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 (CAO). This initiative addresses the shortfall of private investment from trusted sources in early-stage technology startups developing dual-use hardware products with both commercial and national security applications. Under the authority of 10 U.S.C. 4022, the government intends to award Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) to startups that have achieved Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 or higher. These funds enable companies to further develop hardware prototypes, reducing technical risk and time to market while increasing the potential for future private investment and enhancing the mission effectiveness of Department of Defense personnel and systems.

This solicitation is identified by number HQ0845-24-S-N001 and falls 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. Performance is located within the United States. This is a continuously open announcement, allowing for the submission and evaluation of pitch decks throughout the year, though award availability is subject to the limitation of government funds. Specific Topics of Interest for potential projects are maintained on the NSIC website, which is included alongside two amendments in the three total attachments associated with this notice.

The evaluation process is designed to ensure competitive procedures are utilized to the maximum extent practicable for prototype projects. Interested parties submit pitch decks for review against the general requirements of the CAO and the current Topics of Interest. Norman Bonano serves as the point of contact for this opportunity, which was first published on November 29, 2023, and last updated on June 20, 2025. This announcement fulfills the competition requirements set forth in 10 U.S.C. 4022 (b)(2) for the acquisition or development of dual-use components, materials, and supporting platforms.