Resources
REOFTech aggregates the most relevant funding guidance, program documents, and agency tools in one place. Navigate by agency below. DoW (Department of War) resources are fully populated; additional agencies are being added.
ActiveDoWDepartment of War
The DoW SBIR/STTR program is the largest single source of early-stage R&D funding for small technology companies in the United States.
Through its SBIR and STTR programs, the Department of War funds small businesses across all defense technology domains. The program is administered by the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering (OUSW R&E) and executed by each DoW component—Army, Navy, Air Force, SOCOM, DARPA, MDA, and others.
Program structure
| Program office | Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research & Engineering (OUSW R&E) |
| Phases | Phase I (feasibility, ~$250K / 6 mo) → Phase II (prototype, ~$1.5–2M / 24 mo) → Phase III (commercialization, non-SBIR funds) |
| Components | Army, Navy (includes Marine Corps), Air Force (includes Space Force), SOCOM, DARPA, MDA, DTRA, OSD, CBDP, and others |
| Solicitation cycle | New topics released the first Wednesday of every month — 12 releases per fiscal year. Each release has a ~30-day pre-release window followed by a ~28-day submission window. |
| Eligibility | U.S.-based small businesses (≤500 employees); STTR requires a formal partnership with a U.S. research institution |
| Current solicitation | FY2026 DoW SBIR/STTR — see Documents tab for the full solicitation document |
Annual DoW SBIR/STTR awards
Awards per year
DoW components with SBIR
Program phases
🔄 These priorities are updated by the agency annually.
The agencies typically publish topic priorities that may change year over year — these need to be refreshed each cycle. Source: OUSW(R&E) Critical Technology Areas One-Pager, Nov 2025. These links and updates are also shared in the REOFTech newsletter.
The Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering (OUSW(R&E)) has identified six Critical Technology Areas (CTAs) to focus Department of War investment. These CTAs represent the forefront of innovation, designed to deliver immediate, tangible results at the speed of relevance. DoW SBIR/STTR topics that align to one or more CTAs receive elevated priority in the evaluation process.
DoW Critical Technology Areas (CTAs) — Current
AI is the cornerstone of the DoW's strategy to achieve decision superiority. By embedding AI into command-and-control systems, the Department will enable intelligent workflows.
Harnessing living systems to produce critical materials at scale, BIO enhances operational resilience and reduces logistical vulnerabilities in unfavorable environments.
LOG reimagines military sustainment in disrupted or denied environments, ensuring warfighters have access to critical resources.
Q-BID ensures operational effectiveness in contested electromagnetic environments by modernizing communication and sensing technologies.
SCADE focuses on scaling high-energy lasers and microwave technologies to provide low-cost, high-impact solutions against emerging threats.
SHY will deliver Mach 5+ hypersonic weapons at scale, providing unmatched speed, precision, and survivability.
Source: OUSW(R&E) Critical Technology Areas One-Pager · November 2025 · acq.osd.mil ↗
🔄 These priority areas are updated by the agency annually.
While many topics may align with OUSW(R&E) CTAs, each DoW Component develops SBIR and STTR topics that are mission-oriented to their respective programs. These TPAs represent broad approaches required to advance technologies critical to the Department’s innovation and technology maturation/transition strategies. Source: OUSW(R&E) SBIR/STTR Program Office.
By targeting investment in Component Technology Priority Areas (TPAs), the Department continues to accelerate the development and transition of key capabilities to the Military Services and Combatant Commands. These are the current official TPAs from the OUSW(R&E) SBIR/STTR Program Office.
Component Technology Priority Areas (TPAs) — Official
| 01 | FutureGA suite of emerging wireless network technologies enabled by DoW and commercial industry cooperation to enable military operations and ensure a free and open internet. As 5G wireless technology is adopted, the DoW will also look to FutureG for leap-ahead technologies to lead in creating future standards — vital for maintaining economic and national security leadership. |
| 02 | Trusted AI and AutonomyArtificial Intelligence (AI) is the software engineering discipline of expanding capabilities of software to perform tasks requiring human intelligence. Autonomy expands robots’ abilities to perform tasks while limiting the need for human interaction. Trusted AI with trusted autonomous systems are imperative to dominate future conflicts. The DoW will focus on evidence-based AI-assurance and enabling operational effectiveness. |
| 03 | BiotechnologyAn emerging engineering discipline that uses living systems to produce a wide range of technologies and capabilities. From fighting global pandemics and avoiding surprises to reducing logistics and sustainment costs and increasing energy efficiency, biotechnology can help change the way the Department conducts missions, performs in contested logistics environments, and adapts to major global changes. |
| 04 | Advanced Computing and SoftwareIncludes supercomputing, cloud computing, data storage, computing architectures, and data processing. The Department must migrate to a DevSecOps approach in its software development and evolve to continuous development, continuous test, and continuous delivery. Modular open system architecture approaches are required to isolate hardware from software and enable rapid upgrades to secure processors. |
| 05 | Integrated Sensing and CyberTo provide advantage for the joint force in highly contested environments, the Department must develop wideband sensors to operate at the intersection of cyber space, electronic warfare, radar, and communications. Sensors must be able to counter advanced threats and can no longer be stove-piped and single function. |
| 06 | Directed Energy (DE)Directed Energy Weapons utilize lasers, high power microwaves, and high energy particle beams to produce precision disruption, damage, or destruction of military targets at range. High-power lasers and high-power microwave technologies both offer new ways to counter diverse sets of threats with rapid responses and engagement at the speed of light. |
| 07 | HypersonicsHypersonic systems fly within the atmosphere for significant portions of their flight at or above 5 times the speed of sound (~3,700 mph). Hypersonics dramatically shorten the timeline to strike a target and increase unpredictability. The DoW will develop leap-ahead and cost-effective technologies for air, land, and sea operational forces. |
| 08 | MicroelectronicsMicroelectronics serve as the “brain” to virtually every military and commercial system. Diminishing U.S. microelectronics manufacturing and supply chain concerns highlight national economic and security risks. The Department is addressing the need for secure microelectronics sources, leveraging state-of-the-art commercial development and production for defense microelectronic solutions. |
| 09 | Integrated Network Systems-of-SystemsEncompasses the capability to communicate, provide real-time dissemination of information, and effective command and control in a contested electromagnetic environment. Must enable engagements by any sensor and shooter, integrating disparate systems. An interoperable network leveraging 5G, software-defined networking and radios, and modern information exchange will enable resilient, capable, and secure joint command, control, and communication. |
| 10 | Quantum ScienceThe study of physical properties at small, even atomic, scales. Defense applications include atomic clocks, quantum sensors, quantum computing, and quantum networks. Quantum computing can provide unprecedented computational speeds. Quantum sensors promise unprecedented accuracy in position, navigation, and timing. These capabilities promise to deliver cutting-edge leap-ahead technology for the Department. |
| 11 | Space TechnologyIncludes space flight, space communication, and other technologies needed to maintain space operations. With rising threats and increasing dependence on space-based systems, the Department’s space strategy must shift away from exquisite satellites to a more robust and proliferated architecture, incorporating technologies that enhance adaptive and reconfigurable capabilities in space situational awareness, space control, communication path diversity, on-orbit processing, and autonomy. |
| 12 | Renewable Energy Generation and StorageIncludes solar, wind, bio-based and geothermal technologies, advanced energy storage, electronic engines, and power grid integration. Promises to decrease warfighter vulnerability and deliver new operational capabilities — from more efficient batteries to diversifying energy sources and reduced fuel transportation risks, adding resilience and flexibility in a contested logistics environment. |
| 13 | Human-Machine InterfacesTechnologies related to human-machine teaming and augmented and virtual reality. Rapid advancements will benefit service members through highly immersive realistic training environments with real-time feedback. Intuitive human-machine interfaces enable rapid mission planning and mission command by providing a common operational picture to geographically distributed operations. |
| 14 | Advanced MaterialsInnovative new materials and novel manufacturing techniques that can dramatically improve Department capabilities. Materials with higher strength, lighter weight, higher efficiency, and capability to handle more extreme temperatures will better protect service members and enhance their ability to accomplish their mission. |
| 15 | Advanced Infrastructure & Advanced ManufacturingThe current global stage necessitates movement, communication, and sustainment of joint forces over vast distances through contested domains. Advanced infrastructure combines traditional physical assets with cyber-technologies — computers, networks, and sensors — to improve logistics and sustainability, and increase unit readiness and response time. |
| 16 | Combat Casualty CareInnovations to reduce mortality and morbidity resulting from battlefield injuries through the development of new life-saving strategies, new surgical techniques, biological and mechanical products, and the timely use of remote physiological monitoring. |
| 17 | Emerging Threat ReductionObjectives include RDT&E to support counterproliferation efforts and improve operational capabilities in the threat reduction and deterrence of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). |
| 18 | Military Infectious DiseasesInnovations to prevent, predict, and treat infectious disease threats to the total force, maximizing Service Member readiness and performance. |
| 19 | Military Operational MedicineInnovations to develop effective countermeasures against stressors, including environmental factors, and to maximize health, performance, and fitness. |
| 20 | Mission Readiness & Disaster PreparednessTechnology or materials required to maintain Full Mission Capable status of weapon systems or platforms, to include updates and improvements to legacy systems. Disaster Preparedness requirements include technology to support rapid response, repair and clean up in the event of an enemy attack or natural disaster to protect life and property and restore normal operations as soon as possible. |
| 21 | NuclearTechnologies supporting the nuclear triad — including nuclear command, control, and communications, and supporting infrastructure. Modernization of the nuclear force includes developing options to counter competitors’ coercive strategies, predicated on the threatened use of nuclear or strategic non-nuclear attacks. |
| 22 | Sustainment & LogisticsTechnologies that support the maintenance of existing infrastructure, systems, or operations over time. This can include the provision of logistics, financial management, personnel services, or technical abilities. Logistical focus areas include processes, resources, and systems involved in generating, transporting, sustaining, and redeploying or reallocating materiel and personnel. |
Source: OUSW(R&E) Defense SBIR & STTR Program Office · Component Technology Priority Areas · dodsbirsttr.mil ↗
New DoW SBIR & STTR topics are released on the first Wednesday of every month. Each monthly release has a pre-release window to consult with program officers, then a ~30-day submission window after topics are finalized. Source: DSIP — DoW SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal. Dates are subject to change.
FY2027 — Oct 1, 2026 – Sep 30, 2027 (12 Releases)
| Release | Pre-Release Date | Open Date | Close Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Release 1 | Oct 7, 2026 | Oct 28, 2026 | Nov 25, 2026 | ● Open Now |
| Release 2 | Nov 4, 2026 | Dec 2, 2026 | Jan 6, 2027 | ◌ Upcoming |
| Release 3 | Dec 2, 2026 | Jan 6, 2027 | Feb 3, 2027 | – |
| Release 4 | Jan 6, 2027 | Jan 27, 2027 | Feb 24, 2027 | – |
| Release 5 | Feb 3, 2027 | Feb 24, 2027 | Mar 24, 2027 | – |
| Release 6 | Mar 3, 2027 | Mar 24, 2027 | Apr 21, 2027 | – |
| Release 7 | Apr 7, 2027 | Apr 28, 2027 | May 26, 2027 | – |
| Release 8 | May 5, 2027 | May 26, 2027 | Jun 23, 2027 | – |
| Release 9 | Jun 2, 2027 | Jun 23, 2027 | Jul 21, 2027 | – |
| Release 10 | Jul 7, 2027 | Jul 28, 2027 | Aug 25, 2027 | – |
| Release 11 | Aug 4, 2027 | Aug 25, 2027 | Sep 22, 2027 | – |
| Release 12 | Sep 1, 2027 | Sep 22, 2027 | Oct 20, 2027 | – |
How it works: The pre-release window gives you ~30 days to review draft topics and reach out directly to program officers. After the open date, you have ~28 days to submit. The companies that win are the ones organized enough to reach out during pre-release — before most applicants know the topic exists.
An active SBC control number from SBIR.gov is required to submit on DSIP — start registration early, verification takes time. Full schedule and solicitation documents: dsip.defensebusiness.org. Subscribe to REOFTech Funding Alerts to get notified at each pre-release.
Document sequence per release
| 1. Component Instructions | Stable document covering submission rules for each DoW component (Army, Navy, Air Force, etc.). Updated infrequently — applies across the full fiscal year. |
| 2. Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) | Overarching solicitation document with instructions on how to submit. Covers all releases in the fiscal year. Contains the official topics list. |
| 3. Pre-Release Topics | Per-release draft topics document. Gives a 30-day window to review topics and contact program officers before the final version is issued. |
| 4. Final Topics (Release) | Final version of the topics document. Once issued, the 30-day submission clock starts. Topics are finalized and contacts are listed per topic. |
Key documents, solicitations, and official links for DoW SBIR/STTR applicants.
Current solicitations
PDF · DoW SBIR/STTR Program Office · FY2026
Online Tool · dodsbirsttr.mil
Program references
dodsbirsttr.mil — application system, topic listings, program news
acq.osd.mil — Critical Technology Areas, policy, and program guidance
Cross-agency awards database, eligibility tools, program guides
Component portals
| Army | armysbir.army.mil — Army SBIR/STTR topics, awards, and contact |
| Navy | navysbir.com — Naval topics including NAVSEA, NAVAIR, ONR |
| Air Force / Space Force | afsbirsttr.af.mil — AFWERX, SBIR Open Topics, SpaceWERX |
| DARPA | darpa.mil — SBIR/STTR topics and DARPA programs for small businesses |
| SOCOM | socom.mil/sofwerx — SOFWERX open topics and rapid acquisition |
| MDA | mda.mil — Missile Defense Agency SBIR/STTR opportunities |
Coming soonNIHNational Institutes of Health
⏳ NIH resources are being added — check back soon.
| Program portal | seed.nih.gov — NIH SBIR/STTR program office, funding opportunities, and application resources |
| RePORTER | reporter.nih.gov — Search NIH-funded projects, awards, and publications |
| Funding opportunities | grants.nih.gov — Current NIH SBIR/STTR solicitations |
Coming soonNASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration
⏳ NASA resources are being added — check back soon.
| Program portal | sbir.nasa.gov — NASA SBIR/STTR funding opportunities and program guidance |
| Tech port | techport.nasa.gov — NASA technology portfolio and R&D project database |
Coming soonNSFNational Science Foundation
⏳ NSF resources are being added — check back soon.
| Program portal | seedfund.nsf.gov — NSF America’s Seed Fund (SBIR/STTR) hub |
| Apply | research.gov — NSF proposal submission and award management system |
Coming soonDoEDepartment of Energy
⏳ DoE resources are being added — check back soon.
| Program portal | science.osti.gov/sbir — DoE SBIR/STTR program office |
| EERE | energy.gov/eere — Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy SBIR topics |
| ARPA-E | arpa-e.energy.gov — High-risk, high-reward energy technology R&D |
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DoW solicitations open monthly. The applicants who win reach out during the pre-release window — before most people know a topic exists.
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