, integrate, or build upon data, resources, and tools fostered by NLM and NIH supported communities are encouraged. 

  Indications Of Interest:

  • Obstructive lung disease (COPD and asthma) — detection and monitoring

• Office of Research Infrastructure Programs (ORIP)

  Interest Areas:

  ORIP supports research projects to develop technology including, but not limited to, the following: 

  • Create, characterize, or improve models of human disease; and develop new approach methodologies (NAMs) to complement or reduce the use of animal models in research. 

  • Preservation, revival and monitoring of cells, tissue, organs or gametes from model systems. 

  • Validate research models to enhance the rigor and reproducibility of pre-clinical studies. 

  • Devices and technologies required for development and maintenance of conventional and NAM biological model systems, including those for advancing the care, welfare, housing, and management of these models; or sensor and monitoring technologies for the surveillance of models or environmental factors that lead to improved rigor and reproducibility for studies using these models.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

In addition to funding, companies receive:

• Validation through a competitive federal peer-review process

• Support through the NIH, CDC, and FDA SBIR ecosystem

• Opportunity to advance toward commercialization

• Ability to retain SBIR/STTR data rights for up to 20 years after the award date, consistent with SBIR/STTR policy

The NIH Fast-Track mechanism allows eligible applicants to submit Phase I and Phase II together, potentially reducing the funding gap between phases.

NIH also allows Direct to Phase II applications for companies that have already demonstrated feasibility but did not previously receive a Phase I SBIR or STTR award for that project.

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

Open Date (Earliest Submission Date): August 05, 2026.

Application Deadlines (all due by 5:00 PM local time of applicant organization):

• September 05, 2026

• January 05, 2027

• April 05, 2027

For the September 05, 2026 submission cycle:

• Scientific Merit Review: November 2026

• Advisory Council Review: January 2027

• Earliest Start Date: April 2027

For the January 05, 2027 submission cycle:

• Scientific Merit Review: March 2027

• Advisory Council Review: May 2027

• Earliest Start Date: July 2027

For the April 05, 2027 submission cycle:

• Scientific Merit Review: July 2027

• Advisory Council Review: August 2027

• Earliest Start Date: December 2027

The first application deadline is September 05, 2026 by 5:00 PM local time of applicant organization. No late applications will be accepted.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through participating organizations including:

• National Institutes of Health (NIH)

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The SBIR program is a congressionally mandated program that supports commercialization of innovative technologies developed by U.S. small businesses. NIH, CDC, and FDA set aside a portion of their extramural research budgets to fund SBIR awards.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be U.S. small business concerns (SBCs) that:

• Are organized for profit with a U.S. place of business.

• Have ≤ 500 employees including affiliates.

• Are > 50% owned by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualifying U.S. entities, or combinations thereof.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

The NOFO states that reviewers evaluate applications based on:

• Significance

• Investigator(s)

• Innovation

• Approach

• Environment

Strong applications are likely to:

• Address an important unmet health, scientific, or public health need

• Demonstrate strong scientific and technical merit

• Present a compelling commercialization opportunity

• Show a clear path toward product development and market adoption

• Align closely with the mission and priorities of the target NIH Institute, CDC Center, or FDA Center

• Be led by a qualified team with the expertise needed to execute the proposed work

For Phase II and Fast-Track applications, commercialization potential and market opportunity are specifically evaluated.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• Only U.S. small businesses are eligible.

• Foreign organizations are not eligible.

• Applications involving foreign subawards or subcontracts will not be considered for funding.

• Clinical trials are not accepted by certain participating Institutes and Centers, including NIAMS, NIDCR, NCATS, ORIP, and all participating FDA Centers under this NOFO.

• Cost sharing is not required.

• Companies must satisfy applicable SBA performance benchmark requirements.

• Duplicate or highly overlapping applications are not permitted.

• Phase I projects generally require at least 67% of research effort to be performed by the small business.

• Phase II projects generally require at least 50% of research effort to be performed by the small business.

Additional national security, foreign relationship, and foreign ownership restrictions apply and may result in denial of award.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

For a first-time applicant, preparing a competitive submission will likely take 120–200 hours in total.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support applicants by:

• Evaluating program fit and Institute alignment

• Identifying the most appropriate NIH, CDC, or FDA component

• Developing the technical narrative

• Building commercialization strategy and positioning

• Preparing budgets and supporting documentation

• Managing submission through the federal application process

• Coordinating reviewer-focused proposal development and compliance review

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.

DOI & IARPA - EMERGING TECHNOLOGY ACCELERATOR (ETA) PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTDOI-ETA-FY26-30

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

Executive Summary:

The Emerging Technology Accelerator (ETA) Program Announcement (DOI-ETA-FY26-30) is a multi-program IARPA funding vehicle supporting high-risk, high-payoff R&D across multiple active programs (e.g., ARCADE, COSMIC, DECIPHER, LocUS). Awards are made as Prototype Other Transaction Agreements (OTs) through a competitive, white paper–first process.

There is no fixed submission deadline — White Papers per Program: Continuous, after the posting of Q&As (Preferred).

This is a rolling opportunity, but programs can close once sufficient white papers are received. That creates real urgency: if you are aligned, you should apply as soon as possible before a program is re-labeled “Not Active.”

How much funding would I receive?

Not specified in the solicitation.

• The Government will make multiple Prototype OT awards

• Funding depends on:

  • Quality of proposals

  • Availability of funds

• Awards may be:

  • Partial (only parts of proposals funded)

  • Incremental or phased

No award size ranges or total program value are provided.

Research Topics:

• 1. ARCADE – ARTIFICIAL REASONING FOR CIRCUIT AUTOMATION AND DESIGN ENGINEERING (FY26) - ACTIVE

  ARCADE transforms and accelerates electrical circuit design within the Intelligence Community (IC) by leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop an intelligent, comprehensive AI-knowledge assistant that extracts key information from vast technical documentation and enables engineers to perform quick, intuitive queries to meet the speed of mission.

  The technical information ingested by ARCADE will include text, datasheets, diagrams, schematics, tables, and graphs. ARCADE extracts crucial details about electrical components, their specifications and interfaces to compile them into a comprehensive searchable knowledge platform.

  Going beyond a simple search engine, ARCADE aims to suggest and recommend optimal components based on design requirements, constraints, and performance parameters as specified through user-defined prompts. This capability enables engineers to perform swift, targeted queries, dramatically reducing the time it takes to find, compare, and select suitable parts. It also aims to help identify optimal components and potential alternatives more efficiently by providing comparison tables and explanations for why specific components were selected, effectively saving engineers from manually sifting through thousands of documents. Ultimately, ARCADE will lead to faster, more accurate, and more robust circuit designs, ensuring Government missions can be deployed with unprecedented speed and reliability.

• 2. COSMIC – COMMERCIAL OBSERVATION FOR SPATIO-TEMPORAL MONITORING FOR INDICATIONS OF CHANGE (FY26) - ACTIVE

  The aim of the Commercial Observation for Spatio-temporal Monitoring for Indications of Change (COSMIC) program is to formulate a methodology to leverage commercial remote sensing technologies and open source geolocated information to generate pseudo-persistent data (PPD). This will be done by combining and translating complex and novel data, such as nonnadir imagery and non-Red,Green, Blue (RGB) spectral bands, using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and computer vision-based methodologies into a layered, temporal geospatial model understandable by commercial agentic AI systems. COSMIC will enable the development of an agentic AI analytic system trained by commercial vendors and equipped to answer intelligence questions by bridging the gap between the Intelligence Community (IC) data characteristics and the simpler solutions offered by commercial vendors.

  COSMIC will foster routine updating and modelling of baseline geospatial information in areas through multi-source, persistent surveillance. New sensors will fluidly be incorporated into the generation of layered geospatial models as constellations and sources change over time. In addition to improving the temporal resolution of layered geospatial models, COSMIC also aims to reduce resource demands by streamlining the derivation of actionable intelligence from these models. By integrating commercial remote sensing data with existing geospatial information, the program aims to create a harmonized and up-to-date representation of the physical world that can be used by agentic processes to answer questions relevant to the IC.

• 3. DECIPHER - (FY26) - ACTIVE

  Analysts often struggle to understand specialized language (e.g., slang, jargon, technical terminology) in various situations where dictionary definitions are not readily available, such as:

  • Non-English research articles with novel technical concepts and terms

  • Communications using slang

  • Undefined acronyms used within limited contexts

  • Web forum posts using coded language to mask illicit activities

  In these and similar contexts, analysts dedicate significant effort to triaging content pertinent to their domain of interest and understanding the meaning of unknown or novel specialized terms used within that domain. Adding to this challenge, language can change quickly, and adversaries can rapidly adapt their language to evade detection.

  The Decipher program’s goal is to create capabilities to detect and define specialized language in diverse, multilingual text collections. In Decipher, “specialized language” refers to single or multiword expressions that are difficult to disambiguate (e.g., acronyms, terminology with multiple meanings), are used to deliberately obfuscate interpretation (e.g., coded language), or for which accurate translations or explanations are not readily available (e.g., emergent jargon or slang) to typical non-expert users. Decipher will flag and extract candidate specialized terms in a document or corpus and then will provide candidate plain language translation and annotation of specialized terms, including jargon, slang, and acronyms. The program will also develop technology to annotate text with relevant social and contextual factors, capturing nuanced meaning, as well as to detect concept drift by monitoring use of terminology as it evolves over time.

• 4. LocUS – LOCATION USING SOUND (FY26) - ACTIVE

  The LocUS program aims to create technology that automatically and accurately geolocates multimedia content by maximally leveraging audio and visual information. LocUS will improve the geolocation capabilities of the Intelligence Community (IC) considerably beyond imageryonly methods and thereby increase the volume of content that can be accurately geolocated. This program will increase analysts’ ability to rapidly and accurately determine where a video, image, or audio clip was collected in the absence of accurate metadata indicating location. Applications for national security include human trafficking interdiction, hostage recovery, localization of malign actors using social media or confiscated devices, and other intelligence and law enforcement use cases.

• 5. MOVES – MOVEMENT OBSERVATION AND VIDEO-BASED EVALUATION SYSTEM (FY26) - ACTIVE

  The intelligence community (IC) would benefit from the ability to diagnose, from open-source data, medical conditions in individuals and populations. This ability would enable, e.g., monitoring of the spread of health threats (disease, chemical accidents or attacks, environmental toxins, etc.) and other medical intelligence analyses. The MOVES program aims to demonstrate the feasibility of this long-term goal by addressing a subset of the challenges associated with generalized diagnosis from video.

  The MOVES program will focus on diagnoses of neurological conditions that typically affect people’s movement and demonstrate that it is feasible to diagnose such conditions from challenging input video that may:

  • Be taken from non-ideal angles

  • Include subjects wearing a wide variety of clothing styles

  • Show partially obstructed subjects

  The program requirements are selected to ensure a path to rapid adoption and trust in the algorithms’ performance by medical professionals. Key challenges include the nature of the videos as described above, especially finding movements that are diagnostic of conditions, differentiating between similar symptoms of different disorders, and providing enough information to the medical professionals about how the diagnosis was made so that they can verify the diagnosis and build confidence in the algorithm performance.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Yes:

• Potential follow-on production Contract or OT if prototype is successful

• Direct engagement with IARPA and Intelligence Community stakeholders

• Access to Government-furnished data (program-dependent)

• Independent Test & Evaluation (T&E) feedback throughout development

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

Application timeline:

• White Papers per Program: Continuous, after the posting of Q&As (Preferred)

• Full proposals: By invitation only

Process:

1. Submit White Paper

2. Government evaluates for viability

3. If selected → invited to submit full proposal

4. If selected → negotiation → award

Award timing:
Not specified in the solicitation.

Where does this funding come from?

• Department of the Interior (DOI), Interior Business Center (IBC)

• In partnership with IARPA (Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity)

Authority:

• Issued under 50 U.S.C. § 3024(m)(6) for Prototype OT agreements

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible:

• All responsible sources capable of meeting requirements

• U.S.-based entities (prime must be U.S.)

• Teams including:

  • Small businesses

  • Non-traditional defense contractors (NDCs)

  • Non-profits

Foreign participation:

• Allowed only as part of a U.S.-based team

Not eligible:

• Government agencies

• FFRDCs

• UARCs

• Government-affiliated organizations with privileged access

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Based on evaluation criteria, winning proposals will:

• Demonstrate innovative, high-risk/high-payoff technical approaches

• Clearly align with specific program objectives

• Show feasible execution plans with defined milestones

• Include strong technical teams and capabilities

• Address technical risks with mitigation strategies

• Offer IP terms that allow Government transition

The Government prioritizes:

• Scientific merit

• Relevance to IARPA mission

• Resource realism

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Yes — several important ones:

Submission restrictions

• One program per white paper

• Must follow strict formatting and page limits

Funding restrictions

• No facility construction

• No commercialization costs

Technical restrictions

• Classified proposals are not accepted

IP & data

• Government requires sufficient rights for transition

• Must disclose IP ownership and restrictions

Compliance requirements

• NSPM-33 research security disclosures required

• Potential foreign influence review and mitigation

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Requirements include:

• White Paper (up to ~8 pages technical content)

• If invited:

  • Full technical proposal (≤15 pages)

  • Detailed cost proposal

  • Multiple compliance attachments

This is a moderate-to-high effort application, especially at full proposal stage.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support:

• Program selection (which ETA program to target)

• White paper strategy and positioning

• Technical narrative development aligned to IARPA evaluation criteria

• Full proposal development (if invited)

• IP, compliance, and structure alignment

• End-to-end submission management

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

ARPA-H - SBIR/STTR Broad Agency Announcement (BAA)

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

Executive Summary:

This is the ARPA-H SBIR/STTR Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for high-impact healthcare technologies across seven topic areas. It uses a two step application process (Solution Summary → Technical Presentation) and supports Phase I, Direct-to-Phase II, and Fast Track awards.

There is strong urgency to prepare early, but note:

• The Solution Summary Due: July 10, 2026 (11:59PM ET)

• The solicitation is currently a draft and not yet accepting applications

Because ARPA-H uses a gated, competitive process with strict technical novelty requirements, companies should begin positioning immediately—especially given topic-specific windows and evolving amendments.

How much funding would I receive?

Funding depends on phase and topic. Typical amounts are:

• Phase I: up to $600,000

• Phase II: up to $3,500,000

Some topics specify:

• ~$600k (Phase I) and $3.5M (Phase II) (Topics 1–4, 7)

• $3.5M (Phase II only) (Topics 5–6)

All awards are issued as Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP) contracts with milestone-based payments

Research Topics:

• ARPA-H 01 - Development of an annual test to inform women about their future fertility

  The purpose of this topic is to discover new biomarkers that provide women with actionable data for fertility planning.  Results from this work will help inform the program manager regarding the feasibility of future programs focused on enhancing natural fertility before the need of IVF and guiding the development of women’s health monitoring and improvement tools. This work will develop a diagnostic test that can assess fertility status and generate an estimated timeline for the onset of infertility. This topic seeks to develop a test that is affordable, suitable for at least annual use, and provides user-friendly results for patients and care teams to support childbearing decisions.   

• ARPA-H 02 - Versatile Bioadhesives

  The purpose of this topic is to develop surgical glues with antimicrobial properties to combat infections due to surgery. In addition, the novel multifunctional surgical glue will also have desired properties such as controllable reversibility and degradability and be tissue/organ agnostic to stop bleeding with unknown sources. Overall, successful completion of this SBIR project will not only support the clinical implementation of bioprinted organs but also provide novel solutions to tackle unmet clinical needs in managing surgical leaks and infections and reduce overall medical costs.   

• ARPA-H 03 - Universal Platform for Living Adaptive Toxin-removal (UNI-PLAT)

  The purpose of this topic area is to catalyze the development of a universal, “plug-and-play” synthetic biology platform that enables next-generation microbial chassis capable of performing a broad array of programmable functions. While this solicitation primarily uses toxin removal as a proof-of-concept in relation to chronic disease management, the platform is intended to be adaptable to a range of challenges across industries such as environmental remediation, biomanufacturing, agriculture, holistic medicine, and therapeutic discovery. The broader goal is to create a stable, reliable, and easily reprogrammable microbial platform that demonstrates potential for cross-sector impact beyond the initial use case. 

• ARPA-H 04 - Breaking Ground: The First Curative, Non-Invasive, Long-Lasting Therapy for Endometriosis

  The purpose of this topic aims to advance progress in the endometriosis field by identifying and commercializing non-invasive therapeutics that address the root cause of the disease. Proposers are expected to develop a first-of-its-kind, non-invasive therapy capable of reducing the size of endometriosis lesions, deactivating endometriosis tissue, and/or preventing regrowth thereby ideally achieving curative outcomes. Additionally, proposers need to showcase a solution that has precise, targeted specificity, ensuring the treatment accurately locates and addresses endometriosis lesions without causing adverse effects elsewhere in the body.

• ARPA-H 05 - ARPA-H Lineage Topic

  The purpose of this topic supports the advancement, commercialization, and translation of technologies that originated from ARPA-H funded efforts. It is intended to help small businesses and startups develop viable products based on these technologies. ARPA-H’s goal is to give small businesses an off-ramp to finish developing their technology/product, explore secondary or interim applications of the technology, and time to achieve self-sufficiency.

• ARPA-H 06 - Rapid Comprehensive Diagnostic Test for Multi-System Autoimmune Disease

  The overall purpose of this topic is to spur the development of novel, rapid diagnostic assays for multi-system autoimmune disease, which represents an unmet healthcare need. Moreover, in its ideal embodiment this diagnostic test might allow typical primary care physicians to diagnose and predict tissue-specific autoimmune disease manifestations, thereby streamlining referral of the patient to a specialist. This goal is made more feasible by recent technological developments incility to detect tissue-specific signatures of immune-mediated stress by assessing circulating cells and/or tissue-specific molecular products.  

• ARPA-H 07 - Virtual Human Brain for the Development of Neurosurgical Robotics

  The overall purpose of this topic aims to take a first step toward AI-assisted intracranial microsurgery, which will ameliorate patient outcomes as described in point 5 above, by creating a high-resolution, physically and anatomically accurate virtual human brain.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Yes. ARPA-H provides hands-on commercialization support, including:

• Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) program (strategic guidance on IP, regulatory, market strategy)

• Regulatory and reimbursement support

• Customer discovery and stakeholder introductions

• I-Corps program participation (optional)

• Potential Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) funding

Support is not guaranteed and is provided at ARPA-H’s discretion

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

Key Dates

• Solution Summary Due: July 10, 2026 (11:59PM ET)

• Technical Presentation (if invited): September 9, 2026 (11:59PM ET)

Process Timeline

• Stage 1: Submit Solution Summary (4–6 pages)

• Stage 2: If invited → Technical Presentation + full materials

• ARPA-H response:

  • ~90 days after topic close for Stage 1 decision

  • ~30 days after presentation for final decision

• Awards targeted within ~180 days of topic closing

Funding Timing

• Payments are quarterly milestone-based, not upfront

Where does this funding come from?

Funding comes from:

• Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H)

• Under the SBIR/STTR program, authorized by the U.S. Small Business Act

• Within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

The program is designed to fund transformational health technologies with commercialization potential

Who is eligible to apply?

Core Eligibility

You must be a Small Business Concern (SBC) that:

• Has ≤500 employees

• Is majority U.S.-owned

• Performs work in the United States

SBIR Requirements

• PI >50% employed by small business

• Work share:

  • Phase I: ≥66% by small business

  • Phase II: ≥50% by small business

STTR Requirements

• Must include a research institution partner

• Work share:

  • ≥40% small business

  • ≥30% research institution

Additional Requirements

• SAM.gov registration

• SBA Company Registry

• Foreign affiliation disclosures

• Required certifications at submission

What companies and projects are likely to win?

ARPA-H is explicitly looking for:

• Non-incremental, breakthrough technologies

• Solutions with clear technical novelty and feasibility

• Teams with:

  • Proven ability to execute

  • Commercialization capability

• Projects that:

  • Address major unmet health needs

  • Have a credible path to market and impact

  • Can reach a commercial inflection point

Strong proposals demonstrate:

• Clear technical milestones and risk mitigation

• Evidence-backed claims

• A viable commercialization plan

Incremental or purely academic work is unlikely to be competitive

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

• No incremental R&D—must be transformative

• No Phase III proposals

• Must follow topic-specific eligibility (phase/type)

• Strict foreign affiliation disclosure and national security review

• Funding may be denied for:

  • Security risks

  • Undisclosed foreign relationships

• Proposal cap: max 6 submissions per fiscal year across HHS

Other constraints:

• Must submit through ARPA-H Solutions site only

• No email or paper submissions accepted

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Typical effort:

• Stage 1 (Solution Summary):

  • 4–6 pages

  • ~1–3 weeks for a prepared team

• Stage 2 (if invited):

  • Full technical package + presentation

  • ~3–6+ weeks

Additional prep time may be required for:

• Registrations (SAM can take >14 business days)

• Certifications and compliance documentation

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support across the full lifecycle:

• Topic selection and win strategy positioning

• Translating your technology into ARPA-H-aligned narratives

• Writing:

  • Solution Summary

  • Technical presentation materials

• Building commercialization strategy aligned to ARPA-H expectations

• Preparing for technical Q&A and evaluation criteria

• Managing compliance and submission requirements

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

NASA SBIR/STTR Phase I Topics

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

Executive Summary:

NASA is accepting proposals for its FY26–27 SBIR/STTR Phase I programs under Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) 80NSSC26R0003. The deadline to apply is May 21, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET.

This is a short application window and a highly structured opportunity. NASA will not evaluate late or incomplete submissions, and companies are limited to no more than two proposal packages.

The program funds early-stage R&D aligned with NASA’s defined technical needs across space systems, aeronautics, materials, energy, planetary science, and in-space infrastructure. Each proposal must target a single subtopic, and NASA will not move proposals between topics—fit matters.

For Phase I:

• Maximum funding: $225,000

• Project duration:

  • SBIR: up to six (6) months

  • STTR: up to thirteen (13) months

All submissions must be completed through NASA’s ProSAMS system, including all required forms, technical proposal components, and endorsements.

Companies that successfully complete Phase I may be invited to submit for Phase II follow-on funding, with additional development support and commercialization pathways.

This is a tightly scoped, compliance-heavy opportunity with defined technical gaps. If your technology aligns with a subtopic, you should move quickly to prepare a compliant submission before the May 21, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET deadline.

How much funding would I receive?

• Up to $225,000 per Phase I award

• Optional Technical and Business Assistance (TABA): up to $6,500 (if requested)

Research Topics:

• CARITL.1.S26A: Development of Hydrazine-Compatible Elastomeric Materials for Long-Duration Spaceflight (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks a replacement elastomer material that can withstand long-term hydrazine exposure and spaceflight conditions for NASA propulsion systems.

• EXPAND.1.S26A: Flight Demonstrations of Commercial In-Space Logistics, Robotic Manipulation, and Automation Systems for Future Space Operations (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks commercial in-space logistics, robotic manipulation, and automation systems that can be flight-demonstrated for future space operations.

• EVA.1.S26A: Advanced Spacesuit Architectures, Technologies, and Designs for Mars Exploration (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks advanced spacesuit architectures and enabling technologies tailored to the demands of Mars exploration.

• GO.1.S26A: ASCENT Thruster Pre-heat Optimization (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies to improve or optimize pre-heat performance for ASCENT thrusters.

• LWS.1.S26A: Mars Solar Array Technology (MSAT) Innovations (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks innovations in solar array technology that improve power generation for Mars missions.

• LIVEP.1.S26A: Energy Storage for Long-Duration Missions (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks energy storage technologies that can support long-duration lunar, planetary, or deep-space missions.

• LIVEP.2.S26A: Mars and Lunar Power Transfer Technology Development (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks power transfer technologies that can distribute energy across Mars and lunar surface systems.

• INSTALG.1.S26A: In Situ Instruments and Instrument Components for Lunar and Planetary Science (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks in situ science instruments and instrument components for lunar and planetary missions.

• INSTALG.2.S26A: Suborbital Instruments and Sensor Systems (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks instruments and sensor systems suitable for suborbital science platforms and observations.

• COSMO.1.S26A: High Performance Detector Technologies (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks high-performance detector technologies for advanced space science and observation missions.

• SPWX.1.S26A: Advanced Data-Driven Applications for Space Weather Research-to-Operations-to-Research (R2O2R) (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks advanced data-driven tools that improve the transition of space weather capabilities between research and operations.

• ORBECON.1.S26A: Catalyzing High-Throughput In-Space Production of Semiconductors and Quantum Materials (CHIPS-QM) (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies that enable scalable in-space production of semiconductors and quantum materials.

• AERO.1.S26B: Health Management and Sensing Technologies for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Systems (SBIR)

  This call seeks proposals in both for Electric/Hybrid Sustainable Designs as well as Sustainable Aviation Fuel Systems.

• AERO.2.S26B: Quiet Performance-Aircraft Propulsion Noise (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies that reduce or better characterize aircraft propulsion noise while maintaining performance.

• AERO.3.S26B: Advanced Thermal Management for High-Efficiency Engine Cycles (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks advanced thermal management approaches for next-generation high-efficiency aircraft engine cycles.

• AERO.4.S26B: Flight Test Measurement Technologies (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks improved measurement technologies for collecting high-quality data during flight testing.

• AERO.5.S26B: Improved Material Discovery through Leveraging Novel Modeling and Experimental Approaches (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks faster and better material discovery methods using new modeling and experimental approaches.

• AERO.6.S26B: Wind Tunnel Test Measurement Technologies (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks measurement technologies that improve data collection and analysis in wind tunnel testing.

• AERO.7.S26B: Airspace Operations and Safety (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies that improve the safety, efficiency, and management of airspace operations.

• AERO.8.S26B: Fuel to Electric Conversion (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies that support the transition from fuel-based aircraft systems to electric architectures.

• GO.2.S26B: Development of cost-effective 3D printing of SOA Hall thruster magnetic circuits (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks cost-effective 3D printing methods for state-of-the-art Hall thruster magnetic circuits.

• GO.3.S26B: Advanced Momentum Management and Propellant less Control Technologies for Solar Sail Spacecraft (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks advanced momentum management and propellant-less control technologies for solar sail spacecraft.

• ENABLE.1.S26B: Laser Welding System and Integrated Real-Time Nondestructive Inspection (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks a laser welding system paired with real-time nondestructive inspection capabilities.

• ENABLE.2.S26B: High Performance Onboard Computing (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks high-performance onboard computing technologies for future NASA missions.

• EXPAND.2.S26B: Orbital Debris Tracking (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies that improve detection, tracking, and awareness of orbital debris.

• EXPAND.3.S26B: Autonomous Onboard Health Management for Small Spacecraft and Distributed Systems (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks autonomous onboard health management technologies for small spacecraft and distributed space systems.

• EVA.2.S26B: Mars Exploration Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Suit (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies and designs for EVA suits that support human Mars exploration.

• SURFMOB.1.S26B: Advanced Human Lunar Surface Mobility Technologies (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks advanced mobility technologies that improve how humans move and operate on the lunar surface.

• LAND.1.S26B: Real-time Characterization of Regolith Stability during Planetary Descent & Landing (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies that can characterize regolith stability in real time during planetary descent and landing.

• LAND.2.S26B: Development and Modeling of Waterproofing Coatings or Surface Treatments for Reusable Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks waterproofing coatings or surface treatments for reusable thermal protection systems, along with supporting modeling.

• LAND.3.S26B: Low Cost Domestic Source for Blended Carbon and Phenolic Felt Batting or Yarn (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks a low-cost domestic source for blended carbon and phenolic felt batting or yarn used in thermal protection applications.

• LWS.2.S26B: Softgoods Habitats Employing Layered or Trapped Unrefined Regolith Shielding (SHELTURS) (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks softgoods habitat concepts that use layered or trapped unrefined regolith for shielding.

• LIVEI.1.S26B: Surface Sustainability and Logistics: Dust Mitigation (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks dust mitigation technologies that support sustainable surface operations and logistics.

• INSTALG.3.S26B: Large-Scale Computing and Computational AI (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks large-scale computing and computational AI capabilities for NASA science and mission applications.

• INSTALG.4.S26B: Detectors and Integrated Electronics (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks detector technologies and integrated electronics for science instruments.

• INSTALG.5.S26B: Remote-Sensing Technologies (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks remote-sensing technologies for planetary, Earth, or space science observations.

• COMNAV.1.S26B: Flight Dynamics and Navigation Technologies (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks flight dynamics and navigation technologies for future mission planning and operations.

• COMNAV.2.S26B: Lunar 3GPP Capability Development (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks development of lunar communication capabilities based on 3GPP standards.

• COSMO.2.S26B: Cryogenic Systems for Instruments (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks cryogenic systems that enable high-performance scientific instruments.

• COSMO.3.S26B: AI for Rapid Development of Space Precision Components (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks AI-enabled methods to accelerate the development of precision space components.

• COSMO.4.S26B: Instrument Technologies, Free-Form Optics, and Stray-Light Suppression (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks instrument technologies including free-form optics and stray-light suppression methods.

• COSMO.5.S26B: Advanced Observatory Technologies: Mirrors, Structures, Systems, Fabrication and Metrology (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks advanced observatory technologies spanning mirrors, structures, systems, fabrication, and metrology.

• SPWX.2.S26B: Sensors and Instrumentation for Space Environment Measurement (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks sensors and instrumentation for measuring the space environment.

• INSITU.1.S26B: Fault Management Technologies for Autonomous Systems (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks fault management technologies that improve the resilience of autonomous systems.

• INSITU.2.S26B: Sample Handling, Processing, and Control for In-Situ Lunar and Planetary Science Instruments (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks sample handling, processing, and control technologies for in situ lunar and planetary science instruments.

• INSITU.3.S26B: Robotic Mobility, Manipulation, and Sampling (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks robotic mobility, manipulation, and sampling technologies for planetary exploration.

• INSITU.4.S26B: Variable Gravity Sample Preparation and Analysis (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies for sample preparation and analysis across variable gravity environments.

• INSITU.5.S26B: Contamination Control and Planetary Protection (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks contamination control and planetary protection technologies for science missions.

• INSITU.6.S26B: Plant Research Technologies for Space (SBIR)

  This subtopic seeks plant research technologies that support space biology and future exploration missions.

• AERO.9.T26B: Full-Scale (Passenger/Cargo) Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) Interdisciplinary Investigations (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks full-scale or scalable test and analysis capabilities for advanced air mobility and eVTOL vehicles across aerodynamics, propulsion, flight dynamics, controls, and acoustics.

• AERO.10.T26B: Hybrid Powertrain Technologies (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks hybrid powertrain technologies for next-generation aircraft propulsion systems.

• GO.4.T26B: Modernization of CFD Tools for Advanced Propulsion Applications (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks modernization of CFD tools to better support advanced propulsion applications.

• GO.5.T26B: Very Low Earth Orbits (VLEO) Control Surfaces (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks control surface technologies that enable spacecraft operations in very low Earth orbit.

• LIVEI.2.T26B: Bulk Regolith Manipulation and Site Preparation (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies for bulk regolith movement and site preparation on planetary surfaces.

• INSTALG.6.T26B: Quantum Computing (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks quantum computing capabilities relevant to NASA science and mission needs.

• COSMO.6.T26B: Fundamental Physics Test Apparatus (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks apparatus and enabling technologies for conducting fundamental physics experiments in space.

• SPWX.3.T26B: Quantum Sensing Components for Space Environment Measurements (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks quantum sensing components for measuring the space environment with improved capability or sensitivity.

• INSITU.7.T26B: Combustion and Fluids Experiments (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks technologies that enable combustion and fluids experiments for NASA research applications.

• ORBECON.2.T26B: Biotechnology Applications from Space for Earth (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks biotechnology applications developed from space-based research that can deliver value on Earth.

• ORBECON.3.T26B: Advanced Materials Manufacturing Applications from Space for Earth (STTR)

  This subtopic seeks advanced materials manufacturing applications derived from space that can be translated to Earth markets.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

• Eligibility to apply for Phase II follow-on funding if awarded Phase I

• Direct alignment with NASA mission needs and technology gaps

• Potential pathway to NASA procurement or integration

• Access to Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) funding (if requested)

Additional commercialization or partnership benefits are not explicitly specified in the solicitation.

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

• Solicitation issued: April 21, 2026

• Help Desk guaranteed response deadline: May 20, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET

• Application deadline: May 21, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET

Submission details:

• Must be submitted via ProSAMS

• Late submissions will not be evaluated

Funding start dates and award timelines are not specified in the solicitation.

Where does this funding come from?

• Funding is provided by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

• Program: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)

• Solicitation: BAA 80NSSC26R0003

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligibility is governed by SBIR/STTR program rules (referenced in the BAA).

From this appendix:

• Applicants must be small businesses

• Must submit through ProSAMS

• Must comply with all registration and certification requirements

Detailed eligibility criteria (e.g., ownership structure, size standards) are not specified in this appendix and are referenced in the broader BAA.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

NASA is looking for proposals that:

• Directly address a specific subtopic need

• Demonstrate a clear technical innovation

• Align with NASA’s identified technology gaps

Key success factors:

• Strong alignment to subtopic scope

• Clear technical feasibility

• Well-defined research plan

• Compliance with all submission requirements

Evaluation criteria are defined in an evaluation rubric (Attachment 26A.1 / 26B.1) but detailed scoring factors are not specified in the provided text.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Maximum of two (2) proposals per company

• Each proposal must target only one subtopic

• Submitting similar proposals to multiple subtopics may result in rejection of all

• No paper submissions — electronic only via ProSAMS

• Password-protected PDFs are not allowed

• Proposals exceeding:

  • $225,000

  • Page limits (15 pages technical)

  • Duration limits
    may be rejected

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Not specified in the solicitation.

However, based on requirements:

• Full technical proposal (up to 15 pages)

• Budget and certifications

• Supporting documentation (letters, forms, etc.)

• ProSAMS registration and submission

Preparation time will depend on readiness but should account for:

• Technical writing

• Compliance checks

• System submission steps

NASA explicitly recommends starting early due to upload and endorsement requirements.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can support:

• Subtopic selection and fit validation

• Proposal strategy aligned to NASA evaluation criteria

• Full proposal writing (technical + commercialization)

• Compliance review against ProSAMS requirements

• Budget development and TABA strategy

• Submission readiness and final packaging

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.

Arcane Thunder 27 (AT 27)

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

Executive Summary:

This is an RFI (Request for Information), not a funding opportunity, but it is a critical gateway to Army experimentation and potential follow-on contracting. The U.S. Army is seeking cutting-edge technologies for Arcane Thunder 27 (AT27), a major multi-domain experimentation campaign.

If selected, your technology may be invited to participate in field demonstrations and exercises with operational units. This is a high-visibility pathway to engage directly with the Warfighter and DoD stakeholders.

Submission deadline: 22 May 2026 : 22:59 CDT.
Missing this deadline means waiting for future cycles—there is no guarantee of a re-open.

How much funding would I receive?

This RFI does not include funding, but funding would shortly follow.

What could I use the funding for?

AI-Enabled Command & Control

• Edge-deployed AI for decision support, wargaming, and risk analysis

• Automated synchronization across units and systems

• AI models that operate in degraded or denied environments

Cyber, Electronic Warfare & Information Operations

• RF, cyber, and information effects (detect, disrupt, deceive)

• AI-driven emitter identification and behavior modeling

• Integrated cyber/EW payloads across platforms

Multi-Domain Sensing & Targeting

• Sensor fusion across RF, EO/IR, SAR, and other modalities

• Real-time targeting and geolocation (TDOA/FDOA/DF)

• Adaptive sensor tasking and AI-enabled targeting

Resilient Communications & Networking

• Low probability of intercept/detection (LPI/LPD) communications

• Self-healing mesh networks across air, ground, and space

• Cross-domain data transfer (unclassified to higher classification)

Autonomy, Robotics & Swarming

• Multi-platform control with single operator

• Adaptive swarm behavior based on mission and threat

• Autonomous detection, tracking, and targeting

Additive Manufacturing & Edge Modularity

• Field-ready 3D printing for parts and payloads

• Modular, plug-and-play payload architectures

• In-theater reconfiguration and resupply

Operational Simulation & Decision Tools

• Live, Virtual, Constructive (LVC) environments

• Digital twins and mission rehearsal tools

• End-to-end visualization of sensor-to-shooter workflows

Supporting Capability Areas

• Counter-UAS systems

• Space-based communications and sensing

• Defensive cyber operations

• Signature reduction (RF, visual, EMS)

• Threat replication and red-teaming tools

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Yes—this opportunity is about access and validation, not capital:

• Invitation to Army-led field experiments and demonstrations

• Direct engagement with:

  • Warfighters

  • DoD R&D organizations

  • Combatant Commands and other agencies

• Real-world testing in contested, denied, and austere environments

• Opportunity for follow-on contracting actions

• Visibility into how your product performs in multi-domain operations

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

Submission deadline: 22 May 2026 : 22:59 CDT.

Key milestones:

• NLT 30 September 2026: Down-select notifications

• Late 2026: Planning conferences and interviews

• Early 2027: Final planning and risk reduction

• Apr – Jun 2027: Field exercises (CONUS and OCONUS)

• Funding timeline: Not specified in the solicitation.

Where does this funding come from?

• Not applicable.

• Issued by the U.S. Army DEVCOM C5ISR Center for experimentation purposes.

Who is eligible to apply?

• Industry

• Academia

• Individuals

• Laboratories

Must:

• Submit via Vulcan-SOF

• Provide a Scout Card + Technology Quad Chart

• Keep all submissions unclassified

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Selections favor technologies that are:

• Relevant to current military missions

• Technically mature and deployable

• Adaptable across multiple use cases

• Aligned to multi-domain operations

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Do NOT submit proposals — only Scout Cards

• No classified information allowed

• Must disclose ITAR/EAR/OFAC restrictions

• Data generated becomes U.S. Government property

• Must use required formats or risk rejection

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Expect to prepare:

• Scout Card (per technology)

• Quad Chart

• Technical specs (SWaP, power, spectrum, etc.)

How can BW&CO help?

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

• Refine your positioning against Army priority areas

• Translate your tech into a high-impact Scout Card

• Ensure compliance with submission and formatting rules

• Increase likelihood of selection for demonstration

Additional Resources

Review solicitation here.