APEX Accelerator-Open Announcement for Idaho

The Department of Defense (DoD), through its APEX Accelerator Program, is offering a cooperative agreement opportunity titled “DOD APEX Accelerator Idaho.” This opportunity supports the operation of an APEX Accelerator in the state of Idaho to assist businesses in navigating procurement and contracting opportunities with the DoD, other federal entities, state and local governments, and prime contractors. APEX Accelerators evolved from the Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP), originally established in 1985, and serve as key partners in expanding the industrial base for national defense by enhancing small business participation in the federal marketplace. The primary objective of this opportunity is to fund one awardee to establish and maintain a physical APEX Accelerator location within Idaho. The recipient will provide professional, specialized procurement technical assistance to businesses, helping them identify and compete for government contracts and technology grants such as SBIR/STTR. The program mandates close collaboration with the DoD and other federal agencies to shape service delivery strategies, ensure high-quality outputs, and maintain cost efficiency. Applicants may include state or local governments, nonprofit organizations, tribal entities, and economic enterprises, among others. Applicants must demonstrate an ability to provide cost sharing, which is a condition of eligibility. Federal cost share is limited to 65% of the total project cost unless services are provided in a distressed area, in which case the federal share may reach 85%. Distressed areas are defined by specific economic criteria, including per capita income and unemployment rates, or designated tribal reservations. Proposals must include verification of cost matching commitments and, if applicable, documentation proving distressed area qualification. Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov no later than 5:00 PM Eastern Time on January 31, 2026. Submission requires a SAM.gov registration and a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Required documents include a completed SF-424, cost matching certification, personnel qualifications, budget breakdown, subaward budgets if applicable, and several supporting attachments covering fringe benefits, indirect costs, audit data, and a program execution strategy. Applicants must also prepare for an oral presentation covering technical approach, personnel, and program management. Proposals will be evaluated based on past performance, technical approach, and cost. Emphasis will be placed on prior experience managing APEX Accelerators or similar procurement support programs. Awards are expected to be announced via email around July 31, 2026, with a performance start date of May 1, 2026, for a 12-month period. The program is annual and recurring, with the next anticipated open cycle in Fall 2026. Questions can be directed to the APEX Program Office or the designated grants officer, with contact details provided in the official NOFO.

Strong past performance under APEX Accelerator cooperative agreements is given priority; demonstrate program strategy, staff experience, and cost realism.