National Security Innovation Capital (NSIC) - Commercial Acceleration Opportunity (CAO)
ID: HQ0845-24-S-N001Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

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

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)

PSC

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS (9999)
Timeline
    Description

    Special Notice: DEPT OF DEFENSE - National Security Innovation Capital (NSIC) - Commercial Acceleration Opportunity (CAO)

    The Department of Defense's Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is seeking technology startups developing dual-use hardware products and materials for national security and commercial applications. The National Security Innovation Capital (NSIC) program aims to address the lack of private investment in these startups by providing funding to further develop their products. NSIC is specifically looking to award Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) to startups at various stages of prototype development. The resulting products will have value in both commercial markets and defense applications, enhancing the mission effectiveness of military personnel and supporting platforms, systems, components, or materials acquired or developed by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). Interested parties can submit Pitch Decks under the Topics of Interest listed on the NSIC website. This Commercial Acceleration Opportunity (CAO) is continuously open for submissions throughout the year, but the availability of funds may limit awards in specific areas. The goal is to ensure competitive procedures are used for these prototype projects, satisfying the competition requirements outlined in 10 U.S.C. § 4022 (b)(2). For more information, visit the NSIC website at https://www.nsic.mil/.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Charles Park
    cpark@diu.mil
    Cherissa Tamayori
    ctamayori@diu.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The National Security Innovation Capital (NSIC) has revised its Commercial Acceleration Opportunity (CAO) with Amendment 0002, effective May 6, 2024, to bolster development of dual-use hardware technologies necessary for national security and commercial markets. The CAO process involves three stages: submitting a Pitch Deck, participating in Pitch Sessions, and preparing a proposal for an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA), with potential for follow-on production agreements contingent on successful prototype outcomes. Companies interested in the CAO must meet specific criteria, including being an independent technology startup, and comply with guidelines for submission and evaluation throughout the process.
    Similar Opportunities
    Defense Innovation Unit Commercial Solutions Opening
    Buyer not available
    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 can improve the effectiveness of military personnel and their supporting systems. The CSO process includes a three-phase evaluation: submission of solution briefs, pitch sessions for selected companies, and detailed proposals for those invited to the final phase. 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 reach out to the DIU Acquisition Directorate at acquisition@diu.mil for inquiries.
    Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
    Buyer not available
    Special Notice DEPT OF DEFENSE DEPT OF THE ARMY is seeking proposals for innovative, commercial technologies that enhance the mission effectiveness of military personnel and supporting platforms. The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is interested in awarding funding agreements to nontraditional and traditional defense contractors for prototype projects. The projects aim to improve platforms, systems, components, or materials used by the Department of Defense or the Armed Forces of the United States. The DIU has released a streamlined Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) for this purpose. Interested parties with innovative technological solutions or enhancements are encouraged to visit the DIU website for more information on the proposal process. The submission period for solution briefs will be open for a limited time. Visit the DIU website for updates.
    Agility Prime Innovative Capabilities Opening (ICO) Transformative Vertical Flight
    Buyer not available
    Special Notice DEPT OF DEFENSE DEPT OF THE AIR FORCE: Agility Prime Innovative Capabilities Opening (ICO) Transformative Vertical Flight The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking prototype projects from both traditional and nontraditional defense contractors. The purpose of these projects is to assess the transformative vertical flight market and Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) technologies. The goal is to establish a collaborative strategy with industry and investors to accelerate the fielding of the most promising technologies for both government and potential commercial use. The focus of this effort is on emerging electric VTOL (eVTOL) and urban/advanced air mobility (UAM/AAM) aircraft, although alternative technologies will also be considered. These aircraft may incorporate non-traditional electric or hybrid propulsion and can be used for manned or optionally manned missions, with various control options such as onboard pilot, remote pilot, or autonomous control. The core technologies of interest include distributed propulsion for vertical flight, potential use of a wing for horizontal flight, augmented flight control systems, and high levels of automation or autonomy. The government aims to test the hypothesis that these aircraft could revolutionize mobility by offering lower maintenance costs, improved safety, affordability, improved acoustics, and greater flexibility compared to other ground and air vehicles. The government is particularly interested in scenarios outside of urban environments that could potentially open a broad public-use market for early government adoption. These aircraft, referred to as ORBs, have the potential to support a variety of missions such as organic resupply for disaster relief, operational readiness, and diverse military and civilian operations. The government may award one or more Other Transactions for Prototype (OTP) agreements based on evaluations and funds availability. The OTP agreements will be negotiated for prototype project delivery, and if successful, may lead to follow-on production agreements. The government is also open to innovative business arrangements or structures that would not be feasible under a traditional contract. This opening is a competitive solicitation that will be continuously open until February 28, 2025. The government reserves the right to award OTPs based on information learned during this offering. Interested parties should regularly check https://beta.sam.gov for new Areas of Interest (AOIs) postings. For full announcement details, please refer to the attachments section.
    Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) - Other Transactions for Prototype Projects
    Buyer not available
    The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is inviting proposals for its Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) HC108425S0001, aimed at fostering innovative commercial technologies through prototype projects. This initiative seeks to partner with both traditional and nontraditional defense contractors, as well as nonprofit organizations, to enhance defense capabilities while bypassing standard Federal Acquisition Regulations under the authority of 10 U.S.C. § 4022. The CSO outlines a three-phase evaluation process that includes submitting Solution Briefs, participating in Pitch sessions, and submitting full proposals for selected candidates, emphasizing technical merit and innovation aligned with specific Areas of Interest (AOIs). Interested parties can reach out to the DITCO OTA Mailbox at disa.scott.ditco.mbx.ps84-other-transaction-authority@mail.mil for further information, noting that awards will depend on available funding and may lead to follow-on production contracts for successful prototypes.
    WHS/AD/DIU Commercial Solutions Opening
    Buyer not available
    Special Notice DEPT OF DEFENSE WASHINGTON HEADQUARTERS SERVICES (WHS) is seeking proposals for innovative, commercial technologies that accelerate attainment of asymmetric defense capabilities. The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) aims to award funding agreements to nontraditional and traditional defense contractors for prototype projects that enhance the mission effectiveness of military personnel and supporting platforms. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the DIU website for more information on presenting their solutions and securing agreements under this Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) Program.
    NEEDIPEDIA - COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS OPENING - CSO
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Intelligence Agency, is soliciting innovative ideas and solutions under the NEEDIPEDIA - Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) initiative, identified by solicitation number HHM402-23-SC-0002. This opportunity invites participation from a diverse range of contributors, including large and small businesses, independent consultants, and academic institutions, to enhance operational efficiency and technological capabilities in support of national and international mission requirements. The initiative emphasizes the importance of innovative approaches, particularly in areas such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, to improve existing practices and address associated risks. Interested parties can reach out to Tamara Yockey at tamara.yockey@dodiis.mil or call 703-735-6377 for further information. Submissions must adhere to specific guidelines, including a two-page white paper format, and are due by the specified deadlines outlined in the solicitation documents.
    OUSD R&E Seeks Industry Collaboration to Close Critical Capability Gaps
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense (DoD) issues a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) under the auspices of the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD R&E). The goal is to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative technologies to address critical capability gaps in defense applications. This opportunity seeks to foster collaboration between the DoD and industry partners. The focus is on exchanging developmental capabilities and maturing technologies, specifically those falling within Technology Readiness Levels 3 through 7. The DoD aims to establish non-funded Information Exchange Agreements (IEAs) to facilitate the exchange of technical information. Additionally, Other Transaction (OT) agreements will be considered for research, prototyping, and potential follow-on production. The BAA encourages submissions from a diverse range of organizations, including large businesses, small disadvantaged businesses, and minority institutions. These submissions should address specific Capability Focus Areas (CFA) detailed in periodic amendments. The initial CFA seeks concepts and technologies for assured space operations and improved multi-domain collaborative autonomy. Interested parties should submit concise white papers or presentations outlining their concepts, technologies, or solutions. White papers should be limited to two pages, while presentations should not exceed four pages. Submissions will be evaluated based on their relevance, technical merit, and alignment with the DoD's objectives and mission. The BAA will remain open for one year, and amendments containing new CFAs will be posted with a 45-day deadline for submissions. Virtual Industry Day is scheduled for June 28, 2024, providing an opportunity for potential applicants to gain further clarification and insight. For general inquiries, contact the Washington Headquarters Services (WHS) RPAB through the provided email address. Technical questions should be directed to the designated Technical Point of Contact. Ensure that all submissions and inquiries reference the BOTA number HQ003424BOTA1.
    DIU NATIONAL ONRAMP REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), is seeking information to develop a cooperative agreement for its National OnRamp initiative aimed at enhancing support for warfighter needs by engaging non-traditional and commercial technology firms. The initiative focuses on establishing and managing OnRamp Hubs across five geographic locations, with plans for further expansion, to facilitate collaboration and optimize the integration of dual-use technologies. Interested parties are invited to respond to this Request for Information (RFI) by November 15, providing insights on organizational capabilities and experiences relevant to managing the National OnRamp, with submissions becoming government property upon receipt. For further inquiries, contact Michael John Fanizzo at michael.j.fanizzo.civ@mail.mil.
    SAF/CDM Commercial Solutions Opening
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Secretary of the Air Force Concepts Development and Management (SAF/CDM), is soliciting innovative commercial solutions via the Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) FA7146-21-S-C001. This initiative aims to acquire cutting-edge technologies and services that address defense-related activities, with a focus on closing capability gaps and enhancing technological advancements. The CSO follows a two-step process requiring interested vendors to first submit a White Paper for preliminary evaluation, with the open period for submissions lasting until September 1, 2025, and the final proposal submission deadline set for September 30, 2025. For further inquiries, interested parties can contact Kevin T. Adams at kevin.adams.20@us.af.mil or by phone at (301) 203-4766.
    Strategic Capabilities Office Broad Agency Announcement
    Buyer not available
    Solicitation DEPT OF DEFENSE Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO) is seeking research submissions for funding consideration in the five areas of technical interest. SCO is an organization within the Office of the Secretary of Defense that focuses on identifying, analyzing, and prototyping disruptive applications of new systems, unconventional uses of existing systems, and implementing emerging technologies to create operational strategic effects. The purpose of this Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) is to solicit research submissions for procurement contracts and Other Transaction (OT) agreements for research or prototypes. The BAA is issued under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) parts 6.102(d)(2) and 35.016. The SCO aims to deliver capabilities in 3-5 years to address high priority operational and strategic challenges.