DASA Launches COVID-19 Call to help Armed Forces in Coronavirus Effort

DASA Launches COVID-19 Call to help Armed Forces in Coronavirus Effort

The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) is part of the UK Government’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), run by the Ministry of Defence. The Accelerator has launched a time-sensitive call under its Open Call for Innovation in response to the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic.

The call invites any idea or novel approach that could boost the Ministry of Defence’s capabilities in support of the national effort against COVID-19. The aim is to invest in the development of novel and innovative solutions, and applicants should be clear whether they seek to address the current COVID-19 threat or future similar scenarios.

Proposals addressing the current pandemic must have the ability or relevant permissions to successfully deliver the project despite current working restrictions. Proposals for products or services that are already available on the market to solve challenges related to the coronavirus pandemic will not be considered.

No funding limit is specified, however proposals that demonstrate value for money will be viewed favourably. Proposals for work completing on or before 31 March 2021 are in scope, but those that offer faster delivery are preferred.

Projects will be contracted under either the Short Form Contract – which exists to provide a low barrier to entry for SMEs and Universities and is used for low TRL research – or Innovation Standard Contract, depending on their Technology Readiness Level (TRL). Applicants are advised to review the DASA terms and conditions before submitting a proposal.

The first cut-off for applications is 15 April to enable rapid assessment of the first wave of proposals, with a second deadline to follow on 28 April.

More information about this research funding opportunity and the application process is available on the RESEARCHconnect funding information platform. RESEARCHconnect provides up-to-the minute content, insight and analysis on research funding news and policy. To find out more about how RESEARCHconnect can keep you in the know, and subscription fees, contact us today.