Department of Defense (DOD)
How to Prepare for DOW SBIR While the Program is Paused
There's plenty to do while we wait for SBIR reauthorization. DOW Open Topics are likely coming back and smart teams are using this window wisely. History shows the program will return and in this case, preparation wins. Now is the time network and conduct Customer...
Fast Facts
- See the current Solicitation dates
- DOD is a “contracting” agency
- Component initiated topic-driven projects
- Army – United States Army- Navy – United States Navy- Air Force – United States Air Force- CBD – Chemical and Biological Defense- DARPA – Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency- DHA – Defense Health Agency- DLA – Defense Logistics Agency- DMEA – Defense Microelectronics Activity- DTRA – Defense Threat Reduction Agency- MDA – Missile Defense Agency- NGA – National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency- OSD – Office of the Secretary of Defense- USSOCOM – United States Special Operations Command
- Offers both SBIR and STTR programs
- Fund $2.3 Billion in SBIR/STTR topics
- Three scheduled Broad Agency Announcements (BAA) as well as a “As Needed” BAA
- Proposals only accepted in response to a BAA topic
- DOD has 2 types of topics (Specific/Focused and Open Topics). A Specific/Focused Topic is written by a Technical Point Of Contact (TPOC) and is based on specific technology gaps. An Open Topic is one that the SBC identifies a problem and solution relevant to the Defense Needs. Each component of the DOD must participate in Open Topics.
- Phase I: 3-12 months $75,000-$306,872 Phase II: 18-24 months $750,000-$2,000,000
- Read solicitation instructions very carefully since these are subject to change and are different for each DOD Component
Step 1: Pre-Release
DOD announces new topics with a “Pre-Release” period. The pre-release period is a time period where the BAA is issued but not open to accepting proposals. You may contact the Technical Point of Contact (TPOC) for the SBIR/STTR topic. We recommend emailing the TPOC and requesting a 20-minute phone call. This call will help you determine your fit for the project.
Step 2: Open-Period
You must submit your Full Proposal during the “Open-Period”. During the Open-Period proposal, submissions must be made through the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal or DSIP. You and your small business concern must register with DSIP if you wish to submit a proposal in response to any DoD Component topics. Questions can be asked to the component on the Topic and Topic Q&A (SITIS).
Step 3: Close
Proposals are reviewed by the component for technical merit, qualification of the team, and commercial impact. You will be notified 1-3 months after your respective submission window closes whether your proposal is accepted or declined. You must wait for contract award to begin work on a DOD SBIR/STTR.
Proposal Assistance
BBCetc’s team are DOD experts who offer one-on-one assistance with proposal development. To start working with BBCetc, please complete and submit our online Assessment Form.Then we will set up a free call to talk about your project, answer questions and decide on next steps.
Jerry Hollister
Executive Consultant
Monique Branham
Principal Consultant
