DARPADefense Advanced Research Projects Agency
Part of Department of Defense (DoD)
Annual Spend
$4B+ annually
CMMC Level
Set per solicitation (DFARS 252.204-7021)
Key Offices
TTO, DSO, MTO
Overview
DARPA invests over $4 billion annually in breakthrough technologies for national security. Known for high-risk, high-reward research, DARPA funds projects in AI, hypersonics, quantum computing, and biotechnology. Most DARPA contracts use Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) and Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs).
Top NAICS Codes
Common Contract Types
Key Procurement Offices
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find contracts with DARPA?
Search SAM.gov for active Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency solicitations. Monitor the DARPA procurement forecast published annually. Register in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) and set up saved searches for relevant NAICS codes.
Does DARPA require CMMC?
CMMC is not set agency-wide. Under DFARS 252.204-7021(d)(1) the Contracting Officer inserts the required level — Level 1 (Self), Level 2 (Self), Level 2 (C3PAO) or Level 3 (DIBCAC) — into each solicitation, covering the systems that process, store or transmit FCI or CUI. Read the solicitation rather than a generic agency rule: https://www.acquisition.gov/dfars/252.204-7021-contractor-compliance-cybersecurity-maturity-model-certification-level-requirements. Separately and regardless of CMMC status, DFARS 252.204-7012, implementation of NIST SP 800-171 and a current SPRS score remain binding on contracts that carry them.
What are the top NAICS codes for DARPA contracts?
The most commonly used NAICS codes for Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency contracts include 541715, 541511, 541330, 541380, 541720. These codes cover the primary contracting areas for DARPA. Check SAM.gov for specific opportunities under each code.
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