DHS SVIP
Funds unconventional government collaborations solving difficult Department of Homeland Security problems.
SVIP was established to bring non-traditional government contractors — startups and scale-ups that do not typically work with the federal government — into DHS problem-solving. It operates via Other Transaction Authority (OTA), currently under solicitation OTS 70RSAT21R00000006 (5-year, issued May 2021). Funding is up to $200,000 per phase across 3–4 phases, for a potential total of up to $800K–$2M over approximately 24 months. Non-dilutive and non-FAR (does not follow standard procurement rules). Technology focus areas include AI and autonomous systems, border security, chemical/biological/explosive defense, counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, first responder capability, food and agriculture defense, integrated disaster resilience, physical security, and wildfire technology. Silicon Valley location is NOT required — the program is national. As of mid-2026, a 'lapse in federal funding' notice was observed on the DHS S&T website, suggesting possible funding pause; verify live status before applying.
Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.