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    • Challenges

    The AFWERX Challenge program empowers the U.S. Air and Space Force to discover and develop innovative solutions to complex problems at an accelerated pace.

    Its streamlined approach allows organizations of all sizes to cut through bureaucratic red tape, condensing the government contracting process from a standard multi-year duration to just six months, on average.

    About

    Challenges

    Formally launched in 2018, the Challenge program operates as part of the broader AFWERX organization. In alignment with AFWERX’s mission, Challenge themes focus on expanding the defense industrial base for emerging and advanced technologies, nurturing the talent of Airmen and Guardians, and expediting the transition of cutting-edge technologies into operational effectiveness.

    Under the guidance of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), AFWERX maintains a steadfast commitment to exploring viable solutions and building partnerships that fortify the DAF. This commitment extends to the realms of prototyping, research and development, and the facilitation of follow-on production contract opportunities.

    A testament to its impact, AFWERX has already awarded more than $170 million in Department of Defense contracts and investments through the Challenge program.

    Delve deeper into the transformative world of AFWERX Challenges!

    Explore AFWERX Challenges

    Testimonials

    Why is AFWERX Challenge Important?

    AFWERX Challenge Visiting Officer

    It was amazing to see how AFWERX, in their role in trying to get all these contractors and companies out, like getting that word out. Seeing how AFWERX was key in getting all those ideas. I didn’t know what to expect coming into this, but I’m not exaggerating, I was so excited just talking to people, getting solutions.

    Challenge Sponsor

    AFWERX has been amazing. Being able to come to the hub and have an opportunity to talk to the folks within AFWERX to help network to the civilian entities makes the process so much easier and really cuts a lot of the red tape away. As the SCAF talks about the bureaucracy and Action Order B, it really has helped to remove some of that heavy burden that we’ve had to deal with in the past.

    AFWERX Challenge Industry Showcase Participant

    Transparency – I think that’s been key for me. I’ve learned a lot just this morning on what the main goal is for AFWERX, how they’re being inclusive, really guiding us through the process, what we can expect, what everyone is looking for, where we can have a strategically targeted approach to really solve the problem. So I think that’s been great for me. It’s an educational process. It’s been really transformational.

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