Autonomy Runway
Where to start

Selling to federal buyers

Guide 6 of 8

Where federal contracts, subcontracts and research funding are posted: SAM.gov, primes, the GSA schedule, SBIR and STTR, DIU, AFWERX, the Army, the Navy, SOFWERX and DHS.

In this guide

Find federal solicitations on SAM.gov Contract Opportunities

Who it is for. Drone and robotics companies that want to find federal buying notices and answer them as a prime contractor, or spot other firms to team with.

Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov (the System for Award Management) is where federal contracting offices post their procurement notices, according to SAM.gov. Anyone may search it without an account. A signed-in account lets a company save searches, follow changes to notices and join interested vendor lists.

Steps

  1. Open Contract OpportunitiesGo to Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov. SAM.gov says anyone may search without an account. The search page has a "Show active only" filter. For grants, SAM.gov points to its partner site Grants.gov instead.SAM.gov Contract Opportunities
  2. Create a sign-in with Login.govCreate a Login.gov account with your work email and use it to sign in to SAM.gov. SAM.gov says its usernames and passwords are managed by Login.gov, and that a user account lets you save searches, follow changes to opportunities and join interested vendor lists.Do I need a user account? (SAM.gov)
  3. Look up your NAICS codesFind the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes that describe what you sell. SAM.gov's Entity Registration Checklist points to the Census Bureau lookup at census.gov/naics for this. Write the codes down; you will use them to search and to register.SAM.gov Entity Registration Checklist (PDF)
  4. Search by keyword, then narrow with filtersType the words a buyer would use for your product, then narrow the results. Each SAM.gov opportunity record carries a NAICS code, a set-aside type, a place of performance and a notice type, and GSA's public Opportunities API documentation lists each of these as a search filter. SAM.gov also offers a video on advanced search on the Contract Opportunities page.GSA Opportunities API: search fields and notice types
  5. Learn the notice typesGSA lists these notice types: Presolicitation, Solicitation, Combined Synopsis/Solicitation, Sources Sought, Special Notice, Award Notice, Justification (J&A), Intent to Bundle Requirements (DoD-funded) and Sale of Surplus Property. SAM.gov describes opportunities as pre-solicitation notices, solicitation notices, award notices and sole source notices.Notice type list (GSA)
  6. Save the search and follow noticesSign in, run your search with its filters, and save it with a name. Open any notice that matters and follow it so you see changes. SAM.gov says a user account lets you "save searches, follow changes to opportunities, and join interested vendor lists."Get started searching (SAM.gov)
  7. Join the interested vendors listOn a notice you plan to pursue, add your company to its interested vendors list. The Contract Opportunities page links to "Use the interested vendors list" and "Search vendor collaboration opportunities."Use the interested vendors list (SAM.gov)
  8. Register your entity before you bidSAM.gov says a registration allows you to bid on government contracts. It can take up to 10 business days to become active and must be renewed every 365 days. SAM.gov's Entity Registration Checklist says there is no charge to register. A company based outside the U.S. requests an NCAGE code before it starts, according to the same checklist.SAM.gov Entity Registration
  9. Answer each notice the way it asksRead the whole notice and its attachments. Each notice names its own point of contact, response deadline and response format. Send the response to that contact, in that format, before that deadline.

What to have ready

  • A Login.gov account for each person who signs in to SAM.gov.
  • For entity registration: legal business name, physical address, Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN, for U.S. entities), bank details for Electronic Funds Transfer (optional for non-U.S. entities), and NAICS codes (SAM.gov Entity Registration Checklist).
  • For companies based outside the U.S.: an NCAGE code requested before starting SAM.gov registration (SAM.gov Entity Registration Checklist).
  • Whatever each solicitation lists in its instructions; requirements differ by notice.

Time, cost, renewal and where to send

TimeSearching works right away. SAM.gov says entity registration can take up to 10 business days to become active.
CostFree. SAM.gov's Entity Registration Checklist states: "SAM.gov is FREE to use. There is no charge to get a Unique Entity ID, register your entity, and maintain your entity registration at SAM.gov." Paid registration services exist, but GSA says you do not need to pay a third party to complete your registration.
RenewalEntity registration must be renewed every 365 days (SAM.gov). Searching needs no registration.
Where to sendTo the contracting office named in each notice, in the format and by the deadline that notice sets.

Where to get help

  • APEX Accelerators (formerly PTACs)SAM.gov says APEX Accelerators give free help completing registration in SAM.gov. SAM.gov also lists them as a small business resource for contract opportunities.
  • Federal Service DeskSAM.gov's help desk. SAM.gov lists live help Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.

Watch out

  • Fee-based "registration" offers are not the government. GSA says you do not need to pay a third party to complete your SAM.gov registration.
  • Drones from covered foreign makers: FAR clause 52.240-1 (Nov 2024), under the American Security Drone Act, bars contractors from delivering drones made or assembled by covered foreign entities. Since December 22, 2025 it also bars operating them in contract performance and using federal funds to buy or operate them. The clause tells contractors to search SAM.gov for the current list kept by the Federal Acquisition Security Council.
  • Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC): the Department of War (DoW) SBIR solicitation says CMMC requirements will apply to DoW solicitations and contracts where a contractor or subcontractor will process, store or transmit Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). The DFARS rule adding CMMC to defense contracts took effect November 10, 2025, according to the Federal Register.
  • Contract Opportunities covers contracts, not grants. SAM.gov sends grant seekers to Grants.gov.

Official sources

Subcontract with prime contractors (SBA SUBNet and primes' supplier programs)

Who it is for. Small drone and robotics companies that want to supply parts, software or services to larger companies that hold federal contracts.

Subcontractors do not work directly with the government; they work for other contractors, according to the Small Business Administration (SBA). Large businesses that win federal contracts above set thresholds must have small business subcontracting plans with targets. SBA's SUBNet lists subcontracting openings that prime contractors post, and SBA publishes a directory of primes that have subcontracting plans.

Steps

  1. Get a Unique Entity IDGet a Unique Entity ID (UEI) in SAM.gov. SAM.gov offers a "Unique Entity ID only" path for entities that do not apply for awards directly, such as those reporting as a sub-awardee; it needs only the legal business name and physical address. A full SAM.gov registration is needed to bid as a prime. Each prime sets its own supplier requirements.SAM.gov: registration or UEI only
  2. Browse SBA SUBNetOpen SUBNet and filter by state or keyword. SBA says each listing shows a description, closing date, performance start date, place of performance, NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) code and a point of contact.SBA SUBNet subcontracting opportunities
  3. Find primes that have subcontracting plansDownload SBA's Directory of Federal Government Prime Contractors with Subcontracting Plans. It lists each prime's name and location, the contracting agency, the product/service and NAICS codes, the contract number, start and end dates and total value. SBA refreshes it by fiscal year; the latest version SBA lists is FY 2024, updated March 4, 2025.SBA prime contractor directory
  4. Check agency prime contractor listsSome agencies publish their own lists. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Prime Contractors page names each prime's small business liaison and email, website, DHS contracts and an "In Search Of" list of the NAICS codes or services it wants from subcontractors.DHS Prime Contractors
  5. Register in each prime's supplier portalGo to each prime's website and complete its new-supplier steps. SBA advises using its directory to find the prime's website and to "follow the directions outlined on the prime contractor's website to do business with the firm." If there is no website, SBA says to contact the firm directly.SBA directions for using the directory
  6. Email the small business liaisonSend an email to the contact listed for each prime. The DHS page says to tell the prime you want to be considered for subcontracting and to briefly explain how you can help it, tying your experience and capabilities to its needs.DHS: how to approach primes
  7. Keep your SBA Small Business Search profile completeSBA says large contractors use its Small Business Search to find small subcontractors. SBA lists what to keep complete in the profile: socioeconomic representations and certifications, a capabilities narrative, keywords, NAICS codes and performance history.SBA: prime and subcontracting
  8. Plan for flow-down rulesPrime contracts pass some rules down to subcontractors. For example, the Department of War (DoW) SBIR solicitation states that Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements flow down to subcontractors that process, store or transmit Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).DoW 2026 SBIR BAA, section 2.6

What to have ready

  • Unique Entity ID from SAM.gov (UEI only or full registration, depending on what the prime asks).
  • NAICS codes for your products and services.
  • Profile details SBA lists for Small Business Search: socioeconomic representations and certifications, a capabilities narrative, keywords, NAICS codes and performance history.
  • Each prime's own supplier registration forms; these differ by company.

Time, cost, renewal and where to send

TimeSet by each prime. SUBNet listings show their own closing dates.
CostSUBNet, the SBA directory and agency prime lists are public web pages. A UEI and a SAM.gov registration are free (SAM.gov).
RenewalA full SAM.gov registration renews every 365 days (SAM.gov). SBA refreshes the prime directory each fiscal year.
Where to sendTo the prime contractor: through its supplier registration page, or to the point of contact in the SUBNet listing or the agency's prime contractor list.

Where to get help

  • APEX Accelerators (formerly PTACs)SBA lists APEX Accelerators as procurement technical assistance for finding subcontracting opportunities.
  • SBA Procurement Center and Commercial Market RepresentativesSBA says a Procurement Center Representative can assist with the pre-award aspects of small business subcontracting plans, and a Commercial Market Representative can help with subcontracting plan compliance after award. SBA takes prime contracting questions at contracting@sba.gov.

Watch out

  • SUBNet is for real openings. SBA says posts meant only to promote a small business will be removed.
  • Limits on subcontracting: under set-aside contracts, SBA says small business prime contractors must perform minimum levels of the work themselves.
  • The SBA directory lists primes' existing contracts that have subcontracting plans; it is not a list of open subcontracting opportunities. Its latest version covers FY 2024.
  • Defense subcontracts can carry CMMC and export-control rules: the DoW SBIR solicitation says CMMC requirements flow down to subcontractors that handle FCI or CUI, and that contractors or subcontractors handling technical data with military or space uses must certify they will follow export-control laws.

Official sources

Get on the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS)

Who it is for. Companies selling commercial products or services that want a General Services Administration (GSA) contract that federal, state, local and tribal buyers can order from. GSA's instructions ask for two years of financial statements; companies with less than two years of corporate experience can use Startup Springboard only as FASt Lane participants.

The Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) is GSA's program through which federal, state, local, tribal and other eligible buyers get commercial products and services, according to GSA. A company becomes a MAS contract holder by sending an offer through GSA's eOffer system against the MAS solicitation (47QSMD20R0001) on SAM.gov. GSA says the process may take several weeks to months.

Steps

  1. Take the free Pathways to Success trainingAn Authorized Negotiator who is an employee of the company takes GSA's Pathways to Success training, about 3 to 4 hours. GSA's instructions say it is free and must be completed within one year before the offer is submitted. You confirm it in eOffer.GSA MAS Roadmap
  2. Complete the free Readiness AssessmentThe same employee Authorized Negotiator completes GSA's Readiness Assessment for prospective offerors. GSA describes it as a free self-assessment to judge whether the company is ready for a Schedule contract. It must be done within one year before the offer.GSA Readiness Assessment
  3. Read the MAS solicitation and pick your SINsRead the full MAS solicitation and the category attachments on SAM.gov. Choose the Special Item Numbers (SINs) that match what you sell. GSA's New Offeror Checklist, labeled Refresh 32, June 2026, has a tab for each category.MAS solicitation 47QSMD20R0001 on SAM.gov
  4. Register in SAM.gov with matching NAICS codesKeep an active SAM.gov registration. GSA's instructions require at least one North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code in SAM.gov for each SIN you propose.GSA: Register your business (Step 2, Compete for a contract)
  5. Get a FAS ID with multi-factor sign-ineOffer requires a FAS ID with multi-factor authentication. GSA's instructions say every Authorized Negotiator needs one, offerors should have at least two Authorized Negotiators who are authorized to sign, and one must be a company employee. New offerors must also be listed as a point of contact in SAM.gov to use eOffer.GSA eOffer
  6. Gather the required documentsUse GSA's templates for pricing and other forms, and write the technical narrative: corporate experience, quality control and relevant project experience. Collect two years of financial statements and your commercial pricing documents. See the documents list below.GSA: required templates for a MAS offer
  7. Check the offer against the New Offeror ChecklistGo through GSA's New Offeror Checklist tab for your category before you submit. GSA's instructions say offerors should not assume missing items will be clarified before an offer is rejected.New Offeror Checklist (Excel)
  8. Submit in eOfferSign in to eOffer with your FAS ID, complete the information, upload forms, sign and submit, as the GSA roadmap describes.Submit through eOffer

What to have ready

  • Pathways to Success and Readiness Assessment, each completed within the past year (confirmed in eOffer).
  • Active SAM.gov registration with a NAICS code for each proposed SIN.
  • Annual financial statements for the previous two years (audited, if available), with at least a balance sheet and income statement. GSA says not to submit tax returns, and a GSA Form 527 does not meet the requirement.
  • Technical narrative covering corporate experience, quality control and relevant project experience (entered in eOffer).
  • Price proposal on GSA templates (FCP Product File or FCP Services Plus File, plus the pricing terms attachment), with commercial price lists, catalogs or market rates you give commercial customers.
  • Past performance questionnaire (GSA template).
  • Agent Authorization Letter if a consultant or third-party agent helps prepare or negotiate the offer.
  • Letter of Supply from the manufacturer if you resell products you do not make, for Information Technology (Category F) and some printing and photographic equipment, unless the manufacturer takes part in GSA's Verified Products Portal.
  • Country of origin for each product, for Trade Agreements Act (TAA) compliance.
  • A small business subcontracting plan, only if the offeror is other than small.

Time, cost, renewal and where to send

TimeGSA says the process may take several weeks to months.
CostGSA's MAS instructions call Pathways to Success and the Readiness Assessment free. Consultants are optional: offerors "may use consultants," but one Authorized Negotiator must be a company employee.
RenewalPathways to Success and the Readiness Assessment must be completed within one year before the offer. SAM.gov registration renews every 365 days.
Where to sendThrough GSA eOffer (eoffer.gsa.gov), signed in with a FAS ID.

Where to get help

Watch out

  • Startup Springboard is now narrower. GSA's instructions say that as of Refresh 31, Startup Springboard (for offerors with less than two years of corporate experience) is limited to FASt Lane participants.
  • Trade Agreements Act: all proposed products and services must comply with the TAA. GSA's instructions use the "substantial transformation" test for items with parts from several countries and name U.S. Customs and Border Protection as the agency that makes final determinations.
  • Drones from covered foreign makers: FAR 52.240-1 bars delivering drones made or assembled by American Security Drone Act-covered foreign entities. GSA's instructions also bar offering products that are solely compatible with products prohibited for national security reasons.
  • No marketing materials: GSA's instructions say not to submit brochures, newsletters or other marketing materials.
  • A past Schedule canceled for low sales or noncompliance triggers a 24-month wait before a new offer, with some joint venture exceptions.
  • After getting on schedule, GSA lists marketing your business, researching solicitations and responding to them as further steps. GSA says a company must be awarded a MAS contract before it can pursue opportunities restricted to MAS contract holders.

Official sources

SBIR and STTR: federal R&D funding for small businesses

Who it is for. U.S. for-profit small businesses, 500 or fewer employees including affiliates, more than 50% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents (or qualifying U.S. entities), doing research and development in the United States.

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs give equity-free federal R&D funding through 11 participating agencies, coordinated by the Small Business Administration (SBA). The Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act (S. 3971), signed April 13, 2026, extends both programs through September 30, 2031, according to SBA. Department of War (DoW) proposals go through the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP); other agencies use their own systems.

Steps

  1. Check the basic rulesSBIR.gov lists the core tests: a for-profit company located in the U.S., no more than 500 employees, and owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents. All research must be done in the U.S. The DoW solicitation adds that, unless a DoW component says otherwise, companies majority-owned by multiple venture capital firms, hedge funds or private equity funds cannot apply to DoW.SBIR.gov: Apply
  2. Choose SBIR or STTRSTTR requires teaming with a nonprofit research institution such as a university. SBIR.gov says that in STTR the small business does at least 40% of the work and the research institution at least 30%. In a DoW SBIR, the company does at least two-thirds of Phase I work and at least half of Phase II work, and the principal investigator's main job must be with the company.SBIR.gov: SBIR or STTR?
  3. Register in SAM.govRegister in SAM.gov. The DoW solicitation says registration generates the Unique Entity ID (UEI) and the Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code, and the UEI is needed for SBA's Company Registry. Registration is free.SAM.gov Entity Registration
  4. Register in the SBA Company RegistrySign in to SBIR.gov and register the company in the SBA Company Registry. SBIR.gov says all SBIR and STTR applicants must register. Download the SBC Registration (Proof of Registration/Certification) PDF from MY DOCUMENT BOX on your dashboard; DoW asks for the SBC Control ID and this PDF in the proposal.SBIR.gov: Company Registry FAQ
  5. Find topicsSearch open and upcoming topics on SBIR.gov by keyword, then filter by agency, phase and program. SBIR.gov says its copies may not be the latest, so confirm each topic on the agency's own site. DoW topics are in DSIP. DoW pre-releases new topics on the first Wednesday of each month; Release 6 pre-released September 2, 2026, opened September 23 and closes October 21, 2026.SBIR.gov: Find topics
  6. Ask questions during pre-releaseDuring DoW pre-release, topic authors' names and contact details are published and you may ask them technical questions. After pre-release, questions go only through DSIP Topic Q&A, which closes two weeks before the topic closes. DoW says answers are generally posted within seven business days.DSIP
  7. Set up DSIP with Login.govEach person creates an individual DSIP account authenticated by Login.gov; sharing accounts breaks the terms of use. The company's DSIP Firm Admin creates the Firm PIN, manages users and completes firm-level forms before any proposal can be submitted. DoW says DSIP can only be reached from within the United States.Register in DSIP
  8. Build the proposal volumesDSIP has seven volumes: 1 Cover Sheet, 2 Technical Volume, 3 Cost Volume, 4 Company Commercialization Report, 5 Supporting Documents, 6 Fraud, Waste and Abuse Training, 7 Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to Foreign Countries (a web form). Each DoW component sets its own page limits and budget rules.DoW 2026 SBIR BAA (PDF)
  9. Certify and submit before the closeA corporate official must certify the proposal electronically in DSIP. DoW says a proposal marked "In Progress" or "Ready to Certify" is not submitted, and DSIP Support cannot grant extensions.DSIP

What to have ready

  • SAM.gov registration with UEI and CAGE code.
  • SBA Company Registry SBC Control ID and Proof of Registration/Certification PDF.
  • Volume 1: Proposal Cover Sheet, with size, ownership and eligibility certifications.
  • Volume 2: Technical Volume (page limits set by each component; the Navy caps Phase I at 10 pages).
  • Volume 3: Cost Volume.
  • Volume 4: Company Commercialization Report.
  • Volume 5: Supporting Documents, as applicable: letters of support, additional cost information, funding agreement certification, technical data rights assertions, lifecycle certification, allocation of rights, joint venture verification, and DD Form 2345 if any work falls under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
  • Volume 6: Fraud, Waste and Abuse training, completed by the Proposal Owner.
  • Volume 7: Disclosures of Foreign Affiliations or Relationships to Foreign Countries web form (PDF uploads no longer accepted).
  • For STTR: a partnering nonprofit research institution.

Time, cost, renewal and where to send

TimeDoW releases topics monthly, about three weeks of pre-release then about four weeks open. DoW Phase I generally lasts 6 to 12 months and Phase II generally 24 months.
CostRegistration in SAM.gov and the SBA Company Registry is free. DoW does not reimburse proposal preparation costs. SBIR.gov lists award limits agencies can use without SBA approval: Phase I up to $323,090 and Phase II up to $2,153,927.
RenewalSAM.gov registration renews every 365 days. DoW's Fraud, Waste and Abuse training is reviewed once per year. Companies certify eligibility at award, before final Phase I payment, before receiving 50% of a Phase II award and before final Phase II payment. From fiscal year 2027, each agency must set a limit on how many proposals a company may submit (S. 3971).
Where to sendDoW topics (Army, Navy, Air Force, DARPA, SOCOM and other components): DSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil. Other agencies: the submission system named in that agency's solicitation, as SBIR.gov directs.

Where to get help

  • State SBIR/STTR support offices (SBIR.gov Lab to Market Hub)The DoW solicitation says many states offer information and technical help, matching funds and help getting Phase III funding. SBIR.gov's "Find Local Assistance" menu link opens its Lab to Market Hub, a questionnaire that points to federal lab-to-market services and funding programs.
  • DSIP SupportHelp with the DSIP application only: DoDSBIRSupport@reisystems.com, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time.
  • APEX Accelerators (formerly PTACs)Free help completing SAM.gov registration, according to SAM.gov.

Watch out

  • Foreign-risk review: DoW runs a due diligence review of every proposal (15 U.S.C. 638(vv)), covering cybersecurity, patents, employees, foreign ownership and financial ties. DoW says disclosing foreign ties does not mean denial, but awards with a national security risk that cannot be mitigated will not be made.
  • Export control: if any work falls under ITAR, DoW requires DD Form 2345; work under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) needs Commerce Department export licenses.
  • CMMC: DoW says projected Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification levels are named in each topic.
  • Blue UAS: DoW says Blue UAS certification is not required unless the topic says so, and the process moved from the Defense Innovation Unit to the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) as of December 2025.
  • Proposal caps are coming: S. 3971 requires each agency to set a maximum number of proposals per company starting in fiscal year 2027.
  • Experienced firms that miss SBA's transition or commercialization benchmarks face award limits at DoW (20 each at Army, Navy, Air Force and other components combined).
  • DoW "open topics" (a topic type labeled as such in its title) allow only one proposal per company per topic; if a company sends more than one, only the most recent certified proposal is evaluated.

Official sources

Defense Innovation Unit (DIU): Commercial Solutions Openings and Other Transactions

Who it is for. Commercial technology companies, including first-time government vendors, with a product or near-ready technology that fits a posted DIU Area of Interest.

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) brings commercial technology into the Department of War (DoW) through a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO). A company answers a posted Area of Interest (AOI) with a short Solution Brief; DIU may invite it to pitch and then to write a full proposal. Awards are prototype Other Transaction agreements (OTs) under 10 U.S.C. 4022, which DIU says can be made in as few as 60 to 90 days.

Steps

  1. Watch DIU's open solicitationsDIU posts Areas of Interest on its website at any time. Its CSO says companies can check the site often or subscribe to its RSS feed, and the open solicitations page offers an interest form for notices of new solicitations. On September 25, 2026 the page listed two CLASS ACT calls on countering unmanned systems in maritime environments, closing October 13, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET.DIU open solicitations
  2. Read the current CSORead DIU's Commercial Solutions Opening, Amendment 0001, effective March 13, 2026. It replaces the 2020 version and governs every Area of Interest unless the AOI says otherwise.DIU CSO, Amendment 0001 (PDF)
  3. Write a Solution BriefKeep it to 5 pages in 12-point font, or 15 slides (strongly recommended limits). Include a title page naming the AOI, a one-page executive summary, the technology concept, whether it is a pilot of existing commercial technology or new development, and company viability: fundraising to date or revenue, and go-to-market plan. DIU's guidance also asks for employee count and CAGE code or UEI. Save it as a PDF.DIU Solution Brief guidance
  4. Mark proprietary dataKeep everything unclassified. If the brief holds data that must not be shared outside evaluation, put the restrictive legend from section 3 of the CSO on the cover page and mark each restricted sheet.CSO section 3
  5. Submit on the DIU websiteSubmit the PDF through the AOI's page before it closes. You may send more than one brief to an AOI if each is a separate concept.Submit a Solution Brief
  6. Pitch if invitedGive an in-person or virtual pitch with a rough order of magnitude (ROM) price, a notional prototype schedule and your data rights assertions. The CSO says a pitch stays valid for 180 calendar days after the pitch date.CSO section 3.3: the pitch
  7. Write the full proposal if askedIf DIU sends a Request for Prototype Proposal (RPP), write a technical proposal with a Statement of Work (SOW) and schedule, and a price proposal with supporting data such as commercial price catalogs. Among the legal tests the CSO lists: a nontraditional defense contractor takes part to a significant extent, or else a one-third cost share is addressed.CSO section 3.4
  8. Register in SAM.gov and the invoicing systemThe CSO says companies must register in SAM.gov to receive an award and advises starting when a Request for Prototype Proposal arrives. Companies must also register in the government invoicing system, such as Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF). The CSO says DIU will help companies asked for a full proposal with this step.SAM.gov Entity Registration

What to have ready

  • Solution Brief (PDF): title page, executive summary, technology concept, company viability.
  • Company facts DIU's guidance lists: history, employee count, CAGE code or UEI, financing stage.
  • For a pitch: ROM price, notional schedule, data rights assertions.
  • For a full proposal: technical proposal with SOW and schedule, and a price proposal with supporting pricing data.
  • SAM.gov registration and invoicing system (for example WAWF) registration before award.

Time, cost, renewal and where to send

TimeDIU says prototype awards can come in as few as 60 to 90 days. Pitches stay valid 180 calendar days, per the CSO. Prototype work generally lasts no more than 24 months, per the CSO.
CostThe CSO says the government will not pay companies' costs for Solution Briefs, pitches or proposals. The CSO lists a one-third cost share when no nontraditional defense contractor takes part to a significant extent.
RenewalNothing to renew for a submission. SAM.gov registration renews every 365 days.
Where to sendOnline through the AOI on DIU's open solicitations page. The CSO says submissions sent another way or after the AOI closes will not be reviewed.

Where to get help

Watch out

  • Foreign-owned companies may submit alone or with U.S.-owned partners, but the CSO says getting an agreement may depend on obtaining needed clearances and approvals.
  • Blue UAS has moved: DIU's Blue UAS page says the Blue UAS Cleared List is transitioning to the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) at bluelist.dcma.mil. DCMA's Blue UAS portal says a Recognized Assessor checks each unlisted critical component at the expense of the vendor, component company or sponsoring government entity.
  • Being invited to write a proposal does not mean an award; the CSO says the government may cancel an RPP at any point before award.
  • Agreements paying more than $5,000,000 include a clause giving the Comptroller General access to records.
  • Technical data with military uses may need approval, authorization or a license before export, the CSO says.

Official sources

AFWERX (Department of the Air Force)

Who it is for. Small businesses with dual-use technology for the Air Force and Space Force. AFWERX's SBIR and STTR funding follows SBIR/STTR eligibility rules.

AFWERX calls itself the innovation arm of the Department of the Air Force (DAF). Its main funding path is Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR), with proposals sent through the Department of War's DSIP portal. It also runs larger follow-on programs that match outside money (STRATFI, TACFI and Strategic Breakthrough awards) and challenges.

Steps

  1. Check SBIR/STTR eligibilityAFWERX lists: a for-profit U.S. small business; 500 or fewer employees, including affiliates; more than 50% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens, permanent resident aliens or qualifying U.S. entities.AFWERX: Get Funded
  2. Finish the registrationsRegister in SAM.gov (free) and in SBA's Company Registry on SBIR.gov, then create DSIP accounts with Login.gov. AFWERX lists SAM.gov registration among its requirements.SBA Company Registry FAQ
  3. Find the current topic releaseCheck AFWERX's Get Funded page for open releases. On September 25, 2026 it listed DoW SBIR topics 26.BZ and 26.BX Release 6 and STTR topics 26.TZ and 26.TX Release 6: pre-release September 2, open September 23, close October 21, 2026.AFWERX open solicitations
  4. Pick the right phaseAFWERX lists Phase I (up to 6 months, up to $323,000) to test feasibility and Phase II (up to 24 months, up to $2.1 million) to build a prototype. Direct to Phase II is for mature solutions with an identified DAF customer and a signed memorandum.AFWERX funding phases
  5. Submit in DSIPAFWERX says proposals must be submitted through the DoW submission website, DSIP. Follow the Air Force component instructions inside the DoW solicitation.DSIP
  6. Plan for follow-on fundingAfter Phase II, AFWERX lists STRATFI ($3 million to $15 million in SBIR/STTR funds, matched by $6 million to $45 million from government or private sources), TACFI ($375,000 to $2 million with 1:1 cost sharing) and Strategic Breakthrough awards (up to $30 million with a 1:1 match, at least 20% of the match from non-SBIR/STTR DoW program funding).STRATFI, TACFI and Strategic Breakthrough
  7. Sign up for AFWERX Alerts and watch AFWERX ChallengeSign up for AFWERX Alerts, which AFWERX says covers funding opportunities, events and hiring for AFWERX and SpaceWERX. AFWERX Challenge runs on its own site, afwerxchallenge.com.AFWERX Alerts

What to have ready

  • SAM.gov registration (UEI and CAGE code) and SBA Company Registry SBC Control ID.
  • The seven DSIP proposal volumes required by the DoW SBIR/STTR solicitation (cover sheet, technical, cost, commercialization report, supporting documents, fraud, waste and abuse training, foreign affiliations disclosure).
  • For Direct to Phase II: a signed memorandum from an identified DAF customer, per AFWERX.
  • For STRATFI, TACFI or Strategic Breakthrough: evidence of the matching government or private funds AFWERX lists.

Time, cost, renewal and where to send

TimeDoW topics release monthly. AFWERX lists Phase I at up to 6 months and Phase II at up to 24 months.
CostRegistration in SAM.gov and the SBA Company Registry is free. DoW does not reimburse proposal preparation costs.
RenewalSAM.gov registration renews every 365 days. DoW's Fraud, Waste and Abuse training is reviewed once per year.
Where to sendDSIP at dodsbirsttr.mil, under the Air Force topic.

Where to get help

  • AFWERX Challenge siteAFWERX's challenge site, which describes itself as a platform for solutions to further strengthen the Air Force.
  • AFWERX AlertsEmail sign-up for news on AFWERX and SpaceWERX funding opportunities, events and hiring.
  • State SBIR/STTR support offices (SBIR.gov Lab to Market Hub)The DoW solicitation says many states offer information and technical help, matching funds and help getting Phase III funding. SBIR.gov's "Find Local Assistance" link opens this hub.

Watch out

  • AFWERX's dollar figures are maximums ("up to"); each topic sets its own amounts.
  • DoW runs a foreign-risk due diligence review of every SBIR/STTR proposal. AFWERX also points to its Risk Based Analysis compliance requirements.
  • Experienced firms that miss SBA's increased performance benchmarks may receive no more than 20 Air Force Phase I and Direct to Phase II awards (DoW solicitation).
  • Release dates move each month; check the current release before planning.

Official sources

Army xTech prize competitions

Who it is for. Small businesses, and for some competitions larger businesses, with technology that fits Army needs. Each competition sets its own eligibility.

Army xTech runs prize competitions that connect businesses with Army and Department of War experts, according to the program. Winners can receive cash prizes and a path to follow-on contracts, including Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards. xTech reports $29 million in prizes and $285 million in follow-on contracts over seven years.

Steps

  1. Browse open competitionsOpen the xTech competitions page and pick a competition that fits your technology. On September 25, 2026 the page listed two open competitions: xTechSearch 10 (submissions September 10 to October 19, 2026) and xTechDisrupt Endurance, which seeks power generation and storage solutions. xTechDisrupt Endurance takes registration only on site at the 2026 AUSA Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. (booth 1617) on October 12 and 13, 2026, first come, first served, with up to five $100,000 prizes.xTech competitions
  2. Read that competition's rulesEach competition page sets eligibility, phases and prizes. For xTechSearch 10, eligible entrants are small, for-profit, independent U.S. businesses, more than 50% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or permanent residents, with no more than 500 employees including affiliates. Each entity may submit once.xTechSearch 10
  3. Submit a concept white paperFor xTechSearch 10, create an account on the competition portal and submit a concept white paper describing how your technology meets an Army need, by October 19, 2026 at 5 p.m. ET. The priority areas are All Arms Maneuver; Command and Control (C2) and Counter-C2 Networks; Formation-Based Layered Protection; Adaptive Sustainment; and Cross Domain Fires.xTechSearch 10 submission portal
  4. Move through the phasesxTechSearch 10 lists: Phase 1 white paper (up to 50 semifinalists, $5,000 each); Phase 2 virtual pitch January 18-29, 2027 (up to 20 finalists, $20,000 more each); Phase 3 finals March 2-4, 2027 in Miami (up to 3 winners: $200,000, $100,000 and $50,000); Phase 4 Army SBIR/STTR proposals of up to $300,000 each for up to 20 selectees, March 4 to April 30, 2027.xTechSearch 10 phases and dates
  5. Get ready for the SBIR phaseAn SBIR/STTR award needs a SAM.gov registration and an SBA Company Registry entry. Both are free.SBA Company Registry FAQ

What to have ready

  • Concept white paper (xTechSearch 10, Phase 1).
  • Virtual pitch and a finals demonstration, if selected.
  • For the SBIR/STTR phase: SAM.gov registration (UEI and CAGE) and SBA Company Registry SBC Control ID, plus the DoW proposal volumes.

Time, cost, renewal and where to send

TimexTechSearch 10: submissions close October 19, 2026; pitches January 18-29, 2027; finals March 2-4, 2027; SBIR/STTR window March 4 to April 30, 2027.
CostxTechSearch 10 offers up to $1,000,000 in total cash prizes and up to $6 million in Army SBIR or STTR proposals. The xTech pages checked do not mention an entry fee.
RenewalEach competition is separate; nothing carries over or renews.
Where to sendThe portal named on each competition page. For xTechSearch 10: usg.valideval.com/teams/xtechsearch10/signup.

Where to get help

Watch out

  • Eligibility differs by competition. xTechDisrupt Endurance is open to small and large businesses from the U.S. and allied foreign countries that can get a CAGE code (U.S.) or NCAGE code (international); government entities and businesses based in a foreign country of concern cannot take part.
  • xTechSearch 10 allows one submission per entity.
  • Cash prizes and follow-on contracts are competitive; the SBIR/STTR phase is only for selected finalists.

Official sources

SOFWERX (U.S. Special Operations Command)

Who it is for. Companies, labs and researchers with technology for Special Operations Forces problems. Some events are limited to U.S. citizens.

SOFWERX describes itself as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit innovation platform for U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), created under a Partnership Intermediary Agreement established in September 2015. It runs collaboration events, assessment events and prize challenges tied to specific USSOCOM needs. Event notices say USSOCOM may then seek agreements such as Other Transactions or FAR-based contracts.

Steps

  1. Join the SOFWERX ecosystemSign up on the SOFWERX ecosystem page with your name, organization, email, phone and organization type to get notices of upcoming challenges.SOFWERX ecosystem sign-up
  2. Watch the events pageCheck the SOFWERX events page for new calls. On September 25, 2026 it listed, among others, PEO-SDA UxSAI Mission Autonomy Systems (September 30 to October 1), PEO-FW Group 2 Air-Launched Effects (October 27), PEO-SW Distributed Micro Sensors prize challenge (October 27-29) and PEO-M Unmanned Surface Vehicle event (November 2-20, 2026).SOFWERX events
  3. Read the event page in fullEach event page sets what USSOCOM wants, the eligibility, the assessment criteria and the deadline. For example, the Group 2 Air-Launched Effects event sought small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 or higher that can be integrated into a specific common launch tube. It was open to U.S. citizens only, took submissions until September 25, 2026, and posted a Q&A transcript and assessment criteria.Example: Air-Launched Effects event
  4. Submit on the event's formDownload the event's white paper template, fill it in and send it through the event's submission form before the deadline.SOFWERX event submissions
  5. Take part if selectedSelected companies attend the assessment or collaboration event. Event notices list the agreements USSOCOM may use afterward: Other Transactions under 10 U.S.C. 4022, Partnership Intermediary Agreements, Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs), FAR-based contracts and prize competitions.Paths to agreements
  6. Tech Tuesday (currently paused)Tech Tuesday gives selected presenters a 20-minute slot on a Tuesday between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. ET: a 10-minute pitch and 5 minutes of questions before an all-government audience. SOFWERX says new submissions are paused as of September 18, 2026, with no reopening date set.Tech Tuesday

What to have ready

  • White paper on the event's own template.
  • Any other items the event page lists; these change by event.
  • For work involving Controlled Unclassified Information: event notices say awardees may need to meet NIST SP 800-171.

Time, cost, renewal and where to send

TimeSet by each event page.
CostThe SOFWERX pages checked do not list a fee to respond to an event.
RenewalNothing to renew; each event is separate.
Where to sendThrough the submission form on each event page at events.sofwerx.org.

Where to get help

Watch out

  • An event is not a contract. Event notices describe themselves as notice of intent to research agreements and as pre-solicitation activity.
  • Citizenship limits: some events accept U.S. citizens only; check each event.
  • SOFWERX's Tech Tuesday page says: "As a neutral facilitator, SOFWERX does not own any intellectual property or U.S. patents."
  • Tech Tuesday is not taking new submissions as of September 18, 2026.

Official sources

DHS Silicon Valley Innovation Program (SVIP) and other DHS Science and Technology paths

Who it is for. Startups and small companies with technology for homeland security needs, including counter-drone, border and first-responder uses.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Silicon Valley Innovation Program (SVIP) offered U.S. and international startups up to $2 million in non-dilutive funding over 24 months for prototype projects. DHS has moved the SVIP page into its content archive, and SVIP's 5-year Other Transaction Solicitation (70RSAT21R00000006) had a response date of May 20, 2026. DHS Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) now lists its Long Range Broad Agency Announcement, open until May 31, 2029, as a current opportunity.

Steps

  1. Know SVIP's current statusDHS has placed the SVIP page in its archive, which DHS says may not reflect current policy or programs. The SVIP solicitation on SAM.gov had a response date of May 20, 2026. The archived page still gives dhs-silicon-valley@hq.dhs.gov as the address for information and the mailing list.DHS SVIP (archived)
  2. Check DHS S&T current opportunitiesOpen DHS S&T's current opportunities page. On September 25, 2026 it listed the Long Range Broad Agency Announcement (LRBAA), due May 31, 2029, which seeks novel ideas for DHS Components' highest-priority needs and lists startups, small businesses and international entities among eligible applicants.DHS S&T current opportunities
  3. Tell DHS S&T about your technologyUse the DHS Industry Outreach Form on the S&T Industry Partnerships page to share your technology, or email SandT.Innovation@hq.dhs.gov. The same page lists the Insights Outreach webinar series on funding programs.DHS S&T Industry Partnerships
  4. Look at DHS SBIR and prize competitionsDHS S&T lists its other funding paths: targeted BAAs, the LRBAA, In-Q-Tel, prize competitions, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and the U.S.-Israel BIRD program. DHS says its SBIR program issues an annual solicitation, posted on the DHS SBIR program portal.DHS S&T SBIR
  5. Reach the counter-drone programDHS S&T's Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) program tests C-UAS technology in labs and real-world settings and helps DHS Components set requirements. Its contact is sandtcuasprogram@hq.dhs.gov.DHS S&T C-UAS program

What to have ready

  • A Unique Entity ID from SAM.gov: the archived SVIP rules required one before award.
  • For the LRBAA and DHS SBIR: the documents each announcement lists.
  • Archived SVIP Phase 1 rules, for reference only: fewer than 200 employees or full-time equivalents including affiliates, and no more than $1,000,000 combined in FAR-based contracts, federal grants or cooperative agreements in the past 12 months.

Time, cost, renewal and where to send

TimeArchived SVIP: 3 to 4 funding tranches of 3 to 6 months each, over up to 24 months. LRBAA: open until May 31, 2029.
CostArchived SVIP funding was non-dilutive: $50,000 to $500,000 per tranche, $200,000 to $2 million in total.
RenewalSAM.gov registration renews every 365 days.
Where to sendNo SVIP intake is open on the DHS pages checked. LRBAA: the DHS Office of Innovation Programs portal linked from DHS S&T's current opportunities page. DHS SBIR: the DHS SBIR program portal (oip.dhs.gov/sbir/public).

Where to get help

Watch out

  • DHS says its archive may not reflect current policy or programs. The SVIP eligibility and funding figures in this entry come from that archive and describe the past program.
  • The SVIP solicitation's response date (May 20, 2026) has passed, and SVIP does not appear on DHS S&T's current funding pages.
  • Other DHS S&T paths remain: the LRBAA (to May 31, 2029), DHS SBIR, prize competitions and targeted BAAs.

Official sources

Last checked September 25, 2026. Rules, fees and programs change; the official sources are where to confirm them before applying or spending money.

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