Lincoln Laboratory is seeking innovative solutions to technical challenges in support of national security.

If you are a small business or nontraditional defense contractor, please share your ideas with us by responding to the current open topics of interest. If we find your solution compelling, we will ask you to present a pitch to us. All listed topics have funding to support one or more contract awards.

Phase 1: The Idea

If your company has specific expertise relevant to one or more posted technical challenges, submit a brief (3–5 pages) concept paper by using the form below, describing your capabilities and proposed solution to the problem being addressed.

The concept paper shall include a brief overview of your company, your technological approach to addressing the challenge, and a notional schedule. Submit the form by using the link next to the topic you are interested in supporting.  

Concept Paper Form

We will review your submission within 7 to 10 business days from the topic close date and let you know if we’re interested in learning more about your company and ideas.

Phase 2: The Pitch

If your concept paper offers a feasible, attractive solution to the problem posted, you will be invited to deliver an in-person or online briefing to our evaluation team. This pitch will help us learn more about your approach and your detailed plan to execute the solution.

Pitch Presentation Guidelines

We will contact you within 30 days of the pitch and let you know if we would like to fund your idea.

The Award

For those solutions that we choose to support, we will work with you to develop the full scope of work and to formulate the resulting award contract. Our goal is to issue contract awards within 60 days of the final scope of work and cost proposal agreement. We employ streamlined and flexible contracting methods that are designed specifically for nontraditional defense contractors to ensure expediency.

Commercial Solutions Opening

No opportunities are currently available. Please check back regularly for new postings.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who qualifies as a nontraditional defense contractor?

In accordance with 10 U.S. Code 2302, a “nontraditional defense contractor” is an entity that is not currently performing and has not performed, for at least the 1-year period prior, any contract or subcontract for the Department of Defense that was subject to full cost accounting standards coverage.

  • How will my concept paper be evaluated?

Subject-matter experts will review and evaluate concept papers on the relevance to the Laboratory's needs and the feasibility and innovation of your proposed solution.

  • What drives the timeline between final scope of work agreement and contract award?

This time period is allotted for you to review and negotiate terms and conditions with us, and for the final award document to be generated and signed by all parties.  We will work with you to ensure that this process is as short as possible.

  • How will I receive an award and get paid?

Lincoln Laboratory will issue research subcontracts to award funding for successful proposals. Invoicing and payment can be made periodically and will be negotiated.

  • Who can I talk to with any questions?

Please submit any inquiries to us at [email protected].