AFWERX SBIR/STTR Phase I
AFWERX (Department of the Air Force SBIR/STTR)·United States
Feasibility study contract of up to $323,000 over up to six months, awarded to U.S. small businesses against published Department of the Air Force topics.
What you get
“Period of Performance: Up to six months. Maximum Award: Up to $323,000”
Can you apply
Eligible Applicants: For-profit U.S. small businesses; 500 or fewer employees, including affiliates; More than 50% owned and controlled by U.S. citizens, permanent resident aliens, or qualifying U.S. entities; Develop innovative dual-use technologies aligned with Department of the Air Force mission needs. SBIR: "Principal investigator's primary employment (more than 50 percent) must be with small business". STTR: Partnership with a U.S. research institution required; "At least 40% of work performed by small business while 30% of work performed by research institution".
When
Open now
- DOW SBIR SPECIFIC TOPIC 26.BX RELEASE 4closes 18 Aug 2026 · 19 days left
What AFWERX (Department of the Air Force SBIR/STTR) funds
AFWERX manages the Department of the Air Force's SBIR and STTR programs, funding U.S. small businesses building dual-use technologies (including AI, autonomy and software) that transition into Air and Space Force operational capabilities. Since 2020 it has awarded more than 9,000 SBIR and STTR contracts totalling $7.31 billion.
Everything AFWERX (Department of the Air Force SBIR/STTR) funds →Details
Phase I asks you to demonstrate the technical merit, feasibility and commercial potential of an innovative solution for a Department of the Air Force stakeholder. Companies that successfully demonstrate scientific and technical merit, along with commercial potential, may compete for Phase II funding. Proposals are submitted through the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP) against solicitations released on a rolling schedule; the schedule is published on afwerx.com and dates are subject to change.