Defense Technology Partnership Development

The contract seeks to establish and manage strategic partnerships with defense technology startups, innovation hubs such as DIU and AFWERX, and venture capital ecosystems to advance student-driven projects and internship opportunities in the defense technology sector. The goal is to create a pipeline of talent and innovation by connecting academic institutions with cutting-edge defense tech entities, fostering hands-on learning experiences and accelerating the transition of student research into practical defense applications. The work is structured as a subcontract under the NAICS code 541611, indicating it involves management, scientific, and technical consulting services, with performance centered in Annapolis, Maryland, at the ZIP code 21402. Proposals must be submitted by July 29, 2026, following a posting date of July 24, 2026, under the auspices of the Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center Norfolk, which operates under the Department of Defense. While no specific set-aside designation is indicated, the contract is part of a broader effort to engage the defense innovation ecosystem and leverage private-sector agility to enhance military readiness. Success will depend on the contractor’s ability to identify, cultivate, and sustain high-impact collaborations that deliver measurable outcomes for students and defense stakeholders alike, with an emphasis on scalability and alignment with national security priorities.