DARPA-PA-26-02-01 outlines mandatory instructions for abstract submissions to the Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) QBI 2026 Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) QBIT program. Abstracts, limited to five pages, must be unclassified or CUI and adhere to specific formatting. Proposers must submit an abstract before a full proposal to receive rapid feedback from DARPA, either inviting a full proposal or providing a rationale for non-invitation. A favorable abstract response doesn't guarantee an award. Submissions must be made via the Broad Agency Announcement Tool by the due date. The template includes a cover sheet requiring organizational details, POCs, team members, and requested funds. The abstract content should detail technical expertise in quantum computer IV&V, facilities, equipment, personnel estimates, and an estimated budget, along with a bibliography.

DARPA's Quantum Benchmarking Initiative Topic (QBIT) seeks innovative infrastructure and expertise for Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) support for its Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI). QBI aims to determine if emerging quantum computing approaches can achieve industrially useful operation faster than predicted. The IV&V effort will assess fault-tolerant quantum computer concepts and prototypes across the entire quantum computing stack, including use-case definition, systems engineering, and device testing. DARPA invites various stakeholders with relevant expertise in areas like systems engineering, high-performance computing, quantum information science, and hardware design. Proposals will be evaluated on their value add to existing QBI IV&V efforts, technical feasibility, scientific validation, and budget. Abstracts are due September 1, 2026, and full proposals by October 15, 2026, with awards expected to be Other Transactions for Research projects. FFRDCs, UARCs, and government entities are encouraged to contact DARPA directly.