StartupDefense Tech & Dual-Use+ Software & SaaSPitch CompetitionGovernment Program
AFWERX Pitch Day
U.S. Air Force
BLUF — Bottom Line Up Front
·Five-second scanTotal time commitment
40-100 hours (prep + pitch day)
Admittance criteria
Application + Eligibility-Based
Funding type
No Cash Award
Delivery mode
In-Person
Academic backing
None
Best for
Startup
Eligibility
Phase I SBIR awardees showcasing for follow-on Phase II + customer access.
Award
Same-day contracts in many cases
Deadlines
Annual · Per AFWERX cycle
Notes
Famous for same-day contract issuance.
Related programs on the Startup path
These share at least one format type with this program and fit the same path.
GrantGovernment Program
SBIR Phase I (DoD)
Department of Defense
Small businesses (<500 employees) with majority US ownership; Phase I funds feasibility studies.
See details →
GrantGovernment Program
SBIR Phase II (DoD)
Department of Defense
Phase I awardees with demonstrated feasibility.
See details →
GrantGovernment Program
SBIR (NIH)
National Institutes of Health
Small businesses developing biomedical / health technologies.
See details →