How to bid on the Defense Sciences Office (DSO) Office-wide BAA from DARPA

What DARPA is buying and why it matters

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Defense Sciences Office (DSO) is seeking proposals for innovative research. They are interested in approaches that lead to revolutionary advancements in science, devices, or systems for national security. This is an opportunity for firms with groundbreaking ideas, not those offering minor improvements to existing solutions.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on August 28, 2026. The deadline for proposals is August 27, 2027, at 12:00 PM ET. All proposals must be submitted by this time.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for organizations capable of conducting advanced research in physical sciences, engineering, and life sciences. DARPA is looking for revolutionary concepts, making it ideal for firms focused on cutting-edge innovation rather than incremental development. This falls under the professional services category.

How to access and respond to this solicitation

To access the full solicitation, you will need to click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though this is not always required for every bid.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

When responding to a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) like this, clearly articulate the revolutionary nature of your proposed research. Emphasize how your approach goes beyond evolutionary improvements and offers significant advancements for national security. Focus on the scientific merit and technical feasibility of your innovative concepts.

Ensure your proposal directly addresses DARPA's interest in groundbreaking science, devices, or systems. Provide a clear and concise explanation of your methodology and expected outcomes. Review all solicitation documents carefully to understand specific submission requirements and evaluation criteria.