Embarking on the journey to secure Department of Defense (DOD) contracts, particularly through the AFWERX Open Topic, is a unique opportunity for US-based small businesses with emerging technology to make a lasting impact on national security. At Sightline Ventures, we recognize the transformative potential of such contracts and guide you through crafting a compelling proposal that aligns your technology with the purpose of AFWERX’s Open Topic opportunities.
What is AFWERX and What are the Open Topic Opportunities?
AFWERX is the innovation arm of the Department of the Air Force. It offers two Phase I SBIR/STTR ($75K/$110K respectively) opportunities per year and two Direct to Phase II SBIR ($1.25M) opportunities throughout the year. The Phase Is are to help you perform customer discovery and find a champion in the Air Force or Joint organizations that will sponsor your Phase II prototype project. Both Phase Is and Phase IIs are great opportunities to determine product-market fit with the Air Force, develop meaningful relationships with Air Force end-users and customers, build credibility that your company can deliver game-changing technology, and establish another stream of non-dilutive revenue that will catalyze your business.
Insights into AFWERX Open Topic Criteria
The AFWERX Open Topic initiative is a gateway for innovative solutions to address the evolving needs of the U.S. Air Force. Understanding the specific criteria governing this avenue is key to creating a proposal that stands out and resonates with the goals of AFWERX. Five Essential Elements of AFWERX Open Topic Criteria: Relevance to Air Force Needs: AFWERX seeks solutions that address the challenges and needs of the U.S. Air Force. Research current DoD and Air Force strategic priorities, technology roadmaps, and areas requiring innovative solutions. Your proposal should demonstrate how your technology aligns with and contributes to meeting these needs.
Dual-Use Applications: AFWERX emphasizes technologies with dual-use potential—solutions that benefit the military and have broader applications in the commercial marketplace. Articulate how your technology can be adapted for both military and civilian applications, showcasing its versatility and market potential.
Technology Readiness Level (TRL): AFWERX seeks technologies at an advanced stage of development. Evaluate and communicate the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of your solution. The higher the TRL, the more likely it is to be considered for implementation, emphasizing the readiness and maturity of your technology.
Innovation and Novelty: Highlight the innovation behind your technology. Clearly articulate what sets your solution apart from existing technologies and how it represents a novel approach to addressing Air Force challenges. AFWERX values groundbreaking ideas that can reshape the landscape of defense capabilities.
Collaboration and Partnership: AFWERX encourages collaboration among small businesses, research institutions, and other industry partners. Showcase any existing collaborations or outline plans for partnerships that can enhance the development and deployment of your technology.