Looking to the STARs

As a turbulent economy and rumors of an impending recession loom, government funding may need to play a more prominent role in the investment portfolio of innovative R&D focused small businesses. Join us as we move away from SBIR/STTR opportunities and turn the tables for an insider’s view into what’s been dubbed an “amazing and under-the-radar opportunity,” a.k.a. Space Technology Advanced Research (STAR) and Starfish Advanced Research Announcements (ARAs). These opportunities are specifically geared toward space-related research & development (R&D) efforts and have no specified period of performance or price ceiling. This will be a candid, honest, and open discussion with key AFRL personnel responsible for the implementation and execution of these announcements that will lead to valuable insight into how AFRL works, what they are looking for and how you can be in the best position to win.

What to Expect:

• In depth look at space specific Advanced Research Announcements (ARAs) and what makes them different from other opportunities, including what topic areas are included.
• Look into what “no price ceiling” really means and what options your business may have after a white paper is deemed “selectable not funded.”
• Insider knowledge about what AFRL is looking for in a white paper.
• Actionable steps that can be taken to give businesses the best chance for success when submitting a white paper to an ARA
• Discussion about how to establish credibility within the DAF and ultimately win more business.
  Insight into the structure, hierarchy and culture at AFRL.

Panelists:
Mike Lopez, Program Manager, AFRL,
Shawn Capehart, Contracting Officer, AFRL/RVKV 
Daniel “DJ” Alvarado, Contracting Officer, AFRL/RVKV

Guest Moderated by:
Hanson Finley, Catalyst Accelerator Government Lead