Bid guide
How to bid on research interests of the United States Air Force Academy
What the Air Force Academy is buying
The Department of the Air Force, specifically the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA), is looking to fund research in physical, engineering, and life sciences. They are interested in unclassified research white papers and proposals.
This opportunity is a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), which means the Air Force Academy is seeking innovative solutions to current and future research needs. Awards can be made as contracts, grants, or other agreements. Cost sharing is allowed but not required.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This solicitation was published on January 12, 2026. The deadline for submissions is December 02, 2030, at 6:00 PM ET. This is a long-term opportunity, and the Air Force Academy will publish separate "calls" periodically, detailing specific research topics.
The Air Force Academy reserves the right to select and fund all, some, or none of the white papers or proposals received. All awards are dependent on the availability of funds for the identified program areas.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for businesses and academic institutions involved in research and development. The primary North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes are 541714 (Research and Development in Biotechnology, except Nanobiotechnology) and 541715 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering and Life Sciences, except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology).
The Air Force Academy is seeking research in basic research, applied research, advanced technology development, and advanced component development and prototypes.
How to respond
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.
Interested offerors should regularly check the beta.sam.gov and Grants.gov websites for any amendments, calls, or other changes to this BAA. White papers and proposals must follow the requirements outlined in the BAA and any subsequent amendments.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Since this is a Broad Agency Announcement, focus on clearly articulating the innovative aspects of your proposed research and how it aligns with the Air Force's broad research needs. Pay close attention to any specific "calls" that are published, as these will detail the precise topics of interest.
Ensure your white papers and proposals are unclassified and do not contain proprietary information. While cost sharing is permitted and encouraged, it is not required, so you can propose solutions with or without it. Clearly outline your technical approach and the expected outcomes of your research.
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 the Air Force; the original posting controls.