Bid guide
How to bid on the Enterprise Prototype Initiative Consortium (EPIC) for the DEPT of Defense
What the agency is buying and why a vendor would care
The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in Rome, NY, is seeking whitepapers for the Enterprise Prototype Initiative Consortium (EPIC). This is an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) for prototype projects. The goal is to speed up prototyping and testing of capabilities across all technology areas relevant to AFRL, helping to sustain U.S. military technological advantage and reduce costs for defense information systems.
This opportunity is structured as an Indefinite Delivery Vehicle (IDV) with a 120-month project ordering period, allowing for project performance up to 24 months after the ordering period ends. Individual Project Level Orders (PLOs) will be awarded on a Firm-Fixed Price basis. Successful completion of PLOs could lead to sole-source, follow-on production contracts or OTs.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The solicitation was published on August 03, 2026. Whitepapers must be submitted by August 12, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET. At this deadline, the government will stop accepting whitepapers for initial evaluation.
It is important to note that the government is only soliciting whitepapers at this time. Do not submit a formal proposal. After whitepapers are evaluated and deemed selectable, proposals will be requested from chosen offerors. The government is not responsible for costs incurred during whitepaper or proposal preparation.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms capable of coordinated prototyping and testing programs across various technology areas. The OTA is for prototype projects and requires participation from at least one nontraditional defense contractor or nonprofit research institution, or that all significant participants are small businesses or nontraditional defense contractors. Alternatively, at least one-third of the total project cost must be paid by non-federal funds, or exceptional circumstances must be determined by the senior procurement executive.
The lead entity for the OTA is expected to deliver reports, though software, hardware, or technical data may be required in unique situations. Project-Level Performers will be expected to deliver technical solutions, including software, hardware, and/or technical data. Foreign participation is not allowed at either the lead or project levels.
How to respond
To access the opportunity, click “View original source” on the portal. 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, prepare and submit your whitepaper according to the instructions provided. Remember, only whitepapers are being requested at this stage, not full proposals.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Focus your whitepaper on clearly describing your approach to meeting the EPIC program objectives. Since formal proposals will only be requested after whitepaper evaluation, ensure your whitepaper is compelling and demonstrates a strong understanding of the AFRL's needs and the program's goals.
Highlight your firm's experience with prototyping and testing, especially in areas relevant to AFRL. If applicable, emphasize your status as a small business or nontraditional defense contractor, or your ability to meet the cost-sharing requirements. Clearly articulate your proposed technical solutions and how they align with the objective of sustaining U.S. military technological advantage.
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 DEPT of Defense; the original posting controls.