How to bid on Continuing Human Enabling, Enhancing, Restoring and Sustaining (CHEERS) with the Dept of the Air Force

What the Air Force is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Air Force is seeking research and development in human effectiveness and aerospace medicine. This includes work ranging from basic research to mature technology. This opportunity, called Continuing Human Enabling, Enhancing, Restoring and Sustaining (CHEERS), is important for firms involved in scientific and technological advancements that support human performance and health in aerospace contexts.

The Air Force Research Laboratory, Human Effectiveness Directorate (AFRL/RH) and the United States Air Force School of Medicine (USAFSAM) are using this program to cover a wide range of science and technology needs, helping to move research from initial concepts to practical applications.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This opportunity was published on November 20, 2025. The final deadline for submissions is September 30, 2027, at 5:00 PM ET. It is crucial to submit all required materials before this time.

Note that one specific technical area, Paragraph 3.2, was closed to new proposals until October 2025. Always check the latest updates and amendments to ensure you are responding to open solicitations and technical areas.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms specializing in research and development, particularly those with expertise in human effectiveness, aerospace medicine, and related scientific and technological fields. It covers a broad spectrum, from fundamental research to advanced technology maturation.

The solicitations are issued under various authorities, including Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs), procurement for experimental purposes, and other transaction authorities for research and prototypes. This indicates a wide scope for different types of research and development firms.

How to respond to this solicitation

To respond, you must first review the CHEERS Multiple Authority Announcement (MAA) in conjunction with the specific solicitations. There are three open, two-step solicitations currently accepting white papers: FA238424S2334, FA238424S2335, and FA238424S2336.

The process begins with a white paper submission. Technical questions should be directed to the technical points of contact identified in the announcement or solicitations. General questions can be sent to the CHEERS email organization box: [email protected].

To access the opportunity, click “View original source” on the portal. If you land on the homepage, click it again. You may need a free account to view all documents, though this is not always required.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Given the two-step process starting with a white paper, focus on clearly articulating your proposed approach and its relevance to the Air Force's needs. A strong white paper should concisely present your capabilities and the innovative aspects of your research or technology.

Carefully read all attachments and instructions, especially the Statements of Objectives for the technical areas. Ensure your proposal directly addresses one or more of these areas. Pay close attention to any updates or amendments, such as the moratorium on Technical Area 3.2, to avoid submitting proposals for closed sections.

Since this covers a range from basic research to technology maturation, tailor your response to the specific solicitation and its intended authority. Highlight your firm's experience and past performance in similar projects, demonstrating your ability to deliver on the stated objectives.