1. Up to $1.8 Million with AFWERX
The AFWERX Direct to Phase II (D2P2) program is an innovative funding initiative designed to accelerate the development of high-impact solutions for the U.S. Air Force.
D2P2 provides an opportunity for small businesses and non-traditional contractors to receive funding for technology prototypes and solutions that align with Air Force needs, bypassing the Phase I feasibility study. The program encourages companies with proven concepts to scale quickly, with a focus on dual-use technologies that have both commercial and defense applications.
Through this fast-tracked process, D2P2 enables quicker deployment of cutting-edge technologies, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation within the defense ecosystem.
The next submission deadline is March 6, 2025 where the D2P2 award offers up to $1.8 million in funding over a 27-month period, allowing companies to develop, test, and refine solutions that address critical U.S. Air Force needs.
Read more here.
2. Up to $1.1 Million from DOE SBIR
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will release the second round of topics for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs on November 12, 2024.
These programs offer funding opportunities for small businesses to engage in research and development on advanced energy-related technologies. Eligible small businesses can apply for Phase I grants, which provide up to $200,000 to support initial R&D efforts over approximately 6-12 months. Successful Phase I projects may then qualify for Phase II grants, offering up to $1.1 million to continue development over a two-year period.
This funding aims to empower small businesses to advance energy innovation, enhancing both technological progress and economic growth in the U.S.
Stay tuned for more details on this transformative funding opportunity here.
Featured Winner
Flawless Photonics NSF Phase I
award of $275K:
ZBLAN Fiber Manufacturing Innovation
Flawless Photonics has secured an NSF Phase I grant to advance the production of ZBLAN optical fibers, which have superior transmission capabilities compared to traditional silica.
The project focuses on overcoming the challenges of manufacturing defect-free ZBLAN, especially in space, where microgravity enables the creation of fibers with minimal light-scattering defects. By developing automated systems for both terrestrial and in-space production, Flawless Photonics aims to revolutionize optical technologies for telecommunications, fiber lasers, and sensors, unlocking significant potential in the optical transmission industry.
Read more here →