USAF Offers Fast Funding for Startups

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) funding is the backbone of many startups beginnings and has been a great contributor to technological breakthroughs. Engineering and tech focused innovation is often notoriously expensive to develop and scale, providing an obstacle that many great ideas falter on. Through the collaboration of United States military innovation budgets, and a variety of government supported initiatives, new programs can provide the funding that technology startups need.


The United States Air Force has a new open-topic solicitation called AFWERX (20.3) that asks startups to put forward their civilian tech that could also be used for military applications. BEFORE YOU FREAK OUT about working with the military, think of how your solution could be applied for peaceful solutions such as packaging of vaccines, environmentally smart transportation, etc.

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. 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.

Learn more about AFWERX or check out the video below for a brief explanation!

For companies who want to join the AFWERX “ecosystem,” participate in their networking events, and uncover amazing opportunities, join AFWERX!


The following opportunities are also available through AFVentures and the SBIR Open Topic:

  • Many Small Bets (Phase I) - “A simple, open door for innovation"

    • Up to $50,000 per award | 1000-1500 awards per year | Three solicitations per year

  • Some Medium Bets (Phase II)

    • Up to $750K per award matched funding encouraged | 300-500 awards per year

  • A Few Big Bets (Strategic Financing)

    • Up to $15M (SBIR) Awards | 20+ Awards per year | 1:1:2 Program-SBIR-Private Matching | Annual Solicitation

Adrian Dolatschko