National Security Innovation Capital (NSIC) - Commercial Acceleration Opportunity (CAO)

The Defense Innovation Unit, an office within the Immediate Office of the Secretary of Defense, issued this special notice for the National Security Innovation Capital (NSIC) Commercial Acceleration Opportunity. This initiative seeks to strengthen the national security innovation base by providing funding to early-stage technology startups developing dual-use hardware products that have achieved a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 3 or higher. Under the authority of 10 U.S.C. 4022, the government intends to award Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) for prototype projects that reduce technical risk and accelerate the time to market for technologies with both commercial and defense applications.

This continuously open solicitation allows for the submission and evaluation of pitch decks throughout the year, with specific topics of interest maintained on the NSIC website. The program targets hardware technologies that enhance the future mission effectiveness of military personnel and supporting Department of Defense platforms, systems, or materials. Performance is located within the United States, and the effort is classified under NAICS code 541715 for Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) and PSC 9999 for Miscellaneous Items.

The government intends to use competitive procedures to the maximum extent practicable for these prototype awards, satisfying the requirements of 10 U.S.C. 4022(b)(2). Management of this opportunity is handled by point of contact Norman Bonano under solicitation number HQ0845-24-S-N001. As of June 20, 2025, the notice includes three attachments consisting of two formal amendments and a reference to the NSIC website. Funding availability may determine the government's ability to issue awards in specific technology areas.