The SBIR/STTR programs were created to leverage commercial technology to deliver better capability to the warfighter, faster. This dual-use approach establishes an easy open door that enables the federal government to solve problems using existing and emerging commercial solutions.
Typically, an SBIR/STTR solicitation asks for solutions to a specific problem identified by the federal agency themselves. The Air Force, however, seeks to expand these opportunities available to companies with potential dual-use technologies through the Open Topic. With this year’s 22.2D solicitation opening this month, we wanted to take the time to break down everything you need to know about the Open Topic, including proposal requirements and preparing your winning submission.
Open Topic Vs. Specific Topic
Specific topic solicitations occur more frequently, with about three submission cycles every year. These solicitations include topics determined by the Air Force that seek an innovative solution to a specific defense problem. While these are more typical in the SBIR/STTR programs, specific topics also can be more difficult to win because companies must fit their technology to a specific problem already outlined by the Air Force.
The Open Topic solicitations, however, look for non-defense commercial solutions that can be adapted to meet an Air Force need outlined by the small business (with support from AF through MOUs and LOSs). While less frequent than specific topic solicitations, we highlight the Open Topic as the best SBIR/STTR opportunity because it gives businesses a chance to tell the Air Force why their tech is needed, instead of the other way around. It gives more responsibility and individuality to small businesses and is the time for companies to really show off their technological solutions and capabilities.
SBIR Vs. STTR Open Topic
Both programs operate on a single solicitation, an open call for businesses to bring tools and technology the Air Force didn’t think to ask for. Both are also open to startups and small businesses with less than 500 employees that are majority American-owned.
The difference is that, unlike SBIR, the STTR program requires the business to partner with a university, research center, or non-profit development organization that will perform at least 30% of the proposed work. The business must perform at least 40% of the proposed work.
Evaluation Criteria for the Air Force Open Topic
The Air Force takes into account specific criteria for determining which Open Topic proposals are relevant and needed solutions for Defense capabilities. We’ve identified three areas that are vital for meeting these criteria: commercialization potential, defense need, and technical merit.
Commercialization Potential:
To meet this criterion, your proposal must indicate how your solution performs commercially.
Our proposal recommendations…
-Include a record of SBIR or other research, as indicated by pre-sales, pilots, sales, revenue, active users, subscriptions, downloads, and/or other forms of traction/adoption.
-Phase II follow-on commitments for the subject research.
Defense Need:
To meet this criterion, your proposal must define and emphasize the specific Air Force need for which your technology provides a solution.
Our proposal recommendations…
-While not required, we highly recommend securing signed letters of support from Air Force customers and/or end-users. Letters of support indicate the suitability, relevance, and specificity of a Defense need.
-Previous investment directly supporting the proposed effort may also be indicative of the relevance and depth of an Air Force need.
Technical Merit:
To meet this criterion, your proposal must describe the capabilities of your technology.
We recommend including…
-The soundness and innovation of the proposed approach as well as its distinction from current customer alternatives
-Defined incremental progress toward fulfilling the identified Defense need
-Include the proposed Principal Investigators/Project Managers, supporting staff, and consultants’ qualifications to execute the proposed approach
Tips & Tricks to Submit a Winning Proposal
1. Clearly state what the Research & Development aspects of your proposal are.
2. Ensure you are getting the right signatures on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs).
3. Have a bought in TPOC for your Defense need (Get LOSs and MOUs).
4. Talk about the success of your commercial product/technology/service in numbers!
5. Leverage real stories about your technology’s impact and how it can be applied to the DoD.
How to Win Funding from the Open Topic
As you can see, the Open Topic opportunity is one of the best ways to get your foot into the Air Force’s door. The Air Force is serious about partnerships and wants your help to develop technology that addresses important national security problems. The Open Topic program allows innovative U.S. companies to provide practical solutions through their commercial products and services while providing the Air Force with a competitive advantage in its missions.
The Outpost has helped clients win over $250M in non-dilutive funding and contract awards in just the past two years, as well as secured over 100 signed MOUs. Your company could be the next to win big from the Open Topic solicitation and beyond.
The Outpost can help you submit a proposal to the AF Open Topic with help from contracting experts, including the pioneers of AFWERX and SpaceWERX. Contact us today to get started!
