Meet the Experts: Leveraging SBIR Funding for Defense Innovation

An exclusive opportunity to connect face-to-face with Navy SBIR success stories and industry veterans.

About this Event


Imagine your small business pioneering breakthrough research and securing Department of Defense funding to fuel innovation.

That's exactly what's possible with the SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) program, a unique opportunity for businesses to access substantial funding for cutting-edge research and prototype development.

On December 10th, you’ll have the opportunity to connect face-to-face with Navy SBIR success stories and industry veterans who’ve helped businesses like yours transform their ideas into reality.

Guided by leaders in Navy tech and defense, this exclusive event provides a hands-on opportunity to gain insights what it takes to secure SBIR funding specifically tailored to the Navy’s priorities.

This workshop is a joint effort between the , and the , and is presented by .

Questions? Email Mitch Koonz, bWl0Y2ggISBrb29ueiB8IG53dGVjaGJyaWRnZSAhIG9yZw==

Agenda


🕑: 09:00 AM
Doors Open

Info: Networking, coffee and pastries. Sign up for one-on-one meetings with NW Tech Bridge, WA APEX Accelerator, and/or NAVSEA.

🕑: 09:20 AM - 09:30 AM
Words of Welcome [Summit Space]
Host: Alanna Imbach, Matchstick Lab

🕑: 09:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Overview of the Navy SBIR Program [Summit Space]
Host: Drew McDougall, NAVSEA SBIR Program Outreach Director

Info: Kick off your SBIR journey with an in-depth look at the Navy SBIR

program. In this session, we’ll break down the core components of the Navy’s SBIR process, guiding you through everything from eligibility requirements to program goals and funding stages. This overview will equip you with a solid foundation to navigate the complexities of the SBIR program and leverage it effectively for your business’s innovative projects.

🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Hear From Navy Program Topic Managers: Naval SBIR Topics Explained (Virtual)
Host: Navy Program Topic Managers

Info: [Breakout Room] Join us for a rare opportunity to hear directly from PEO USC (Unmanned and Small Combatants) and Team Ships as they discuss live (virtually) tips and tricks for a good proposal. You will gain firsthand insights into the Navy’s pressing needs, and the unique challenges driving innovation. This is an invaluable chance to engage with the experts shaping the future of defense technology.

🕑: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Open Tables [Summit Space]

Info: Meet with Dave Kowalick, NW Tech Bridge, and other resource partners to learn more about SBIR or other innovation avenues. You will also have the opportunity to meet and mingle with other innovators and share ideas and challenges.

🕑: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Meet One-on-One with NAVSEA SBIR/STTR Program Outreach [Breakout Room]
Host: Drew McDougall, NAVSEA SBIR/STTR Program Outreach and Se

Info: Drew McDougall is the NAVSEA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program Outreach Director. He will be available to meet with one on one with innovators who are anticipating

submitting proposals to the current release. Take advantage of a meeting with Drew to gain personalized insights into NAVSEA’s SBIR/STTR program, ask specific questions about your project, and receive tailored guidance to enhance your chances of success engagement with the program.

NOTE: You will be able to sign up for a 10 minute meeting at the event. We suggest you bring a printed version of your quad chart with you. (Register with NW Tech Bridge to request a template if needed)

🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:20 AM
Navigating the SBIR Opportunities with the WA APEX Accelerator [Main Hall]
Host: Grady Smith, WA APEX Accelerator Advisor

Info: Learn how to maximize your success in the SBIR processes with the help of the WA APEX Accelerator. In this session, you’ll get a detailed overview of the WA APEX Accelerator’s resources, specifically designed to guide small businesses through the SBIR process. Leave with an understanding of the essential support services available, including Phase Zero assistance—pre-submission guidance to refine proposals, strengthen project positioning, and improve your chances for funding.

🕑: 11:20 AM - 11:40 PM
Leveraging the Navy SBIR Programmatic Funding to Develop Your Innovation
Host: Dave Kowalick, NW Tech Bridge

Info: [Summit Space] Join Dave Kowalick of the NW Tech Bridge for a complete overview of funding pathways available to innovators within the Navy ecosystem, from initial research to final development. Learn the strategic importance of “quad charts”—a critical tool for effectively summarizing project proposals before engaging with topic authors and other decision-makers. This session will equip you with practical insights to enhance your proposals and maximize your opportunities in the Navy’s funding ecosystem.

🕑: 11:45 AM - 12:20 PM
From First Award To Serial Awardee: Real World DOD SBIR Success Stories
Host: Dave Kowalick, NW Tech Bridge

Info: [Main Hall] Dive into the journey from early Navy SBIR awards to successful commercialization in this fireside chat with SBIR awardees who’ve been there. This conversation will explore the real-world obstacles they faced, why they pursued Navy

funding, and how SBIR has transformed their businesses. Whether you're an experienced awardee or just starting out, this session offers valuable insights into navigating the path from SBIR funding to market success.

🕑: 12:20 PM - 12:30 PM
Closing Thoughts
Host: Alanna Imbach, Matchstick Lab

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