Nudging Behaviors for Better Sleep
STTR Opportunity Analysis
The Department of the Navy is seeking an STTR solution to develop personalized and adaptive behavioral nudges that improve sleep outcomes and human performance using commercial off-the-shelf wearable devices. The work centers on software and algorithms that combine behavioral theory, AI/ML, and human-centered communication to deliver subtle, real-time interventions based on physiological, cognitive, and contextual data. It calls for Phase I research plans and feasibility evidence, followed by a Phase II prototype with sailors, usability and effectiveness evaluation, and testing that relies on existing sensor ecosystems rather than new hardware. Phase I prohibits formal human subject research, while Phase II requires appropriate human research approvals before work can proceed. The topic is DON26TZ01-NV016 under solicitation 26.TZ, with applications due June 3, 2026 at 4:00 PM UTC.