DARPA is seeking a commercialization lead for the RAPIID program, which aims to develop a shelf-stable blood analog system for regulatory authorization and scalable manufacturing. The selected performer will lead commercialization and manufacturing strategies, conduct market research, identify market opportunities, and help overcome market entry and manufacturing hurdles. This includes developing financing, scalability, market entry, and licensing frameworks. The program is divided into phases, with this solicitation focusing on Phase 1 of Task Area 4 (TA4). Interested parties must submit an abstract by June 29, 2026, followed by a full proposal if invited. Proposers for TA4 cannot propose for TA1 or TA2 due to conflict of interest. Deliverables include monthly and annual reports, presentations, and site visits.
Abstract submission deadline is June 29, 2026, by 3:00 PM Eastern Time. Full proposals are due approximately 3 weeks after invitation.
Abstracts will be evaluated based on overall scientific and technical merit, proposer capabilities and experience, potential contribution to the DARPA mission, and cost and schedule realism.
The proposer must demonstrate a proven track record of transitioning medical technologies through the FDA regulatory pipeline and into government acquisition programs, including personnel capable of addressing all required activities.
Failure to make reasonable, good-faith efforts to complete required Associate Performer Agreements (APAs) or comply with government-directed APA requirements may result in corrective action, up to and including termination.
The performer is expected to host the DARPA and government teams for a site visit at least once annually, with estimated timing around month 6.
Organizations proposing to TA4 will be ineligible for awards under TA1 and/or TA2 and vice versa, to mitigate organizational conflicts of interest.