DoD SBIR Template: Phase I Proposal Structure for Small Businesses
Preparing a competitive DoD SBIR Template is one of the most important steps for startups and small businesses pursuing Department of Defense SBIR funding. While the DoD Phase I SBIR program is designed to support innovation from small businesses, it still demands precise technical writing, strict compliance, and a clear connection to defense mission needs.
This DoD SBIR Template reflects best practices used by experienced DoD SBIR grant writers and aligns with current DoD SBIR/STTR solicitation requirements across Army, Navy, Air Force, DARPA, and other defense agencies.
1. Cover Sheet
(Completed through the official DoD SBIR submission portal)
Solicitation Number
Topic Number
Proposal Title
Firm Information (Legal name, address, CAGE code, UEI, etc.)
Technical Abstract
Keywords
Principal Investigator (PI) Information
Estimated Project Cost and Period of Performance
A well-written abstract and keyword set—often refined by a DoD SBIR grant writer—can influence how reviewers interpret your proposal before they reach the technical narrative.
2. Technical Volume (Main Narrative)
A. Identification and Significance of the Problem or Opportunity
Use this section of the DoD SBIR Template to clearly describe the technical problem defined in the SBIR topic. Explain why the problem matters to DoD missions and identify any potential dual-use applications. Strong proposals explicitly link the problem to operational needs, readiness, or cost savings for the Department of Defense.
B. Phase I Technical Objectives
List clear, measurable Phase I objectives focused on demonstrating technical feasibility. Each objective should reduce risk and directly support a future Phase II effort.
C. Phase I Work Plan
A strong DoD SBIR Template includes a detailed but realistic work plan:
Task Breakdown: Major tasks and milestones
Technical Approach: Methods, models, experiments, or prototype development
Timeline: Month-by-month schedule (Gantt chart optional but helpful)
Risk Management: Technical risks and mitigation strategies
Experienced DoD SBIR grant writers ensure the work plan aligns tightly with the evaluation criteria and budget constraints.
D. Related Work
Summarize relevant prior research, competing approaches, and existing technologies. Clearly explain how your proposed work improves upon or differs from the state of the art. Include prior company or PI efforts when applicable.
E. Relationship to Future Research and Development
This section of the DoD SBIR Template should explain how Phase I results will logically transition into Phase II. Identify potential DoD stakeholders, programs of record, or transition partners that could adopt the technology.
F. Commercialization Strategy
Target DoD and/or commercial markets
Transition pathways and customer engagement
Licensing, manufacturing, or deployment approach
Dual-use opportunities, if applicable
Commercialization planning is a key discriminator in DoD SBIR evaluations and is often strengthened with input from a DoD SBIR grant writer.
G. Key Personnel
List the Principal Investigator, co-investigators, subcontractors, and consultants. Provide concise bios highlighting technical expertise and defense-relevant experience.
H. Facilities and Equipment
Describe the facilities, laboratories, and equipment available to support the project. Note any anticipated use of government-furnished equipment or facilities if applicable.
I. Subcontractors and Consultants
Identify third-party contributors and their roles. Confirm that the small business will perform at least two-thirds of the Phase I work, as required by SBIR regulations.
J. Prior, Current, or Pending Support
Disclose all related funding and proposals. Clearly state that no duplication of effort exists.
3. Cost Volume
(Entered online; typical cost categories shown below)
| Cost Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Direct Labor | $XX,XXX |
| Fringe Benefits | $X,XXX |
| Overhead | $X,XXX |
| Materials & Supplies | $X,XXX |
| Equipment (if applicable) | $X,XXX |
| Travel | $X,XXX |
| Subcontractors/Consultants | $X,XXX |
| Other Direct Costs | $X,XXX |
| G&A | $X,XXX |
| Fee/Profit (up to 7%) | $X,XXX |
| Total Cost | $XX,XXX |
Note: Phase I cost limits are typically around $250,000—always confirm the current solicitation cap.
4. Company Commercialization Report (CCR)
Required for companies with prior SBIR or STTR awards. Completed online through the DoD system.
5. Additional Documents (Topic-Specific)
Depending on the solicitation, this DoD SBIR Template may also require:
Letters of Support (strongly encouraged)
Quad Charts (often required for DoD topics)
Human or Animal Subjects documentation
Cybersecurity readiness or export control certifications
Formatting Guidelines
Technical Volume Length: Typically up to 20 pages (check topic-specific limits)
Font: Times New Roman or Arial, 10–12 pt
Spacing: Single or 1.15
Margins: 1 inch
File Type: PDF upload
Expert Tip
Always read the full solicitation and topic instructions carefully. DoD SBIR topics often include agency-specific requirements—such as quad chart formats, transition sponsor details, or cybersecurity language—that are not optional and can determine proposal success.
DoD SBIR Proposal Support from ScienceDocs
While this DoD SBIR Template provides a strong starting point, many companies choose to work with an experienced DoD SBIR grant writer to improve competitiveness, ensure compliance, and strengthen transition and commercialization positioning.
ScienceDocs has supported small businesses and research-driven startups for over 20 years, helping them prepare high-quality DoD SBIR proposals across multiple defense agencies.
If you would like expert help refining your proposal, developing specific sections, or managing the full submission process, request a quote here:
https://www.sciencedocs.com/quotes/