Preparing for DOD SBIR/STTR solicitations involves strategic planning and proactive steps during both the pre-release and the open periods.
Key Dates for SBIR 24.3 and STTR 24.C: The proposal submission system will stop accepting proposals at 12 pm Eastern. This is a firm deadline (no grace period). If your submission is late, you will not be able to submit again until the next window and only if there is a matching topic. Proposers are strongly urged to submit well in advance of the deadline.
Pre-Release Date – August 21, 2024
Open Date – September 18, 2024
Close date – October 16, 2024
Once the solicitation opens, focus on refining and finalizing your proposal. Here’s what you should be doing:
- Refine Technical and Business Plans:
- Update your proposal based on any feedback or new information obtained during the pre-release period.
- Ensure that your technical approach is clearly articulated and aligned with the requirements outlined in the solicitation.
- Focus on Compliance and Requirements:
- Pay close attention to the solicitation’s instructions regarding proposal format, content, and submission guidelines. Non-compliance can lead to disqualification.
- Use checklists to ensure that all required sections and documents are included and meet the agency’s specifications.
- Finalize Partnerships and Teaming Arrangements:
- If your proposal involves partnerships or subcontractors, finalize all agreements and ensure that roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.
- Secure letters of support or commitment from partners that can be included in your proposal.
- Develop a Robust Budget:
- Prepare a detailed budget that aligns with the project’s scope and objectives. Justify each budget item clearly to demonstrate the need and relevance to the project goals.
- Ensure that the budget is realistic and adheres to the funding limits specified in the solicitation.
- Review and Polish Your Proposal:
- Conduct thorough reviews and revisions of your proposal to enhance clarity, coherence, and persuasiveness.
- Consider seeking feedback from colleagues or mentors who have experience with SBIR/STTR proposals.
- Plan for Early Submission:
- Aim to submit your proposal before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues or submission errors. We recommend at least 48 hours in advance.
- Verify that all submission components are complete and uploaded correctly to the submission portal.
Additional Resources
- DoD SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP): A key resource for finding detailed instructions, topic areas, and submission guidelines.
- SBIR.gov: Provides comprehensive information on SBIR/STTR programs, including tips for proposal preparation and submission (SBIR.gov).
By following these best practices, potential clients can significantly enhance their chances of success in the SBIR/STTR programs. If you need further guidance or specific information about any of these steps, feel free to ask!
Solicitation Schedule (Dates are subject to change)
| FY 2024 DoD SBIR/STTR Solicitation Schedule | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Solicitation Cycle | Announcement Period | ||
| Pre-Release Date | Open Date | Close Date | |
| STTR 24.A/SBIR 24.1 | |||
| STTR 24.B/SBIR 24.2 | |||
| SBIR 24.3/STTR 24.C | Aug 21, 2024 | Sep 18, 2024 | Oct 16, 2024 |
| FY 2025 DoD SBIR/STTR Solicitation Schedule | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Solicitation Cycle | Announcement Period | ||
| Pre-Release Date | Open Date | Close Date | |
| SBIR 25.1/STTR 25.A | Dec 4, 2024 | Jan 8, 2025 | Feb 5, 2025 |
| SBIR 25.2/STTR 25.B | Apr 2, 2025 | Apr 23, 2025 | May 21, 2025 |
| STTR 25.C/SBIR 25.3 | Aug 19, 2025 | Sep 16, 2025 | Oct 14, 2025 |
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