How to bid on the SHINE Information Session with DARPA

What DARPA is buying and why it matters

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Defense Sciences Office (DSO) is hosting an information session about an upcoming opportunity called Selective Harnessing of Intrinsic Neuroplasticity Engineering (SHINE) Disruption Opportunity. This session is for potential proposers to understand the objectives of this anticipated project. Attending can help your firm prepare for a future solicitation.

Key dates and deadlines

The deadline to register for this information session is August 14, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET. The information session itself will be a prerecorded webcast held on August 25, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. EDT. You must register in advance to attend the webcast.

Who this opportunity suits

This information session is suitable for firms and professionals in scientific research, neuroscience, or related fields who are interested in DARPA's work on neuroplasticity engineering. It is a professional category opportunity, indicating a need for specialized expertise.

How to respond

To access the opportunity details and register for the information session, click “View original source” above. 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 on the portal to view documents, though this is not always required for all bids.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

For an information session like this, your main goal is to absorb as much detail as possible about the anticipated SHINE Disruption Opportunity. Take thorough notes during the webcast. Pay close attention to the stated objectives and any specific challenges or areas of interest mentioned by DARPA. This will help you tailor your future proposal to their exact needs.

Consider forming a team or partnership if the scope of the future opportunity appears broad or multidisciplinary. Begin to identify your firm's unique capabilities and how they align with the potential requirements. Preparing early based on information sessions can give you a significant advantage when the full solicitation is released.