Timelines for DoD SBIR/STTRs

Securing a Department of Defense (DoD) contract is a significant milestone for tech companies. However, the path to achieving this is complex and often lengthy. Understanding the timeline, sales cycle, and resources needed is crucial for success. Leveraging programs like the DoD’s SBIR/STTR can streamline this process and increase the likelihood of securing a contract.

Continuous Opportunities for Small Businesses

The proliferation of DoD Open Topic and Special Topic SBIR/STTR opportunities means small businesses now have a constant stream of opportunities to pursue. This has led to a scenario where companies can be perpetually engaged in proposal rounds. An added benefit for DoD SBIR/STTR awards is that they are awarded in relatively fast timelines. For Air Force Open Topics, companies can expect to receive a contract award (if selected for award) within 60-75 days after the proposal round closes. That is extremely fast!

Air Force SBIR/STTR Open Topics
2x Phase I SBIRs rounds ($75K each) held in August/September and February/March timeframes
2x Phase I STTRs rounds ($110K each) held in August/September and February/March timeframes
2x Direct to Phase IIs rounds ($1.25M each) held in October/November and April/May timeframes

The success of Air Force Open Topics prompted Congress to require similar programs in the Army and Navy.

Navy SBIR Open Topics
The Navy SBIR “Open Topics” occurs every summer, with this year’s RFP pre-release on June 13, 2024, the proposal window opens on July 11, 2024, and closes on August 14, 2024.

Army SBIR/STTR Open Topics
The Army holds multiple Open Topic opportunities throughout the year via the xTech program. They also have an Open Topic Direct to Phase II round that closes on June 11, 2024.

DoD SBIR/STTR Special Topics
The DoD SBIR/STTR Special Topics occur three times a year, with each round presenting approximately 150-200 specific topics. Funding amounts range from $100K to $2M. The topic pre-release for each round occurs every year in the November, April, and August timeframes, giving small businesses the opportunity to determine which special topics are of interest, ask questions to the Government Technical Point of Contact, and decide if partners are needed. On average, our clients find 1 to 2 special topics each round that are worthwhile pursuing.

While the timeline to secure a DoD contract can be lengthy and complex, understanding the process and leveraging available resources can significantly enhance a tech company’s chances of success. With the right approach and support from experienced guides, tech companies can navigate this landscape effectively and achieve substantial, long-term benefits.


Current DOD Opportunities
Requests for Proposals

Direct to Phase II SBIR
Open Topic for Persistent Experimentation | SBIR.gov

Contract Value: Up to $2M
Proposal Window Open Date: 4 April 2024
Proposal Window Close Date: 11 June 2024

Navy SBIR Open Topic
Navy SBIR

Pre-Release: 13 June 2024
Proposal Window Open Date: 11 June 2024
Proposal Window Close Date: 14 August 2024

xTechSpecial Forces
xTechSpecial Forces | SBIR.gov

Pre-Release: May 1, 2024
Open: Sept 26, 2024
Close: Oct 22, 2024

Upcoming Industry Events

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June 12-13, 2024 | The Sunset Room, National Harbor, MD
Link: Human Performance & Biosystems Summit

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25-27 June, 2024 | Baltimore, MD
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Get To Know Our Team

Sarah Francis is a proposal manager at Sightline Ventures where she assists our DoD Innovation Strategists in creating and submitting exceptional proposal packages using the Shipley Proposal Process. Her expertise ensures that the proposals we lead our clients through are well-structured, organized, and streamlined for a professional and smooth submission to the DoD.

With a degree in Communication from the University of Cincinnati, Sarah brings a fresh perspective to the table. Based in Dallas, TX, she’s always on the lookout for the next great restaurant to try and has found a great community at the Upperroom church. Her favorite part of working with Sightline Ventures is collaborating with people who share her values and goals. She finds immense joy in being surrounded by individuals who prioritize treating everyone with respect and honor.