Empowering Innovation: Your Connection to the IR&D Team & Resources


IR&D refers to privately funded research and development efforts led by industry and academia. The IR&D team helps innovators connect their work to DAF needs, navigate funding pathways, and understand transition opportunities within the Department of the Air Force.

The DAF IR&D Team is dedicated to fostering innovation and technological advancement through strategic partnerships and internal research initiatives.

The IR&D Team is committed to:

  • Bridging the gap between independent research efforts and DAF priorities.
  • Providing guidance to help innovators navigate the complexities of government engagement.
  • Offering tools and resources to support effective technology transition.
  • Fostering connections between researchers, small businesses, and DAF stakeholders.

What is Independent Research & Development (IR&D)?

IR&D is research and development that is funded and performed by commercial companies and academic institutions — without direct government funding or a specific government contract. It gives organizations the freedom to invest in emerging technology with the potential to align with defense priorities.

The government does not select the projects or pay for the R&D — but it provides a mechanism for companies to potentially recover part of their investment when their work aligns with government needs.

IR&D vs. SBIR/STTR: IR&D is driven by private sector investment — companies choose their own projects. SBIR and STTR projects are funded through government contracts or grants. The work may look similar, but how it's funded and managed is very different.

Compensable IR&D Categories

1 Basic Research

2 Applied Research

3 Technology Development

4 Systems & Concept Formulation Studies

Major contractors — organizations with more than $11M in combined IR&D and bid & proposal (B&P) costs annually — must report project data to DTIC via the Defense Innovation Marketplace.

Why IR&D Matters

Whether you're in industry, academia, or government, IR&D creates real opportunities for collaboration and innovation.


For Industry
Increase DAF visibility, recover R&D costs, and explore future contract opportunities.

For Academia
Align research with defense priorities and explore technology transition pathways

For Government

Track privately funded innovation and guide R&D toward mission-critical DAF needs.

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