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DIU Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)

DIU CSO — Prototype Contract

Provides research teams and institutions for DIU CSO Prototype Contract in artificial intelligence, defense innovation, and cybersecurity.

OpenDefense Innovation UnitUnited States

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) is the U.S. Department of Defense's primary continuously-open contracting mechanism for engaging commercial industry on national security technology challenges. Established under Other Transaction Authority (10 USC 4022), the CSO operates across seven technology portfolios — Artificial Intelligence, Autonomy, Cyber and Telecom, E

Prototype contracts for commercially mature technologies across AI, autonomy, cyber, energy, human systems, and space that address documented Department of Defense mission needs.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Rolling
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.Rolling
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.12–24 months
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Other Transaction (OT)
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.

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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.diu.mil