How to bid on SAF/CDM Commercial Solutions Opening with the Dept of the Air Force

What the Air Force is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Air Force's Secretary of the Air Force Concepts Development and Management (SAF/CDM) office is looking for innovative commercial solutions. They want new technologies or new applications of existing technologies to address defense-related needs and close capability gaps. This is an opportunity for businesses to provide solutions that can help the Air Force meet its objectives and advance its technological capabilities.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) is a two-step process. The first step, White Paper Submission, is open until September 1, 2026. The overall ordering period for this CSO runs until September 30, 2026. White Papers can be submitted at any time during the open period. The government may also issue specific "Calls" for targeted White Papers during this time.

After the White Paper submission deadline, the Air Force will review all submitted White Papers. If your White Paper is selected, you will receive an invitation to submit a full proposal. Only those invited can submit a full proposal.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is open to all interested vendors, including small businesses and non-traditional contractors. Foreign participation is also allowed as specified in the full attachment. It suits companies that can offer innovative commercial items, technologies, or services, or new applications of existing technologies, relevant to defense-related activities and capability gaps.

How to respond to this solicitation

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

The first step in responding is to submit a White Paper. This White Paper must include a Cover Page, a Technical/Management section, and a Rough Order of Magnitude. You can submit multiple White Papers. If your White Paper is successful, you will be invited by the Procuring Contracting Officer to submit a full Technical/Management and Price proposal. You cannot submit a full proposal without first submitting a White Paper and receiving an invitation.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Carefully review the full CSO attachment for detailed objectives, focus areas, and specific criteria for selecting proposals. Your White Paper should clearly demonstrate how your proposed solution is innovative and directly addresses the Air Force's stated needs or closes a capability gap.

Ensure your White Paper is concise and clearly articulates the technical and management aspects of your solution, along with a realistic Rough Order of Magnitude. Since this is a two-step process, the White Paper is your initial chance to make a strong impression and secure an invitation for a full proposal.