Department of Homeland Security To Accept Research Proposals On Blockchain Technology

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is seeking research proposals on blockchain technology and other technology areas through the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) of its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, CoinDesk reported. Starting 16 December, proposals must be submitted to the DHS SBIR by 2pm EST on 20th January, 2016 to be considered for 2016's program.

The research proposals on blockchain technology include “Applicability of Blockchain Technology to Privacy Respecting Identity Management" and "Blockchain Applications for Homeland Security Analytics". The former will focus on identity, privacy and cybersecurity, while the latter will also include internet of things, data analytics, authentication and encryption.

“Blockchain technologies, if incorporated with the security and privacy capabilities required by the HSE, potentially offer a flexible, resilient and potentially lower cost alternative to current Homeland Security Enterprise identity management capabilities”, the document reads.

The three-phase program aims to encourage US small businesses to put efforts toward federal research.

In Phase I, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of the proposal will be determined and only approved proposals will move to Phase II. Phase I awards are limited to $100,000 and projects will be eligible up to six months in duration.

In Phase II, the research and development effort from the Phase I will be continued. Awards are limited to $750,000 and projects will be eligible up to 24 months in duration.

Phase III refers to work that derives from, extends or completes an effort made under prior SBIR funding, but is funded by sources other than the SBIR program, according to the DHS. Phase III work is typically oriented toward commercialization of SBIR research or technology. 

"It is vitally important that we cast a wide net to find highly innovative solutions to the nation's homeland security challenges. We know that America's small businesses are creative problem solvers and engines of innovation and we want to hear from them”, CoinDesk quoted Reginald Brothers, DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology.