Douglas Friedman’s Post

This morning, Gina Sims Director, DoD SBIR STTR Program Office, hosted Army SBIR|STTR Program , Department of Navy SBIR/STTR Programs, AFWERX and #DARPA experts on the “DoD: Success Stories” panel at the TechConnect World Innovation Conference & Expo at Gaylord National Hotel & Convention Center in Maryland. They highlighted how to partner with DoD for success in the SBIR/STTR programs, and particularly emphasized the importance of small businesses networking with potential DoD partners to improve their chances for success towards transitions. Key takeaways: -The best place to start is SBIR.gov to look at open AND closed/traditional topics. Figure out what DoD is looking for to see how to interlace your idea. Target which agency aligns with your product. Sign up for their listserv to find out when new topics come out.  -Think about where in DoD you want to target, but also look outside of those areas and think about how to adapt your product to other areas (including non-SBIR/STTR topics), and network to uncover resources to find the match. -Don’t get bogged down in the differences between agencies, look for the similarities because the authorities are the same across the federal government. -Leverage the sole-source authority the SBIR/STTR program offers for Phase III awards achieving transition and/or commercialization.  -Network, network, network; go to specific military/DoD/Service events if you’re interested in working with a particular defense area and meet the acquisition professionals who will likely become your future customer so you can learn their current and future needs. Photo Description: (left to right) Tylar Temple– PM Army Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR), Jennifer Thabet, J.D., PMP – Program Director Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Small Business Program Office (SBPO), Daniel Carroll – AFWERX Division Chief, Brian Shipley – Acting Director, Department of Navy SBIR/STTR Programs; Gina Sims, Director, Defense SBIR/STTR Program Office (moderator) Photo Credit: Defense SBIR/STTR Program Office #sbir #sttr #dodinnovates #departmentofdefense #dodsbir

The 2024 Defense budget reflects a significant shift towards innovation, with a whopping $34 billion (4%) invested in early-stage research. This investment is fueling a new era of "hard tech" innovation, particularly for defense applications, and creating opportunities for startups to scale rapidly, paving a path to changing the way the defense industrial complex does business, as exemplified by Anduril Industries and Shield AI. Advancements in AI/ML and robotics are at the forefront of this change, alongside a growing ecosystem of government programs (SBIRs, STTRs, NavalX, AFWERX) that empower small businesses like mine to partner with the military. These programs are not only providing funding but also streamlining the often-complex process of navigating government contracts, helping to bridge the technological "valley of death." (hopefully) I'm excited about the potential of these programs to foster innovation and collaboration, shaping the future of defense and technology. It's been quite the journey so far!

The United States Department of Defense announced the launch of #SciTechConnect, a game-changing platform designed to revolutionize collaboration and innovation within the defense sector. This initiative opens the door for a diverse range of innovators to partner with the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Science and Technology (ASD S&T) and drive cutting-edge solutions to strengthen national security. Dr. Aprille Ericsson, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Science and Technology, shared: “DoD SciTechCONNECT broadens access to our innovation ecosystem, fostering collaboration with a diverse array of contributors.” With tailored resources, curated events, and streamlined processes, this platform will help accelerate the development of breakthrough technologies that tackle our most pressing defense challenges. By reducing barriers and creating new opportunities for collaboration, SciTechConnect is positioning innovators for success as they work to safeguard our nation’s future. READ FULL PRESS RELEASE – https://buff.ly/49LiL2w Individuals and organizations interested in learning more about DoD SciTechConnect can visit the platform's website at www.DoDSciTechConnect.us to create an account and stay up-to-date on the latest developments. #Innovation #Defense #TechForGood #Collaboration #NationalSecurity #SciTechConnect #SBIR #STTR #DoDInnovates

The highly-curated, invite-only SDI Showcase & Reception on March 8th is the premier gathering for aerospace and defense executives, DoD acquisition and innovation leaders, and industry trade groups who are shaping the future of the ecosystem.   We currently have a few sponsorship opportunities available. By becoming a sponsor, your organization will gain guaranteed access to the event for you and your guests, stand out among top industry decision-makers and innovators, receive exclusive brand promotion, and play a pivotal role in advancing innovation in space and defense.   New this year: ➡️ Table Sponsors: Showcase your brand with a dedicated presence throughout the event, positioning your organization at the center of the conversation. ➡️ Programming Sponsors: Create your dream room of speakers. Bring together high-caliber leaders with hand-selected audiences for a panel and post-panel reception. ➡️ SDI Award Sponsors: Celebrate and honor leaders and innovators across government, industry, and academia who are setting new standards, breaking boundaries, and redefining what’s possible for national security.   Sponsorship opportunities are limited and filling up quickly. Join early sponsors of the event, including Defense News, Military Times, Second Front, Ward & Berry, PLLC, The Outpost, Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), Investment NSW, Firestorm, ARI (Applied Research Institute), VetsinTech, Ultra Intelligence & Communications, Capitol Integration, and other space and defense leaders.   For more information about sponsorships, visit sdireception.com or send our team a message. Joy Schoffler, Tim Chrisman, Mort Greenberg, Marcella Caldwell, Ashley Shenk, Claire Guzman #SDI2025 #Sponsorships #Space #Defense #Events #AustinTexas

🚀💡 While the SOF Week Circus Rolls on- We Still Face The Defense Department's Innovation Challenge - Aligning on a Shared Mission 💪🌐 The Department of Defense has embarked on a remarkable journey, establishing a network of "defense innovation organizations" or DIOs over the past decade. These organizations, such as the Defense Innovation Unit, AFWERX, and SOFWERX, aim to accelerate the adoption of innovative commercial technologies, providing strategic advantages to our military. However, a recent RAND study has unveiled a critical issue - the lack of a shared understanding and mission among these DIOs. Instead of operating as a cohesive ecosystem, each organization pursues its own priorities and objectives, hindering collaboration and impeding the progress of promising technologies. The consequences are significant. Duplication of efforts, missed opportunities for collaboration, and an arduous path for groundbreaking technologies to reach full adoption by the military. It is clear that a change is needed. The study recommends that the DOD leadership takes charge by establishing an overarching strategy, policy, and guidance for these innovation efforts. By defining common goals, objectives, and metrics, we can ensure that all DIOs work collectively towards a shared mission. Clarity in roles and responsibilities is equally vital to avoid any gaps or overlaps between organizations. If the DOD truly wants to harness the full potential of its innovation ecosystem and gain strategic advantages, it is crucial to foster a coordinated and integrated approach. Communication of a shared sense of mission across all stakeholders will be key. It will be intriguing to witness whether the department acts upon this recommendation. Let us embrace this challenge together, paving the way for a more unified and effective defense innovation ecosystem. #DefenseInnovation #SharedMission #CollaborationIsKey

Lt Gen Donna Shipton, Commander, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB), was the guest speaker at the Dayton Industry Association Collaborator event. In addition to briefing the changes to the AFLCMC as it transforms to the Air Force Air Dominance Systems Center (AFADSC), Lt. Gen Shipton provided an overview of the Next Generation Acquisition Model. The Next Generation Acquisition Model is a powerful paradigm shift…not simply an “Acquisition Reform” effort. It offers faster business processes with more competition built on open architecture framework. In summary, it is: ·       Enabling Infrastructure: Digital networks and engineering tools accessible across industry performers and government stakeholder sites ·       Attribute-based Requirements: Allows program initiation based on prioritized operational attributes refined over time based on data and analysis ·       Stakeholder Teaming: Tight collaboration with users, intelligence, testers and industry experts ·       Acquisition strategy: Continuous competition for hardware and software features built on open architecture framework and marketplace opportunities ·       Agile contracting: Apply best contracting approach for the situation ·       Knowledge parity: Must scale current model into a distributed architecture and systems engineering function while maintaining proximity to mission – leverage central expertise to build on agile business practice and intentionally shape open architecture adoption across programs.   #AFA #WID #EEMG #DWAFCEA #AFCEA #NCMA #SOCHE #DDC #DaytonDefense #DRMC Air & Space Forces Association Women In Defense Greater Ohio Valley Women In Defense AFCEA International Dayton-Wright Chapter of AFCEA Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) Dayton Development Coalition DaytonDefense (Dayton Area Defense Contractors Association) PE Systems, Inc.

📣 Exciting Announcement: Join Us for the First Defence Hackathon! 🛡️💡 We are thrilled to invite you to the local event of the inaugural Defence Hackathon on May 31st at Demokritos premises. This landmark event will bring together key stakeholders from the defense sector, industry, academia, and policy-making bodies to share best practices and explore the latest technological advancements. 🎤 Event Highlights: Esteemed National Officials: Gain valuable insights into national defense, technology, and development. Prominent EU Officials: Hear their perspectives on innovation, digital transformation, and defense. Industry Leaders: Learn from experts at renowned organizations like Motoroil, Intracom, QNTECH, IBM, SEEDERS, THALES, and 5G PHAISTOS as they discuss significant advancements in their fields. 🗓️ Date & Time: May 31st, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM 📍 Location: Demokritos premises 👥 Who Should Attend? Governmental officials and policy makers Industry professionals and executives in defense, digital, and quantum sectors Academic professionals interested in the latest trends and collaborations Founders and team members of startups focused on defense technology and digital innovation Military representatives involved in technology integration and strategic development Enthusiasts passionate about technological advancements in the defense sector Don't miss this opportunity to foster collaboration and drive forward innovation in the defense sector. We look forward to your participation in this pivotal event! #DefenceHackathon #Innovation #Technology #DefenseSector #Collaboration #DigitalTransformation #IndustryLeaders #Academia #PolicyMakers Register now and be a part of the future of defense technology! 🚀 https://lnkd.in/dvg4su8Y

In the defense industry, strategic partnerships are not optional—they are essential. Identifying the "better together" story allows two companies to: 1. Accelerate Time to Value - Deliver solutions to the warfighter faster, ensuring operational readiness when it matters most. 2. Optimize Costs - Provide innovative solutions at a lower cost by leveraging shared resources and complementary capabilities. 3. Ensure Sustainability - Develop durable and scalable solutions that enhance long-term mission effectiveness. Collaboration is the key to solving complex challenges, integrating advanced technologies, and driving impactful outcomes. Together, we can deliver results that neither could achieve alone. This is not just about alignment; it’s about executing a shared vision for the sake of the warfighter. Figuring out the "better together" story is something I truly enjoy about my job here at Defense Unicorns! What factors do you believe are most critical for identifying a successful partnership in this space? #strategicpartnerships #govcon #defenseinnovation

Defense Prime SBIR leads spoke at the Fall Tech Connect conference today, and shared their organizational structures, needs, systems for connecting with small business suppliers who can partner in their corporate Roadmaps…it was always a mystery…how do you get in with these guys, lol? Amazing: they are actively looking for partnerships of mutual benefit. 😏 BAE SYSTEMS RTX-RAYTHEON LOCKHEED NORTHRUP GRUMMAN BOEING Key Takeaways: - Research Prime contractor’s SBIR/STTR organization structure to better understand the technologies or topics they’re targeting.  - SBIR/STTR is facilitated at the corporate level, so the Prime’s SBIR/STTR POC can help connect a small business with the right partner in the company.  - Think about what commercialization looks like as you’re thinking about partnering with a Prime. Start this planning as early as practicable. - In acquisition, Prime contractors transition and integrate technologies into program offices of record and assist with overcoming the valley of death. Finding those partnership opportunities as early as possible is critical. - Relationships are key and building trust over time improves success. Did I say TRUST? It’s “wicked important,” RTX-Raytheon leader said! It goes both ways: NDA’s signed up front to protect all parties, and if they make an OFFER to acquire your IP, that’s a negotiation not a STEAL! 😉 …oh, and they use encrypted email systems, protect your data and offer instructions for sharing information at each step so you are comfortable. -Primes can help you build the relationship with the Technical Point of Contact and mentor small businesses through SBIR/STRR processes. They love this program. They are cheerleaders and champions of your commercial success! -To get on their list, develop the relationships early—each company does outreach and communications regarding their immediate (and future) opportunities and has dedicated SBIR TEAMS! Who knew? I believed them. Hope I get some of my clients on such a path one day soon. Small business gets bigger! #SBIR #workingwithprimes #TechConnect