What types of vendors does the CDAO prioritize for contract awards?

The CDAO seeks vendors specializing in high-end software engineering, AI model development, and data architecture. They frequently engage with non-traditional defense contractors, startups, and technology firms capable of rapid prototyping and agile development.

Are security clearances required for CDAO contracts?

Yes, many CDAO projects involve sensitive data and classified environments. Vendors should be prepared to maintain Facility Security Clearances (FCL) and ensure key personnel hold appropriate personnel security clearances to access DoD networks and AI development platforms.

How does the CDAO structure its procurement competitions?

The CDAO often utilizes Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) and rapid acquisition vehicles to bypass traditional, lengthy procurement cycles. They frequently issue broad agency announcements and solicitations focused on specific technical challenges rather than prescriptive, legacy-style requirements.

IMMEDIATE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE · Contracting Office

CDAO - CHIEF DIGITAL AND ARTIFICIAL

1 solicitations and awards tracked for this contracting office.

Contracting office1 solicitationsUnder IMMEDIATE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE

Solicitations

Federal records indexed

Source

Federal

Federal procurement data

Sub-Agency

IMMEDIATE OFFICE

IMMEDIATE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE

Agency

DEPT

DEPT OF DEFENSE

About

Acquisition authority and contracting profile of CDAO - CHIEF DIGITAL AND ARTIFICIAL.

The Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO) accelerates the adoption of data, analytics, and AI-enabled capabilities across the Department of Defense. It procures advanced software development, machine learning model integration, data engineering, and cloud infrastructure services to ensure warfighters maintain decision advantage.

Hierarchy: IMMEDIATE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE · DEPT OF DEFENSE.

Contracting officers at this office issue solicitations under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). Vendors must be registered in the federal procurement system with a valid CAGE code to receive awards.

Opportunity activity heatmap (2024-present)

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

Count-based2024-2026

2024

2025

2026

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

FewerMore

CDAO - CHIEF DIGITAL AND ARTIFICIAL contracting FAQ

Common questions about CDAO - CHIEF DIGITAL AND ARTIFICIAL, the parent hierarchy, and how vendors should track this contracting office.