DARPA

DARPA is a U.S. Department of Defense research agency that funds high-risk, high-reward deep tech R&D in service of national security, making it a significant non-dilutive funding source for founders working on breakthrough technologies. Operating across six technical offices—Biological Technologies, Defense Sciences, Information Innovation, Microsystems Technology, Strategic Technology, and Tactical Technology—DARPA supports industries including AI, biotech, semiconductors, robotics, autonomy, quantum, advanced materials, aerospace, and cybersecurity. Individual awards typically range from roughly $500,000 to $10 million or more, against an annual agency budget of approximately $4.5 billion. Performers must be U.S.-based, and small businesses can access DARPA's SBIR/STTR program, with Phase I awards up to ~$275,000 and Phase II awards up to ~$1.8 million over 24–36 months. DARPA issues opportunities on a rolling basis through Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs), Research Announcements, and monthly DoD SBIR/STTR topic releases posted on SAM.gov and the Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal; founders are encouraged to contact relevant Program Managers directly before submitting white papers or full proposals.