DARPA

Also called: Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, DARPA SBPO, DARPA Small Business Programs Office

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is a DoW (formerly DoD) agency that makes early investments in breakthrough technology for national security and awards SBIR and STTR contracts through its Small Business Programs Office.

DARPA's stated mission is to make strategic, early investments in breakthrough science and technology with long-term effects on national security. Its SBIR and STTR awards are competitive contracts managed by its Small Business Programs Office (SBPO).

DARPA posts its SBIR and STTR topics in the DoW SBIR/STTR BAA on DSIP (dodsbirsttr.mil). All proposals must be prepared and submitted through DSIP, following the announcement and the topic's instructions.

DARPA's component instructions in the 2026 DoW BAAs say DSIP Topic Q&A is not available for DARPA topics, so read those instructions for how DARPA handles technical questions. DARPA suggests starting with DARPAConnect, which offers on-demand webinars, coaching and mentoring.