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The Department of Defense (DoD) operates the largest SBIR program by number of awards, funding thousands of small businesses each year to develop technologies for national defense. If your company is developing technologies with defense applications, DoD SBIR should be a primary funding target.
DoD SBIR award amounts vary by component, but typical ranges for each SBIR phase are:
Multiple DoD components issue their own SBIR solicitations:
Unlike NIH's open solicitation, DoD publishes specific topics describing exactly what technology they need. Each topic has:
Some DoD components also offer open topics that accept proposals on any defense-relevant technology, similar to NSF's open approach.
DoD typically releases SBIR solicitations 2-3 times per year. The submission window is usually 30-60 days from solicitation opening. Understanding the full SBIR timeline helps you plan your DoD proposal development.
DoD evaluates proposals on three main criteria (avoiding common mistakes is essential):
The Topic Point of Contact (TPOC) is the person who wrote the topic and will likely be involved in evaluation. Contacting the TPOC before submitting to clarify requirements and gauge interest is strongly encouraged and can significantly improve your proposal.
DoD cares deeply about transition, meaning getting your technology into actual military use. Your proposal must include a realistic Phase III plan showing how the technology will be acquired by a military customer.
Many DoD topics involve controlled or classified information. Be aware of ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) requirements and whether the topic requires security clearances. Companies with foreign ownership considerations should pay special attention to these requirements.
DoD SBIR budgets should be lean and focused. Unlike NIH, which has higher standard amounts, DoD Phase I awards can be as low as $50,000. Make sure your proposed work fits within the funding level.
DoD requires SAM.gov registration and a DSIP (Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal) account. Some topics may also require DUNS number or additional registrations.
DoD SBIR success rates vary by component but generally range from 15-25% for Phase I. DARPA topics tend to be more competitive, while some service-specific topics may have higher success rates due to fewer applicants.
| Feature | DoD | NIH | NSF |
|---|---|---|---|
| Award Type | Contract | Grant | Grant |
| Topics | Specific | Open (any health) | Open (any tech) |
| Phase I | $50K-$250K | $275K | $275K |
| Phase III | Strong pathway | Commercial only | Commercial only |
| Speed | 3-6 months | 6-9 months | 4-6 months |
DoD also funds STTR proposals requiring collaboration with a research institution.
Some DoD components allow Direct to Phase II proposals for companies that can demonstrate Phase I-level feasibility.
DoD's RIF program provides funding for technology transition projects that can reach the warfighter within 2 years.
DoD SBIR has unique requirements around defense technology, contracting, and transition planning. An experienced SBIR grant writer who understands DoD culture can help you navigate this process. Remember, SBIR funding is non-dilutive and does not need to be repaid.
Contact MJP Grant Consulting to discuss your DoD SBIR strategy and get started with a free consultation.
