SBIR Signal vs. DoD DSIP
DSIP is the official Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal — where many DoD topics live and where you submit. SBIR Signal is not a replacement; it is the research and capture layer around the same ecosystem.
Feature comparison
| Feature | DoD DSIP | SBIR Signal |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (official DoD portal) | Free–$299/mo |
| Role | Authoritative DoD SBIR/STTR submission & topics | Working layer for research + capture |
| Submit proposals | Yes — official channel | No (links out to DSIP / agency portals) |
| Award history search | Limited / separate systems | Fast awards + firm profiles |
| Capability matching | No | Yes |
| AI summaries & alerts | No | Yes |
| Competitive landscape | Manual research | Incumbents, conversion, watches |
| Best for | Reading topics & submitting | Daily capture: match, watch, decide |
Pricing is approximate and may change; check current plans on the pricing page.
Who should use DSIP
Always use DSIP (or the agency's official portal) to read the authoritative solicitation text and to submit proposals. Nothing replaces that system of record for filing.
Who should use SBIR Signal
Use SBIR Signal to decide what to bid: capability matching, award history, competitor watches, digests, and Go/No-Go packs — then open DSIP to apply on the topics you shortlisted.
Frequently asked questions
Is SBIR Signal a replacement for DSIP?
No. DSIP (Defense SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal) is the official DoD channel for topics and submissions. SBIR Signal helps you find fit, research winners, and track deadlines — then you submit on DSIP or the agency portal.
Why use SBIR Signal with DSIP?
DSIP is built for the official process, not for ranking every open topic against your capability statement or mapping who already wins in a domain. Teams use SBIR Signal to shortlist, then open DSIP to read and apply.
Where do open AFWERX topics show up?
On SBIR Signal at /afwerx-open-topics, /opportunities, and the deadline calendar — with match scoring and alerts on paid plans. Always confirm and submit on the official portal.
See how SBIR Signal works for your firm
Browse federal SBIR/STTR award data with capability matching and alerts. Run a free capability match →
More comparisons: vs SBIR.gov · best SBIR tracking tools · pricing.