This complete guide to SOCOM SBIR covers all the details you need to pilot a successful and innovative project.
The SOCOM Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, part of the Department of Defense, leverages small business innovation to fulfill the unique needs of the U.S. special operations forces across various elite units, such as Army Special Operations Command, Naval Special Warfare Command, Air Force Special Operations Command, Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, and the Joint Special Operations Command. The program encourages collaboration, aims to maintain technological superiority, and simplifies the application and evaluation process for applicants.
In the high-stakes world of special operations, where precision and innovation can tip the balance between success and failure, there is a unique opportunity for small businesses.
The Special Operations Command (SOCOM) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program invites agile and inventive small businesses to contribute to the cutting-edge needs of the U.S. Department of Defense. A game-changing funding opportunity for entrepreneurs in this sector, this program gears up your innovations to align with the elite special forces safeguarding our nation.
In this blog, we’ll decode the SBIR program for SOCOM, detailing what it takes to be a part of this exclusive circle and the accounting finesse required to navigate its phases. We’ll also look at the trailblazers who’ve made their mark on the program. Now, let’s explore how small businesses are becoming an integral part of the special operations arsenal, one innovation at a time.
What is the SOCOM SBIR program?
The SOCOM SBIR program is a highly competitive program that supports the research and development (R&D) projects of small businesses. Focused specifically on innovative solutions that can benefit SOCOM’s mission requirements, the program is designed to encourage domestic small businesses to develop projects with the potential for commercialization, while addressing the specific technological needs of SOCOM.
The SBIR program is structured in three phases:
- Phase I assesses the feasibility and scientific and technical merit of the proposed concept/idea. This phase typically involves a proof of concept study.
- Phase II involves the comprehensive development of the Phase I concept into a viable product or technology. This phase is more extensive and focuses on prototype development.
- Phase III is the commercialization phase, where the developed product or technology is transitioned into a marketable product or service. While Phase III does not receive SBIR funding, it aims for commercialization of the outcomes from Phases I and II.
Government officials have calibrated the SOCOM SBIR to meet the targeted needs of the Special Operations Forces (SOF), leveraging small business innovation to develop technologies that can be fielded rapidly to enhance the capabilities and effectiveness of SOCOM missions.
What does the Special Operations Command do?
SOCOM is a unified combatant command charged with overseeing the various Special Operations Component Commands of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. SOCOM’s primary mission is to conduct global special operations missions to defend the nation and its interests around the world.
These missions include:
- Direct Action
- Special Reconnaissance
- Counterterrorism
- Foreign Internal Defense
- Unconventional Warfare
- Psychological Warfare
- Civil Affairs
- Counter-Narcotic Operations
Ultimately, SOCOM ensures special operations forces are ready to execute assignments across the globe under the command of the geographic combatant commanders, U.S. ambassadors, and the country teams. This involves a significant focus on innovation and the integration of cutting-edge technologies to enhance operational capabilities.
Given its broad and critical mission set, SOCOM invests in technologies that can give its operators a tactical edge, from advanced communications equipment, unmanned systems, and cyber defense tools to specialized weaponry and personal protective gear.
What is the SOFWERX program?
The SOFWERX Program represents a groundbreaking initiative, born from a Partnership Intermediary Agreement between DEFENSEWERX and the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) in September of 2015. Located in Tampa, Florida, SOFWERX is a dynamic and innovative environment designed to foster collaboration and creativity and address the complex challenges faced by special operations forces (SOF).
At its core, SOFWERX leverages a diverse and growing ecosystem to promote divergent thinking and neutral facilitation. It’s all about the aggregation of various perspectives and expertise, aimed at generating a high rate of return on the collaborative efforts of all participants. The primary goal of SOFWERX is to bring together the right mix of minds—from defense, academia, technology, and other sectors—to collaboratively solve pressing problems that impact the effectiveness and operational readiness of SOF.
SOFWERX utilizes a variety of events to tackle a number of challenging warfighter issues. These events range from hackathons and ideation challenges to technical demonstrations and collaborative workshops, all designed to catalyze innovation and find tangible solutions for U.S. warfighters. Through these events, SOFWERX encourages participants to think outside the box and contribute their skills and ideas toward developing new technologies, strategies, and methodologies that can significantly enhance the capabilities of special operations forces.
At its core, and in the eyes of a government auditor, an acceptable SBIR accounting system demonstrates your ability to segregate the different kinds of expenses listed in your general ledger. These are separated as either Allowable or Unallowable expenses. Breaking it down even further, these expenses (or costs) are organized as:
Let’s define each of these expenses for your SBIR/STTR cost proposal.
What federal agency is SOCOM a part of?
SOCOM is a part of the Department of Defense (DoD). As a unified combatant command, SOCOM oversees the Special Operations components of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. Established in 1987 to provide ready special operations forces to the regional combatant commands, SOCOM coordinates the deployment of special ops missions worldwide, focusing on counterterrorism, direct action, special reconnaissance, unconventional warfare, and a host of other specialized missions.
What units fall under SOCOM?
SOCOM encompasses several specialized commands and units from different branches of the U.S. military, each with its unique capabilities and areas of expertise. These units are the tip of the spear in global special operations, executing missions that require precision, stealth, and a high degree of coordination.
United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC)
USASOC is the component of SOCOM representing the Army’s elite special operations forces, including:
- Special Forces (Green Berets): Experts in unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, special reconnaissance, direct action, and counterterrorism.
- Rangers: A light infantry unit primarily focused on direct action and airborne operations.
- Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR): Provides rotary-wing support for night, adverse weather, and long-range insertion and extraction missions.
- Psychological Operations (PSYOP): Units that use information to influence the behavior of foreign audiences.
- Civil Affairs: These units work with civilian populations in a conflict zone to address noncombatant issues and reduce civilian interference with military operations.
- John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School: The institution responsible for the training and education of Special Forces, PSYOP, and Civil Affairs personnel.
Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC)
NSWC is the Navy’s component of SOCOM, comprising:
- SEAL Teams: Specializing in direct action, special reconnaissance, counterterrorism, and foreign internal defense.
- Special Boat Teams: Focused on maritime insertion and extraction, coastal surveillance, and boarding operations.
- SEAL Delivery Vehicle Teams (SDVTs): Operate submersible vehicles for clandestine insertion of SEALs.
- Naval Special Warfare Center: Responsible for the training and doctrine of Naval Special Warfare forces.
Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC)
AFSOC provides airpower for SOCOM’s missions, including:
- Aviation — Fixed and Rotary Wing: Offers specialized air transport and close air support for special operations.
- Special Tactics: Teams that conduct combat control, pararescue, and tactical air control party operations.
- Combat Weather Teams: Meteorologists providing weather services for air and ground operations.
- Air Force Special Operations School: Offers education in special operations tactics, techniques, and procedures.
Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC)
MARSOC conducts foreign internal defense, direct action, and special reconnaissance, among other missions. Its units include:
- Aviation — Fixed and Rotary Wing: Offers specialized air transport and close air support for special operations.
- Special Tactics: Teams that conduct combat control, pararescue, and tactical air control party operations.
- Foreign Military Training Units: Train and advise foreign forces.
- Special Reconnaissance: Gather intelligence in hostile environments.
Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC)
JSOC is a sub-unified command of SOCOM that oversees elite units tasked with counterterrorism, reconnaissance, and special missions. These units include the most secretive elements of the U.S. military, capable of conducting high-risk, high-reward operations against strategic targets
What are the objectives of the US Special Operations Command SBIR program?
Here are the key objectives of the SOCOM SBIR program:
- Encourage Small Business Participation in National Defense Innovation
By engaging small businesses in the defense innovation ecosystem, SOCOM taps into the agility, creativity, and cutting-edge technologies that small enterprises can bring to the table. This diversifies the technological solutions available to SOCOM and encourages a broader participation in defense innovation. - Address Specific Technological Gaps
The SBIR program identifies and addresses precise technological needs and gaps within SOCOM. By doing so, the program sees that the solutions developed are directly relevant and immediately beneficial to SOF operational capabilities. - Accelerate the Development and Deployment of Innovative Solutions
One of the primary objectives is to fast-track the process from conceptualization to deployment of technologies that can aid SOCOM in its missions. This includes reducing the development cycle time for new technologies and helping innovative solutions reach the field more quickly to maintain operational superiority. - Facilitate the Commercialization of SBIR-developed Technologies
While the immediate goal is to benefit SOCOM’s mission needs, the SBIR program also supports the commercialization of developed technologies. This not only provides a return on investment for the small businesses involved, but also pushes innovations to find broader applications in the commercial market, potentially leading to further advancements and adaptations. - Strengthen National Security through Technological Superiority
The overarching objective of the SOCOM SBIR program is to contribute to national security by maintaining and enhancing the technological superiority of U.S. special operations forces. This involves staying ahead of adversarial threats through continuous innovation and adaptation of new technologies and methodologies. - Enhance SOF Capabilities and Readiness
By providing SOF with the latest technologies and innovations, the SBIR program directly contributes to enhancing the capabilities, effectiveness, and readiness of special operations units. As such. SOF successfully operates in a wide range of environments and missions, maintaining strategic advantages over adversaries. - Promote Collaboration Between Government, Industry, and Academia
The SBIR program fosters an environment of collaboration among the defense sector, private industry, and academic institutions. This collaborative approach enriches the innovation process, thus opening the door to a wide array of solutions targeting SOCOM’s needs.
What are the eligibility requirements?
To participate in the SOCOM SBIR program, businesses must meet specific eligibility requirements. By design, these requirements keep the program’s focus squarely on supporting small U.S. businesses capable of contributing innovative solutions to the defense sector.
Here are the key eligibility requirements:
Ownership
- Must be a for-profit business.
- The business must be majority-owned (at least 51 percent) and managed by one or more people who are either U.S. citizens or permanent residents, or it can be a company that itself is majority-owned (at least 51 percent) by another company which is, in turn, majority-owned and managed by one or more people who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Size Standards
- The business must have 500 or fewer employees, including affiliates. This size standard allows a range of small businesses to participate, from very small startups to more established companies.
Principal Investigator
- The Principal Investigator (PI) leading the project must be primarily employed with the small business at the time of award and for the duration of the project period. Projects always benefit from dedicated focus and leadership.
Place of Performance
- A significant amount of the research or R&D work must be performed in the United States. This requirement ensures that the SBIR program benefits the U.S. economy and adheres to national security considerations.
Previous Awards
- Businesses with multiple previous awards may need to meet additional performance benchmarks before receiving new awards.
Registration Requirements
- Businesses must be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM), have a Dun & Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number, and be registered with the Small Business Administration (SBA) Company Registry. These registrations help verify the business’s eligibility and facilitate the award process.
SOCOM SBIR Phase I
SBIR Phase I within SOCOM is the initial stage of the program, aimed at exploring the feasibility of innovative ideas that could benefit SOCOM missions. Notably, the Department of Defense (DoD) reports a success rate of about 20 percent for proposals moving from Phase I to Phase II, highlighting the program’s competitive nature.
How much is the SBIR Phase I award?
The award for SBIR Phase I is $150,000. This funding supports initial feasibility studies and research to determine the potential of the proposed innovation for further development.
How long is SBIR Phase I?
SBIR Phase I typically spans six months. During this time, small businesses are expected to establish the feasibility of their innovative concept or technology and its potential for further development and commercialization.
SOCOM SBIR Phase II
Following a successful Phase I, SOCOM SBIR Phase II focuses on the development, demonstration, and delivery of the innovation. The DoD success rate for moving from Phase I to Phase II is notably high at 74 percent, indicating a strong emphasis on advancing feasible and promising technologies.
How much is the SBIR Phase II award?
The award for SBIR Phase II can reach up to $1 million. This substantial increase in funding from Phase I supports the detailed development and prototyping of the technology or solution, bringing it closer to commercialization and operational deployment.
How long is SBIR Phase II?
SBIR Phase II is typically two years long. This period allows for the comprehensive development of the project, including prototyping, validation, and preparation for commercialization and SOCOM utilization.
How do I apply for a US Special Operations Command SBIR award?
Applying for a SOCOM SBIR award involves several key steps designed to streamline the submission of innovative proposals by small businesses. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the application process:
- Identify the Opportunity: Regularly check the DoD SBIR/STTR program website for SOCOM-specific solicitations. These solicitations detail the current needs and innovation areas SOCOM is interested in addressing through the SBIR program.
- Prepare Your Proposal: Once you’ve identified a relevant solicitation, begin preparing your proposal. This includes detailing the technical innovation, its applications to SOCOM requirements, the approach for Phase I and II (if applicable), and information on your team’s capabilities.
- Register Your Business: Make sure your business is registered with the System for Award Management (SAM), has a Dun and Bradstreet DUNS number, and is registered in the SBA’s Company Registry. These registrations are mandatory for eligibility.
- Submit Your Proposal: Follow the submission guidelines provided in the solicitation. Proposals typically need to be submitted through the DoD SBIR/STTR submission portal before the deadline.
- Await Initial Review: After submission, your proposal will go through an initial administrative review to check your compliance with submission requirements.
What is the evaluation process?
The evaluation process for a SOCOM SBIR award is thorough and competitive, selecting proposals with the highest potential for impact and commercialization. Here’s what it entails:
- Administrative Screening: Initially, proposals are reviewed for compliance with submission guidelines, including adherence to formatting, completeness, and eligibility criteria.
- Technical Evaluation: This is the core of the evaluation process. Proposals are assessed by a panel of experts for their innovation, scientific and technical merit, and alignment with SOCOM’s stated needs. This includes evaluating the problem addressed, the proposed solution, the feasibility of the approach, and the capability of the team.
- Commercial Potential: Proposals are also evaluated for their potential for commercialization and use within SOCOM and beyond. This includes considering the market need, the competitive landscape, and your business strategy.
- Selection for Award: Based on these evaluations, proposals are ranked, and selections are made for funding. The highest-ranking proposals that meet SOCOM’s needs and show promise for development and commercialization are typically selected for SBIR awards.
- Feedback and Next Steps: Applicants will receive feedback on their proposals. Those selected for awards will enter into negotiations for funding agreements, while unsuccessful applicants can use the feedback to improve future submissions.
Who are the SOCOM SBIR program contacts?
Your federal contact for the SOCOM SBIR program is:
Mina Khalil
USSOCOM SBIR/STTR Program Manager
Department of Defense (DoD) — Special Operations Command (SOCOM)
email: sbir@socom.mil
What are the SBIR topics for the USSOCOM?
USSOCOM SBIR open topics for 2024-2025 cover a range of cutting-edge technologies and solutions. These topics are designed to solicit innovative proposals from small businesses that can address specific technological needs and challenges faced by SOCOM.
Below is a list of the announced topics that are currently open. For detailed descriptions of each topic, visit the SOCOM SBIR topics page.
- A244-P001: xTech Search 8 SBIR Finalist Open Topic Competition
- Open date: May 14, 2024
- Close date: June 13, 2024
- A244-P006: xTechScalable AI
- Open date: March 19, 2024
- Close date: April 18, 2024
- N241-D04: Direct to Phase II: Next-generation Autonomy for Unmanned Maritime Vehicles (UMVs)
- Open date: February 1, 2024
- Close date: March 5, 2024
- SOCOM244-004: Handheld Kinetic Defeat of UAS
- Open date: January 31, 2024
- Close date: March 5, 2024
- HR0011SB20244-01: Advanced Enabling High-Speed Technologies
- Open date: February 6, 2024
- Close date: March 7, 2024
Who has won a SOCOM SBIR Phase II award?
SOCOM SBIR Phase II awards have been granted to innovative projects that promise to significantly enhance the capabilities of special operations forces. These awards spotlight the commitment of SOCOM to integrating cutting-edge technologies into their operations.
Here are three success stories from recent awardees:
Company: nVision Technology Inc.
Phase II Award Amount: $1,211,510
Remote Sniper Heads Up Display
In the technically precise world of long-distance engagement, the Remote Sniper Heads Up Display (RSHUD) by nVision Technology Inc. represents a leap forward in precision and efficiency. The innovation addresses a critical challenge for snipers: the need to quickly acquire firing solutions without losing sight of the target. The LA-24/PEQ Precision Aiming Laser system, enhanced with an industry-leading ballistic solver, provides instant on-screen firing solutions. However, its small OLED display’s placement makes it hard to view without shifting position—a critical delay in high-pressure scenarios. nVision, in collaboration with Neilsen-Kellerman, proposed two RSHUD solutions. The first, an upgraded, compact LCD HUD that can operate independently or within the Applied Ballistics ecosystem, and the second, a microOLED display offering clear, through-scope data presentation. These innovations promise to keep snipers in their firing position with vital data at their eyesight, drastically improving response time and effectiveness.
Company: B.E. Meyers & Co. Inc.
Phase II Award Amount: $707,940
Squad Aiming Laser — Ultra High Power
B.E. Meyers & Co. Inc.’s Squad Aiming Laser — Ultra High Power (SAL-UHP) system is a testament to the relentless pursuit of enhancing SOF operators’ survivability and lethality. This innovative weapon-mounted laser pointer and illuminator system focuses on minimizing size and weight while maximizing performance, reliability, and user operability. The SAL-UHP features a new laser with variable divergence, ensuring unparalleled beam clarity across extended ranges. Designed to maintain zero position stability and withstand the rigors of combat environments, the system aims to increase lethality in engagements beyond 900 meters and improve response times for near to mid-range confrontations. By adhering to the stringent MIL-STD-810H, the SAL-UHP sets a new standard for operator-centric laser systems.
Company: Lucid Circuit, Inc.
Phase II Award Amount: $3,059,997.70
Cognitive Aerospace Trusted Edge Sensing
Lucid Circuit, Inc. is at the forefront of revolutionizing aerospace and airborne platform capabilities through its Cognitive Aerospace Trusted Edge Sensing program. This initiative seeks to overcome the limitations imposed by sensor data processing and analysis at the edge—challenges that currently constrain platform capabilities in low earth orbit (LEO) and other settings. By enhancing on-board processing power, Lucid Circuit aims to alleviate communication bandwidth pressures, facilitating the deployment of larger satellite constellations. The program’s vision is to enable satellites to function as cognitive, distributed sensor networks, capable of performing real-time, multi-modal sensor data analytics. This would allow for autonomous, adaptable, and resilient aerospace assets that can be dynamically re-tasked according to evolving mission requirements, marking a significant advancement in distributed analytics and machine learning applications in space.
What are the accounting requirements for SOCOM SBIR?
For businesses engaged in the SOCOM SBIR program, adhering to specific accounting requirements is crucial for compliance, financial management, and successful participation. These accounting standards are designed to ensure that federal funds are used appropriately and that awardees maintain transparent, accurate financial records.
As experts in accounting for federal SBIR programs, Team 80 understands the importance of implementing these requirements effectively:
- Segregation of Costs: Awardees must segregate SBIR project costs from other business expenses for accurate tracking and reporting. This involves setting up separate accounts or cost centers for SBIR projects to monitor direct costs, indirect costs, and any applicable labor hours specifically dedicated to the project.
- Direct Costs Management: Direct costs associated with the SBIR project, such as salaries and wages for employees working on the project, materials, and subcontractor expenses, must be accurately recorded and justified. Awardees should have systems in place to capture these costs in real time to maintain control over project budgets.
- Indirect Costs Allocation: Indirect costs, or overheads, must be allocated to the SBIR project based on a consistent and logical method. This may involve developing an indirect cost rate, approved by a federal agency, which is applied to allocate costs such as utilities, rent, and administrative salaries to the project.
- Labor Hour Tracking: Awardees need to implement a reliable system for tracking labor hours dedicated to the SBIR project. Labor costs must be charged accurately to support the allocation of indirect costs.
- Financial Reporting: Regular financial reporting is a key requirement, with awardees expected to provide periodic reports detailing the expenditure of SBIR funds. These reports must align with federal accounting standards and the specific reporting requirements outlined by SOCOM SBIR.
- Audit Readiness: Businesses must maintain audit-ready financial records, prepared according to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). This involves keeping detailed documentation of all financial transactions related to the SBIR project, which can be reviewed during an audit by federal agencies or their representatives.
- Compliance with Federal Regulations: Awardees must comply with relevant federal regulations, including the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), as applicable. This includes adherence to cost principles, allowable costs, and procurement standards.
With Team 80’s specialized accounting services for federal SBIR programs, innovators can channel their energy and creativity into what they do best—developing groundbreaking technologies for SOCOM. By entrusting the intricate web of accounting requirements to Team 80, businesses liberate themselves from the complexities of financial management.
Be the next SOCOM SBIR success story.
Sarah Sinicki
Team 80 CEO
Sarah is a leader focused on serving small businesses in various industries. She has worked with a multitude of companies over the last 25 years and loves helping business owners find success. Sarah is genuinely committed to unburdening Team 80 clients so that they have the freedom to focus on their business. In her free time, you can find her spending time with her husband, two kids, and her Yorkies, Marley and Ziggy. When she is not helping business owners, you can find her in a Reb3l Groove class dancing it out. Sarah is also an avid Colorado Avalanche fan, so if you ever want to talk about hockey, she’s your gal.
Table of Contents
- What is the SOCOM SBIR program?
- What is the SOFWERX program?
- What federal agency is SOCOM a part of?
- What are the objectives of the US Special Operations Command SBIR program?
- What are the eligibility requirements?
- SOCOM SBIR Phase I
- SOCOM SBIR Phase II
- How do I apply for a US Special Operations Command SBIR award?
- What is the evaluation process?
- Who are the SOCOM SBIR program contacts?
- What are the SBIR topics for the USSOCOM?
- Who has won a SOCOM SBIR Phase II award?
- What are the accounting requirements for SOCOM SBIR?
