The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) funds high-risk, high-reward research aimed at preventing and creating technological surprise for U.S. national security. Unlike traditional federal agencies, DARPA pursues transformational breakthroughs — not incremental advances — across areas including biological technologies, defense sciences, information processing, and strategic and tactical technology. Faculty whose work pushes the boundaries of what's possible, particularly in emerging and cross-disciplinary fields, are well positioned to pursue DARPA opportunities. Please use the links below to learn more about the agency. The DARPA team can be contacted using darpaconnect@darpa.mil.
Learn About DARPA
- About DARPA — Overview of DARPA's mission, technical offices and leadership.
- DARPA's Offices — These six offices provide vital support with a dedicated team of managers and professionals.
- Small Business Programs Office (SBPO) — Resources and opportunities for small businesses pursuing SBIR/STTR awards and other DARPA funding mechanisms.
Pitt Research Development Resources
Content developed by the Pitt Research Development Team to support funding opportunities.
- Meet the Decision Makers: DARPA (Pitt login required) — Dr. Jess Resig (DARPAConnect and ERIS Program Lead, Applied Research Institute, Chief Program Officer) and Jennifer Thabet (Program Director, DARPA, Small Business Programs Office). August 26, 2026.
Get Training and Connect with DARPA
DARPAConnect is a free online community that provides training, events, and resources to help researchers and organizations navigate the DARPA ecosystem and pursue funding opportunities.
- DARPAConnect On-Demand Curriculum — Free self-paced modules covering how to discover opportunities, engage with program managers, and succeed as a DARPA performer.
- DARPAConnect Live Events — Live webinars, office hours, and 1:1 coaching sessions to help you engage with DARPA program managers and navigate the agency's funding ecosystem.
- DARPA Budget Building Basics — A free self-paced module covering how to build a clear, credible budget for a DARPA proposal, including what reviewers need to verify your costs.
- DARPAConnect Corner Office Hours — Sign up for free 10-minute sessions to ask questions and explore whether DARPA may be a fit for your research or technology ideas.
- DARPAConnect Corner One-on-One Meetings — Book a free 30-minute session with the DARPAConnect team to discuss how your research interests may align with DARPA's mission and get personalized guidance on next steps.
Submit and Compete Through ERIS
ERIS (Expedited Research Innovation System) is DARPA's rapid procurement marketplace, where universities and companies can submit technology solutions for evaluation and direct selection by DARPA program managers.
- You're Awardable on ERIS: Now What? — A free self-paced module on how to maximize your awardable status and convert a post-competitive ERIS designation into a funded DARPA award.
- DARPA ERIS Marketplace — A rapid procurement platform where universities and companies can submit technology solutions for evaluation and direct access by DARPA program managers and other defense customers.