Defense Innovation Unit Commercial Solutions Opening

Amendment / Modification

• This document, Amendment 0001, replaces the original solicitation HQ0845-20-S-C001 and HQ0034-20-9-DIU (originally posted March 23, 2020).

• This revised Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) is now the active version and requires full review by interested parties.

• The effective date of this amendment is March 13, 2026.

• The entire original solicitation is replaced by this amended version.

• Vendors must review this revised CSO in its entirety as it supersedes the previous versions.

• No specific changes to proposal deadlines or submission requirements are detailed within this amendment document itself, but it signifies the active solicitation is now this amended version.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document outlines the procedures for a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) used by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to identify and acquire innovative commercial technologies for the Department of Defense (DoD). The CSO aims to accelerate the adoption of advanced commercial technology, transform DoD capabilities, and strengthen the national security innovation base. It utilizes Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) under 10 U.S.C. § 2371b for prototype projects that enhance military effectiveness.

• The CSO solicits Solution Briefs in response to Areas of Interest (AOIs), which are broader problem statements than traditional solicitations.

• The process involves three phases: Solution Brief, Pitch Session, and a full written proposal (Request for Prototype Proposal - RPP).

• Prototype projects can include proof of concept, model, pilot, novel application of commercial technologies, agile development, design, development, demonstration of technical or operational utility, or combinations thereof.

• Submissions must be unclassified.

• Period of performance for a Solution Brief or proposal should generally not exceed 24 months.

• Awards will be made using Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs).

• The CSO is a competitive solicitation, but DIU may select vendors whose solutions show greater potential to achieve its mission.

• Phase 1 (Solution Brief): Submitted electronically via the DIU website. Not to exceed 5 pages or 15 slides. Not compensated.

• Phase 2 (Pitch Session): Companies with meritorious Solution Briefs may be invited. May include in-person or virtual pitch, and potentially additional written submissions. Not compensated unless otherwise stipulated.

• Phase 3 (Proposal): Companies with meritorious Solution Briefs and Pitches may be invited to submit a full written proposal (RPP). This includes a technical proposal and a price/cost/schedule proposal.

• Evaluation criteria for Solution Briefs include relevance to AOI, uniqueness/innovation, and technical merit/feasibility.

• Evaluation criteria for Pitches include relevance, technical merit, feasibility, company viability, ROM price, schedule, and data rights.

• Submissions sent through other channels or after the AOI period has ended will not be reviewed.

• The CSO is open to nontraditional and traditional defense contractors and non-profit research institutions.

• Definitions for "Nontraditional Defense Contractor," "Nonprofit Institution," and "Small Business" are provided.

• Companies must have a DUNS number and be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM).

• DIU may use non-Government advisors in the evaluation process, with appropriate NDAs.

• Information provided is treated as confidential and protected from unauthorized disclosure.