By Daniel Smoot, Army Innovation Programs Office

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army released new solicitations this July through its Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Program to accelerate rapid modernization with cutting-edge technologies from small businesses. This cycle features two priority topics—Underwater Sensing in Surf Zone Environments and Photonic Crystal Surface-Emitting Lasers for Advanced Laser Systems—both essential to strengthening the Army’s operational capabilities and sustaining technological superiority.

Army Challenges

Underwater Sensing in Surf Zone Environments: The U.S. Army needs reliable sensing capabilities in surf zone environments to support over-the-shore logistics and autonomous maritime operations. To meet this need, it seeks a rugged, portable underwater sensor that can detect seafloor hazards and operate in bubbly, shallow water conditions. The system will enhance situational awareness in contested littoral zones and integrate with small uncrewed surface vehicles for real-time navigation and mission support.

• Sensors | A254-046, A25D-019
• Phase I (Feasibility Study)
• Maximum 6 Months | $250,000 Per Award

Photonic Crystal Surface-Emitting Lasers for Advanced Laser Systems: The U.S. Army uses lasers in many of its mission areas and would greatly benefit from a low cost, efficient laser source with high beam quality such as the Photonic Crystal Surface-Emitting Lasers. These advancements will enhance performance in night operations, target marking, and laser range finding while supporting the Army’s push for rapid modernization. 

• Sensors | A254-047, A25D-020
• Phase I (Feasibility Study)
• Maximum 6 Months | $250,000 Per Award

Army SBIR|STTR Submission Window

• Pre-Release (Open Q&A Only): 07/02/2025 – 07/22/2025
• Open Period (Proposal Submissions): 07/23/2025 – 08/20/2025

Get Started

Army officials will host a reverse pitch webinar on July 10 from 3 to 4 p.m. EDT to discuss the solicitations. They will provide an overview of each topic and answer programmatic questions during the session. Officials will collect technical questions and post responses on the Defense SBIR|STTR Innovation Portal within two weeks of the event. For more information, visit the Army SBIR|STTR website and linked topic pages. Submit proposals through the DSIP Portal.

About the Army SBIR|STTR Program

Army SBIR regularly opens funding opportunities, including Phase I awards for solutions that show commercial viability, technical soundness and feasibility. Companies with mature technologies that meet Phase I standards can advance to Phase II or apply directly for Direct to Phase II contracts. Army experts in technical, acquisition and operational fields guide businesses to align their innovations with the Army’s critical needs throughout the process.

Army STTR brings small businesses into the Army innovation ecosystem by partnering them with universities, federally funded research and development centers or qualified nonprofit research institutions. Small businesses serve as prime contractors and perform at least 40% of the work, while research partners complete at least 30%.

The Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology drives innovation by developing, acquiring, fielding and sustaining the world’s finest equipment and services. ASA(ALT) equips Soldiers with the tools they need to maintain a decisive advantage in any environment. For more information, visit the ASA(ALT) web page and follow @ArmyASAALT.

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