The event offers both in-person and virtual attendance options. This one-day forum is designed to help small businesses and academic institutions navigate collaboration opportunities with AFRL/RW. Through presentations from AFRL/RW leadership, technical experts, contracting officials, and small business advisors, attendees will gain insights into research priorities, technology transfer pathways, and engagement programs.

Session topics include:

• AFRL Munitions Directorate Research & Technology Priorities
• Collaboration Pathways such as CRADAs, EPAs, and CTAs
• Government Funding and Proposal Opportunities, including BAAs and SBIR/STTR
• Small Business Resources and Support

The event welcomes small businesses, startups, academic institutions, and government

collaborators seeking to engage or deepen their relationship with AFRL/RW.

Registration is now open and early registration is encouraged.

What to Expect

Attendees will hear directly from AFRL/RW leadership, technical experts, contracting officials, and small business advisors. Sessions are tailored to clarify collaboration pathways and highlight how your capabilities can align with Department of the Air Force priorities.

Topics include:

• AFRL Munitions Directorate Science and Technology Priorities – Hear directly from the Chief Scientist and Capability Area Planners about current and future focus areas.
• Collaboration Pathways – Learn how to engage through CRADAs, EPAs, CTAs, and other formal mechanisms.
• Funding and Proposal Opportunities – Get insights on navigating the BAA process and leveraging SBIR/STTR, TACFI/STRATFI programs.
• Small Business Resources and Support – Discover services designed to help businesses navigate and prepare for defense contracting opportunities.

Who Should Participate 

This event is ideal for industry, academic, and non-traditional partners, particularly those who are new to or have limited experience collaborating with the Department of Defense (DoD) or AFRL/RW.

Participants may include:

• Small businesses seeking R&D or technology transition opportunities
• Entrepreneurs, startups, and defense innovators
• Academic and research institutions interested in dual-use technologies
• Government collaborators and ecosystem supporters new to or with limited experience engaging with DoD and AFRL/RW

Agenda Snapshot 

A detailed agenda with session times and speakers will be released soon.

How To Participate: 

Attend In-Person or Virtually – Join us at the Doolittle Institute in Niceville, FL, or participate remotely.

Register Early – Space is limited! REGISTER TODAY to secure your spot. Deadline to register is 1 August 2025.

Network and Connect – Engage with AFRL representatives, industry experts, and fellow attendees during scheduled networking breaks and the closing reception.

Engage Actively – Make the most of the event by asking questions during Q&A, and connecting with speakers and support teams.

Questions?

For event-related questions, please contact techtransfer@doolittleinstitute.org