How to bid on AF CyberWorx Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) with the Dept of the Air Force

What the Air Force is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Air Force CyberWorx program is looking for innovative commercial technologies and services. The goal is to improve network defense and security, with a specific focus on securing endpoints within enterprise networks. This is an opportunity for businesses to contribute to national defense by offering advanced solutions.

AF CyberWorx aims to rapidly prototype solutions through a human-centered design approach. They are interested in capturing creative and advanced technologies, including dual-use technologies, to enhance the Air Force's technological capabilities. This program also seeks to broaden the defense industrial base by partnering with businesses that can assist in technology transfer and economic development, especially for small businesses.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) is open for Solution Brief submissions until August 9, 2028, at 6:30 PM ET. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis. The CSO will be updated annually and posted to Sam.gov. There is a focused interest period from February 7, 2024, to March 30, 2024, for technologies supporting network defense and security operations.

The deadline of August 9, 2028, marks the end of the submission period for this specific CSO, unless it is superseded earlier. The Air Force will review submitted solution briefs in response to their Areas of Interest (AoI), which are detailed in attachments or posted as separate calls. Awards may be in the form of FAR Part 12 commercial contracts or Other Transactions (OT) for research, prototype, and production.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is well-suited for both traditional and non-traditional defense contractors, including small businesses. The Air Force specifically encourages non-traditional defense contractors and small businesses to submit solution briefs or proposals. A non-traditional defense contractor is defined as an entity that has not performed a DoD contract or subcontract subject to full cost accounting standards coverage for at least one year prior to the solicitation.

Firms in technology categories such as Custom Computer Programming Services, Other Computer Related Services, Software Publishers, Engineering Services, Computer Systems Design Services, and Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) are particularly relevant. The Air Force is looking for innovative technologies, processes, or methods that are new or new applications of existing technologies.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the opportunity, click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view documents, though this is not always required.

Once you have accessed the solicitation, review the full text announcement and any attached documents, especially Attachment 8 and Attachment 2, for details on the Areas of Interest (AoI). Prepare and submit your Solution Brief according to the instructions provided in the full text announcement. Ensure your submission addresses the specific technology objectives and requirements outlined by AF CyberWorx.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Thoroughly read all provided attachments, especially those detailing the Areas of Interest. Understanding the specific problems the Air Force CyberWorx program aims to solve will help you tailor your solution brief effectively. Highlight how your technology or service directly addresses their needs for network defense and endpoint security.

Emphasize the innovative aspects of your proposed solution. The Air Force is looking for new technologies, processes, methods, or new applications of existing ones. Clearly articulate how your offering is innovative and how it can accelerate the attainment of critical defense capabilities. If your firm is a small business or a non-traditional defense contractor, make sure to highlight this in your submission, as these entities are specifically encouraged to participate.

Focus on the commercial viability and potential for rapid prototyping of your solution. The program aims to build rapid prototypes and leverage commercially available technologies. Explain how your solution can be quickly developed, tested, and integrated to improve the user experience for the warfighter.