Federal Organizations DIU Defense Innovation Unit — rapid commercial technology adoption for national security NAVWAR Naval Information Warfare Systems Command — C4ISR and cyber systems NAVFAC Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command — facilities and infrastructure NAVSUP Naval Supply Systems Command — logistics and supply chain MARCORSYSCOM Marine Corps Systems Command — warfighting systems acquisition DARPA Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency — breakthrough technologies NAVSEA Naval Sea Systems Command — ships, submarines, and combat systems SBIR / STTR Small Business Innovation Research & Tech Transfer programs for federal contracts Partner Organizations EDC San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation — regional growth and business attraction DICE Defense Innovation Community for Enterprise — San Diego defense innovation connector CONNECT Accelerating San Diego innovation and entrepreneurship across tech and life sciences SD Chamber San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce — business advocacy and community leadership Universities UC San Diego Leading research in cybersecurity, AI, ocean sciences, and biotech San Diego State Engineering, aerospace, and national security research and education Univ. of San Diego Innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership development programs NPS Naval Postgraduate School — graduate defense research and education Cal State San Marcos STEM education and applied research with community-embedded partnerships Venture Capital Shield Capital Defense and national security focused early-stage venture capital a16z American Dynamism Andreessen Horowitz fund focused on national security and defense tech Paladin Capital Multi-stage investor in cybersecurity, aerospace, and national security tech NV Fund Naval Ventures — DoD-affiliated venture fund investing in emerging tech Harpoon Ventures Venture capital focused on dual-use and defense technology companies Industry Partners General Dynamics Aerospace, combat systems, IT, and marine systems L3Harris Defense electronics, communications, and intelligence systems Leidos Defense, intelligence, and health IT solutions SAIC Defense IT, modernization, and government services Northrop Grumman Autonomous systems, cyber, space, and strike capabilities Booz Allen Hamilton Management consulting, technology, and engineering for defense and government How to Do Business with the Federal Government 01 Get registered in SAM.gov Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and complete your registration at SAM.gov. This is a mandatory prerequisite before receiving any federal contract or grant award. Registration is free and must be renewed annually. 02 Find open opportunities Search active solicitations on SAM.gov and Grants.gov. For defense-specific innovation funding, explore DoD SBIR/STTR programs designed for small businesses and research institutions. 03 Understand the acquisition process Federal procurement follows a defined cycle: solicitation, proposal, evaluation, award, and performance. The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) governs how the government buys goods and services. Understanding it before you bid is essential. 04 Explore fast-track pathways DIU's Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) and Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) allow faster, non-traditional acquisition for innovative companies that don't fit the traditional defense contractor model. These pathways were designed for companies like yours. 05 Know your small business certifications If you qualify, register under SBA programs such as 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, or SDVOSB. Many federal contracts include set-asides specifically for certified small businesses — giving you a competitive advantage on targeted opportunities. 06 Build relationships early Attend industry days, respond to Requests for Information (RFIs), and engage with program offices before solicitations are released. The best contracts go to vendors who have invested in understanding the government's mission. SDMAC events are a direct pathway to those relationships. Have a resource to suggest for this page? Contact SDMAC and our team will review it for inclusion.