Small Business Innovative Research/Small Bus Tech Transfer Pilot Prog

The Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) Program under Program Element PE 1160279BB is managed by the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) and is funded through the Defense-Wide Research, Development, Test & Evaluation appropriation. The primary goal of this program is to leverage the innovative capabilities of small businesses and research institutions to address technological challenges relevant to USSOCOM's mission. By stimulating technological innovation and increasing private sector commercialization of federal R&D, the program aims to enhance the readiness, modernization, and lethality of Special Operations Forces.

The SBIR program is structured as a three-phase process, providing early-stage R&D funding to small companies that address specific defense needs identified by the Department of Defense. SBIR's objectives include increasing small business participation in federally funded R&D, fostering minority and disadvantaged firm involvement, and supporting the development of technologies that can be commercialized for both defense and civilian markets.

In FY 2024 and FY 2025, SBIR funds are directed toward several high-priority research areas. These include Multi-Domain Communications and Computing (such as vehicle system and automation modernization), Scalable and Precision Effects (including visual augmentation systems, advanced batteries, and unmanned ground robotic systems), and Human Performance (such as point-of-need water testing).

For FY 2026, planned efforts expand to Battlespace Awareness (sensor fusion using AI and human-machine interfaces), further advancements in communications (secure terrestrial communications via omnidirectional laser link), and precision effects (high-power microwave payloads for electronic system disruption). Additional warfighter performance initiatives will focus on traumatic brain injury and blast reduction.

The SBIR acquisition strategy involves competitive awards for Phase I and Phase II contracts, targeting projects with potential for defense and commercial application. This approach ensures a broad base of innovative solutions, with multiple awards supporting diverse technological advancements. The program's structure is designed to maximize the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses, providing a pathway from concept to commercialization.

The STTR program's objective is to stimulate partnerships between small businesses and research institutions, such as universities, by funding cooperative R&D efforts. This collaboration is intended to accelerate the transfer of innovative technologies from the laboratory to operational use, supporting USSOCOM's need for advanced capabilities.

STTR funds in FY 2024 and FY 2025 are allocated to feasibility studies and initial research in several focus areas: Precision and Scalable Effects, Multi-Domain Communications and Computing, Human Performance, Emplacement and Access, Battlespace Awareness, and High-Energy Operations. These areas are selected to address current and emerging operational requirements, with the goal of transitioning successful research outcomes into deployable technologies for Special Operations Forces.

Both SBIR and STTR are congressionally mandated programs, with FY 2024 funding reflecting a net increase due to reprogramming from other program elements. The programs are designed to foster innovation and economic growth, with a particular emphasis on supporting minority and disadvantaged firms. By investing in early-stage research and facilitating partnerships between small businesses and research institutions, USSOCOM aims to maintain a technological edge and ensure the operational effectiveness of its forces.