Transcription
[Music] You're a small business, the leaders in the development of emerging technology. You have big ideas and creative innovative solutions. You know your solution could positively impact the Air Force or Space Force, but navigating government processes can be complicated and overwhelming.
That's why AFWorks and Spaceworks were created to do business differently through the Small Business Innovation Research program and the Small Business Technology Transfer program. AFWorks and Spaceworks simplify and accelerate the process of connecting small businesses with Air Force and Space Force customers. The result, the development of new commercialized technologies that benefit the warfighter and the world.
Both SBIR and STTR programs focus on small businesses developing novel technologies that have potential applications for military and commercial use. The key difference is that the STTR program is targeted towards small businesses in partnership with nonprofit US research institutions.
AFWorks and Spaceworks offer two funding opportunities through the SBIR/STTR center programs: Open Topic and Specific Topic. Open Topic encourages small businesses to propose their latest innovations and solutions for Airmen and Guardian use. Specific Topic has a clearly defined problem with specific technology requirements and a known Air Force or Space Force customer.
The SBIR/STTR programs employ a multi-phased contract award system. This process strategically funnels innovators towards solutions that cater to the needs of both military and commercial customers. Phase One is focused on feasibility. In this phase, your small business will define the problem, refine your solution, and identify an Air Force or Space Force customer. Small businesses that already have an established Air Force or Space Force customer and advanced solutions can apply for a Direct to Phase 2 award contract.
Phase Two is the prototype phase. Contract awards are used to begin generating a prototype and testing a solution through research, development, and evaluation. The Strategic Funding Increase and Tactical Funding Increase programs, known as STRATFI/TACFI, help bridge the valley of death between Phase 2 and Phase 3. Funds are matched with government and/or private capital funds.
Phase Three is the transition to commercialization. This phase is designed to move your solution into government or commercial use. AFWorks and Spaceworks also provide additional support services and engagement opportunities for your small business in AFWorks and Spaceworks Challenge events. Challenge events identify a current Air Force or Space Force need, and small businesses can apply their latest technologies to help find a solution. AFWorks and Spaceworks Challenge information can be found at afworkschallenge.com.
Through award funding and resources, AFWorks and Spaceworks can help maximize your small business opportunities with the Air Force and Space Force. To learn more about the SBIR/STTR process and how to get started, visit afworks.com and spaceworks.us. [Music]