Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)

Now’s the time to do business with the Air Force

Through a competitive awards-based program, the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program enables small businesses to explore their technological potential and provides the incentive to profit from its commercialization.

AFWERX, in partnership with Air Force Research Lab (AFRL), and the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN), developed the SBIR Open Topics to increase the efficiency, effectiveness, and transition rate of the SBIR program.

With the initiation of open innovation topics, through work with AFWERX, Air Force SBIR contracts are being issued with unprecedented expediency. Since the introduction of the Open Topic in late 2018 through August 2019, we have received more than 2900 submissions, awarded more than 900 contracts worth a combined total of approximately $220 million.

Apply to SBIR AF X20.R

The application period for the upcoming SBIR Direct to Phase II Open Topic with a COVID-19 Interest Area is open from March 30 to April 30 at 12 p.m. EST, 2020. Visit the beta.SAM solicitation for application resources and apply on the DSIP portal.

If your solution addresses one of the SBIR COVID-19 Interest Areas, please send an email to COVID@afwerx.af.mil with the subject line “SBIR 20.R - [Firm Name]” with a brief description of your proposed solution.