The mission of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is to make strategic, early ivestments in science and technology that will have long-term positive impact on our nation's national security. To enable this approach, DARPA's Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) will issue Microsystems Exploration Topics (called µE topics) via targeted Pre-Solicitation Notices. These Pre-Solicitation Notices will focus on technical domains important to MTO's mission pursuing innovative research concepts that explore frontiers in:
It is DoD policy that the publication of products of fundamental research will remain unrestricted to the maximum extent possible. National Security Decision Directive (NSDD) 189 defines fundamental research as follows: ‘Fundamental research' means basic and applied research in science and engineering, the results of which ordinarily are published and shared broadly within the scientific community, as distinguished from proprietary research and from industrial development, design, production, and product utilization, the results of which ordinarily are restricted for proprietary or national security reasons.
None is available.
Proposals submitted in response to a µE must be UNCLASSIFIED. Each topic may consist of one or two phases, and will be defined in the Pre-Solicitation Notice. For those topics with two phases, proposers must address both phases: a Phase 1 Feasibility Study (base) and a Phase 2 Proof of Concept (option). The total duration of each µE topic is not anticipated to exceed 18 months. Specific technical objectives to be achieved, task descriptions, intellectual property rights, milestone payment schedule, and deliverables will be included in each µE topic.
Eligibility is unrestricted. All responsible sources capable of satisfying the Government's needs may submit a proposal.
Applications are to be submitted by July 12, 2021. Similar Deadlines are anticipated annually.
Multiple awards of up to $1,000,000 each are anticipated.
NOTE: There are currently no follow-on acquisitions planned once a performer has completed the project. However, the goal of Microsystems Exploration and each µE research topic is to fund research that leads to prototype development. If a performer has successfully accomplished a proof of concept, as required, and a deliverable prototype is within reach or a promising initial prototype has been developed, the Government may elect to modify the OT agreement to fund additional tasks to pursue further prototype development, fabrication and delivery.