How does DARPA differ from other DoD procurement agencies?

DARPA focuses exclusively on fundamental research and prototype development rather than the procurement of mature, off-the-shelf weapon systems. Vendors must demonstrate how their proposed technology offers a radical leap in capability rather than an incremental improvement.

What is the best way to engage with DARPA for new vendors?

Monitor the SAM.gov portal specifically for Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs) and Research Announcements. These solicitations outline specific technical challenges and allow vendors to submit white papers or proposals for innovative solutions without a pre-existing requirement.

Do I need a security clearance to work with DARPA?

While many DARPA projects involve unclassified research, some programs require facility clearances and personnel with secret or top-secret access. Vendors should assess the specific security requirements outlined in individual solicitations before submitting a proposal.

DEPT OF DEFENSE · Sub-Agency

DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY

1,027 opportunities associated with DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY. Spanning 2 contracting offices.

Parent: DEPT OF DEFENSE1,027 solicitations2 offices

Solicitations

Federal records indexed

Offices

Child contracting offices

Parent Agency

DEPT

DEPT OF DEFENSE

Top Office

DEF ADVANCED

31 opps

About

Mission and contracting profile of DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) focuses on high-risk, high-reward research to prevent technological surprise and maintain military superiority. Vendors compete to develop breakthrough capabilities in areas such as artificial intelligence, advanced materials, biotechnology, and next-generation microelectronics.

Parent agency: DEPT OF DEFENSE.

The sub-agency operates through 2 contracting offices. Each office manages its own acquisition pipeline and may issue independent solicitations.

Opportunity activity heatmap (2024-present)

Monthly posted opportunity volume from 2024 onward. Darker = more indexed records.

Count-basedPeak month: 532024-2026

2024

2025

2026

This view uses monthly opportunity counts from the public dataset. Monthly obligation dollars are not available on these pages.

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DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY contracting FAQ

Common questions about DEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY, its offices, and how to monitor buying activity under the parent federal hierarchy.