If you’re in the SBIR/STTR world, you’re likely already aware that the Department of Defense (DoD) offers a wide array of funding opportunities through its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. These programs are specifically structured to provide small businesses with the financial support needed to develop innovative solutions that address critical defense needs. However, there’s a new update for fiscal year 2025 that you’ll want to note: new topics are now released on the first Wednesday of each month, and each monthly release has its own set of deadlines. This means your window of opportunity will be unique for each topic, adding a new layer of strategic planning for potential applicants.
What’s New in the DoD SBIR/STTR BAA for FY25?
The DoD SBIR/STTR Program Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) has seen some significant restructuring this fiscal year. This update to the BAA was designed to streamline the submission and review process, ensuring that high-quality proposals from small businesses can be reviewed and funded more efficiently. You can review the full BAA on the official DoD SBIR/STTR portal here. If you’re considering submitting a proposal, familiarizing yourself with these changes will be invaluable to ensure a smooth application experience.
Release 2 for SBIR 25.4 and STTR 25.D Now Available
As of November 6, 2024, the DoD has officially published the Release 2 topics for SBIR 25.4 and STTR 25.D. This release includes twelve new topics with participation from various DoD agencies, including the Army, DARPA, DLA, DMEA, and OSD-SCO. Whether you’re a tech startup focused on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, advanced materials, or another field aligned with DoD priorities, there may be a new opportunity here that matches your area of expertise.
Key Dates to Remember
Managing deadlines is essential in the DoD SBIR/STTR program, especially with the new release schedule. Here are some of the critical dates to keep in mind for the upcoming solicitations:
- DoD SBIR 25.4 BAA Release 1: Closes November 20, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. ET.
- DoD SBIR 25.4 & DoD STTR 25.D Release 2:
- Pre-release: November 6, 2024
- Open: December 4, 2024
- Close: January 8, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. ET
- DoD SBIR 25.4 & STTR 25.D Release 3 and DoD SBIR 25.1 & STTR 25.A:
- Pre-release: December 4, 2024
- Open: January 8, 2025
- Close: February 5, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. ET
For a full view of the FY25 solicitation schedule, visit the DoD SBIR/STTR portal to make sure your proposal timing aligns with upcoming release and close dates.
Resources to Support Your Proposal Process
The DoD has also expanded its resources to support small businesses in navigating the SBIR/STTR proposal process. Here are some essential tools and guides available to help you succeed:
- Section 6.2 of the 25.4 BAA: Outlines how to submit technical and administrative questions during the pre-release and open periods. Be mindful that only questions submitted through the proper channels will be addressed.
- Learning & Support Section: Here, you’ll find helpful job aids and videos on preparing and submitting proposals via the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP).
- DSIP Customer Support Guide: Provides additional assistance for using DSIP, addressing technical issues, and ensuring your proposal is completed to the program’s standards.
Need Assistance?
For further support with the DSIP system or if you encounter technical issues, you can reach out to the DoD SBIR/STTR Support Team at DoDSBIRSupport@reisystems.com. Remember to include details about your small business, proposal number (if applicable), and screenshots of any errors to help them resolve your issue efficiently. If you need assistance with proposal prep, check out our services and reach out to us to schedule a consult call.
The DoD SBIR/STTR program continues to be a tremendous opportunity for small businesses aiming to contribute to national defense through innovation. With the new monthly release schedule and updated resources, your next chance to make an impact could be right around the corner!
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