Center for Foundational Academic Research and Strategic Innovation for the Defense Enterprise (C-FARSIDE)
C-FARSIDE supports collaboration between academia, industry, and defense to accelerate innovative research and technology transition for national security through technology scouting, prototyping, and multidisciplinary partnerships.
Funder: Washington Headquarters Services
Due Dates: August 17, 2026
Funding Amounts: $50,000,000–$150,000,000 (one award; up to 5 years)
Summary: Supports a center to bridge foundational academic research and strategic innovation for the Defense enterprise through transdisciplinary collaboration and technology transition.
Key Information: Only the Virginia Tech Applied Research Cooperation is eligible to apply.
Description
This opportunity supports the creation and operation of the Center for Foundational Academic Research and Strategic Innovation for the Defense Enterprise (C-FARSIDE). The center is intended to foster deep, transdisciplinary collaborations among leading scholars, guided by defense strategists, to transform rigorous academic research into breakthrough national security solutions. The awardee will drive technology scouting, innovation acceleration, and collaboration bridging academia, industry, and defense stakeholders. The center will also form research teams and consortia to address complex, real-world challenges relevant to defense missions, and facilitate the transition of research outcomes for operational impact.
