Bid guide
How to bid on the Disruptioneering Program Announcement from the DEPT of Defense
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Defense Sciences Office (DSO) is looking for innovative, high-risk, high-payoff research ideas in science and engineering. These ideas should have the potential to support national security and lead to prototype demonstrations.
This announcement, called the Disruptioneering Program, will issue individual Disruption Opportunity (DO) topics. The goal is to quickly start unclassified research efforts, aiming for less than 120 days from the initial idea to project start. This is a chance for vendors to propose cutting-edge research that could have a significant impact.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This opportunity was published on September 11, 2026. The deadline for responses is October 30, 2026, at 7:59 PM Eastern Time. All proposals must be submitted by this deadline.
After the deadline, DARPA DSO will evaluate the submitted proposals for the specific Disruption Opportunity topics issued under this announcement. The aim is to rapidly move promising concepts into research and prototype development.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms and research organizations specializing in professional services, particularly those with strong capabilities in science and engineering research and development. Vendors should be prepared to propose high-risk, high-payoff concepts that align with national security applications.
The focus on rapid initiation and prototype demonstration means this is ideal for entities that can quickly mobilize and execute innovative research projects.
How to respond
To access the full details of this solicitation, 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. However, for many bids, an account is not required to access the information.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
When preparing your response, clearly articulate the scientific and engineering novelty of your proposed research. Emphasize the potential for high impact and how your idea could lead to a demonstrable prototype.
Focus on the 'high-risk, high-payoff' aspect, explaining both the challenges and the significant benefits if successful. Ensure your proposal directly addresses the specific technical domains and research topics of interest that will be outlined in the individual Disruption Opportunity topics issued under this announcement.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA); the original posting controls.