Topic Q&A

Also called: DSIP Topic Q&A, SITIS

Topic Q&A is the DSIP feature where applicants submit written technical questions about a DoW SBIR/STTR topic and all questions and answers are posted publicly without identifying the people involved.

DSIP is the official portal for DoW SBIR/STTR topic search, Topic Q&A and electronic proposal submission. Once a topic opens, Topic Q&A is the channel for technical questions, since direct contact with topic authors ends.

All questions and answers are posted for general viewing, and the names of the questioner and respondent are not posted. Answers are generally posted within seven business days and are also emailed to the person who asked.

Only technical questions about the topic's requirements are answered. Questions asking for advice on a solution approach, or administrative questions such as eligibility, proposal structure, page count, budget or due dates, will not receive a response.

Read Topic Q&A during both pre-release and the open period, because answers to other firms' questions apply to everyone. Some components set their own process; DARPA's page says open-period questions go to the email address in the topic instructions.