A Guide to DTRA Funding

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) agency that focuses on countering weapons of mass destruction. DTRA offers numerous funding opportunities for research and development projects, but navigating the technical and financial requirements can be challenging. This guide aims to shed light on these aspects to help potential applicants understand the process better.

The DTRA FundingApplication Process

The application process for DTRA funding is rigorous and competitive. Here are the steps:

1. Identify a Relevant DTRA Funding Opportunity: DTRA periodically releases Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs) and other solicitations that outline the specific research areas they are interested in funding. These documents provide detailed information about the technical and financial requirements, as well as the evaluation criteria. It is critical to identify a funding opportunity which aligns with your research and capabilities.
2. Prepare a White Paper: Submit a white paper (and Quad Chart) to DTRA following the corresponding DTRA BAA instructions. This document should outline your project, its relevance to the warfighter, and how it aligns with DTRA’s mission.
3. Review: DTRA will review your white paper. If it aligns with their objectives, they may invite you to submit a full proposal.
4. Full Proposal: The full proposal will include a Technical Volume and a Business Volume and should detail your project’s objectives, methodology, timeline, and budget. It should also demonstrate your team’s expertise and capability to execute the project.
5. Evaluation: DTRA uses a merit-based review process, where proposals are evaluated based on their technical merit, potential impact, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness. This process can take several months.
6. Negotiation and Award Acceptance: If your full proposal is successful, DTRA will enter negotiations. During negotiations, DTRA will perform due diligence efforts, audit the budget proposal, and issue a draft contract. You have an opportunity to negotiate the terms and conditions of the award. Once an agreement is reached, the contract will be finalized, and an award will be made.

DTRA Financial Requirements

The financial requirements for DTRA funding opportunities are designed to ensure that the applicant has the financial capacity to carry out the proposed project and that the project represents a good use of government funds. These requirements can include:

1. Budget: The applicant must provide a detailed budget. This should include all anticipated costs, such as personnel salaries, equipment, materials, travel, and overheads. The budget should be realistic and justifiable, and it should align with the project plan.
2. Financial Stability: The applicant must demonstrate financial stability. This can be done by providing financial statements or other evidence of financial health. DTRA needs to ensure that the applicant has the financial resources to complete the project, even if unforeseen costs arise.
3. Compliance: The applicant must comply with federal cost principles. These principles, outlined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the DoD Grant and Agreement Regulations (DoDGARs), provide guidelines on what costs are allowable and allocable.
4. Good Faith: The applicant may need to provide cost-sharing or matching funds. While not always required, cost-sharing can demonstrate the applicant’s commitment to the project and can make the proposal more competitive.

Technical Requirements for DTRA Funding

The technical requirements for DTRA funding opportunities are typically project-specific and are outlined in the Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs) or other solicitation documents. These requirements are designed to ensure that the proposed project aligns with DTRA’s mission and strategic objectives and can include:

1. Relevance: The proposed project must address one or more of the research areas identified by DTRA. These areas often include chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-yield explosives (CBRNE) defense, counter-WMD technologies, and other related fields.
2. Feasibility: The applicant must demonstrate technical feasibility. This involves providing a detailed project plan that outlines the project’s objectives, methodologies, timelines, and expected outcomes. The plan should also include a risk assessment, identifying potential challenges and strategies to mitigate them.
3. Team Expertise: The applicant must have the necessary technical capabilities. This includes having the right personnel with the appropriate expertise, as well as the necessary facilities and
   equipment.

Guide to DTRA Summary

Securing DTRA funding is a significant achievement that can propel your research to new heights. While the application process is challenging, the potential rewards are immense. By understanding the application process, financial requirements, and technical requirements, you’ll be well-prepared to submit a compelling proposal.

If your company has considered applying for DTRA funding, EverGlade Consulting is the right partner to help make that a reality. EverGlade has a full suite of experienced consulting professionals prepared to support your DTRA Funding Application. Our team has helped both large and small companies prepare, submit, and win applications for federal funding.

EverGlade consultants can help develop your business plan, prepare financial projections, and assemble a concise and complete package to take advantage of these unique programs. With a successful history of supporting diverse clients through the application process, our team’s unique understanding of the federal funding landscape will strengthen the chances of your proposal’s success.

For additional information about EverGlade Consulting, visit EverGlade DTRA Consulting