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ROADS Prize Challenge — Robotic Operation for Autonomous Delivery and Sustainment

ROADS Prize Challenge

Connects teams delivering high impact prototypes with milestone support for ROADS Prize Challenge in robotics, defense innovation, and transport and mobility.

ClosedDefense Innovation UnitUnited States

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) launched the ROADS (Robotic Operation for Autonomous Delivery and Sustainment) Prize Challenge to source commercially derived autonomous vehicle solutions for the Department of Defense's fleet of more than 150,000 non-tactical vehicles. The program carries a total funding pool of $30 million distributed across finalists and top performers, structured as a three-ph

Autonomous vehicle fleet management solutions at SAE Level 2 or above, with a credible path to Level 4 autonomy within 12 to 24 months, for deployment across DoD non-tactical vehicle fleets.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.One-off
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
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.$30M

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Last verified: 22 Jul 2026Source: www.diu.mil