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.
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