Defense Innovation Unit Commercial Solutions Opening (NEW)
ID: HQ0845-20-S-C001Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEIMMEDIATE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSEDEFENSE INNOVATION UNITMOUNTAIN VIEW, CA, 94043, USA

PSC

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (9999)
Timeline
    Description

    The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) of the Department of Defense is seeking proposals for its Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO), aimed at enhancing military capabilities through innovative commercial technologies. This opportunity invites both traditional and nontraditional defense contractors to submit prototype projects that align with national security objectives, focusing on technologies that contribute to the sustainment of global peace and U.S. national security. The CSO process consists of three phases: submission of a solution brief, a pitch session for selected companies, and a full proposal submission for those invited, with successful prototypes potentially transitioning to production without further competition. Interested parties can find more information and updates on Areas of Interest on the DIU website at https://www.diu.mil/work-with-us, and are encouraged to contact DIU at info@diu.mil for inquiries.

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    The Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) aims to enhance the Department of Defense's (DoD) capabilities through the adoption of innovative commercial technologies. The CSO facilitates partnerships with both traditional and nontraditional contractors via Other Transaction Agreements (OTA) to conduct prototype projects aligned with national security objectives. The CSO process involves three main phases: 1. **Solution Brief**: Companies submit briefs addressing specific Areas of Interest (AOIs), which will be evaluated based on relevance, uniqueness, and feasibility. 2. **Pitch Session**: Selected companies present their proposals to demonstrate their technology's viability. 3. **Full Proposal**: Companies invited to this phase submit detailed proposals including technical and cost elements, which will be assessed for potential award. Additionally, the document outlines requirements for submissions, evaluation criteria, and the iterative nature of prototype projects that allow for adaptability. Successful prototypes may transition to production without further competition. This CSO underscores DIU's commitment to leveraging commercial innovation for military effectiveness while ensuring streamlined processes for vendors unfamiliar with government solicitations.
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