First response technologyApplications solicited for funding of next-gen first-response technologies

DHS Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) says that applications are now being accepted through 9 March 2016 for the NextGen First Responder Technologies solicitation, an opportunity for joint-funding by DHS S&T and their partners in the Israeli Ministry of Public Security.

S&T says that the total expected award for the collaborative projects is about $12 million, to be distributed over three years. Both large and small companies are encouraged to participate, as well as research institutions that can provide innovative technology solutions to improve and enhance the future capabilities of first responders. More information can be found on the Web site.

“We’re reaching out to innovators, non-traditional partners, and industry for solutions to global homeland security challenges,” said DHS Deputy Under Secretary for Science and Technology, Dr. Robert Griffin, a former first responder. “We’re looking to mobilize the innovation community to help us ensure our first responders are poised now for whatever threats and environments the future may bring.”

The Israel-U.S. Binational Industrial Research and Development (BIRD) Foundation manages the program, and issued an initial Call for Proposals last December, inviting U.S. and Israeli companies to submit joint collaborative projects in the field of NextGen First Responder Technologies based on current critical capability gaps.

S&T notes that the U.S.-Israeli partnership, originally outlined as a part of a broader agreement signed between the two countries in 2008, is designed to promote and jointly fund the development of advanced technologies to improve and enhance the preparedness of first responders and their capabilities in the field.